Couples Counselling Therapists in Ontario
![Photo of Nicole Sedlak, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fcf6d399-5fa0-48f4-9a07-ce59a9fb6008/1/320x400.png)
I work predominantly with individuals and couples who feel overwhelmed or stuck in their personal lives or relationships.
We all hit a bump in the road from time to time and perhaps you've hit that bump. You might find yourself experiencing increased levels of stress or finding yourself constantly overthinking. Maybe your relationship is feeling strained; leaving you feeling alone, exhausted, and confused. Perhaps you have been interacting with your partner through overly intense or minimized emotions, triggered to react rather than stimulated to respond, stuck in what feels like a never-ending cycle of suffering and conflict. Maybe you have been feeling strongly conflicted, like different parts of yourself want different things or opposing beliefs.
I work predominantly with individuals and couples who feel overwhelmed or stuck in their personal lives or relationships.
We all hit a bump in the road from time to time and perhaps you've hit that bump. You might find yourself experiencing increased levels of stress or finding yourself constantly overthinking. Maybe your relationship is feeling strained; leaving you feeling alone, exhausted, and confused. Perhaps you have been interacting with your partner through overly intense or minimized emotions, triggered to react rather than stimulated to respond, stuck in what feels like a never-ending cycle of suffering and conflict. Maybe you have been feeling strongly conflicted, like different parts of yourself want different things or opposing beliefs.
![Photo of Darby Crosby, MA, RMFT, CH, RP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/464e43fe-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Darby Crosby
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RMFT, CH, RP
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Markham, ON L6E (Online Only)
I work collaboratively with individuals couples or families to empower them to reach their goals. I have over 24 years experience using strength based evidence based skills to support clients. I use a variety of skills to assist my clients to feel better. I have a MA in Counselling Psychology/certificate in Trauma Therapy from the Adler University
I work collaboratively with individuals couples or families to empower them to reach their goals. I have over 24 years experience using strength based evidence based skills to support clients. I use a variety of skills to assist my clients to feel better. I have a MA in Counselling Psychology/certificate in Trauma Therapy from the Adler University
![Photo of Amanda Dewar - Strength Counselling Services, MEd, RCC, CCC, RSW, RP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8478aad9-a6c5-4fec-ba03-348c7771a3f6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Strength Counselling Services
Counsellor, MEd, RCC, CCC, RSW, RP
Verified Verified
Burlington, ON L7N (Online Only)
Currently, we provide online counseling services exclusively, featuring a talented team of counselors from diverse backgrounds who can tackle a wide range of mental health issues. Our primary goal is to nurture the holistic well-being of our clients, addressing their physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual aspects through exceptional counseling services. We cater to individuals, couples, and families, tailoring our approach for each unique client. In the event of client dissatisfaction with a therapist, we pledge to either find an appropriate replacement or suggest an unaffiliated alternative expert to ensure their needs are met.
Currently, we provide online counseling services exclusively, featuring a talented team of counselors from diverse backgrounds who can tackle a wide range of mental health issues. Our primary goal is to nurture the holistic well-being of our clients, addressing their physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual aspects through exceptional counseling services. We cater to individuals, couples, and families, tailoring our approach for each unique client. In the event of client dissatisfaction with a therapist, we pledge to either find an appropriate replacement or suggest an unaffiliated alternative expert to ensure their needs are met.
![Photo of Justin McCourt, RP, SSW, CSAT, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/528808d8-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Justin McCourt
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, SSW, CSAT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kingston, ON K7P
I provide therapy to both individuals and couples.
Through a client-centered, non-judgemental approach, my goal is to journey along with individuals as they discover and develop internal resiliency. I specialize in relationships, trauma and addiction and have been working in the field of addiction and mental health for over 15 years. I am registered with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario and the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers.
I provide therapy to both individuals and couples.
Through a client-centered, non-judgemental approach, my goal is to journey along with individuals as they discover and develop internal resiliency. I specialize in relationships, trauma and addiction and have been working in the field of addiction and mental health for over 15 years. I am registered with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario and the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers.
![Photo of Divya Gulati - Finding Tranquility Psychotherapy Service, RP , CCC, ATR, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5309c95c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Finding Tranquility Psychotherapy Service
Registered Psychotherapist, RP , CCC, ATR
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M5B (Online Only)
I provide tools & strategies to help you manage daily challenges, anxiety and relationship issues.
You work hard to make relationships work, work hard at your job, you try your best to ensure everyone else around you is happy but end up losing yourself amid this. Even though you feel isolated, unheard, unseen you keep going. You want to stand up for yourself but don’t know how to. At times you feel overwhelmed with emotions thus feeling lost, helpless and anxious. You wonder why you connect to people a certain way and wish you could have healthier/sustainable relationships, wish you could cope better in difficult situations/be in charge of the way you express your feelings.
I provide tools & strategies to help you manage daily challenges, anxiety and relationship issues.
You work hard to make relationships work, work hard at your job, you try your best to ensure everyone else around you is happy but end up losing yourself amid this. Even though you feel isolated, unheard, unseen you keep going. You want to stand up for yourself but don’t know how to. At times you feel overwhelmed with emotions thus feeling lost, helpless and anxious. You wonder why you connect to people a certain way and wish you could have healthier/sustainable relationships, wish you could cope better in difficult situations/be in charge of the way you express your feelings.
![Photo of Jessica Griffin, BA, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f488d2e-c751-40f4-a77f-53fa3d4ade42/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jessica Griffin
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, MACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
London, ON N6B (Online Only)
Life has become complex, balancing multiple roles, responsibilities, and identities. Whether you're a student, spouse, parent, professional—or all of these, alongside managing anxiety and depression—it can feel overwhelming. But you're not alone. I provide a safe space to explore your thoughts, emotions, and behaviour patterns without judgment, fostering deep self-discovery and alignment with your authentic self. Taking that first step into therapy can be daunting, but I'm here to create an environment where you can breathe easy, share your story, feel understood and find your path to well-being amidst life's demands.
Life has become complex, balancing multiple roles, responsibilities, and identities. Whether you're a student, spouse, parent, professional—or all of these, alongside managing anxiety and depression—it can feel overwhelming. But you're not alone. I provide a safe space to explore your thoughts, emotions, and behaviour patterns without judgment, fostering deep self-discovery and alignment with your authentic self. Taking that first step into therapy can be daunting, but I'm here to create an environment where you can breathe easy, share your story, feel understood and find your path to well-being amidst life's demands.
![Photo of Breanna Pizzuto, BHSc , BAPsych, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/149a6a5f-9f9e-430b-8430-aab3a99fb590/2/320x400.jpeg)
Breanna Pizzuto
Registered Psychotherapist, BHSc , BAPsych, MACP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2G
Waitlist for new clients
We can navigate stress, relationship issues, or personal development together to empower you to lead a more fulfilling life.
Are you facing grief, anxiety, communication challenges, or difficulty with setting boundaries? Do you find it hard to stick to consistent habits, find fulfilment in your work or relationships, or feel down or stuck often? Maybe some of your goals include processing life's challenges, unpacking your feelings, learning new coping strategies, or having a space in your week to feel heard and take an hour just for you. I walk alongside my clients who are looking to better manage their anxiety, work on self-acceptance, live more authentically and process loss.
We can navigate stress, relationship issues, or personal development together to empower you to lead a more fulfilling life.
Are you facing grief, anxiety, communication challenges, or difficulty with setting boundaries? Do you find it hard to stick to consistent habits, find fulfilment in your work or relationships, or feel down or stuck often? Maybe some of your goals include processing life's challenges, unpacking your feelings, learning new coping strategies, or having a space in your week to feel heard and take an hour just for you. I walk alongside my clients who are looking to better manage their anxiety, work on self-acceptance, live more authentically and process loss.
![Photo of Amy Elizabeth Deacon - Toronto Wellness Counselling, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f165556c-637a-4dc4-8923-43be132966df/3/320x400.jpeg)
Toronto Wellness Counselling
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M4V (Online Only)
Our team of Registered Social Workers & Registered Psychotherapists is deeply committed to supporting clients make the change they need to live their healthiest, most vibrant lives. We work closely with clients to create a life that allows for genuine fulfillment, healthy connection and greater self-awareness. The interventions we implement are evidence based and our team is thoroughly trained so that we can offer exceptional therapeutic services to children & youth, adults, couples and parents. Be in touch to learn more :)
Our team of Registered Social Workers & Registered Psychotherapists is deeply committed to supporting clients make the change they need to live their healthiest, most vibrant lives. We work closely with clients to create a life that allows for genuine fulfillment, healthy connection and greater self-awareness. The interventions we implement are evidence based and our team is thoroughly trained so that we can offer exceptional therapeutic services to children & youth, adults, couples and parents. Be in touch to learn more :)
![Photo of Kate McDermott, RP, CCC, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/103cd804-96f4-42ff-ada8-2b6e3c138e2a/3/320x400.jpeg)
Kate McDermott
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, CCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Kitchener, ON N2B (Online Only)
Hi, I’m Kate. I help individuals, couples and families to grow, make improvements and overcome challenges in their lives. Getting support can help deepen your understanding of yourself and others in your life. Together we will explore parts of your inner self or relationship, noticing areas that assist you as well as ones that you may want to update or leave behind. I strive to create a space that is warm, genuine and encouraging. I am here to listen, help you reflect, and at times, challenge you to grow. I want your time with me to be effective and I aim to have you leave each session with a new thought, perspective or tool.
Hi, I’m Kate. I help individuals, couples and families to grow, make improvements and overcome challenges in their lives. Getting support can help deepen your understanding of yourself and others in your life. Together we will explore parts of your inner self or relationship, noticing areas that assist you as well as ones that you may want to update or leave behind. I strive to create a space that is warm, genuine and encouraging. I am here to listen, help you reflect, and at times, challenge you to grow. I want your time with me to be effective and I aim to have you leave each session with a new thought, perspective or tool.
![Photo of Danielle Chang Gardner, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e89a30b3-3e11-4782-91d4-0322b1432e37/2/320x400.jpeg)
Danielle Chang Gardner
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pickering, ON L1V
I believe relationships affect every area of a person’s life, the most important being the relationship with yourself. Our complex society has made navigating relationships challenging to say the least. Simply put, we could all use some help from someone we can openly talk to without fear of judgement.
I believe relationships affect every area of a person’s life, the most important being the relationship with yourself. Our complex society has made navigating relationships challenging to say the least. Simply put, we could all use some help from someone we can openly talk to without fear of judgement.
![Photo of Karen Szabo, BA, MACP, RP(Q), Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6eac4a8a-6215-4e33-b9a8-e4c41b45c7a2/2/320x400.png)
Karen Szabo
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, MACP, RP(Q)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4N
NO WAIT-LIST & In-Person appts! Anxiety/Stress/Burnout, Prenatal/Postpartum, Couples/Relationships, Depression & Trauma- You feel overwhelmed by every little thing and are experiencing a lot of stress/anxiety as a result. You feel down about yourself for letting things "slip" but just can't find the motivation to make changes. Perhaps life just feels like "too much" right now and it's starting to take a toll on your self-esteem and ability to cope with your stress. When you have a lot on your plate and just cant seem to catch a break, it can be hard to find the good in life and think clearly. This is where therapy can help!
NO WAIT-LIST & In-Person appts! Anxiety/Stress/Burnout, Prenatal/Postpartum, Couples/Relationships, Depression & Trauma- You feel overwhelmed by every little thing and are experiencing a lot of stress/anxiety as a result. You feel down about yourself for letting things "slip" but just can't find the motivation to make changes. Perhaps life just feels like "too much" right now and it's starting to take a toll on your self-esteem and ability to cope with your stress. When you have a lot on your plate and just cant seem to catch a break, it can be hard to find the good in life and think clearly. This is where therapy can help!
15 Second Videos
Strength Counselling Services
Finding Tranquility Psychotherapy Service
Jessica Griffin
Breanna Pizzuto
Toronto Wellness Counselling
Kate McDermott
Danielle Chang Gardner
Karen Szabo
Family TLC
Mental Health Support
Preeti Taneja
Tatum Bedard
Mitra Sadatforghani
Rasheeda Wright
Jason Carrasco
STAR Holistic Services
Stacey Sandrin
Megan Lawrence
Couples Therapist -Sherriden Brown
Nadine Thompson
Dr Z- Relationship Bootcamp ZHW
Anna Sagalchik
Joseanne Spiteri - Couples And Individual Therapist
Madeleine Krupl
David Bruce
Shamsad Texiwala
Alaina Clarke
Caitlyn Nelson
Alexander Sanchez
Shelley Rush
Lambton Counselling Services
Benjamin Rubinoff
Trauma And Grief Therapy Lynne Van Der Vyver
Susan A. Packer
Chelsea Schuringa
Gottman Eft Method Relationship Therapy Yukta Gupta
Jason Prichard
Lea Sutherland
Léandre Léveillé
Sarah King
Kristen Wilson
Chris Martin
Aleksei Panov
First Step Men's Therapy (No Waitlist)
Holly Knowles
The Dot Canada
Carrie R Cardwell
Kathleen Killen
Chrissy Gallo-Nizic
Sonder Therapy & Wellness Center
![Photo of Sylwia Domanski, RP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bdbb41b8-6f3b-41eb-b81e-fa0e4a59fc55/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Registered Psychotherapist, and I am currently offering in-person therapy, and online services for Ontario residents. I provide an eclectic, client-centered approach to counselling, using best-practices and various treatment methods on a highly individualized basis. I am trained in Working with First Responders, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Gottman Method Couples-Therapy, Complex Trauma Certificate, Mindfulness Based practices, Solution Focused, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Somatic Modality. I work with First Responders and Workplace Mental Health, Couples who want to communicate better or have experienced Infidelity
I am a Registered Psychotherapist, and I am currently offering in-person therapy, and online services for Ontario residents. I provide an eclectic, client-centered approach to counselling, using best-practices and various treatment methods on a highly individualized basis. I am trained in Working with First Responders, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Gottman Method Couples-Therapy, Complex Trauma Certificate, Mindfulness Based practices, Solution Focused, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Somatic Modality. I work with First Responders and Workplace Mental Health, Couples who want to communicate better or have experienced Infidelity
![Photo of Sue Cook - Family TLC, MEd, Counsel, BAFN, CYC, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bf2b09cf-ceb8-47f5-b5d2-6cb215db594a/1/320x400.png)
Our goal at Family TLC is to help individual's, families, couples, and children make their lives better.
Are life struggles causing you unhappiness? It can get better. We are a group of highly trained psychotherapists, social workers and mediators. Many with over 25 years of experience in the field. Hundreds of individuals, couples, families, children and adolescents have benefited from our services. At Family TLC we truly believe in you and that you are bigger than the concern. With our diversely experienced team we are confident that a potential client will find someone best suited to their concerns that will help them make positive changes in their life.
Our goal at Family TLC is to help individual's, families, couples, and children make their lives better.
Are life struggles causing you unhappiness? It can get better. We are a group of highly trained psychotherapists, social workers and mediators. Many with over 25 years of experience in the field. Hundreds of individuals, couples, families, children and adolescents have benefited from our services. At Family TLC we truly believe in you and that you are bigger than the concern. With our diversely experienced team we are confident that a potential client will find someone best suited to their concerns that will help them make positive changes in their life.
![Photo of Christine Henein, MA, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/423a6a31-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I work with individuals, couples and families.
My Passion is to deliver a message of HOPE to people that I come across. I personally believe that Hope can light a candle in the darkest point of life. Hope is what we all need in order to have a more positive look at life in general and be empowered to make constructive changes and live with a positive attitude. With the increasing challenges in our world and the fact that we are not immune to life's surprises and shocks, our days are becoming more stressful which make us sometimes pay heavy price....
I work with individuals, couples and families.
My Passion is to deliver a message of HOPE to people that I come across. I personally believe that Hope can light a candle in the darkest point of life. Hope is what we all need in order to have a more positive look at life in general and be empowered to make constructive changes and live with a positive attitude. With the increasing challenges in our world and the fact that we are not immune to life's surprises and shocks, our days are becoming more stressful which make us sometimes pay heavy price....
![Photo of Tim George Tentcher - Mental Health Support, CSW, CPRP](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4086c26f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I counsel and support individuals, couples and families who feel stuck in life or who have mental health or marriage issues. Anxiety, depression, addiction and family issues are my main focus. My training in social work, addictions, family therapy and personal experience enables me to help families support each other. Mental health issues have been part of my life and our families. We know from experience what helps us recover.
I counsel and support individuals, couples and families who feel stuck in life or who have mental health or marriage issues. Anxiety, depression, addiction and family issues are my main focus. My training in social work, addictions, family therapy and personal experience enables me to help families support each other. Mental health issues have been part of my life and our families. We know from experience what helps us recover.
![Photo of Carolyn Agnew-Hall, BSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d2a1e60-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Carolyn Agnew-Hall
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Saint Catharines, ON L2R
If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, or simply feel stuck, I would like to help.
I believe that anyone can benefit from counselling. We all have our struggles and sometimes talking with someone in a safe, supportive and confidential environment can help to see things differently, develop new skills to put toward problems, and create new meaning about your own personal story. The most important factor in the therapeutic relationship, as in any relationship, is feeling safe and understood. I offer a warm, non-judgmental and open space in which to deepen your self-awareness and reach your goals.
If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, or simply feel stuck, I would like to help.
I believe that anyone can benefit from counselling. We all have our struggles and sometimes talking with someone in a safe, supportive and confidential environment can help to see things differently, develop new skills to put toward problems, and create new meaning about your own personal story. The most important factor in the therapeutic relationship, as in any relationship, is feeling safe and understood. I offer a warm, non-judgmental and open space in which to deepen your self-awareness and reach your goals.
![Photo of Atlas Therapy - Cambridge, MA, RP, OAMHP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/84f5666b-33fb-4abc-b968-151a5f024aea/1/320x400.jpeg)
Atlas Therapy - Cambridge
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, OAMHP
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Cambridge, ON N3H
Now Accepting New Clients. At Atlas Therapy, we work with individuals, children, couples, and families to help them heal, grow, and thrive. We all face challenges in our lives and deserve support, compassion, and understanding. Together we work collaboratively by building on your existing strengths, improving your relationships and understanding and replacing unhelpful or self-destructive behaviours. We offer a warm, non-judgmental space for you to navigate life’s difficulties, cope with stress, and create lasting change in ways that are important to you.
Now Accepting New Clients. At Atlas Therapy, we work with individuals, children, couples, and families to help them heal, grow, and thrive. We all face challenges in our lives and deserve support, compassion, and understanding. Together we work collaboratively by building on your existing strengths, improving your relationships and understanding and replacing unhelpful or self-destructive behaviours. We offer a warm, non-judgmental space for you to navigate life’s difficulties, cope with stress, and create lasting change in ways that are important to you.
![Photo of Renee Mayotte, BA, MA, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ab7b9b8b-7e1f-4df8-b8a7-a88628f44760/3/320x400.jpeg)
Renee Mayotte
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bolton, ON L7E (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have prior experience in the field of Children’s Mental Health with the role of treating children/adolescents and families struggling with various mental health disorders and continue to enhance my skills while working with adults and couples.
Are you struggling to find yourself, making difficult life decisions, and need guidance and support through life’s challenges? At Dig a Little Deeper, Renee is able to help guide you and/or your family, to better understand yourselves, your relationships, and your emotions.
I have prior experience in the field of Children’s Mental Health with the role of treating children/adolescents and families struggling with various mental health disorders and continue to enhance my skills while working with adults and couples.
Are you struggling to find yourself, making difficult life decisions, and need guidance and support through life’s challenges? At Dig a Little Deeper, Renee is able to help guide you and/or your family, to better understand yourselves, your relationships, and your emotions.
![Photo of Claire Davies, MA, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b73c3fee-7f32-4f14-ab82-6835f67ebc0f/1/320x400.jpeg)
I enjoy working with adolescents and adults who are seeking to navigate life in a more functional way. Healthy relationship habits, exploring developmental changes, and preparing for and/or managing life transitions (e.g. pregnancy, marriage, divorce, job, school, etc.) are just some of the goals I am able to support clients with.
I enjoy working with adolescents and adults who are seeking to navigate life in a more functional way. Healthy relationship habits, exploring developmental changes, and preparing for and/or managing life transitions (e.g. pregnancy, marriage, divorce, job, school, etc.) are just some of the goals I am able to support clients with.
![Photo of Nokha Dakroub - Better Space Couples Therapy, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3a21d163-a9b0-40f2-a653-2f525f05d698/1/320x400.jpeg)
Better Space Couples Therapy
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Mississauga, ON L4Z
Are you struggling with your marriage or relationship? Do you feel frustrated, misunderstood and unable to communicate? As a dedicated couples therapist, I am passionate about fostering healthy relationships and guiding individuals toward profound connection. With a compassionate approach and extensive experience, I am committed to helping couples navigate challenges, improve communication, and cultivate enduring love. My goal is to create a safe space where healing and growth can flourish, ultimately empowering couples to build lasting and fulfilling partnerships.
Are you struggling with your marriage or relationship? Do you feel frustrated, misunderstood and unable to communicate? As a dedicated couples therapist, I am passionate about fostering healthy relationships and guiding individuals toward profound connection. With a compassionate approach and extensive experience, I am committed to helping couples navigate challenges, improve communication, and cultivate enduring love. My goal is to create a safe space where healing and growth can flourish, ultimately empowering couples to build lasting and fulfilling partnerships.
See more therapy options for Ontario
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.