Couples Counselling Therapists in Ontario

Photo of Alyna Reesor - HomeSafe Psychology - Alyna Reesor, MSc, CPsych, CCFT, Psychologist
HomeSafe Psychology - Alyna Reesor
Psychologist, MSc, CPsych, CCFT
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1B
I offer specialized services including, Supervision for Therapists, Marriage Preparation Therapy, Couples Therapy and Teen Therapy.
I am a Certified Psychologist and Certified Couple and Family Therapist in Ontario. I offer virtual and in-person psychological services to individuals, couples, and families who are having difficulty managing their emotions and cognitions, coping with relationship issues, or adjusting to the challenges of life. My small team are flexible and client-centered in our approach, accepting and caring. I offer psychological resources and supplemental materials depending on your unique situation & interests.
I offer specialized services including, Supervision for Therapists, Marriage Preparation Therapy, Couples Therapy and Teen Therapy.
I am a Certified Psychologist and Certified Couple and Family Therapist in Ontario. I offer virtual and in-person psychological services to individuals, couples, and families who are having difficulty managing their emotions and cognitions, coping with relationship issues, or adjusting to the challenges of life. My small team are flexible and client-centered in our approach, accepting and caring. I offer psychological resources and supplemental materials depending on your unique situation & interests.
(343) 307-0686 View (343) 307-0686
Photo of Stephanie Moffit, BA, BSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Stephanie Moffit
Registered Social Worker, BA, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Mitchell, ON N0K
I provide services to youth (ages 14+), individuals, and couples.
Are you overwhelmed? Maybe it's anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, relationship problems, or trauma. My goal is to help you get out of survival mode and start having a life worth living. While pain is not something we can avoid (although we try really, really hard to!), suffering is something we can do without. I focus on exploring your goals and values to identify the type of change needed for you to live a meaningful life. Whether or not you know the path forward yet, I'm here to help you get to where you're meant to be.
I provide services to youth (ages 14+), individuals, and couples.
Are you overwhelmed? Maybe it's anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, relationship problems, or trauma. My goal is to help you get out of survival mode and start having a life worth living. While pain is not something we can avoid (although we try really, really hard to!), suffering is something we can do without. I focus on exploring your goals and values to identify the type of change needed for you to live a meaningful life. Whether or not you know the path forward yet, I'm here to help you get to where you're meant to be.
(226) 270-9375 View (226) 270-9375
Photo of Nikki Goldman-Stroh Clinical Supervisor, BA, DTATI, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Nikki Goldman-Stroh Clinical Supervisor
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, DTATI, RP
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M6G
Are you struggling with anxiety or depression? Can't stop thinking about the past or catastrophizing the future? I can help you overcome your anxiety or depression. I also work with clients who are experiencing relationship difficulties, trauma, insomnia or specific phobias. My goal is never to change who YOU are but help YOU change how you respond to your environment and to practice self-compassion/acceptance. I won't ask you to do anything that I haven't tried myself or isn't backed by scientific research. Finding the right therapist is the first step, book a free meet and greet to see if we're the right fit for one another!
Are you struggling with anxiety or depression? Can't stop thinking about the past or catastrophizing the future? I can help you overcome your anxiety or depression. I also work with clients who are experiencing relationship difficulties, trauma, insomnia or specific phobias. My goal is never to change who YOU are but help YOU change how you respond to your environment and to practice self-compassion/acceptance. I won't ask you to do anything that I haven't tried myself or isn't backed by scientific research. Finding the right therapist is the first step, book a free meet and greet to see if we're the right fit for one another!
(647) 490-7176 View (647) 490-7176
Photo of Maddie K, MSW, RSW, OASW, OCSWSSW, Registered Social Worker
Maddie K
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, OASW, OCSWSSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M5X
My approach is customised using a strong set of practical modalities including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness (MBSR), Trauma Care, and Gottman Method for Couples.
Feeling stuck? What if you no longer felt held back, and finally felt empowered in your life? Imagine if you felt more confident in your decisions, abilities and relationships? I provide client-centred, goal-focused support to adults experiencing depression, anxiety, ADHD, chronic pain, issues around self-esteem and confidence. I have experience and special interest supporting people experiencing panic and anxiety attacks, phobias, OCD and trauma related mental health experiences. If you're feeling immobilised by any of the above, I’m here and can help.
My approach is customised using a strong set of practical modalities including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness (MBSR), Trauma Care, and Gottman Method for Couples.
Feeling stuck? What if you no longer felt held back, and finally felt empowered in your life? Imagine if you felt more confident in your decisions, abilities and relationships? I provide client-centred, goal-focused support to adults experiencing depression, anxiety, ADHD, chronic pain, issues around self-esteem and confidence. I have experience and special interest supporting people experiencing panic and anxiety attacks, phobias, OCD and trauma related mental health experiences. If you're feeling immobilised by any of the above, I’m here and can help.
(437) 524-0432 View (437) 524-0432
Photo of Shruti Kankaria - Bolton Pyschology, PsyD, Psychologist
Bolton Pyschology
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bolton, ON L7E
Feeling overwhelmed or lost? Feeling burnt out and misunderstood? Is your relationship stuck in the same dance no matter what you do? We understand how intimidating & difficult it can be to find a psychologist that can truly help. At Bolton Psychology we ensure that you will experience a non judgemental, collaborative, empathetic & safe environment. We provide psychological therapy services for teens, adults, and couples (in-person and virtually). We specialize in treating depression, anxiety, burnout, trauma and abuse, anger, stress, family and relationship issues, perfectionism, postpartum support, self-esteem, and ADHD.
Feeling overwhelmed or lost? Feeling burnt out and misunderstood? Is your relationship stuck in the same dance no matter what you do? We understand how intimidating & difficult it can be to find a psychologist that can truly help. At Bolton Psychology we ensure that you will experience a non judgemental, collaborative, empathetic & safe environment. We provide psychological therapy services for teens, adults, and couples (in-person and virtually). We specialize in treating depression, anxiety, burnout, trauma and abuse, anger, stress, family and relationship issues, perfectionism, postpartum support, self-esteem, and ADHD.
(289) 206-5293 View (289) 206-5293
Photo of Robert Wachter, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Robert Wachter
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M4S
Robert Wachter is a registered clinical social worker specializing in ADHD coaching. Using a strength based and solution focused approach, Robert helps individuals with ADHD to make positive changes in their personal, academic and professional lives. As an ADHD coach, Robert works with clients to capitalize on their strengths to overcome challenges, such as time management and organization, planning, setting priorities, mental health (i.e. anxiety, depression), family conflict, relationship issues and low self-esteem.
Robert Wachter is a registered clinical social worker specializing in ADHD coaching. Using a strength based and solution focused approach, Robert helps individuals with ADHD to make positive changes in their personal, academic and professional lives. As an ADHD coach, Robert works with clients to capitalize on their strengths to overcome challenges, such as time management and organization, planning, setting priorities, mental health (i.e. anxiety, depression), family conflict, relationship issues and low self-esteem.
(647) 360-9680 View (647) 360-9680
Photo of Lisa James, RPQ, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Lisa James
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RPQ
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orillia, ON L3V
I am passionate about helping people work through relationship struggles.
I am a clinical intern at Severn Psychotherapy. My approach combines professional expertise with a down-to-earth understanding of real-life struggles. Whether it's helping teens navigate ADHD, supporting adults with anxiety, or assisting couples in strengthening their bonds, I firmly believe in everyone's capacity for growth and resilience. With my background in neuroscience and psychology, we'll explore how your thoughts, emotions, and behaviours intersect, and together, we’ll craft strategies for meaningful progress. With training in various therapeutic techniques, I'm equipped to address a range of challenges.
I am passionate about helping people work through relationship struggles.
I am a clinical intern at Severn Psychotherapy. My approach combines professional expertise with a down-to-earth understanding of real-life struggles. Whether it's helping teens navigate ADHD, supporting adults with anxiety, or assisting couples in strengthening their bonds, I firmly believe in everyone's capacity for growth and resilience. With my background in neuroscience and psychology, we'll explore how your thoughts, emotions, and behaviours intersect, and together, we’ll craft strategies for meaningful progress. With training in various therapeutic techniques, I'm equipped to address a range of challenges.
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Photo of Aditi Mehra, MSc, MA, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Aditi Mehra
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MSc, MA
Verified Verified
Mississauga, ON L4T  (Online Only)
Taking the difficult step toward change can feel overwhelming, but it’s the most important move you can make for the wellbeing of your relationship.
Are you feeling disconnected in your relationship, struggling to communicate, feeling misunderstood or repeatedly facing the same arguments? You might feel like you're tiptoeing around each other, questioning why intimacy feels distant, or feeling stuck with unmet needs and unresolved conflicts. It’s normal for relationships to go through challenging periods as partners grow and evolve — you’re not alone in feeling this way. These challenges can make you feel isolated—even in the closest of relationships. Therapy provides an opportunity to reclaim this connection, fostering growth and healing within your relationship.
Taking the difficult step toward change can feel overwhelming, but it’s the most important move you can make for the wellbeing of your relationship.
Are you feeling disconnected in your relationship, struggling to communicate, feeling misunderstood or repeatedly facing the same arguments? You might feel like you're tiptoeing around each other, questioning why intimacy feels distant, or feeling stuck with unmet needs and unresolved conflicts. It’s normal for relationships to go through challenging periods as partners grow and evolve — you’re not alone in feeling this way. These challenges can make you feel isolated—even in the closest of relationships. Therapy provides an opportunity to reclaim this connection, fostering growth and healing within your relationship.
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Photo of Prof. Sophia Koukoui, PsyD, PhD, MSc, Psychologist
Prof. Sophia Koukoui
Psychologist, PsyD, PhD, MSc
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2P
Montreal office has limited spots available for couples therapy & Ontario office has several spots for couples & individual. I am an Ontario and Quebec-licensed psychologist, certified couple therapist and professor at Université de Montréal. My patients struggle with issues such as anxiety, depression and relationships. I also work with couples to help them thrive (in terms of intimacy, transition to parenthood, overcoming infidelity etc). My clinical approach is eclectic (systemic, psychodynamic, and cultural). I work in English, Spanish & French. Don't hesitate to visit my website or to email me for additional information.
Montreal office has limited spots available for couples therapy & Ontario office has several spots for couples & individual. I am an Ontario and Quebec-licensed psychologist, certified couple therapist and professor at Université de Montréal. My patients struggle with issues such as anxiety, depression and relationships. I also work with couples to help them thrive (in terms of intimacy, transition to parenthood, overcoming infidelity etc). My clinical approach is eclectic (systemic, psychodynamic, and cultural). I work in English, Spanish & French. Don't hesitate to visit my website or to email me for additional information.
(343) 801-7198 View (343) 801-7198
Photo of Kam Sandher - Beyond Minds Therapy, RP, MACP, BSc, Registered Psychotherapist
Beyond Minds Therapy
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MACP, BSc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brampton, ON L7A  (Online Only)
For many of us, it’s easy to allow our mental health to take a backseat in our everyday lives. We may rely on distractions but we know that it’s time to look for support that will lead us into maintaining a healthier relationship with our mental health. I work with adults and children 9 and up who are seeking treatment in family conflict, anger management, anxiety, depression, suicidal ideations, self-esteem, school-related issues and women’s issues. As a Registered Psychotherapist, my hope is to support clients who are looking to address these matters in a safe and stigma-free zone.
For many of us, it’s easy to allow our mental health to take a backseat in our everyday lives. We may rely on distractions but we know that it’s time to look for support that will lead us into maintaining a healthier relationship with our mental health. I work with adults and children 9 and up who are seeking treatment in family conflict, anger management, anxiety, depression, suicidal ideations, self-esteem, school-related issues and women’s issues. As a Registered Psychotherapist, my hope is to support clients who are looking to address these matters in a safe and stigma-free zone.
(289) 276-7337 View (289) 276-7337
Photo of Liana Palmerio-McIvor, RP, cOAMHP, Registered Psychotherapist
Liana Palmerio-McIvor
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, cOAMHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakville, ON L6J
I also work with couples to help them increase their connectedness and intimacy.
I love my job, especially the satisfaction I get from helping people identify their goals and life directions, create a path to get there and take the first steps on that path towards a more joyful and satisfying life.
I also work with couples to help them increase their connectedness and intimacy.
I love my job, especially the satisfaction I get from helping people identify their goals and life directions, create a path to get there and take the first steps on that path towards a more joyful and satisfying life.
(844) 331-0930 View (844) 331-0930
Photo of Justine Haney - Inner Alchemy Psychotherapy, MA, RP, CCC, Registered Psychotherapist
Inner Alchemy Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, CCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Waitlist for new clients
I work with depression, anxiety, trauma, transitions, ADHD, and grief, and proudly support the LGBTQ community, those with alternative lifestyles, people with pregnancy/PP issues, and couples.
Have you always had an alternative approach to lifestyle, relationship, or spirituality and wonder if you'll ever find a therapist who will "get" you? Are you struggling with anxiety, mood, ADHD, life transitions, grief or trauma? Tired of feeling stagnant and ready to take a leap to change? Reaching out for help is half the battle and together we will challenge you to heal, grow, and transform. I am a Registered Psychotherapist and Certified Canadian Counsellor, and have an MA in Counselling Psychology. I have 9 years' experience working in mental health, and am certified in virtual counselling.
I work with depression, anxiety, trauma, transitions, ADHD, and grief, and proudly support the LGBTQ community, those with alternative lifestyles, people with pregnancy/PP issues, and couples.
Have you always had an alternative approach to lifestyle, relationship, or spirituality and wonder if you'll ever find a therapist who will "get" you? Are you struggling with anxiety, mood, ADHD, life transitions, grief or trauma? Tired of feeling stagnant and ready to take a leap to change? Reaching out for help is half the battle and together we will challenge you to heal, grow, and transform. I am a Registered Psychotherapist and Certified Canadian Counsellor, and have an MA in Counselling Psychology. I have 9 years' experience working in mental health, and am certified in virtual counselling.
(855) 748-6884 View (855) 748-6884
Photo of Ereny Saleh - Ereny-Tranquility & Reframing-Therapy , RP, BA, MA, Registered Psychotherapist
Ereny-Tranquility & Reframing-Therapy
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, BA, MA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1N  (Online Only)
We all struggle with life’s challenges sometimes, and it takes courage to seek help. Life surprises us with situations that lead to feelings of stress, loneliness and being overwhelmed. I can walk with you through your journey and navigate life’s challenges. Working alongside the client as a team, that will allow you to get your life back on track and reach a state of tranquillity. You may come to deal with anxiety, depression, ADHD, grief, trauma, transitions or relationship issues. In a safe, non-judgmental, and comfortable environment, you can reach your goals.Allow yourself to be heard and connected. Reach out.
We all struggle with life’s challenges sometimes, and it takes courage to seek help. Life surprises us with situations that lead to feelings of stress, loneliness and being overwhelmed. I can walk with you through your journey and navigate life’s challenges. Working alongside the client as a team, that will allow you to get your life back on track and reach a state of tranquillity. You may come to deal with anxiety, depression, ADHD, grief, trauma, transitions or relationship issues. In a safe, non-judgmental, and comfortable environment, you can reach your goals.Allow yourself to be heard and connected. Reach out.
(343) 339-9351 View (343) 339-9351
Photo of Desiree Brown, MACP, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Desiree Brown
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, RP
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Vaughan, ON L4K
To learn more about my offerings to individuals, couples and families, please visit my webpage.
I share a common human experience with my clients and appreciate our journeys. Maybe you're considering therapy to connect with someone non-judgmental and outside your personal support system; you're feeling uneasy or worrying about life; you're withdrawing from others and no longer find joy and pleasure; substance use or a habitual behaviour is getting in the way of meaningful relationships and meeting life’s challenges; or you experienced a major event in your life and you're feeling overwhelmed. We will endeavour to understand these challenges and I will support you in taking steps that would benefit you.
To learn more about my offerings to individuals, couples and families, please visit my webpage.
I share a common human experience with my clients and appreciate our journeys. Maybe you're considering therapy to connect with someone non-judgmental and outside your personal support system; you're feeling uneasy or worrying about life; you're withdrawing from others and no longer find joy and pleasure; substance use or a habitual behaviour is getting in the way of meaningful relationships and meeting life’s challenges; or you experienced a major event in your life and you're feeling overwhelmed. We will endeavour to understand these challenges and I will support you in taking steps that would benefit you.
(289) 276-8871 View (289) 276-8871
Photo of Rachel Egan, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Rachel Egan
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M5R  (Online Only)
Although I work comfortably with a wide range of issues, my primary focus is adult ADHD and neurodivergence, complex trauma, couples/relational work, and explorations of gender/sexuality.
Many folks come to me feeling overwhelmed, confused, or disconnected from their emotions or behaviours. They find themselves feeling triggered in relationships, or shy away from sharing their authentic selves with others. Some have significant struggles with their focus and can't consistently complete tasks they know are well within their abilities. When we don't know how or why this happens, a sense of powerlessness and shame creeps into our lives. Trust me, I understand confronting these issues is challenging and vulnerable. Changing these patterns is very possible and may be some of the most important work you do in your life.
Although I work comfortably with a wide range of issues, my primary focus is adult ADHD and neurodivergence, complex trauma, couples/relational work, and explorations of gender/sexuality.
Many folks come to me feeling overwhelmed, confused, or disconnected from their emotions or behaviours. They find themselves feeling triggered in relationships, or shy away from sharing their authentic selves with others. Some have significant struggles with their focus and can't consistently complete tasks they know are well within their abilities. When we don't know how or why this happens, a sense of powerlessness and shame creeps into our lives. Trust me, I understand confronting these issues is challenging and vulnerable. Changing these patterns is very possible and may be some of the most important work you do in your life.
(437) 500-6547 View (437) 500-6547
Photo of Akanksha Ganguly, DipOPC, MPH, HBSc, Registered Psychotherapist
Akanksha Ganguly
Registered Psychotherapist, DipOPC, MPH, HBSc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5V  (Online Only)
Are you feeling stuck in your life, unable to break free from patterns that hold you back? Are you yearning to become the best version of yourself, but unsure of where to start? If so, you're in the right place. My mission is to guide individuals like you through transformative journeys toward self-discovery, healing, and growth. In my practice, I create a safe and nurturing space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences without judgment. Whether you're struggling with trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, ADHD or navigating transitions, I am here to support you every step of the way.
Are you feeling stuck in your life, unable to break free from patterns that hold you back? Are you yearning to become the best version of yourself, but unsure of where to start? If so, you're in the right place. My mission is to guide individuals like you through transformative journeys toward self-discovery, healing, and growth. In my practice, I create a safe and nurturing space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences without judgment. Whether you're struggling with trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, ADHD or navigating transitions, I am here to support you every step of the way.
(437) 747-5893 View (437) 747-5893
Photo of Leigh Simpson-Ahwanaquot, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Leigh Simpson-Ahwanaquot
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
North York, ON M3A
To live a good life with healthy, happy relations; we have to heal the relationship between ourselves and all quadrants of the Medicine Wheel.
Are you searching for an anti-colonial healing experience? Do you want to heal parts of self through a different perspective? Or are you struggling with intersectional issues and traumas that impact important relationships and connections in your life? Or are you just ready to live your best life? The Wounded Healer is about 'Indigenous relational healing' and it starts from within. It's for anyone who wants to heal the hurt we carry inside, impacting the relationship we have with ourselves and others. it is also, for anyone who's life experiences and/or traumas impact our most valued relationships, and connections we have in life.
To live a good life with healthy, happy relations; we have to heal the relationship between ourselves and all quadrants of the Medicine Wheel.
Are you searching for an anti-colonial healing experience? Do you want to heal parts of self through a different perspective? Or are you struggling with intersectional issues and traumas that impact important relationships and connections in your life? Or are you just ready to live your best life? The Wounded Healer is about 'Indigenous relational healing' and it starts from within. It's for anyone who wants to heal the hurt we carry inside, impacting the relationship we have with ourselves and others. it is also, for anyone who's life experiences and/or traumas impact our most valued relationships, and connections we have in life.
(289) 536-5062 View (289) 536-5062
Photo of Deb L Houston, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Deb L Houston
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
This has been such a stressful time in history. Many people are finding it very difficult to navigate the world we live in. Our levels of stress, anxiety and addiction have increased significantly. Families are fighting over technology and substance overuse. Maybe your family or relationship is struggling, or you have lost your way? There have been so many losses. Lets talk about it and figure out what your next right decision and action may be. It gets easier with help.
This has been such a stressful time in history. Many people are finding it very difficult to navigate the world we live in. Our levels of stress, anxiety and addiction have increased significantly. Families are fighting over technology and substance overuse. Maybe your family or relationship is struggling, or you have lost your way? There have been so many losses. Lets talk about it and figure out what your next right decision and action may be. It gets easier with help.
(249) 488-1396 View (249) 488-1396
Photo of Yasmeen Rafiq, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Yasmeen Rafiq
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Georgetown, ON L7G
I will be your partner and come alongside you on your path to healing.
Welcome to Meaningful Connections! I’m Yasmeen Rafiq (MSW, RSW), a registered social worker servicing the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). I have been practicing for the past ten years. As a mom of three kids and a partner in an interracial marriage, I have had my fair share of struggles on the therapist’s couch. I’m passionate about genuinely giving back to others and myself, and I actively work on diversity and inclusion in mental health.
I will be your partner and come alongside you on your path to healing.
Welcome to Meaningful Connections! I’m Yasmeen Rafiq (MSW, RSW), a registered social worker servicing the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). I have been practicing for the past ten years. As a mom of three kids and a partner in an interracial marriage, I have had my fair share of struggles on the therapist’s couch. I’m passionate about genuinely giving back to others and myself, and I actively work on diversity and inclusion in mental health.
(289) 275-9129 View (289) 275-9129
Photo of Nick Law, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Nick Law
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Guelph, ON N1G
Still today, there can be a great deal of negative stigma associated with mental health struggles and that can make it difficult for people to seek therapy or know where to start. I was inspired by a close friend years ago to seek therapy even though I was so reluctant. I chose counselling as a profession because I want to provide the same safe, non-judgmental relationship for my clients that helped me to break down that stigma in my own therapy experience. My ideal client is ready to do the work to gain a better understanding of their struggles and move forward with better tools for managing them.
Still today, there can be a great deal of negative stigma associated with mental health struggles and that can make it difficult for people to seek therapy or know where to start. I was inspired by a close friend years ago to seek therapy even though I was so reluctant. I chose counselling as a profession because I want to provide the same safe, non-judgmental relationship for my clients that helped me to break down that stigma in my own therapy experience. My ideal client is ready to do the work to gain a better understanding of their struggles and move forward with better tools for managing them.
(548) 761-8025 View (548) 761-8025
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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.