Couples Counselling Therapists in Calgary, AB

Photo of Emma Bulman, MSW, RCSW , Registered Social Worker
Emma Bulman
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T3M
Accepting New Clients. Do you ever wonder if things could be different? If you could find a way to have more connected relationships with your child, spouse, family or coworkers? Are you having difficulty with regulating yourself and responding the way you want with the people in your life? Feel free to reach out to tackle together the things you would like to change. I am a registered clinical social worker with over 15 years experience working with children/families/individuals. I believe that children exist within the context of the relationships in their lives; therefore, I involve parents/families in the therapeutic process
Accepting New Clients. Do you ever wonder if things could be different? If you could find a way to have more connected relationships with your child, spouse, family or coworkers? Are you having difficulty with regulating yourself and responding the way you want with the people in your life? Feel free to reach out to tackle together the things you would like to change. I am a registered clinical social worker with over 15 years experience working with children/families/individuals. I believe that children exist within the context of the relationships in their lives; therefore, I involve parents/families in the therapeutic process
(587) 705-0949 View (587) 705-0949
Photo of Katharine Heimbigner-Tenor, MA, Registered Provisional Psychologist
Katharine Heimbigner-Tenor
Registered Provisional Psychologist, MA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2W
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression. PTSD, C-PTSD, dissociation or have been diagnosed with a personality disorder (eg., Borderline Personality Disorder) due to past trauma? To add to this complexity are you neurodiverse (eg., ADHD, autism, gifted) or suspect you are? Are you looking for symptom relief AND longer term deeper work? I may be able to help. I offer individual and couples counselling that is customized to your unique needs. Additionally, the formal psychoeducational, neurodiversity, personality and trauma assessments that I conduct can enhance self-awareness and may assist with accommodation or benefit requests.
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression. PTSD, C-PTSD, dissociation or have been diagnosed with a personality disorder (eg., Borderline Personality Disorder) due to past trauma? To add to this complexity are you neurodiverse (eg., ADHD, autism, gifted) or suspect you are? Are you looking for symptom relief AND longer term deeper work? I may be able to help. I offer individual and couples counselling that is customized to your unique needs. Additionally, the formal psychoeducational, neurodiversity, personality and trauma assessments that I conduct can enhance self-awareness and may assist with accommodation or benefit requests.
(587) 851-0728 View (587) 851-0728
Photo of Christi Raymond, CCC, Counsellor
Christi Raymond
Counsellor, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2P
Fluent in both English and French, Christi embraces diversity and understands the importance of effective communication in the therapeutic relationship.
Christi creates a safe and nurturing environment where you can explore and navigate the challenges that life may bring. Christi is a Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC) with a passion for integrating creativity into the therapeutic process. She firmly believes in the power of art-based interventions to unlock emotions, foster self-expression, and promote healing. With a specialization in working with adults facing issues such as anxiety and depression, Christi tailors her approach to meet the unique needs of each individual.
Fluent in both English and French, Christi embraces diversity and understands the importance of effective communication in the therapeutic relationship.
Christi creates a safe and nurturing environment where you can explore and navigate the challenges that life may bring. Christi is a Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC) with a passion for integrating creativity into the therapeutic process. She firmly believes in the power of art-based interventions to unlock emotions, foster self-expression, and promote healing. With a specialization in working with adults facing issues such as anxiety and depression, Christi tailors her approach to meet the unique needs of each individual.
(587) 803-1117 View (587) 803-1117
Photo of Jarret Verwimp, MA, BSc, BFA, Counsellor
Jarret Verwimp
Counsellor, MA, BSc, BFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T3E
I approach therapy from a trauma-informed lens and have a strong behavioral approach that works well for clients with anxiety, self-esteem issues, stress, relationship issues, sexuality, addictions, abuse, suicidal ideations, and trauma. While I am a great listener and create space for my clients to be heard and validated, I also assign homework assignments that help my clients gain a better understanding of themselves and their lives and I will challenge you to become the change you desire in your life. I invite you to embark on this transformative journey with me today!
I approach therapy from a trauma-informed lens and have a strong behavioral approach that works well for clients with anxiety, self-esteem issues, stress, relationship issues, sexuality, addictions, abuse, suicidal ideations, and trauma. While I am a great listener and create space for my clients to be heard and validated, I also assign homework assignments that help my clients gain a better understanding of themselves and their lives and I will challenge you to become the change you desire in your life. I invite you to embark on this transformative journey with me today!
(825) 254-6890 View (825) 254-6890
Photo of Kim Busch, MA, RPsych, Psychologist
Kim Busch
Psychologist, MA, RPsych
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2P
If you are looking to create a life is more balanced, more fulfilling, or just change one small area of your life, I can help you make the changes you desire. Through many years of experience in dealing with diverse populations and presenting issues, I have been able to help people find lasting solutions to manage their mental health and lives. I like to work collaboratively with my clients in a way that helps clients feel empowered to make the changes they feel they need to improve their lives. Change can be difficult and a supportive and compassionate relationship can help with that process.
If you are looking to create a life is more balanced, more fulfilling, or just change one small area of your life, I can help you make the changes you desire. Through many years of experience in dealing with diverse populations and presenting issues, I have been able to help people find lasting solutions to manage their mental health and lives. I like to work collaboratively with my clients in a way that helps clients feel empowered to make the changes they feel they need to improve their lives. Change can be difficult and a supportive and compassionate relationship can help with that process.
(587) 801-5032 View (587) 801-5032
Photo of Danielle Lemky, BA, MC, CCC, RPsych, Psychologist
Danielle Lemky
Psychologist, BA, MC, CCC, RPsych
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T3A
I love working with adolescents and adults in individual and couples therapy.
Whether you have been to counselling before or not, I hope to offer a safe space for you to feel heard and connected. I am passionate about helping people navigate the difficult circumstances that they are facing. I value you as the expert of your own experience and believe that you have the tools necessary to find a path to coping, healing, and growth. I would be honoured to support you to find those tools.
I love working with adolescents and adults in individual and couples therapy.
Whether you have been to counselling before or not, I hope to offer a safe space for you to feel heard and connected. I am passionate about helping people navigate the difficult circumstances that they are facing. I value you as the expert of your own experience and believe that you have the tools necessary to find a path to coping, healing, and growth. I would be honoured to support you to find those tools.
(587) 418-3648 View (587) 418-3648
Photo of Jacqueline Limoges - authentikROOT Health | Wellness , MACP, ACTA, RCC, Counsellor
authentikROOT Health | Wellness
Counsellor, MACP, ACTA, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2T
I offer a holistic wellness approach addressing anxiety, stress, trauma, relationship challenges, depression, self-confidence, and life transitions.
Are you feeling stuck? As a Registered Counsellor and Certified Functional Nutrition Coach (CFNC), I specialize in helping individuals achieve personal wellness goals and adapt to healthier lifestyle living. I am dedicated to helping you establish a balanced lifestyle that includes purpose-driven living, self-care practices, and building meaningful relationships. Let's do this! Give me a call
I offer a holistic wellness approach addressing anxiety, stress, trauma, relationship challenges, depression, self-confidence, and life transitions.
Are you feeling stuck? As a Registered Counsellor and Certified Functional Nutrition Coach (CFNC), I specialize in helping individuals achieve personal wellness goals and adapt to healthier lifestyle living. I am dedicated to helping you establish a balanced lifestyle that includes purpose-driven living, self-care practices, and building meaningful relationships. Let's do this! Give me a call
(587) 855-4216 View (587) 855-4216
Photo of Jan Pugh, MA, Registered Provisional Psychologist
Jan Pugh
Registered Provisional Psychologist, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2T
I work with individual adults and adolescents, and couples using an emotion-focused, mindfulness approach.
Are you feeling misunderstood and frustrated? Or just plain sick and tired of dealing with others, or even with yourself? Is your collection of past hurts getting in the way of enjoying life? You deserve peace in the relationship you have with yourself and with others. I am here to journey along with you to untangle your distress with authenticity and genuine acceptance. Let's explore together to unburden your unease and allow your true potential to surface and begin to celebrate your uniqueness.
I work with individual adults and adolescents, and couples using an emotion-focused, mindfulness approach.
Are you feeling misunderstood and frustrated? Or just plain sick and tired of dealing with others, or even with yourself? Is your collection of past hurts getting in the way of enjoying life? You deserve peace in the relationship you have with yourself and with others. I am here to journey along with you to untangle your distress with authenticity and genuine acceptance. Let's explore together to unburden your unease and allow your true potential to surface and begin to celebrate your uniqueness.
(587) 813-5952 View (587) 813-5952
Photo of Michael Enman, PhD, RPsych, CRHSP, Psychologist
Michael Enman
Psychologist, PhD, RPsych, CRHSP
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T3R
Located in Calgary, I am a senior Psychologist providing therapy to individuals and couples experiencing emotional and interpersonal challenges, & relationship issues (e.g., affairs, conflict, trust, communication; divorce); mental health disorders, risky/problematic substance use, and/or more general problems of living. I have advanced training in several therapeutic approaches, including, but not limited to: Cognitive-behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, and couples therapy (Gottman method, Integrative Behavioural Couples Therapy, and Emotionally-focused Therapy). I regularly train PhD students, psychology residents, and provisional psychologists. Additionally, I have expertise working with families (and their adult children), and the assessment/treatment of adult ADHD.
Located in Calgary, I am a senior Psychologist providing therapy to individuals and couples experiencing emotional and interpersonal challenges, & relationship issues (e.g., affairs, conflict, trust, communication; divorce); mental health disorders, risky/problematic substance use, and/or more general problems of living. I have advanced training in several therapeutic approaches, including, but not limited to: Cognitive-behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, and couples therapy (Gottman method, Integrative Behavioural Couples Therapy, and Emotionally-focused Therapy). I regularly train PhD students, psychology residents, and provisional psychologists. Additionally, I have expertise working with families (and their adult children), and the assessment/treatment of adult ADHD.
(866) 838-5181 View (866) 838-5181
Photo of Jennifer Tea, BA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jennifer Tea
Pre-Licensed Professional, BA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T3B
I work with pre-teens (age 10+), adolescents, adults, and couples facing various interpersonal, developmental, behavioral, and social-emotional difficulties.
Do you struggle with feeling disconnected from yourself and others? Do you prioritize others' needs over your own? Do you wonder if life should feel happier and more fulfilling? Now more than ever, people are feeling anxious, overwhelmed, and uncertain about managing their relationships, careers, and lives. Neglecting your own needs and failing to prioritize self-care can have lasting effects on your mental and physical well-being. Helping you overcome these challenges is my passion and mission. I guide you through your therapeutic journey to regain control of your life, find peace, and thrive.
I work with pre-teens (age 10+), adolescents, adults, and couples facing various interpersonal, developmental, behavioral, and social-emotional difficulties.
Do you struggle with feeling disconnected from yourself and others? Do you prioritize others' needs over your own? Do you wonder if life should feel happier and more fulfilling? Now more than ever, people are feeling anxious, overwhelmed, and uncertain about managing their relationships, careers, and lives. Neglecting your own needs and failing to prioritize self-care can have lasting effects on your mental and physical well-being. Helping you overcome these challenges is my passion and mission. I guide you through your therapeutic journey to regain control of your life, find peace, and thrive.
(825) 250-3863 View (825) 250-3863
Photo of Natalie Besmehn, MA, Registered Provisional Psychologist
Natalie Besmehn
Registered Provisional Psychologist, MA
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T2Z
Her therapeutic philosophy is aligned with the Rogerian approach to humanistic counselling, in that the positive conditions of the therapeutic relationship will be the most important in establishing a working foundation with the client to target the issues and concerns they have and want to work on.
As a trauma therapist, Natalie guides clients in a direction of understanding and compassion through a process of reconfiguration of the self, helping clients discover core values and explore new ways to connect with life and relationships after trauma. Natalie’s approach to counselling involves considering the many factors that contribute to a person’s well-being. This includes exploring where thoughts, emotions, and behaviours come from, and examining social conditions and cultural factors that play a major role in health and disease.
Her therapeutic philosophy is aligned with the Rogerian approach to humanistic counselling, in that the positive conditions of the therapeutic relationship will be the most important in establishing a working foundation with the client to target the issues and concerns they have and want to work on.
As a trauma therapist, Natalie guides clients in a direction of understanding and compassion through a process of reconfiguration of the self, helping clients discover core values and explore new ways to connect with life and relationships after trauma. Natalie’s approach to counselling involves considering the many factors that contribute to a person’s well-being. This includes exploring where thoughts, emotions, and behaviours come from, and examining social conditions and cultural factors that play a major role in health and disease.
(587) 316-2962 View (587) 316-2962
Photo of Robert Hammel - Robert Hammel, Psychologist, Psychologist
Robert Hammel, Psychologist
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T3A
For most people, starting therapy takes a lot of courage and strength. To make it easier, I try my best to provide compassion and acceptance in a safe, non-judgemental environment. My goal is to help people live better, more full lives; even if they are coping with anxiety or depression, addictions, relationship problems or major life challenges like bereavement, divorce, job loss or any other difficulties that life may present. I work from a trauma informed perspective. I am also a neurodivergent therapist who endeavours to provide an inclusive therapy practice which welcomes autistic and ADHD people and other neurodiversity.
For most people, starting therapy takes a lot of courage and strength. To make it easier, I try my best to provide compassion and acceptance in a safe, non-judgemental environment. My goal is to help people live better, more full lives; even if they are coping with anxiety or depression, addictions, relationship problems or major life challenges like bereavement, divorce, job loss or any other difficulties that life may present. I work from a trauma informed perspective. I am also a neurodivergent therapist who endeavours to provide an inclusive therapy practice which welcomes autistic and ADHD people and other neurodiversity.
(587) 801-0892 View (587) 801-0892
Photo of Nisha Kuyvenhoven, BA Psyc, MSW, RSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nisha Kuyvenhoven
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BA Psyc, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T2Z  (Online Only)
Do you feel alone in your anxiety? Do you feel like no one understands? Together we will process, understand and overcome the unique challenges you are facing. We will identify any maladaptive patterns of behaviour and develop coping tools. I will support you in recognizing and aligning with your values. I make it a priority to establish a comfortable relationship with my clients and create a safe space for change.
Do you feel alone in your anxiety? Do you feel like no one understands? Together we will process, understand and overcome the unique challenges you are facing. We will identify any maladaptive patterns of behaviour and develop coping tools. I will support you in recognizing and aligning with your values. I make it a priority to establish a comfortable relationship with my clients and create a safe space for change.
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Photo of Daniel McMillan, MEd, RPsych, Psychologist
Daniel McMillan
Psychologist, MEd, RPsych
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2N
The concerns that I work best with are: couples counselling; anxiety; depression; general unhappiness; men's issues; panic; stress; trauma; and personal growth.
It can be difficult to go to counselling, particularly for the first time. Finding a therapist that you feel comfortable with is an important, and at times challenging, process. You likely want someone that can give you direction or tools, but also you connect with and feel supported by. I too feel this is important and strive to provide you with an experience that is both warm / caring AND competent/ knowledgeable. For many years I have worked with individual's and couple's concerns in this manner. I specialize in helping individuals or couples move forward, heal their pain, feel happier and find more peace.
The concerns that I work best with are: couples counselling; anxiety; depression; general unhappiness; men's issues; panic; stress; trauma; and personal growth.
It can be difficult to go to counselling, particularly for the first time. Finding a therapist that you feel comfortable with is an important, and at times challenging, process. You likely want someone that can give you direction or tools, but also you connect with and feel supported by. I too feel this is important and strive to provide you with an experience that is both warm / caring AND competent/ knowledgeable. For many years I have worked with individual's and couple's concerns in this manner. I specialize in helping individuals or couples move forward, heal their pain, feel happier and find more peace.
(587) 412-5076 View (587) 412-5076
Photo of Behnam Kohandel, MA, R, Psych, Psychologist
Behnam Kohandel
Psychologist, MA, R, Psych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T3L
Life at times may feel like a relentless struggle, filled with sadness, discouragement, and overwhelming despair. As a psychologist, with more than 20 years experience, I can support you to overcome challenges such as depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, perfectionism, people pleasing, trauma, addiction, eating issues including binge eating, bulimia and anorexia and couples therapy. I utilize Internal Family Systems (IFS), an innovative and transformative therapeutic model for emotional healing of eating disorders, addiction, anxiety, depression, and relationship difficulties.
Life at times may feel like a relentless struggle, filled with sadness, discouragement, and overwhelming despair. As a psychologist, with more than 20 years experience, I can support you to overcome challenges such as depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, perfectionism, people pleasing, trauma, addiction, eating issues including binge eating, bulimia and anorexia and couples therapy. I utilize Internal Family Systems (IFS), an innovative and transformative therapeutic model for emotional healing of eating disorders, addiction, anxiety, depression, and relationship difficulties.
(844) 311-8027 View (844) 311-8027
Photo of Kirsten Nelson, MSW, RCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kirsten Nelson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RCSW
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T3H
I work from a client-centered and relationship building approach.
Hi! I'm Kirsten. I hold a Masters in Social Work with a clinical focus and I am Registered Clinical Social Worker. Additionally, I am just starting the journey of my Doctorate of Social Work, clinical Trauma specialization through Barry University. I take pride and care in my work as I always want to ensure each client's voice is heard in therapy. I have heavily focused my career in trauma-informed practice and believe this is the way to be true and open-hearted with all clients.
I work from a client-centered and relationship building approach.
Hi! I'm Kirsten. I hold a Masters in Social Work with a clinical focus and I am Registered Clinical Social Worker. Additionally, I am just starting the journey of my Doctorate of Social Work, clinical Trauma specialization through Barry University. I take pride and care in my work as I always want to ensure each client's voice is heard in therapy. I have heavily focused my career in trauma-informed practice and believe this is the way to be true and open-hearted with all clients.
(825) 250-3772 x104 View (825) 250-3772 x104
Photo of Terry Lindberg, MEd, RPsych, Psychologist
Terry Lindberg
Psychologist, MEd, RPsych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2P
I enjoy working collaboratively with adults, adolescents, and couples facing a wide range of personal and career issues. Within a safe and respectful therapeutic relationship, I help clients successfully navigate life's difficulties and increase their resiliency. I am comfortable addressing a wide range of concerns including: relationships, anxiety/depression, grief and loss, anger, work-life balance, spirituality, sexual orientation and addictions. I encourage individuals to identify and utilize their strengths in order to effectively deal with life's many challenges. My role is to listen attentively and offer life-enhancing tools.
I enjoy working collaboratively with adults, adolescents, and couples facing a wide range of personal and career issues. Within a safe and respectful therapeutic relationship, I help clients successfully navigate life's difficulties and increase their resiliency. I am comfortable addressing a wide range of concerns including: relationships, anxiety/depression, grief and loss, anger, work-life balance, spirituality, sexual orientation and addictions. I encourage individuals to identify and utilize their strengths in order to effectively deal with life's many challenges. My role is to listen attentively and offer life-enhancing tools.
(587) 906-3435 View (587) 906-3435
Photo of Linda Kongnetiman-Pansa, PhD, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Linda Kongnetiman-Pansa
Registered Social Worker, PhD, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2X
Narrative, CBT couples therapy.
Hello and welcome! Many of us will experience challenges at some point in our lives. Stress, depression, grief, marital challenges and trauma may evoke many emotional, spiritual, psychological and physical pain that may leave you feeling paralyzed, crippled, and unable to function at the fullest of your ability. When this happens, you need support, someone to walk with you, be there to support you to learn to live life to the fullest. I am committed to walk with you, to collaboratively plan your way back to feeling unstuck and enjoy optimal health and well-being.
Narrative, CBT couples therapy.
Hello and welcome! Many of us will experience challenges at some point in our lives. Stress, depression, grief, marital challenges and trauma may evoke many emotional, spiritual, psychological and physical pain that may leave you feeling paralyzed, crippled, and unable to function at the fullest of your ability. When this happens, you need support, someone to walk with you, be there to support you to learn to live life to the fullest. I am committed to walk with you, to collaboratively plan your way back to feeling unstuck and enjoy optimal health and well-being.
(587) 740-7050 View (587) 740-7050
Photo of Shane F. Lynch, MA, CCC, CCTP-II, C-DBT, RPsych, Psychologist
Shane F. Lynch
Psychologist, MA, CCC, CCTP-II, C-DBT, RPsych
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T2C
I have a special interest in fatherhood and co-parenting issues, and also excel in working with anxiety, depression, relationship distress, and trauma.
Learning about yourself is an enlightening and important process. Therapy is personal. It’s about your life, passions, desires, and challenges. Finding the right therapist for you is key in your therapeutic success. My strength as a psychologist comes from my ability to build relationships of trust with patients, guiding them on a journey of self-discovery and healing, while leveraging my experience in both clinical assessment and talk-therapy to design an approach that creates momentum.
I have a special interest in fatherhood and co-parenting issues, and also excel in working with anxiety, depression, relationship distress, and trauma.
Learning about yourself is an enlightening and important process. Therapy is personal. It’s about your life, passions, desires, and challenges. Finding the right therapist for you is key in your therapeutic success. My strength as a psychologist comes from my ability to build relationships of trust with patients, guiding them on a journey of self-discovery and healing, while leveraging my experience in both clinical assessment and talk-therapy to design an approach that creates momentum.
(587) 419-6795 View (587) 419-6795
Photo of Nikki Buffie: Men's Mental Health Anxiety Relationships, MC, BCR, Registered Provisional Psychologist
Nikki Buffie: Men's Mental Health Anxiety Relationships
Registered Provisional Psychologist, MC, BCR
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2J
I enjoy working with folks navigating anxiety, people-pleasing, perfectionism, low self-esteem/confidence, stress and burnout, emotional regulation, school and work-related challenges, life transitions, men's mental health, boundary setting/effective communication, and relationship difficulties.
I respect that everyone experiences life differently, coming to therapy with their own story. At times, the voice that tells the story may be self-criticizing and judgemental. My hope for our work together is that you come back to yourself and recognize your inherent strength and capacity for growth. Working from an attachment-based and trauma-informed perspective, I will meet you in a space of authenticity and vulnerability as we explore your inner world and help you develop a stronger and safer connection to self, others, and the world around you. All of you is welcome here, and it is my pleasure to join you.
I enjoy working with folks navigating anxiety, people-pleasing, perfectionism, low self-esteem/confidence, stress and burnout, emotional regulation, school and work-related challenges, life transitions, men's mental health, boundary setting/effective communication, and relationship difficulties.
I respect that everyone experiences life differently, coming to therapy with their own story. At times, the voice that tells the story may be self-criticizing and judgemental. My hope for our work together is that you come back to yourself and recognize your inherent strength and capacity for growth. Working from an attachment-based and trauma-informed perspective, I will meet you in a space of authenticity and vulnerability as we explore your inner world and help you develop a stronger and safer connection to self, others, and the world around you. All of you is welcome here, and it is my pleasure to join you.
(825) 251-5321 View (825) 251-5321
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Couples Counselling

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.