Couples Counseling Therapists in Dallas, TX

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Photo of LaShaun Roberts, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
LaShaun Roberts
Licensed Professional Counselor, MBA, MA, LPC-S, LSOTP-S, CST
Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75238
Marital, Pre-Marital, Couples , Relationships...my SPECIALTY! Infidelity/betrayal, affairs, lack of trust, intimacy issues, pornography, PE, ED, sexually unfulfilled, low or no sexual desire, sexual pain, or sexual challenges/difficulties are my PASSION. These are just SOME of the issues that can impact relationships but don't get stuck here Let Me Help! I know you may feel awkward, anxious, ashamed, embarrassed, uncomfortable, fear of judgement, or experience trouble talking about your personal life, yet let me help as I offer a "NO JUDGE-SAFE ZONE' to express. Go Beyond your fears & Trust me to assist in Bettering Your Life. Call!
Marital, Pre-Marital, Couples , Relationships...my SPECIALTY! Infidelity/betrayal, affairs, lack of trust, intimacy issues, pornography, PE, ED, sexually unfulfilled, low or no sexual desire, sexual pain, or sexual challenges/difficulties are my PASSION. These are just SOME of the issues that can impact relationships but don't get stuck here Let Me Help! I know you may feel awkward, anxious, ashamed, embarrassed, uncomfortable, fear of judgement, or experience trouble talking about your personal life, yet let me help as I offer a "NO JUDGE-SAFE ZONE' to express. Go Beyond your fears & Trust me to assist in Bettering Your Life. Call!
(214) 306-7771 View (214) 306-7771
Photo of Angela S. Taylor, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Angela S. Taylor
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified
3 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75231
Specialties: depression, anxiety, couples /sex, addiction, PTSD.
This is overwhelming, I know. Finding the right therapist is stressful and exhausting. With almost 20 years of experience, I've worked with people with numerous struggles effecting their lives, relationships, careers, and/or children. Life can be challenging, and I help my clients find what's standing in the way of achieving happiness, fulfillment, success, and well-being. In a warm, nonjudgemental environment, we explore practical issues, thoughts, ideas, and feelings while being offered honest, open feedback and challenges. We will identify your personal obstacles and barriers while developing an action plan to overcome them.
Specialties: depression, anxiety, couples /sex, addiction, PTSD.
This is overwhelming, I know. Finding the right therapist is stressful and exhausting. With almost 20 years of experience, I've worked with people with numerous struggles effecting their lives, relationships, careers, and/or children. Life can be challenging, and I help my clients find what's standing in the way of achieving happiness, fulfillment, success, and well-being. In a warm, nonjudgemental environment, we explore practical issues, thoughts, ideas, and feelings while being offered honest, open feedback and challenges. We will identify your personal obstacles and barriers while developing an action plan to overcome them.
(214) 506-2626 View (214) 506-2626
Photo of Nichelle Ward, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Nichelle Ward
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, CSC
Verified
Dallas, TX 75243
Are you struggling with overwhelming challenges in your life? Do you suffer from anxiety or depression? Are you finding it difficult to navigate through a transition in your life? Are you dealing with a break-up or other relationship issues? Do you struggle with anger management issues? Have you experienced a traumatic event? Are you having trouble dealing with the death of a loved one? If you answered yes to any of these questions, please call me.
Are you struggling with overwhelming challenges in your life? Do you suffer from anxiety or depression? Are you finding it difficult to navigate through a transition in your life? Are you dealing with a break-up or other relationship issues? Do you struggle with anger management issues? Have you experienced a traumatic event? Are you having trouble dealing with the death of a loved one? If you answered yes to any of these questions, please call me.
(469) 778-4346 View (469) 778-4346
Photo of Stefanya Bukasa, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Stefanya Bukasa
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDC, NCC
Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75252
I work with adolescents and adults experiencing Women’s Issues, Addiction, Co-occurring Disorders, Depression, Anxiety, Suicidal Thoughts, Self Harming Behaviors, Domestic Violence/ Intimate Partner Violence, Trauma, and PTSD.
Welcome to the first step towards finding your best and healthiest self! It Is my goal to help you create a space where you feel safe to explore those challenging feelings, thoughts, stressors, and triggers in an effort to show up to the life you deserve! Each time you step into my office it becomes Your Room and I am the visitor. I believe in taking a holistic wellness approach to therapy in an effort to personalize each clients therapy experience. I hope to build a therapeutic rapport where I am able to be authentically myself allowing each client to do the same.
I work with adolescents and adults experiencing Women’s Issues, Addiction, Co-occurring Disorders, Depression, Anxiety, Suicidal Thoughts, Self Harming Behaviors, Domestic Violence/ Intimate Partner Violence, Trauma, and PTSD.
Welcome to the first step towards finding your best and healthiest self! It Is my goal to help you create a space where you feel safe to explore those challenging feelings, thoughts, stressors, and triggers in an effort to show up to the life you deserve! Each time you step into my office it becomes Your Room and I am the visitor. I believe in taking a holistic wellness approach to therapy in an effort to personalize each clients therapy experience. I hope to build a therapeutic rapport where I am able to be authentically myself allowing each client to do the same.
(214) 441-6118 View (214) 441-6118
Photo of Dr. Shelby L. Zavala-Barajas, Psychologist in Dallas, TX
Dr. Shelby L. Zavala-Barajas
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified
Dallas, TX 75204
Accepting new clients as of 11/21/2023! Hello & welcome! I am passionate about utilizing psychotherapy and psychodiagnostic assessment to help people discover and embrace their most authentic selves. I believe that a collaborative and supportive therapeutic relationship is the foundation for creating a safe space for you to increase your insight and flourish. I work with children and teens who are looking to better understand themselves, increase relationship satisfaction, heal from painful or traumatic experiences, increase their emotional regulation, process life transitions, or pursue a more meaningful future.
Accepting new clients as of 11/21/2023! Hello & welcome! I am passionate about utilizing psychotherapy and psychodiagnostic assessment to help people discover and embrace their most authentic selves. I believe that a collaborative and supportive therapeutic relationship is the foundation for creating a safe space for you to increase your insight and flourish. I work with children and teens who are looking to better understand themselves, increase relationship satisfaction, heal from painful or traumatic experiences, increase their emotional regulation, process life transitions, or pursue a more meaningful future.
(469) 765-3796 View (469) 765-3796
Photo of Aysha G Najjab, Psychologist in Dallas, TX
Aysha G Najjab
Psychologist, PhD
Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75231
Dr. Aysha Najjab is a Clinical Psychologist who provides individual and couples therapy for older adolescents and adults. She is passionate about helping individuals from all backgrounds who want to improve their mental and emotional well-being. Dr. Najjab uses a supportive, evidence-based and collaborative approach to therapy. Dr. Najjab is the president-elect of the Dallas Psychological Association and has earned a certificate in the specialty of Maternal Mental Health from Postpartum Support International.
Dr. Aysha Najjab is a Clinical Psychologist who provides individual and couples therapy for older adolescents and adults. She is passionate about helping individuals from all backgrounds who want to improve their mental and emotional well-being. Dr. Najjab uses a supportive, evidence-based and collaborative approach to therapy. Dr. Najjab is the president-elect of the Dallas Psychological Association and has earned a certificate in the specialty of Maternal Mental Health from Postpartum Support International.
(469) 840-1654 x106 View (469) 840-1654 x106
Photo of Luis Perez, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Luis Perez
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDC, EMDR, SE
Verified
2 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75230
We all are capable of living happy and healthy lives. Over the years, I have supported the diverse needs of my clients through the strength of the therapeutic relationship , nurturing the trust and acceptance required for positive change. I consider it an honor to embark on this journey with you, respecting your experience as it has provided a foundation for healing. I would like to help guide you in discovering personal balance and individualized self-worth, as we work to reveal the seemingly lost or hidden strengths buried within.
We all are capable of living happy and healthy lives. Over the years, I have supported the diverse needs of my clients through the strength of the therapeutic relationship , nurturing the trust and acceptance required for positive change. I consider it an honor to embark on this journey with you, respecting your experience as it has provided a foundation for healing. I would like to help guide you in discovering personal balance and individualized self-worth, as we work to reveal the seemingly lost or hidden strengths buried within.
(469) 654-4729 View (469) 654-4729
Photo of Katherine Sawyer, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Dallas, TX
Katherine Sawyer
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MS, LPC-A
Verified
Dallas, TX 75230
Katherine specializes in treating children, adolescents and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions, family conflict, relationship conflict, suicidal thoughts, self-harming behaviors, and trauma. Katherine’s approach to counseling is grounded in Person-Centered Therapy, and she integrates aspects of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Internal Family Systems Therapy. Katherine honors and respects each client’s unique background, and is committing to serving the individual needs of each client. She strives to create a safe and supportive environment for her clients to experience healing and personal growth.
Katherine specializes in treating children, adolescents and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions, family conflict, relationship conflict, suicidal thoughts, self-harming behaviors, and trauma. Katherine’s approach to counseling is grounded in Person-Centered Therapy, and she integrates aspects of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Internal Family Systems Therapy. Katherine honors and respects each client’s unique background, and is committing to serving the individual needs of each client. She strives to create a safe and supportive environment for her clients to experience healing and personal growth.
(469) 804-7111 View (469) 804-7111
Photo of Olamide Coker, LPC Associate in Dallas, TX
Olamide Coker
LPC Associate, MS, LPC-A
Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75206  (Online Only)
I have experience leading clients through issues such as Substance use, racial stress, and trauma, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar disorder, career decisions, parenting, motherhood, personal life coaching services to individuals, families, and couples who are looking to improve their lives and reach their full potential.
Hello, My name is Olamide Coker, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor-Associate. I recognize that taking the step to seek therapy can be both courageous and challenging, and I applaud your decision to embark on this transformative journey with me. In this safe and nurturing space, I will strive to create an environment where you can feel heard, understood, and supported. My goal is to provide a sanctuary where you can freely express your thoughts, emotions, and struggles without judgment.
I have experience leading clients through issues such as Substance use, racial stress, and trauma, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar disorder, career decisions, parenting, motherhood, personal life coaching services to individuals, families, and couples who are looking to improve their lives and reach their full potential.
Hello, My name is Olamide Coker, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor-Associate. I recognize that taking the step to seek therapy can be both courageous and challenging, and I applaud your decision to embark on this transformative journey with me. In this safe and nurturing space, I will strive to create an environment where you can feel heard, understood, and supported. My goal is to provide a sanctuary where you can freely express your thoughts, emotions, and struggles without judgment.
(512) 572-4370 View (512) 572-4370
Photo of Better CALL Darrell - HS Professional Practitioner, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Dallas, TX
Better CALL Darrell - HS Professional Practitioner
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, ACPS, ICCJP, LCDC, MAC, SAP
Verified
Dallas, TX 75237
The goal of Addictions and Biblical Counseling is to assist you in enjoying better relationships, particularly the relationship with yourself.
Addictions and Biblical Counseling are a series of powerful tools that profoundly improve relationships. Biblical Counseling utilizes the Sacred Scriptures, Conflict Resolution, and Mediation as conduits in understanding and resolving chaotic, dysfunctional, mayhem filled and toxic relationships with others as well as yourself. Addiction Counseling approaches the addicted person therapeutically with empathetic, sympathetic care, and compassion. With decades of experience as an Addictions and Biblical Counselor, I offer a variety of approaches that will assist you in succinctly eradicating present emotional and social discomforts.
The goal of Addictions and Biblical Counseling is to assist you in enjoying better relationships, particularly the relationship with yourself.
Addictions and Biblical Counseling are a series of powerful tools that profoundly improve relationships. Biblical Counseling utilizes the Sacred Scriptures, Conflict Resolution, and Mediation as conduits in understanding and resolving chaotic, dysfunctional, mayhem filled and toxic relationships with others as well as yourself. Addiction Counseling approaches the addicted person therapeutically with empathetic, sympathetic care, and compassion. With decades of experience as an Addictions and Biblical Counselor, I offer a variety of approaches that will assist you in succinctly eradicating present emotional and social discomforts.
(469) 557-2127 View (469) 557-2127
Photo of Devon Estes, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Devon Estes
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified
Dallas, TX 75247  (Online Only)
I've enjoyed working with youth ages 12-17, adults, families, & couples .
My goal is to develop partnerships with my clients to help them reach their personal, relationship , and academic/professional goals. Whether you feel stuck or have unhealthy relationships, together we will navigate life's challenges and explore new ways of thinking, feeling, and living. I believe in holistic wellness and I will help you develop new habits that support your total self: mind, body, and spirit.
I've enjoyed working with youth ages 12-17, adults, families, & couples .
My goal is to develop partnerships with my clients to help them reach their personal, relationship , and academic/professional goals. Whether you feel stuck or have unhealthy relationships, together we will navigate life's challenges and explore new ways of thinking, feeling, and living. I believe in holistic wellness and I will help you develop new habits that support your total self: mind, body, and spirit.
(214) 225-2385 View (214) 225-2385
Photo of Janika Leary, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Dallas, TX
Janika Leary
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75218  (Online Only)
She knows that making the choice to seek therapy demonstrates courage and commitment and feels honored to be able to partner with people in their process.
Inspired by therapist Amy Morin’s quote, “time doesn’t heal anything, it’s how we deal with that time that determines the speed at which we heal”, Janika takes pride in empowering her clients to become the experts of their own lives, improving their overall quality of life through healing.
She knows that making the choice to seek therapy demonstrates courage and commitment and feels honored to be able to partner with people in their process.
Inspired by therapist Amy Morin’s quote, “time doesn’t heal anything, it’s how we deal with that time that determines the speed at which we heal”, Janika takes pride in empowering her clients to become the experts of their own lives, improving their overall quality of life through healing.
(469) 281-7188 View (469) 281-7188
Photo of Melissa Konrad Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Melissa Konrad Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MSc
Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75230  (Online Only)
People begin therapy for various reasons. Commonly for self-development, the wish to improve confidence, grieving a loved one or the loss of a relationship . Other reasons could be experienced trauma, depression, anxiety, or life transitions. Or perhaps you struggle with the existential questions of life. Whatever, your reasons for treatment are unique to you. There is only one You. That also means your goals and needs are specific to your ongoing interpersonal growth. If you are ready to improve your life, gain clarity, and learn ways to manage your emotions then counseling is a positive step.
People begin therapy for various reasons. Commonly for self-development, the wish to improve confidence, grieving a loved one or the loss of a relationship . Other reasons could be experienced trauma, depression, anxiety, or life transitions. Or perhaps you struggle with the existential questions of life. Whatever, your reasons for treatment are unique to you. There is only one You. That also means your goals and needs are specific to your ongoing interpersonal growth. If you are ready to improve your life, gain clarity, and learn ways to manage your emotions then counseling is a positive step.
(469) 654-4002 View (469) 654-4002
Photo of Randy Gibson, Counselor in Dallas, TX
Randy Gibson
Counselor, MS, LPC-S
Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75244  (Online Only)
In an atmosphere of acceptance, I will establish and maintain a trusting relationship to promote your growth and self-direction. I use brief therapy techniques to assist clients with their anxiety, stress, depression, sexual abuse, grief and relationship conflicts.
In an atmosphere of acceptance, I will establish and maintain a trusting relationship to promote your growth and self-direction. I use brief therapy techniques to assist clients with their anxiety, stress, depression, sexual abuse, grief and relationship conflicts.
(214) 427-1830 View (214) 427-1830
Photo of Raquel Alcorta, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Raquel Alcorta
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75219
I work with couples who are wanting to plan their "healthily" ever after and for those who have lost their connection to one another.
I know you're tired of feeling the same way about your life, your relationships and you. I don't know your story but I'm willing to meet you where you're at to process your present, past and future. I work with adults, couples , and late adolescents who struggle with depression, anxiety, self-esteem, anger management, parenting skills, life transitions, trauma and stress. With my comprehension of human connections and your expertise of you, I believe we can give our best effort to find a different outlook and pathway for your life.
I work with couples who are wanting to plan their "healthily" ever after and for those who have lost their connection to one another.
I know you're tired of feeling the same way about your life, your relationships and you. I don't know your story but I'm willing to meet you where you're at to process your present, past and future. I work with adults, couples , and late adolescents who struggle with depression, anxiety, self-esteem, anger management, parenting skills, life transitions, trauma and stress. With my comprehension of human connections and your expertise of you, I believe we can give our best effort to find a different outlook and pathway for your life.
(972) 945-3311 View (972) 945-3311
Photo of Shelby Hawkins, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Shelby Hawkins
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified
Dallas, TX 75212
Hi there, I'm Shelby! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and enjoy working with teenagers and young adults as well as couples . I am most competent in dealing with anxiety, depression, PTSD, anger, trauma, and relationship distress. I use a variety of techniques including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, and Solutions-Focused therapy to help my clients walk in freedom. I enjoy teaching my clients tools they can use in their everyday lives to live more fully and present.
Hi there, I'm Shelby! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and enjoy working with teenagers and young adults as well as couples . I am most competent in dealing with anxiety, depression, PTSD, anger, trauma, and relationship distress. I use a variety of techniques including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, and Solutions-Focused therapy to help my clients walk in freedom. I enjoy teaching my clients tools they can use in their everyday lives to live more fully and present.
(214) 301-4014 View (214) 301-4014
Photo of Hannah Cassedy, Psychologist in Dallas, TX
Hannah Cassedy
Psychologist, PhD
Verified
10 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75231
Do you consider yourself an insecure overachiever? Maybe you're a bright thinker and hard worker, but you never quite feel good enough. You might excel professionally or academically, but new challenges seem to take more work than they should. Maybe this is a longstanding issue, or maybe it only became a problem when you faced a big change in your life like the loss of a relationship , the birth of a child, or the threat of a serious medical illness. If you feel deflated or overwhelmed by the end of the day, I can help with that.
Do you consider yourself an insecure overachiever? Maybe you're a bright thinker and hard worker, but you never quite feel good enough. You might excel professionally or academically, but new challenges seem to take more work than they should. Maybe this is a longstanding issue, or maybe it only became a problem when you faced a big change in your life like the loss of a relationship , the birth of a child, or the threat of a serious medical illness. If you feel deflated or overwhelmed by the end of the day, I can help with that.
(469) 564-3927 View (469) 564-3927
Photo of Sat Kartar Khalsa, Psychologist in Dallas, TX
Sat Kartar Khalsa
Psychologist, PhD
Verified
Dallas, TX 75219  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in treatment of anxiety, depression, relationship problems, and adult ADHD.
Mental symptoms signal the need to repair relationships with significant others, friends, coworkers, children. Each of us seems flawed in our ability to continuously interact, yet social hiccups merely disclose unique emotional styles of working through universal problems in living. Psychotherapeutic interaction catalyzes awareness of unique purpose and builds skills to make the most of individual neurology so you can bring your A game to every situation. Release the narrative of failure. Let’s work together to accomplish insight into your unique nature so you might find your way home to attunement within the vast circle of life.
I specialize in treatment of anxiety, depression, relationship problems, and adult ADHD.
Mental symptoms signal the need to repair relationships with significant others, friends, coworkers, children. Each of us seems flawed in our ability to continuously interact, yet social hiccups merely disclose unique emotional styles of working through universal problems in living. Psychotherapeutic interaction catalyzes awareness of unique purpose and builds skills to make the most of individual neurology so you can bring your A game to every situation. Release the narrative of failure. Let’s work together to accomplish insight into your unique nature so you might find your way home to attunement within the vast circle of life.
(214) 238-9829 View (214) 238-9829
Photo of Renee E. Morales, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Dallas, TX
Renee E. Morales
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPC-A
Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75230
I have experience working with adults who suffer from anxiety, isolation, relationship stress, past neglect or abuse, perfectionism, and low self-esteem.
Is life not going the way you planned? Do you feel uncertain about the future? Are you always comparing yourself to others, and you feel like you're falling behind? You feel like you should have more friends, or you constantly worry about what other people think of you. You don't believe you'll ever find the right romantic partner . Maybe you feel "stuck" in your current relationship or even your job. Do you struggle with low self-esteem and the feeling that you are never enough? You are searching for emotional connection and a sense of purpose, but instead you feel lonely, hopeless, and overwhelmed by it all. I am here to help.
I have experience working with adults who suffer from anxiety, isolation, relationship stress, past neglect or abuse, perfectionism, and low self-esteem.
Is life not going the way you planned? Do you feel uncertain about the future? Are you always comparing yourself to others, and you feel like you're falling behind? You feel like you should have more friends, or you constantly worry about what other people think of you. You don't believe you'll ever find the right romantic partner . Maybe you feel "stuck" in your current relationship or even your job. Do you struggle with low self-esteem and the feeling that you are never enough? You are searching for emotional connection and a sense of purpose, but instead you feel lonely, hopeless, and overwhelmed by it all. I am here to help.
(972) 426-2092 View (972) 426-2092
Photo of Marci Orr, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Marci Orr
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S
Verified
8 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75247
I have worked with Therapists in the field, Leaders, Career Seekers, Adult Individuals, Parents, Tweens, Teens, Couples , Men and Women's Issues.
Everything I do as a therapist is taking into consideration that people are not meant to be in isolation, but rather part of a much larger system in terms of relationships, families, support systems, work, and cultural environments. I seek to learn what it is that you care about. Healing? Growth? Transformation? My belief is that you can find reconciliation for your life. The reinvention of one’s self is possible! I work to encourage hope. I believe you can transform your life, transform your relationships, and transform your community.
I have worked with Therapists in the field, Leaders, Career Seekers, Adult Individuals, Parents, Tweens, Teens, Couples , Men and Women's Issues.
Everything I do as a therapist is taking into consideration that people are not meant to be in isolation, but rather part of a much larger system in terms of relationships, families, support systems, work, and cultural environments. I seek to learn what it is that you care about. Healing? Growth? Transformation? My belief is that you can find reconciliation for your life. The reinvention of one’s self is possible! I work to encourage hope. I believe you can transform your life, transform your relationships, and transform your community.
(214) 989-4459 View (214) 989-4459

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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.