Couples Counseling Therapists in Van Alstyne, TX

Photo of Dr. Chris Bedard, Marriage & Family Therapist in Van Alstyne, TX
Dr. Chris Bedard
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Van Alstyne, TX 75495  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with couples at various stages of their relationship (premarital, marital, etc).
I strive to help clients receive healing, become transformed, and learn to thrive in the life God intended for them. I specialize in working with couples at any stage or place in life. It is my desire to help create safe and secure connections that are both healing and transformative. This starts by having a safe and secure place to talk. I am sensitive to the needs of my clients and tailor my therapy to use both my experience and training to address client goals. My unique approach integrates faith-based beliefs with proven clinical practice. (Not currently taking Insurance Clients)
I specialize in working with couples at various stages of their relationship (premarital, marital, etc).
I strive to help clients receive healing, become transformed, and learn to thrive in the life God intended for them. I specialize in working with couples at any stage or place in life. It is my desire to help create safe and secure connections that are both healing and transformative. This starts by having a safe and secure place to talk. I am sensitive to the needs of my clients and tailor my therapy to use both my experience and training to address client goals. My unique approach integrates faith-based beliefs with proven clinical practice. (Not currently taking Insurance Clients)
(817) 945-6930 View (817) 945-6930
Photo of Kim Carson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Van Alstyne, TX
Kim Carson
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MEd, LPC, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Van Alstyne, TX 75495
My therapeutic philosophy involves utilizing a holistic approach incorporating Gestalt and Adlerian therapies. As a Licensed Professional Counselor who specializes in athletes, children, adolescents, and young adults, I frequently work with clients experiencing issues related to poor sport or school performance, life changes during adolescence, life transitioning from college to career, parenting issues, sibling relationships, and divorce family transitioning. Topical issues may include low self-esteem , ADHD, transitioning from athletic identity, peer relationships, anger management, self-mutilation, eating disorders, and self-empowerment. A fundamental element in my approach is establishing the therapeutic relationship through rapport and building trust between the client and the therapist.
My therapeutic philosophy involves utilizing a holistic approach incorporating Gestalt and Adlerian therapies. As a Licensed Professional Counselor who specializes in athletes, children, adolescents, and young adults, I frequently work with clients experiencing issues related to poor sport or school performance, life changes during adolescence, life transitioning from college to career, parenting issues, sibling relationships, and divorce family transitioning. Topical issues may include low self-esteem , ADHD, transitioning from athletic identity, peer relationships, anger management, self-mutilation, eating disorders, and self-empowerment. A fundamental element in my approach is establishing the therapeutic relationship through rapport and building trust between the client and the therapist.
(972) 347-4096 View (972) 347-4096
Photo of Dr. Sandy McMillan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Van Alstyne, TX
Dr. Sandy McMillan
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Van Alstyne, TX 75495
I have experience working with children, adolescents, teens, and adults on various concerns, from behavioral issues in children to addiction and relationship concerns with adults.
My therapeutic approach employs flexible integration. This style enables the counseling experience to be tailored to the individual needs and style of each client. This can range from behavioral to psychodynamic techniques. The methods are different but complimentary in order to give each client the most effective experience. Clients will feel free to express their innermost thoughts, feelings, and ideas through a non-threatening, non-judgmental environment. Utilizing techniques that complement each unique personality will enable clients to gain confidence in achieving their goals.
I have experience working with children, adolescents, teens, and adults on various concerns, from behavioral issues in children to addiction and relationship concerns with adults.
My therapeutic approach employs flexible integration. This style enables the counseling experience to be tailored to the individual needs and style of each client. This can range from behavioral to psychodynamic techniques. The methods are different but complimentary in order to give each client the most effective experience. Clients will feel free to express their innermost thoughts, feelings, and ideas through a non-threatening, non-judgmental environment. Utilizing techniques that complement each unique personality will enable clients to gain confidence in achieving their goals.
(972) 528-0802 View (972) 528-0802
Photo of Renae Heilman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Van Alstyne, TX
Renae Heilman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Van Alstyne, TX 75495
Waitlist for new clients
My ideal client wants change. Although they may be struggling, they are trying to hold on to hope. There is hope. If you are struggling with depression and anxiety, trying to cope with past trauma or just navigating life's challenges, there is hope. I work from a cognitive behavioral model to understand the connection of our thoughts, feelings, and actions and how one may be stuck in a cycle with these thoughts and feelings dragging them down. I am an active counselor, so I don't just sit back, we work together with you developing the skills you need to move forward with your life. I also provide EMDR services.
My ideal client wants change. Although they may be struggling, they are trying to hold on to hope. There is hope. If you are struggling with depression and anxiety, trying to cope with past trauma or just navigating life's challenges, there is hope. I work from a cognitive behavioral model to understand the connection of our thoughts, feelings, and actions and how one may be stuck in a cycle with these thoughts and feelings dragging them down. I am an active counselor, so I don't just sit back, we work together with you developing the skills you need to move forward with your life. I also provide EMDR services.
(430) 204-2223 View (430) 204-2223
Photo of Ruth S Kyle, Licensed Professional Counselor in Van Alstyne, TX
Ruth S Kyle
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Van Alstyne, TX 75495
Your friends invite you to happy hour but an hour of "happy" sounds exhausting. You dread major holidays because of a loss. Or maybe you simply struggle with days that have a vowel in them. Life keeps happening and you are going through the motions: job, family, basic hygiene (maybe), food that is not chips, to make it happen. I can give you a safe space where you can tell your story - all the parts of your story. I can help you identify what it is that you want for your life, look at your patterns, and offer insight into finding what's best for you. Let's find your inner bad-ass (oops) warrior!
Your friends invite you to happy hour but an hour of "happy" sounds exhausting. You dread major holidays because of a loss. Or maybe you simply struggle with days that have a vowel in them. Life keeps happening and you are going through the motions: job, family, basic hygiene (maybe), food that is not chips, to make it happen. I can give you a safe space where you can tell your story - all the parts of your story. I can help you identify what it is that you want for your life, look at your patterns, and offer insight into finding what's best for you. Let's find your inner bad-ass (oops) warrior!
(972) 885-6092 View (972) 885-6092

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Lasharra Jenkins, Licensed Master Social Worker in Van Alstyne, TX
Lasharra Jenkins
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anna, TX 75409  (Online Only)
Are you feeling like you just don’t fit in, feeling lonely despite being surrounded by others, unable to manage your day to day, or feeling like you need to be validated and unsure if you made the right decision? Are you feeling like you and your partner and/or family are not on the same page? Are you struggling with identifying what is making you feel uncomfortable? Or do you not know how to respond to your children, partner/spouse, family or friends. If you feel this way, you are in the right place. Let me create a safe space for you to express all the emotions & feelings that has been trapped inside.
Are you feeling like you just don’t fit in, feeling lonely despite being surrounded by others, unable to manage your day to day, or feeling like you need to be validated and unsure if you made the right decision? Are you feeling like you and your partner and/or family are not on the same page? Are you struggling with identifying what is making you feel uncomfortable? Or do you not know how to respond to your children, partner/spouse, family or friends. If you feel this way, you are in the right place. Let me create a safe space for you to express all the emotions & feelings that has been trapped inside.
(972) 591-1051 View (972) 591-1051
Photo of Village Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Van Alstyne, TX
Village Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, LCDC, CEDS-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anna, TX 75409
Living life takes a village; we consider it a privilege to be part of yours! At Village Counseling we aim to provide support across the lifespan, from kids to adults and couples to families. Our therapists are equipped to help you explore the patterns and hangups in your life that are leading you down well-traveled roads, understand the underlying contributors to your feelings of sadness or anxiety, and make changes to improve your life. We take a person-centered approach which means, we work together to create treatment goals and make meaningful progress using evidence-based therapeutic methods!
Living life takes a village; we consider it a privilege to be part of yours! At Village Counseling we aim to provide support across the lifespan, from kids to adults and couples to families. Our therapists are equipped to help you explore the patterns and hangups in your life that are leading you down well-traveled roads, understand the underlying contributors to your feelings of sadness or anxiety, and make changes to improve your life. We take a person-centered approach which means, we work together to create treatment goals and make meaningful progress using evidence-based therapeutic methods!
(469) 607-0198 View (469) 607-0198
Photo of Andrea K Erwin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Van Alstyne, TX
Andrea K Erwin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anna, TX 75409
Right now, you feel like your relationship is going down the tubes.
While I may not understand an individual’s exact pain, I can empathize with the one who is suffering. I know how it feels to be alone during dark times and I don’t want anyone to feel that way. My goal is for my clients to experience support and acceptance. When you walk through our doors, I want you to feel less lonely and more empowered.
Right now, you feel like your relationship is going down the tubes.
While I may not understand an individual’s exact pain, I can empathize with the one who is suffering. I know how it feels to be alone during dark times and I don’t want anyone to feel that way. My goal is for my clients to experience support and acceptance. When you walk through our doors, I want you to feel less lonely and more empowered.
(214) 438-4356 View (214) 438-4356
Photo of Heather McGowen Sanford, LPC Associate in Van Alstyne, TX
Heather McGowen Sanford
LPC Associate, MFT-A, MA
Verified Verified
Melissa, TX 75454
To set your mind at ease, I am proficient in Relationship Therapy, Family Therapy, Trauma Work, Attachment Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Teen & Young Adult work and so much more.
Mental health challenges of your own or a loved one can cause such confusion and pain. Broken relationships can hurt so deeply. These things can put our lives in a wobble and cause us to lose meaning and joy in life. It can cause nagging anxiety or even depression; resulting in anxious thoughts playing on a loop in our minds, yet with the confusion of not knowing where to go from here. Rest assured that hope is just around the corner. You took the first step in reaching out and looking for help. We all need to feel seen and heard and know that we are not alone.
To set your mind at ease, I am proficient in Relationship Therapy, Family Therapy, Trauma Work, Attachment Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Teen & Young Adult work and so much more.
Mental health challenges of your own or a loved one can cause such confusion and pain. Broken relationships can hurt so deeply. These things can put our lives in a wobble and cause us to lose meaning and joy in life. It can cause nagging anxiety or even depression; resulting in anxious thoughts playing on a loop in our minds, yet with the confusion of not knowing where to go from here. Rest assured that hope is just around the corner. You took the first step in reaching out and looking for help. We all need to feel seen and heard and know that we are not alone.
(214) 997-0319 View (214) 997-0319
Photo of Transitional Therapy LLC, Counselor in Van Alstyne, TX
Transitional Therapy LLC
Counselor, LMHC, CASAC , LPC
Verified Verified
Melissa, TX 75454  (Online Only)
As your therapist my goal is to build a positive therapeutic relationship with you, provide a warm friendly environment where you feel safe and comfortable to be yourself.
Does change make you feel uncomfortable? are you anxious about the future? worried about the past? or having a difficult time being present in the moment? life can be overwhelming sometimes, but the good news is you don't have to figure it out on your own. As your therapist, I will help you navigate through difficult transitions in life, assist you with reaching your desired goals and provide you with the necessary resources that you may need in order to have a healthy relationship with yourself and others.
As your therapist my goal is to build a positive therapeutic relationship with you, provide a warm friendly environment where you feel safe and comfortable to be yourself.
Does change make you feel uncomfortable? are you anxious about the future? worried about the past? or having a difficult time being present in the moment? life can be overwhelming sometimes, but the good news is you don't have to figure it out on your own. As your therapist, I will help you navigate through difficult transitions in life, assist you with reaching your desired goals and provide you with the necessary resources that you may need in order to have a healthy relationship with yourself and others.
(214) 751-6465 View (214) 751-6465
Photo of Kelly Martin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Van Alstyne, TX
Kelly Martin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Anna, TX 75409  (Online Only)
Rumi- "Out beyond ideas of wrongdoing and rightdoing there is a field. I'll meet you there." I consider it an honor and a privilege to walk alongside my clients in their journey of healing and discovery. My formal education and professional experience have prepared me to counsel individuals, couples, families and groups. I fit my clinical approach to each clients needs and goals. I have worked with many experiential techniques and enjoy bringing them into my individual and couples sessions. I enjoy helping my clients to find and build on their strengths.
Rumi- "Out beyond ideas of wrongdoing and rightdoing there is a field. I'll meet you there." I consider it an honor and a privilege to walk alongside my clients in their journey of healing and discovery. My formal education and professional experience have prepared me to counsel individuals, couples, families and groups. I fit my clinical approach to each clients needs and goals. I have worked with many experiential techniques and enjoy bringing them into my individual and couples sessions. I enjoy helping my clients to find and build on their strengths.
(972) 833-0923 View (972) 833-0923
Photo of Jennifer Chelgren, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Van Alstyne, TX
Jennifer Chelgren
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCDC
Verified Verified
Anna, TX 75409
ALSO- If you are a family member (spouse, parent, child etc.
As a dual-degreed Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDC), and more significantly, a person celebrating over a decade IN RECOVERY from addiction, I offer a unique perspective to those seeking a life free from addiction, or if you are just Sober Curious. I utilize individually targeted pathways and modalities (not everyone recovers the same way), combined with holistic and spiritual (if you choose) approaches for you or your loved ones. With the goal of recovery, we (together) will explore and process substance use/abuse, familial and marital history/complications, trauma, grief, relapse prevention, etc. JUDGEMENT FREE ZONE!
ALSO- If you are a family member (spouse, parent, child etc.
As a dual-degreed Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDC), and more significantly, a person celebrating over a decade IN RECOVERY from addiction, I offer a unique perspective to those seeking a life free from addiction, or if you are just Sober Curious. I utilize individually targeted pathways and modalities (not everyone recovers the same way), combined with holistic and spiritual (if you choose) approaches for you or your loved ones. With the goal of recovery, we (together) will explore and process substance use/abuse, familial and marital history/complications, trauma, grief, relapse prevention, etc. JUDGEMENT FREE ZONE!
(972) 382-5920 View (972) 382-5920
Photo of Rejuvenation Counseling, Coaching & Consulting LLC, Pastoral Counselor in Van Alstyne, TX
Rejuvenation Counseling, Coaching & Consulting LLC
Pastoral Counselor, LCCP, LCMFT, LCCT
Verified Verified
Melissa, TX 75454  (Online Only)
We offer a variety of services from individual, family, couples, marriage, marriage courses, mentorship, Life Coaching and pre-marital counseling.
Dr. Nicckay Natson is the Executive Director and Founder of Rejuvenation Counseling Coaching & Consulting LLC. Dr. Nicckay is a Licensed Clinical Christian Psychologist, Licensed Clinical Christian Therapist and Licensed Clinical Christian Marriage and Family Therapist a Licensed and Ordained Minister, Certified Life Coach, Certified Mentor and Certified Marriage Mentor. She is also a Certified Symbis facilitator. She has been a therapist/therapist supervisor/behavior analyst for over 18 years combined in the secular arena before she decided to start a Christian Counseling Practice to help those that are in need.
We offer a variety of services from individual, family, couples, marriage, marriage courses, mentorship, Life Coaching and pre-marital counseling.
Dr. Nicckay Natson is the Executive Director and Founder of Rejuvenation Counseling Coaching & Consulting LLC. Dr. Nicckay is a Licensed Clinical Christian Psychologist, Licensed Clinical Christian Therapist and Licensed Clinical Christian Marriage and Family Therapist a Licensed and Ordained Minister, Certified Life Coach, Certified Mentor and Certified Marriage Mentor. She is also a Certified Symbis facilitator. She has been a therapist/therapist supervisor/behavior analyst for over 18 years combined in the secular arena before she decided to start a Christian Counseling Practice to help those that are in need.
(678) 922-4645 View (678) 922-4645
Photo of Counseling Impact, Licensed Professional Counselor in Van Alstyne, TX
Counseling Impact
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Anna, TX 75409
Are you confused about your life? Do you struggle to sort out your emotions? Does trauma have you spiraling out of control? Is grief so overwhelming that you are not sure what to do? Have you tried to create healthy relationships only to find yourself hurt and disappointed? Do you feel nervous, fear judgement or struggle discussing the challenges you are experiencing in your life? We all want to live peaceful, happy, stable lives surrounded by people who love and value us! The life you desire is possible!
Are you confused about your life? Do you struggle to sort out your emotions? Does trauma have you spiraling out of control? Is grief so overwhelming that you are not sure what to do? Have you tried to create healthy relationships only to find yourself hurt and disappointed? Do you feel nervous, fear judgement or struggle discussing the challenges you are experiencing in your life? We all want to live peaceful, happy, stable lives surrounded by people who love and value us! The life you desire is possible!
(903) 294-3019 View (903) 294-3019
Photo of Kara Blankenship, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Van Alstyne, TX
Kara Blankenship
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPC-A, CPLC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Celina, TX 75009  (Online Only)
Sometimes motherhood feels impossible. You want to be different, but you keep finding yourself yelling at your children. The noise, the constant needs...the pressure from all sides, just keeps you going until you drop into bed at night, but then you can't even fall asleep at night because your mind won't shut down. You’re tired of feeling alone. Exhausted from it all. What would it be like if you could wake in the morning without the heaviness of the day that lies ahead? What if you could feel a sense of peace throughout your day rather than the guilt that grips you now? It seems those are only dreams.
Sometimes motherhood feels impossible. You want to be different, but you keep finding yourself yelling at your children. The noise, the constant needs...the pressure from all sides, just keeps you going until you drop into bed at night, but then you can't even fall asleep at night because your mind won't shut down. You’re tired of feeling alone. Exhausted from it all. What would it be like if you could wake in the morning without the heaviness of the day that lies ahead? What if you could feel a sense of peace throughout your day rather than the guilt that grips you now? It seems those are only dreams.
(817) 670-8698 View (817) 670-8698
Photo of CHART Counseling Services PLLC, Kristi Heath, Licensed Professional Counselor in Van Alstyne, TX
CHART Counseling Services PLLC, Kristi Heath
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anna, TX 75409
“Insanity is continuing to do the same actions and behaviors with a high expectation there will be a different outcome.” If you are tired of feeling like you are going in circles and ending up where you started when it comes to trying to fix your personal and family issues then you are at the right place! Sometimes overwhelming feelings and even emptiness can be so heavy. If you are tired of being weighed down by your own depression, anxiety, and trauma or feeling mentally drained trying to help others resolve theirs than decide to make changes Right NOW! Our goal at CHART Counseling Services is Creating Hope And Restoring Trust.
“Insanity is continuing to do the same actions and behaviors with a high expectation there will be a different outcome.” If you are tired of feeling like you are going in circles and ending up where you started when it comes to trying to fix your personal and family issues then you are at the right place! Sometimes overwhelming feelings and even emptiness can be so heavy. If you are tired of being weighed down by your own depression, anxiety, and trauma or feeling mentally drained trying to help others resolve theirs than decide to make changes Right NOW! Our goal at CHART Counseling Services is Creating Hope And Restoring Trust.
(469) 457-3272 View (469) 457-3272
Photo of Rebekah Johnson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Van Alstyne, TX
Rebekah Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Anna, TX 75409
Do you have difficulty understanding and managing emotions and physiological reactions to life stressors? Do you experience guilt and anxiety about religious issues, or feel lost in the current political, cultural, and/or economic climate? Are you experiencing conflict in your marriage? I have worked with people experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, overwhelming levels of stress, and PTSD. I have also worked with clients recovering from physical, sexual, religious, psychological abuse and trauma. I seek to bring relief to my clients as they process past experiences, current stressors, and develop positive ways of coping.
Do you have difficulty understanding and managing emotions and physiological reactions to life stressors? Do you experience guilt and anxiety about religious issues, or feel lost in the current political, cultural, and/or economic climate? Are you experiencing conflict in your marriage? I have worked with people experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, overwhelming levels of stress, and PTSD. I have also worked with clients recovering from physical, sexual, religious, psychological abuse and trauma. I seek to bring relief to my clients as they process past experiences, current stressors, and develop positive ways of coping.
(972) 430-7925 View (972) 430-7925
Photo of Lan Nguyen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Van Alstyne, TX
Lan Nguyen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Anna, TX 75409  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Do you feel unseen or unheard? Maybe you feel like you don't quite belong? Or maybe you don't feel anything at all? Maybe you feel like you just aren’t "good enough." You might feel frustrated, confused, or guilty about why you lash out at those closest to you. Maybe you feel like you have been faking it through life and hiding behind your busyness. You may feel stuck in relationships and avoid conflicts so you pretend like things are fine. Maybe you are just scared to take up space and speak up for yourself. Is childhood or complex trauma keeping you isolated, trapped, and disconnected? Therapy can help you live abundantly!
Do you feel unseen or unheard? Maybe you feel like you don't quite belong? Or maybe you don't feel anything at all? Maybe you feel like you just aren’t "good enough." You might feel frustrated, confused, or guilty about why you lash out at those closest to you. Maybe you feel like you have been faking it through life and hiding behind your busyness. You may feel stuck in relationships and avoid conflicts so you pretend like things are fine. Maybe you are just scared to take up space and speak up for yourself. Is childhood or complex trauma keeping you isolated, trapped, and disconnected? Therapy can help you live abundantly!
(657) 220-6129 View (657) 220-6129
Photo of Amber Johnson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Van Alstyne, TX
Amber Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, EMDR, SEP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Anna, TX 75409
On the outside you look like you have it “all together” but deep down you are struggling. The pressure of trying to do it all paired with your high expectations for yourself are beating you down. You are realizing you have lost touch with yourself. You know you need to set better boundaries and start prioritizing yourself, but in the past when you have tried it didn't work out and your old patterns eventually resurfaced. You know things can’t keep going on like this. You want to feel happy and confident.
On the outside you look like you have it “all together” but deep down you are struggling. The pressure of trying to do it all paired with your high expectations for yourself are beating you down. You are realizing you have lost touch with yourself. You know you need to set better boundaries and start prioritizing yourself, but in the past when you have tried it didn't work out and your old patterns eventually resurfaced. You know things can’t keep going on like this. You want to feel happy and confident.
(469) 457-2263 View (469) 457-2263
Photo of Brenda Lisbeth Medina, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Van Alstyne, TX
Brenda Lisbeth Medina
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anna, TX 75409
(903) 496-3243 View (903) 496-3243

See more therapy options for Van Alstyne

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.