Couples Counseling Therapists in Near East, Columbus, OH

Photo of Anna Dykeman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Near East, Columbus, OH
Anna Dykeman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Near East, Columbus, OH 43215  (Online Only)
Whether you are struggling with the echoes of a painful childhood, the heartbreak of a recent or past breakup, or the shadows of an abusive relationship with a narcissist, I am here to walk with you towards a path of healing and empowerment.
You know this sudden rush of emotions, when your heart is racing with memories of a time long gone but not forgotten. Maybe your palms are getting damp, and you feel your throat tightening - almost choking - as you remember painful memories of either childhood abuse, a painful breakup, or other shadows of the past – it's like being caught in a storm of past pain with a ton of emotions. Life is rough and now more than ever people are feeling anxious, overwhelmed, and uncertain about how they should manage their relationships, careers, and lives — however, you don’t have to walk through this on your own.
Whether you are struggling with the echoes of a painful childhood, the heartbreak of a recent or past breakup, or the shadows of an abusive relationship with a narcissist, I am here to walk with you towards a path of healing and empowerment.
You know this sudden rush of emotions, when your heart is racing with memories of a time long gone but not forgotten. Maybe your palms are getting damp, and you feel your throat tightening - almost choking - as you remember painful memories of either childhood abuse, a painful breakup, or other shadows of the past – it's like being caught in a storm of past pain with a ton of emotions. Life is rough and now more than ever people are feeling anxious, overwhelmed, and uncertain about how they should manage their relationships, careers, and lives — however, you don’t have to walk through this on your own.
(380) 207-1133 View (380) 207-1133
Photo of Have Faith Christian Counseling, Counselor in Near East, Columbus, OH
Have Faith Christian Counseling
Counselor, LPCC-S, LCDC, III, SAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Near East, Columbus, OH 43203
Using an integrative approach we help adults, clergy/clergy families, couples, therapists and other professionals practically address issues of anger; anxiety; compassion fatigue, depression; career; grief/loss; behavioral/substance issues; relationship conflict; sexual abuse/trauma; spiritual issues; stress and life transitions.
You are a spiritual being living a human experience, which may result in challenges wounding your body, mind and spirit. At Have Faith Christian Counseling you're offered "a caring hand in life's journey," and encouragement to take a mustard seed step of faith. A step toward your healing journey of achievement, awareness, creativity, forgiveness, fulfillment, joy, self love, love of others, peace and spiritual growth. There is hope! Be encouraged. Empower yourself today to begin living the positive life you were created to live.
Using an integrative approach we help adults, clergy/clergy families, couples, therapists and other professionals practically address issues of anger; anxiety; compassion fatigue, depression; career; grief/loss; behavioral/substance issues; relationship conflict; sexual abuse/trauma; spiritual issues; stress and life transitions.
You are a spiritual being living a human experience, which may result in challenges wounding your body, mind and spirit. At Have Faith Christian Counseling you're offered "a caring hand in life's journey," and encouragement to take a mustard seed step of faith. A step toward your healing journey of achievement, awareness, creativity, forgiveness, fulfillment, joy, self love, love of others, peace and spiritual growth. There is hope! Be encouraged. Empower yourself today to begin living the positive life you were created to live.
(614) 515-4452 View (614) 515-4452
Photo of Ashley Nicole Counseling Services, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Near East, Columbus, OH
Ashley Nicole Counseling Services, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Near East, Columbus, OH 43229
My name is Ashley Howard, and I am the owner of Ashley Nicole Counseling Services. I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker who provides teletherapy services to young adults and adults. I am available for in-person sessions on Sunday's only. Clinically, I am most successful working with individuals who are looking to work on relationship issues (peer, family, romantic, parent-child, work, etc), anxiety, depression, and parenting struggles. I enjoy helping clients identify their goals, develop skills to work toward those goals, and feel more confident in their own abilities.
My name is Ashley Howard, and I am the owner of Ashley Nicole Counseling Services. I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker who provides teletherapy services to young adults and adults. I am available for in-person sessions on Sunday's only. Clinically, I am most successful working with individuals who are looking to work on relationship issues (peer, family, romantic, parent-child, work, etc), anxiety, depression, and parenting struggles. I enjoy helping clients identify their goals, develop skills to work toward those goals, and feel more confident in their own abilities.
(380) 207-1554 View (380) 207-1554
Photo of Rebecca Flowers Schamess, Marriage & Family Therapist in Near East, Columbus, OH
Rebecca Flowers Schamess
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Near East, Columbus, OH 43215
My goal is world peace, tolerance, and equality, one relationship at a time.
My therapist taught me how to love myself—and by extension, my life partner, my kids, and everyone else! It is possible, no matter where you're starting from, to have less inner conflict, less outer conflict, and more love, peace, calm, and creativity in your life. And if you’re a woman with ADHD, I can help with that too. Your life doesn’t have to feel chaotic, and you don’t have to call yourself names (lazy, careless, stupid) to get things done. Whether I see you one-on-one or with an important other, I will meet you with compassion, hope, and acceptance. Because we all deserve not just to survive, but to thrive.
My goal is world peace, tolerance, and equality, one relationship at a time.
My therapist taught me how to love myself—and by extension, my life partner, my kids, and everyone else! It is possible, no matter where you're starting from, to have less inner conflict, less outer conflict, and more love, peace, calm, and creativity in your life. And if you’re a woman with ADHD, I can help with that too. Your life doesn’t have to feel chaotic, and you don’t have to call yourself names (lazy, careless, stupid) to get things done. Whether I see you one-on-one or with an important other, I will meet you with compassion, hope, and acceptance. Because we all deserve not just to survive, but to thrive.
(614) 407-4564 View (614) 407-4564
Photo of Relationships LLC/ Dr. Sujata V, Marriage & Family Therapist in Near East, Columbus, OH
Relationships LLC/ Dr. Sujata V
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD
Verified Verified
Near East, Columbus, OH 43205
I work with individuals, couples and families. I specialize in couples therapy, covering issues such as infidelity, communication problems, emotional distance etc. I also work with individuals of various ages on issues such as depression/anxiety, mood disorders, relationship struggles, social anxiety etc. If you work with me, you can be assured that we will dive into underlying (often uncomfortable) issues from the outset, so as to create and sustain change.
I work with individuals, couples and families. I specialize in couples therapy, covering issues such as infidelity, communication problems, emotional distance etc. I also work with individuals of various ages on issues such as depression/anxiety, mood disorders, relationship struggles, social anxiety etc. If you work with me, you can be assured that we will dive into underlying (often uncomfortable) issues from the outset, so as to create and sustain change.
(614) 503-4927 View (614) 503-4927
Photo of Starks Counseling & Consultation Services, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Near East, Columbus, OH
Starks Counseling & Consultation Services, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Near East, Columbus, OH 43203
Her specialty is treating children, adults, families and couples who have experienced trauma (i.
Stephanie K. Starks, LISW-S, is a therapist and owner of Starks Counseling & Consultation Services, LLC . She 20 years of experience providing trauma-focused therapy. The goal at Starks Counseling is to provide “hope and healing” in a calm, supportive, and non-judgmental therapeutic environment. She and her staff do this by empowering their clients with the knowledge, skills and confidence to be active participants in their own healing, as they believe that they are all simply vessels in which to help facilitate the healing process.
Her specialty is treating children, adults, families and couples who have experienced trauma (i.
Stephanie K. Starks, LISW-S, is a therapist and owner of Starks Counseling & Consultation Services, LLC . She 20 years of experience providing trauma-focused therapy. The goal at Starks Counseling is to provide “hope and healing” in a calm, supportive, and non-judgmental therapeutic environment. She and her staff do this by empowering their clients with the knowledge, skills and confidence to be active participants in their own healing, as they believe that they are all simply vessels in which to help facilitate the healing process.
(614) 831-1396 View (614) 831-1396
Photo of Sequoia Therapy Group, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Near East, Columbus, OH
Sequoia Therapy Group
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Near East, Columbus, OH 43205
Our team of therapists is a diverse group offering a wide range of mental health services including: Maternal Mental Health, Trauma informed care including EMDR Therapy, Grief/loss, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, stressful life transitions, co-dependency, relationship building, gender/sexuality exploration, and conflict resolution.
At Sequoia Therapy Group, our experienced and trained clinicians are committed to providing the highest level of mental health care possible. We offer a safe, warm and welcoming environment where growth and healing can take place. We believe in the power of the therapeutic journey, and take a collaborative approach to treatment to ensure that each client receives the right support for their unique needs.
Our team of therapists is a diverse group offering a wide range of mental health services including: Maternal Mental Health, Trauma informed care including EMDR Therapy, Grief/loss, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, stressful life transitions, co-dependency, relationship building, gender/sexuality exploration, and conflict resolution.
At Sequoia Therapy Group, our experienced and trained clinicians are committed to providing the highest level of mental health care possible. We offer a safe, warm and welcoming environment where growth and healing can take place. We believe in the power of the therapeutic journey, and take a collaborative approach to treatment to ensure that each client receives the right support for their unique needs.
(380) 333-6307 View (380) 333-6307
Photo of Dominique Martin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Near East, Columbus, OH
Dominique Martin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS , I-MFT
Verified Verified
Near East, Columbus, OH 43205
Are you experiencing anxiety or depression? Are you feeling overwhelmed by life stressors?Are you feeling stuck in your relationship? Are you struggling to communicate to your partner or others? Are you experiencing family conflict? Do you need help sorting through emotional distress? Are you having trouble adjusting or transitioning to change or a life event? Have you experienced a traumatic event? Are you experiencing grief due to the loss of a loved one? Do you struggle to set boundaries? Are you feeling stuck and unsure of how to move forward in life?Are you seeking to get insight & awareness about yourself or your experiences?
Are you experiencing anxiety or depression? Are you feeling overwhelmed by life stressors?Are you feeling stuck in your relationship? Are you struggling to communicate to your partner or others? Are you experiencing family conflict? Do you need help sorting through emotional distress? Are you having trouble adjusting or transitioning to change or a life event? Have you experienced a traumatic event? Are you experiencing grief due to the loss of a loved one? Do you struggle to set boundaries? Are you feeling stuck and unsure of how to move forward in life?Are you seeking to get insight & awareness about yourself or your experiences?
(614) 418-6236 View (614) 418-6236
Photo of Rebecca Clinton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Near East, Columbus, OH
Rebecca Clinton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Near East, Columbus, OH 43203  (Online Only)
I aim to create a warm and comfortable environment allowing the therapeutic relationship to grow.
Hello! It's so nice to meet you! I know reaching out for help is not easy and I want to applaud your strength in beginning this journey. My practice is solely online! What does this mean for you? No commute, No parking, and no awkward waiting rooms. We meet via a secure HIPAA compliant connection either through video, audio, chat or direct messaging. I have been practicing in the online format for many years and see how revolutionary it is to counseling. Sometimes life gets messy and we get a little off track. It is in these moments that I find my greatest reward as a therapist by empowering others to find peace in the chaos.
I aim to create a warm and comfortable environment allowing the therapeutic relationship to grow.
Hello! It's so nice to meet you! I know reaching out for help is not easy and I want to applaud your strength in beginning this journey. My practice is solely online! What does this mean for you? No commute, No parking, and no awkward waiting rooms. We meet via a secure HIPAA compliant connection either through video, audio, chat or direct messaging. I have been practicing in the online format for many years and see how revolutionary it is to counseling. Sometimes life gets messy and we get a little off track. It is in these moments that I find my greatest reward as a therapist by empowering others to find peace in the chaos.
(830) 865-2660 View (830) 865-2660
Photo of Donna Lang- Get Centered Wellness, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Near East, Columbus, OH
Donna Lang- Get Centered Wellness
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, LICDC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Near East, Columbus, OH 43203
We learn how to see, value and trust ourselves and others based on how our caregivers saw, valued and were honest with us. When that relationship has been broken in any way, we develop an attachment wound. This break could have come in many forms, neglect, abuse, emotional and physical absence or inconsistent nurturing. As adults we act out our wounds in our daily lives. This leads to an inability to form healthy, connected and valuable relationships with ourselves and others. The impact of this is depression, anxiety, personality issues, trauma responses and a myriad of other issues.
We learn how to see, value and trust ourselves and others based on how our caregivers saw, valued and were honest with us. When that relationship has been broken in any way, we develop an attachment wound. This break could have come in many forms, neglect, abuse, emotional and physical absence or inconsistent nurturing. As adults we act out our wounds in our daily lives. This leads to an inability to form healthy, connected and valuable relationships with ourselves and others. The impact of this is depression, anxiety, personality issues, trauma responses and a myriad of other issues.
(380) 207-1056 View (380) 207-1056
Photo of Jackia Freeman, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern in Near East, Columbus, OH
Jackia Freeman
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, CT
Verified Verified
Near East, Columbus, OH 43203  (Online Only)
I use a Narrative Therapeutic approach for couples, families, adults, adolescents, and children.
I am a Marriage and Family Therapy Intern, who specializes in working with individuals and families from various backgrounds with an array of issues. Whether you are a couple who needs help reconnecting, a parent and child who needs help with communication, an adolescent who needs guidance dealing with life’s stressors, someone needing a listening ear, we can work diligently to reach your desired goals.
I use a Narrative Therapeutic approach for couples, families, adults, adolescents, and children.
I am a Marriage and Family Therapy Intern, who specializes in working with individuals and families from various backgrounds with an array of issues. Whether you are a couple who needs help reconnecting, a parent and child who needs help with communication, an adolescent who needs guidance dealing with life’s stressors, someone needing a listening ear, we can work diligently to reach your desired goals.
(937) 744-7573 View (937) 744-7573
Photo of Adam Wills, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Near East, Columbus, OH
Adam Wills
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Near East, Columbus, OH 43203
Waitlist for new clients
I’m committed to providing my full attention and support in helping people work toward positive changes that align with their own values and goals. I work with adults and adolescents, and I take an eclectic and holistic approach to help with concerns that may include mental health, stress, trauma, grief, addiction, relationships, or adjusting to life changes. This may be a matter of short-term counseling to strengthen coping skills or overcome a specific challenge, or more in-depth therapy to better understand and resolve deeper patterns and issues.
I’m committed to providing my full attention and support in helping people work toward positive changes that align with their own values and goals. I work with adults and adolescents, and I take an eclectic and holistic approach to help with concerns that may include mental health, stress, trauma, grief, addiction, relationships, or adjusting to life changes. This may be a matter of short-term counseling to strengthen coping skills or overcome a specific challenge, or more in-depth therapy to better understand and resolve deeper patterns and issues.
(614) 321-9128 View (614) 321-9128
Photo of Parkview Wellness Studios in Near East, Columbus, OH
Parkview Wellness Studios
Verified Verified
Near East, Columbus, OH 43203
Parkview Wellness Studios is a group of health professionals dedicated to offering the best quality services to improve and enhance your life. We offer psychotherapy, Ayurveda Health Coaching, Mat Pilates, Massage and Meditation. Our list of practitioners is constantly growing for the benefit of you as your overall health and well-being. We cannot wait to meet you and introduce you to our beautiful space.
Parkview Wellness Studios is a group of health professionals dedicated to offering the best quality services to improve and enhance your life. We offer psychotherapy, Ayurveda Health Coaching, Mat Pilates, Massage and Meditation. Our list of practitioners is constantly growing for the benefit of you as your overall health and well-being. We cannot wait to meet you and introduce you to our beautiful space.
(614) 972-1106 View (614) 972-1106
Photo of Diane Strausser, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Near East, Columbus, OH
Diane Strausser
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LISW
Verified Verified
Near East, Columbus, OH 43203
Without exception, all people want contentment and happiness, yet often it is elusive. Yet, there really is a roadmap to peace and harmony---and it can be taught! Conflict can be replaced with curiosity. Compassion can replace judgement. Open-heartedness can overcome disappointment. My strength is in being a guide for people who want to grow into the person they were meant to be. By attending to our minds our bodies and our spirits---in addition to having healthy relationships we can create vitality---whethere we're single or married. Teaching all people the exquisite art of connection is my passion.
Without exception, all people want contentment and happiness, yet often it is elusive. Yet, there really is a roadmap to peace and harmony---and it can be taught! Conflict can be replaced with curiosity. Compassion can replace judgement. Open-heartedness can overcome disappointment. My strength is in being a guide for people who want to grow into the person they were meant to be. By attending to our minds our bodies and our spirits---in addition to having healthy relationships we can create vitality---whethere we're single or married. Teaching all people the exquisite art of connection is my passion.
(614) 664-6269 View (614) 664-6269
Photo of Mario Bugnone, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Near East, Columbus, OH
Mario Bugnone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSA, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Near East, Columbus, OH 43203  (Online Only)
Do you want to finally feel understood or heard? What if your relationship's in your life could go back to being enjoyable? Is it time to take your life back from the trauma that has crippled you for far too long? Sometimes you just need help seeing the world through a new pair of glasses. Whether it be debilitating depression, anxiety, or some form of trauma there is hope and you are not alone. I am currently online only.
Do you want to finally feel understood or heard? What if your relationship's in your life could go back to being enjoyable? Is it time to take your life back from the trauma that has crippled you for far too long? Sometimes you just need help seeing the world through a new pair of glasses. Whether it be debilitating depression, anxiety, or some form of trauma there is hope and you are not alone. I am currently online only.
(216) 279-9057 View (216) 279-9057
Photo of Velma Valentine, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Near East, Columbus, OH
Velma Valentine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Near East, Columbus, OH 43203
Not accepting new clients
I also been trained in sexual problems and couples' therapy.
I'm a licensed social worker with over 20 years of experience working with a variety of populations in different settings. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process with the client being the expert on his/her own life and the therapist being a resource to help overcome difficulties on life's journey. I take an eclectic approach to working with clients and specifically trained in cognitive behavioral, solution-focused and interpersonal therapies.
I also been trained in sexual problems and couples' therapy.
I'm a licensed social worker with over 20 years of experience working with a variety of populations in different settings. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process with the client being the expert on his/her own life and the therapist being a resource to help overcome difficulties on life's journey. I take an eclectic approach to working with clients and specifically trained in cognitive behavioral, solution-focused and interpersonal therapies.
(614) 940-4868 View (614) 940-4868
Photo of Vivian L Brown, Licensed Professional Counselor in Near East, Columbus, OH
Vivian L Brown
Licensed Professional Counselor, BA, MSEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Near East, Columbus, OH 43205
Not accepting new clients
Our therapeutic relationship may require exploring events from your past which are contributing to your current presenting issues.
Have you always believed you were self-sufficient, able to handle any and all challenges which come your way? Are you usually the person family and friends rely on for advice or directions on how to solve their life issues? But, now you need help resolving issues of your own and your feelings of anxiety, depression and or stress are negatively impacting the relationships in your life. Being able to acknowledge that your life has become overwhelming can be the first and hardest step when beginning a journey of change and healing. The next most challenging step involves trying to determine what to do to get the help you need.
Our therapeutic relationship may require exploring events from your past which are contributing to your current presenting issues.
Have you always believed you were self-sufficient, able to handle any and all challenges which come your way? Are you usually the person family and friends rely on for advice or directions on how to solve their life issues? But, now you need help resolving issues of your own and your feelings of anxiety, depression and or stress are negatively impacting the relationships in your life. Being able to acknowledge that your life has become overwhelming can be the first and hardest step when beginning a journey of change and healing. The next most challenging step involves trying to determine what to do to get the help you need.
(614) 347-0908 View (614) 347-0908

Online Therapists

Photo of Balanced Behavioral Health Solutions, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Near East, Columbus, OH
Balanced Behavioral Health Solutions, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43209  (Online Only)
Currently accepting new clients. Balanced Behavioral Health Solutions offers individual, couples, and family counseling. We are a team of licensed and experienced therapists who are passionate about helping you overcome your challenges and achieve your goals. Whether you are struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma, or any other mental health concern, we are here to support you and provide you with effective and personalized care. ​
Currently accepting new clients. Balanced Behavioral Health Solutions offers individual, couples, and family counseling. We are a team of licensed and experienced therapists who are passionate about helping you overcome your challenges and achieve your goals. Whether you are struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma, or any other mental health concern, we are here to support you and provide you with effective and personalized care. ​
(614) 437-6527 View (614) 437-6527
Photo of Linda S Karlovec, Psychologist in Near East, Columbus, OH
Linda S Karlovec
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43221
I have been a licensed psychologist since 1983, working with individuals, couples, and families to help them cope with life's challenges.
For many clients, achieving their goals means increasing their capacity for acceptance of themselves and others, empathy and understanding of others, and being able to manage and share their emotions. I believe that a positive outcome of a successful counseling relationship is much more than the absence of symptoms or illness. Rather, it's the sustained ability to enthusiastically engage in all aspects of life: relationships, marriage and family, work, friends, and community.
I have been a licensed psychologist since 1983, working with individuals, couples, and families to help them cope with life's challenges.
For many clients, achieving their goals means increasing their capacity for acceptance of themselves and others, empathy and understanding of others, and being able to manage and share their emotions. I believe that a positive outcome of a successful counseling relationship is much more than the absence of symptoms or illness. Rather, it's the sustained ability to enthusiastically engage in all aspects of life: relationships, marriage and family, work, friends, and community.
(614) 389-9117 View (614) 389-9117
Photo of Judy Fisher, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Near East, Columbus, OH
Judy Fisher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43209
I have been a practicing clinical social worker for over 30 years. I have extensive experience in working with individuals, couples, and families. I work with clients who are at least 13 years of age. I believe I excel in assisting clients work through depression, anxiety, and /or life issues that impede an individual or a couple in maximizing their potential. Because I believe that children are often the victims of adversarial divorces, I am also a certified divorce and family mediator with the Court of Common Pleas. My focus in my mediation work is to help children of divorce.
I have been a practicing clinical social worker for over 30 years. I have extensive experience in working with individuals, couples, and families. I work with clients who are at least 13 years of age. I believe I excel in assisting clients work through depression, anxiety, and /or life issues that impede an individual or a couple in maximizing their potential. Because I believe that children are often the victims of adversarial divorces, I am also a certified divorce and family mediator with the Court of Common Pleas. My focus in my mediation work is to help children of divorce.
(614) 470-5374 View (614) 470-5374
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.