Couples Counselling Therapists in Lethbridge, AB

Photo of Eva Streibel, MC, R Psych, Psychologist
Eva Streibel
Psychologist, MC, R Psych
Verified Verified
Lethbridge, AB T1J
I enjoy working with couples, families, and individuals ages 12+ and have training in Attachment-focused EMDR, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), recovering from sexual assault, the neurobiology of trauma, couple and family therapy (including Gottman Levels 1 & 2 and EFT), mindfulness strategies, learning and memory.
If you would like help improving your relationships, understanding rejection sensitivity, managing anxiety and depression, regulating your emotions, learning to live with adult ADHD or traumatic brain injury, flourishing after trauma, adapting to chronic pain/illness, befriending stress, exploring your faith and spirituality, finding your identity, and/or healing from grief and loss, I would be so pleased to work with you.
I enjoy working with couples, families, and individuals ages 12+ and have training in Attachment-focused EMDR, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), recovering from sexual assault, the neurobiology of trauma, couple and family therapy (including Gottman Levels 1 & 2 and EFT), mindfulness strategies, learning and memory.
If you would like help improving your relationships, understanding rejection sensitivity, managing anxiety and depression, regulating your emotions, learning to live with adult ADHD or traumatic brain injury, flourishing after trauma, adapting to chronic pain/illness, befriending stress, exploring your faith and spirituality, finding your identity, and/or healing from grief and loss, I would be so pleased to work with you.
(825) 254-5148 View (825) 254-5148
Photo of Dalayna Taverner, MSW, RSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dalayna Taverner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lethbridge, AB T1J
I have worked with individuals for over a decade, struggling with mental health related concerns. In my experience, the importance of the therapeutic relationship and collaboration between the client and myself, is paramount while meeting the client where they are at and following their pace. I look forward to helping children, teens, and adults looking to work on past traumas, current struggles, and future growth.
I have worked with individuals for over a decade, struggling with mental health related concerns. In my experience, the importance of the therapeutic relationship and collaboration between the client and myself, is paramount while meeting the client where they are at and following their pace. I look forward to helping children, teens, and adults looking to work on past traumas, current struggles, and future growth.
(825) 250-3431 x107 View (825) 250-3431 x107
Photo of L. Marie Damgaard, MEd, CCC, CSAT, CMAT, SP, Counsellor
L. Marie Damgaard
Counsellor, MEd, CCC, CSAT, CMAT, SP
Verified Verified
Lethbridge, AB T1H
Waitlist for new clients
I have ten years of experience in helping hurting people and couples heal.
I work with clients who are experiencing out of control sexual behaviour in an inclusive non shaming atmosphere. I also help spouses and partners heal from the pain of betrayal trauma. Additionally, I believe that human sexuality has a depth of various expressions. As a therapist, my range of expertise includes providing sex therapy for couples and supporting the rainbow end of the sexuality spectrum.
I have ten years of experience in helping hurting people and couples heal.
I work with clients who are experiencing out of control sexual behaviour in an inclusive non shaming atmosphere. I also help spouses and partners heal from the pain of betrayal trauma. Additionally, I believe that human sexuality has a depth of various expressions. As a therapist, my range of expertise includes providing sex therapy for couples and supporting the rainbow end of the sexuality spectrum.
(587) 801-3079 View (587) 801-3079
Photo of Joanne Peterson, R Psych, Psychologist
Joanne Peterson
Psychologist, R Psych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lethbridge, AB T1J
My areas of interest include working with adults and couples in the areas of stress management, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relationship issues, communication, trauma, and life transitions.
Life can be difficult and challenging. Often, we find ourselves stuck in our pain, our grief, and have difficulties navigating our relationships. Perhaps you are seeking support and strategies to deal with stress and anxiety; or help with managing depressive symptoms. As a counsellor, my mission is to provide a caring, safe, and welcoming environment where clients are encouraged to explore past and present life challenges. I stand for equality, diversity, and empowerment. I value being present with my clients and believe the greatest strengths that I offer are my genuineness, insightfulness, and compassion.
My areas of interest include working with adults and couples in the areas of stress management, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relationship issues, communication, trauma, and life transitions.
Life can be difficult and challenging. Often, we find ourselves stuck in our pain, our grief, and have difficulties navigating our relationships. Perhaps you are seeking support and strategies to deal with stress and anxiety; or help with managing depressive symptoms. As a counsellor, my mission is to provide a caring, safe, and welcoming environment where clients are encouraged to explore past and present life challenges. I stand for equality, diversity, and empowerment. I value being present with my clients and believe the greatest strengths that I offer are my genuineness, insightfulness, and compassion.
(825) 250-3487 View (825) 250-3487
Photo of Alicia Hinger - Core Elements Counselling and holistic health, MPC, RPsych, BSc, Psychologist
Core Elements Counselling and holistic health
Psychologist, MPC, RPsych, BSc
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lethbridge, AB T1H
My services align with individuals and couples seeking to enhance their relational dynamics, achieve family harmony, and pursue aligned personal growth. They are attracted to my empathetic, resilient, and strategic approach. My mission is to illuminate the path forward with compassion and clarity. Journey with me towards skillful relationships with self and others. Your journey to healing begins here
My services align with individuals and couples seeking to enhance their relational dynamics, achieve family harmony, and pursue aligned personal growth. They are attracted to my empathetic, resilient, and strategic approach. My mission is to illuminate the path forward with compassion and clarity. Journey with me towards skillful relationships with self and others. Your journey to healing begins here
(587) 507-8095 View (587) 507-8095
Photo of Brandon Nabrotzky, MA, CCC, Counsellor
Brandon Nabrotzky
Counsellor, MA, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lethbridge, AB T1K  (Online Only)
As a psychotherapist, I am dedicated to doing everything in my power to help you remove barriers in your life that are holding you back from enjoying your life, your vocation, your free-time, and your relationships (including your relationship with yourself!) to the fullest.
What is the job of a psychotherapist? I believe it to be rooted in empowerment; in helping you to find within yourself and your environment the strength, knowledge, insight, hope, direction, courage, and confidence that were always there waiting to be found and tapped into, but which for whatever reason(s) evaded notice or access for a sustained period. I believe therapy is about removing barriers: things that get in the way of our being able to access the truest, deepest, purest versions of ourselves – in essence, our ultimate potentials.
As a psychotherapist, I am dedicated to doing everything in my power to help you remove barriers in your life that are holding you back from enjoying your life, your vocation, your free-time, and your relationships (including your relationship with yourself!) to the fullest.
What is the job of a psychotherapist? I believe it to be rooted in empowerment; in helping you to find within yourself and your environment the strength, knowledge, insight, hope, direction, courage, and confidence that were always there waiting to be found and tapped into, but which for whatever reason(s) evaded notice or access for a sustained period. I believe therapy is about removing barriers: things that get in the way of our being able to access the truest, deepest, purest versions of ourselves – in essence, our ultimate potentials.
(825) 435-5710 View (825) 435-5710
Photo of Brad Moser - Brad Moser Registered Psychologist Inc, Psychologist
Brad Moser Registered Psychologist Inc
Psychologist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lethbridge, AB T1H
Therapy can be emotionally difficult and I will work hard at developing a trusting professional relationship with you and helping you feel heard, understood, and respected.
As human beings, we all struggle in different ways. Sometimes, however, our struggles can be so overwhelming, that we lose connection with ourselves and loved ones. As a psychologist, I approach therapy with the attitudes of acceptance, compassion, curiosity, and respect. I will work hard at getting to know you and working collaboratively with you to help you become the best version of yourself.
Therapy can be emotionally difficult and I will work hard at developing a trusting professional relationship with you and helping you feel heard, understood, and respected.
As human beings, we all struggle in different ways. Sometimes, however, our struggles can be so overwhelming, that we lose connection with ourselves and loved ones. As a psychologist, I approach therapy with the attitudes of acceptance, compassion, curiosity, and respect. I will work hard at getting to know you and working collaboratively with you to help you become the best version of yourself.
(587) 872-8137 View (587) 872-8137
Photo of Roberta Smallbones, MACP, Registered Provisional Psychologist
Roberta Smallbones
Registered Provisional Psychologist, MACP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lethbridge, AB T1J
Roberta has experience and interest in supporting youth, individuals, couples, families and first responders who may be experiencing: Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Domestic Violence, Grief/Loss, FASD, Depression, Interpersonal Relationships, Couples Conflict, Self-esteem, Anxiety.
When an individual experiences trauma or is faced with severe life stressors, it is not uncommon for their lives to unravel. Reaching out can often be challenging and yet can be rewarding. Are you looking for support or guidance, or ways to cope during a time of loss, change in career, relationship or uncertainty in your current situation? Therapy is a process of guided personal exploration.
Roberta has experience and interest in supporting youth, individuals, couples, families and first responders who may be experiencing: Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Domestic Violence, Grief/Loss, FASD, Depression, Interpersonal Relationships, Couples Conflict, Self-esteem, Anxiety.
When an individual experiences trauma or is faced with severe life stressors, it is not uncommon for their lives to unravel. Reaching out can often be challenging and yet can be rewarding. Are you looking for support or guidance, or ways to cope during a time of loss, change in career, relationship or uncertainty in your current situation? Therapy is a process of guided personal exploration.
(587) 602-0633 View (587) 602-0633
Photo of Nicole Bradley, BSW, MSW, RSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nicole Bradley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Lethbridge, AB T1K
I have experience and specialization in the areas of mental health, grief and loss, couples, domestic violence treatment, and therapy with Indigenous populations.
***Please ensure to leave a phone number with your request as often times responses through Psychology Today go to junk mail."*** I have a passion for helping people where they are at, and I feel grateful every day that I am privileged to journey with people during some of their most challenging and perhaps darkest times in life. I believe that people have the power to heal themselves with guidance, compassion, and kindness. I take a trauma informed non-judgmental approach to my practice while I continually evaluate our alignment with the goals that we set at the beginning of the therapeutic process.
I have experience and specialization in the areas of mental health, grief and loss, couples, domestic violence treatment, and therapy with Indigenous populations.
***Please ensure to leave a phone number with your request as often times responses through Psychology Today go to junk mail."*** I have a passion for helping people where they are at, and I feel grateful every day that I am privileged to journey with people during some of their most challenging and perhaps darkest times in life. I believe that people have the power to heal themselves with guidance, compassion, and kindness. I take a trauma informed non-judgmental approach to my practice while I continually evaluate our alignment with the goals that we set at the beginning of the therapeutic process.
(403) 635-8102 View (403) 635-8102
Photo of Caitlin Slavens - Couples to Cradles Counselling , RPsych, Psychologist
Couples to Cradles Counselling
Psychologist, RPsych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lethbridge, AB T1J
At Couples to Cradles Counselling, we’re here to support you every step of the way.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, or struggling to keep up with the demands of parenting? We know it can be tough to navigate postpartum mental health challenges like postpartum anxiety, depression, or even feelings of rage and burnout. Maybe you’re feeling the weight of the mental load, balancing endless to-do lists, or facing difficulties in your relationships. For children and teens, anxiety, mood swings, and social struggles can make life feel overwhelming. And let’s not forget about dads and partners, who are also navigating their own unique set of challenges and emotions.
At Couples to Cradles Counselling, we’re here to support you every step of the way.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, or struggling to keep up with the demands of parenting? We know it can be tough to navigate postpartum mental health challenges like postpartum anxiety, depression, or even feelings of rage and burnout. Maybe you’re feeling the weight of the mental load, balancing endless to-do lists, or facing difficulties in your relationships. For children and teens, anxiety, mood swings, and social struggles can make life feel overwhelming. And let’s not forget about dads and partners, who are also navigating their own unique set of challenges and emotions.
(825) 809-5161 View (825) 809-5161
Photo of Karen Wind Vandenberg, MC, CCC, Counsellor
Karen Wind Vandenberg
Counsellor, MC, CCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lethbridge, AB T1J
I specialize in working with Christian clients who are struggling with anxiety and stress due to issues like relationship conflicts, home and work life overwhelm, mental health diagnoses, grief and loss, and church hurt. Many of my clients find having a trauma-informed space where their faith is understood and not judged to be very helpful as they gain insight and learn how to cope with life's challenges.
I specialize in working with Christian clients who are struggling with anxiety and stress due to issues like relationship conflicts, home and work life overwhelm, mental health diagnoses, grief and loss, and church hurt. Many of my clients find having a trauma-informed space where their faith is understood and not judged to be very helpful as they gain insight and learn how to cope with life's challenges.
(587) 818-6338 View (587) 818-6338
Photo of Jennifer L Ellis-Toddington, MC, RPysch, Psychologist
Jennifer L Ellis-Toddington
Psychologist, MC, RPysch
Verified Verified
Lethbridge, AB T1J
I have extensive experience in treating anxiety, depression, grief and loss, trauma, identity concerns, and relationship issues.
As a Psychologist, I always strive to understand, empower, and facilitate self-awareness and self-compassion in the people that I am honoured to work with! I have always had a passion for connecting with people and hearing their stories. My intention is to create a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space for clients to learn about themselves and create positive change. I believe my clients would describe me as authentic, warm, invested in their growth, and able to see their strengths.
I have extensive experience in treating anxiety, depression, grief and loss, trauma, identity concerns, and relationship issues.
As a Psychologist, I always strive to understand, empower, and facilitate self-awareness and self-compassion in the people that I am honoured to work with! I have always had a passion for connecting with people and hearing their stories. My intention is to create a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space for clients to learn about themselves and create positive change. I believe my clients would describe me as authentic, warm, invested in their growth, and able to see their strengths.
(825) 605-4460 View (825) 605-4460
Photo of Cheryl Hutton - Hutton Psychological Services- Cheryl Hutton , R Psyc, MACP, BA, Psychologist
Hutton Psychological Services- Cheryl Hutton
Psychologist, R Psyc, MACP, BA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lethbridge, AB T1J
Specializing in Therapeutic Interventions that address Anxiety and Depression, Negative life events/ Trauma/ Blocking Beliefs, and helping clients to align with their own core values and best versions of themselves! Additional training in Positive Parenting, Disabilities, Substance use, Schema Therapy, EMDR, Gottman Method couples therapy.
Registered Psychologist working within a vast array of clinical areas. I enjoy meeting each individual client with where they are at and what will be the best treatment plan based on their own unique needs. visit www.huttonpsychologicalservices.ca to book today!
Specializing in Therapeutic Interventions that address Anxiety and Depression, Negative life events/ Trauma/ Blocking Beliefs, and helping clients to align with their own core values and best versions of themselves! Additional training in Positive Parenting, Disabilities, Substance use, Schema Therapy, EMDR, Gottman Method couples therapy.
Registered Psychologist working within a vast array of clinical areas. I enjoy meeting each individual client with where they are at and what will be the best treatment plan based on their own unique needs. visit www.huttonpsychologicalservices.ca to book today!
(587) 801-4658 View (587) 801-4658
Photo of Kelly Susan Weitz - Kelly Weitz Counselling Services, BA, MC, RPsych, Psychologist
Kelly Weitz Counselling Services
Psychologist, BA, MC, RPsych
Verified Verified
Lethbridge, AB T1J
Do you ever find yourself unable to talk yourself out of an unfavourable state, and then feel shame and guilt for not being able to do so? Or do you find yourself feeling overly emotional or overstimulated in your surroundings? I am passionate about these topics and feel honoured to accompany my clients through their unique journey. I love to work with teens, adults, and couples and work hard to discover the potential they did not know they have. I strive to work with my clients to find solutions together; everyone has different needs and what will work for one may not work for another.
Do you ever find yourself unable to talk yourself out of an unfavourable state, and then feel shame and guilt for not being able to do so? Or do you find yourself feeling overly emotional or overstimulated in your surroundings? I am passionate about these topics and feel honoured to accompany my clients through their unique journey. I love to work with teens, adults, and couples and work hard to discover the potential they did not know they have. I strive to work with my clients to find solutions together; everyone has different needs and what will work for one may not work for another.
(587) 800-5109 View (587) 800-5109
Photo of Callista Mason, MSW, RSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Callista Mason
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Lethbridge, AB T1J
I have supported people from diverse backgrounds, identities, and social locations with a variety of issues including: grief & loss, intimate partner violence, life transitions, gender identity and sexuality, workplace stress, interpersonal issues, sexual health & healthy relationships, communication issues, anxiety, depression, and other concerns.
Well hello there! My name is Callista Mason and I am a Registered Social Worker and educator based in Lethbridge, AB. I am passionate about supporting people on their journey to healing and personal fulfillment in various capacities including individual & couples counselling, group therapy and community development. I believe that no two people are the same and therefore draw on strategies from various therapeutic approaches to meet your needs. I aim to be relationally focused, trauma and structurally informed, and deeply curious and authentic with my clients.
I have supported people from diverse backgrounds, identities, and social locations with a variety of issues including: grief & loss, intimate partner violence, life transitions, gender identity and sexuality, workplace stress, interpersonal issues, sexual health & healthy relationships, communication issues, anxiety, depression, and other concerns.
Well hello there! My name is Callista Mason and I am a Registered Social Worker and educator based in Lethbridge, AB. I am passionate about supporting people on their journey to healing and personal fulfillment in various capacities including individual & couples counselling, group therapy and community development. I believe that no two people are the same and therefore draw on strategies from various therapeutic approaches to meet your needs. I aim to be relationally focused, trauma and structurally informed, and deeply curious and authentic with my clients.
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Photo of Jodie Larson-Pendock, BSW, MSW, RSW, PMH-C, Registered Social Worker
Jodie Larson-Pendock
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lethbridge, AB T1J
Waitlist for new clients
Hello and Welcome! I am a Master's level Registered Social Worker (clinical) offering adult counselling services. My areas of practice include: anxiety, depression, prenatal/postpartum mental health, parenting, relationship challenges, adhd, disordered eating, adult attachment, self-esteem, family boundaries, people pleasing, and perfectionism. I also offer pre/post baby couples counselling. I draw from many different models of therapy (EMDR, CBT, DBT, narrative, inner child, and solution-focused approaches) and I have 10 years of experience in different areas of the social work field.
Hello and Welcome! I am a Master's level Registered Social Worker (clinical) offering adult counselling services. My areas of practice include: anxiety, depression, prenatal/postpartum mental health, parenting, relationship challenges, adhd, disordered eating, adult attachment, self-esteem, family boundaries, people pleasing, and perfectionism. I also offer pre/post baby couples counselling. I draw from many different models of therapy (EMDR, CBT, DBT, narrative, inner child, and solution-focused approaches) and I have 10 years of experience in different areas of the social work field.
(587) 412-2741 View (587) 412-2741
Photo of Edwin Brobbel : Blue Leaf Counselling, MEd, BA, BEd, Psychologist
Edwin Brobbel : Blue Leaf Counselling
Psychologist, MEd, BA, BEd
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lethbridge, AB T1J
Accepting new clients! Couples counselling, existential therapy, and more. - Do you find yourself struggling in your relationship, no matter what you do? You may be tired of trying different things to make your relationship better, but nothing seems to make a difference and you end up feeling hopeless and alone. You might not even remember a time when it didn't feel this way. You are ready to work with your partner, as a team, to get back on track. Most of all, you are ready to feel connected and safe with the person you care about the most.
Accepting new clients! Couples counselling, existential therapy, and more. - Do you find yourself struggling in your relationship, no matter what you do? You may be tired of trying different things to make your relationship better, but nothing seems to make a difference and you end up feeling hopeless and alone. You might not even remember a time when it didn't feel this way. You are ready to work with your partner, as a team, to get back on track. Most of all, you are ready to feel connected and safe with the person you care about the most.
(825) 251-8826 View (825) 251-8826
Photo of Nadine Duckworth - Indigo Insight Counselling, MEd, RPsych, Psychologist
Indigo Insight Counselling
Psychologist, MEd, RPsych
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lethbridge, AB T1J
As we develop a trusting relationship, the more you can open up and share your deepest thoughts and feelings, the more helpful I can be.
Rated Top 3 Best Psychologists in Lethbridge, 2019-2023. Over 13 years in private practice. Working from an integrative/holistic perspective, I guide you to access your inner wisdom; along with teaching practical skills and developing strategies that you can use in your daily life to experience immediate and ongoing improvement.
As we develop a trusting relationship, the more you can open up and share your deepest thoughts and feelings, the more helpful I can be.
Rated Top 3 Best Psychologists in Lethbridge, 2019-2023. Over 13 years in private practice. Working from an integrative/holistic perspective, I guide you to access your inner wisdom; along with teaching practical skills and developing strategies that you can use in your daily life to experience immediate and ongoing improvement.
(403) 634-6609 View (403) 634-6609
Photo of Celest Gilmour, BA, RPC, ACTA, Counsellor
Celest Gilmour
Counsellor, BA, RPC, ACTA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lethbridge, AB T1K
My fields of expertise covers anxiety/depression, relationship issues, Individual/family counselling, grief counselling, & end-of-life and life transitions.
Are you gripped by anxiety & worry, no matter what you do? Do you want to find your inner balance and peace again? Picture a road map through counselling therapy to find more meaningful connections with yourself & others, gaining more confidence & peace. Picture finding yourself again, a greater love for yourself & your life. Imagine a transformed you and a better future. In my practice, you will be provided with a safe & caring environment. You can expect my honesty, understanding, and being non-judgmental. My aim is to build a trusting & empathic relationship with you through genuine connection, compassion, clarity & insight.
My fields of expertise covers anxiety/depression, relationship issues, Individual/family counselling, grief counselling, & end-of-life and life transitions.
Are you gripped by anxiety & worry, no matter what you do? Do you want to find your inner balance and peace again? Picture a road map through counselling therapy to find more meaningful connections with yourself & others, gaining more confidence & peace. Picture finding yourself again, a greater love for yourself & your life. Imagine a transformed you and a better future. In my practice, you will be provided with a safe & caring environment. You can expect my honesty, understanding, and being non-judgmental. My aim is to build a trusting & empathic relationship with you through genuine connection, compassion, clarity & insight.
(825) 798-0483 View (825) 798-0483
Photo of Jonathan Roque, MC, RPsych, Psychologist
Jonathan Roque
Psychologist, MC, RPsych
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lethbridge, AB T1J
You can expect that I will be honest, understanding, and non-judgmental. Building a trusting and empathic relationship with you is my number one aim, and so I strive to offer you a therapeutic space where you can experience genuine connection, compassion, clarity, and insight. My practice serves individuals and couples struggling with difficult life transitions, marital conflict, grief/loss, childhood abuse, trauma, depression, and anxiety.
You can expect that I will be honest, understanding, and non-judgmental. Building a trusting and empathic relationship with you is my number one aim, and so I strive to offer you a therapeutic space where you can experience genuine connection, compassion, clarity, and insight. My practice serves individuals and couples struggling with difficult life transitions, marital conflict, grief/loss, childhood abuse, trauma, depression, and anxiety.
(587) 813-6167 View (587) 813-6167
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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.