Couples Counselling Therapists in Thunder Bay, ON

Photo of Kaitlyn Toneguzzi, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Kaitlyn Toneguzzi
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Thunder Bay, ON P7B
Finding the right counsellor can be difficult- it can be hard to find someone you naturally click with. I pride myself on being the same person in-office as you would meet on the street. I value authenticity and am very much a “what you see is what you get” kind of person. I am more than willing to be a compassionate ear, but I am most interested in equipping you with the skills you need so that you no longer need to rely on therapy to get through. My goal is to help you become as self-sufficient as possible by exploring CBT and DBT-based skills to help you address emotional distress, life transitions, or relationship struggles.
Finding the right counsellor can be difficult- it can be hard to find someone you naturally click with. I pride myself on being the same person in-office as you would meet on the street. I value authenticity and am very much a “what you see is what you get” kind of person. I am more than willing to be a compassionate ear, but I am most interested in equipping you with the skills you need so that you no longer need to rely on therapy to get through. My goal is to help you become as self-sufficient as possible by exploring CBT and DBT-based skills to help you address emotional distress, life transitions, or relationship struggles.
(807) 806-0325 View (807) 806-0325
Photo of The Dot Thunder Bay - The Dot Canada, RP, MSW, MA, Registered Psychotherapist
The Dot Canada
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MSW, MA
Not Verified Not Verified
Thunder Bay, ON P7B  (Online Only)
The mental health professionals at The Dot are trained in many different types of therapy that can help with issues related to trauma, grief, relationship issues (yes we do couples counselling) depression, anxiety and more.
It's not just you, life HAS gotten harder in the last few years. If you've been powering through, staying strong and carrying on, but now you're barely getting by and you're tired of feeling like you're not really living your life, it might be time for outside support. The benefit of therapy is that it's a time where you get to focus on yourself, to look at your life, and to get an outside perspective on how it could be different. You don't have to just endure, with the right support, you can heal from the past, and move forward towards a better future.
The mental health professionals at The Dot are trained in many different types of therapy that can help with issues related to trauma, grief, relationship issues (yes we do couples counselling) depression, anxiety and more.
It's not just you, life HAS gotten harder in the last few years. If you've been powering through, staying strong and carrying on, but now you're barely getting by and you're tired of feeling like you're not really living your life, it might be time for outside support. The benefit of therapy is that it's a time where you get to focus on yourself, to look at your life, and to get an outside perspective on how it could be different. You don't have to just endure, with the right support, you can heal from the past, and move forward towards a better future.
(807) 790-2812 View (807) 790-2812
Photo of Kaitlyn Kotala, RP, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist
Kaitlyn Kotala
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Thunder Bay, ON P7B
The most important predictor of positive experiences in therapy is the therapeutic relationship between therapist and client.
The most important relationship we have is with ourselves - and sometimes that relationship can be the most challenging to heal. Maybe you’re struggling to adjust to unfamiliar situations and feel uncertain about the future. Maybe you’re feeling ‘stuck’. Or maybe you’re curious and open to self-exploration! I have experience supporting individuals with life transitions (i.e., job loss/new employment, divorce/separation, pregnancy/prepartum/postpartum, return to education, relocation), anxiety, stress and burnout, ADHD, trauma, interpersonal challenges, and relationship and intimacy challenges.
The most important predictor of positive experiences in therapy is the therapeutic relationship between therapist and client.
The most important relationship we have is with ourselves - and sometimes that relationship can be the most challenging to heal. Maybe you’re struggling to adjust to unfamiliar situations and feel uncertain about the future. Maybe you’re feeling ‘stuck’. Or maybe you’re curious and open to self-exploration! I have experience supporting individuals with life transitions (i.e., job loss/new employment, divorce/separation, pregnancy/prepartum/postpartum, return to education, relocation), anxiety, stress and burnout, ADHD, trauma, interpersonal challenges, and relationship and intimacy challenges.
(807) 808-3354 View (807) 808-3354
Photo of Christine Olsen - Therapist For Men, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Christine Olsen - Therapist For Men
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Thunder Bay, ON P7B
You're a man who just deals with it and on to the next. It can feel easier to rely on yourself. Maybe you always feel misunderstood when you speak up or that you’ll be a burden if you show them what’s going on inside. You are supposed to be strong and not weak, right? What happens over time is you lose your voice. You feel overwhelmed and lonely, even if you are in a relationship. You can end up shutting yourself away because you just feel so stuck. You might find the frustration of it all gets the best of you because it builds up into anger.
You're a man who just deals with it and on to the next. It can feel easier to rely on yourself. Maybe you always feel misunderstood when you speak up or that you’ll be a burden if you show them what’s going on inside. You are supposed to be strong and not weak, right? What happens over time is you lose your voice. You feel overwhelmed and lonely, even if you are in a relationship. You can end up shutting yourself away because you just feel so stuck. You might find the frustration of it all gets the best of you because it builds up into anger.
(807) 476-0372 View (807) 476-0372
Photo of David Villella, MSW, RMFT, Registered Social Worker
David Villella
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RMFT
Verified Verified
Thunder Bay, ON P7B  (Online Only)
Are you overwhelmed managing family stressors, couple conflict or struggling as a parent? Experiencing feelings of depression, anxiety or anger? Current crisis or life changing events or decisions? Work-Life balance? Please allow me the opportunity to work with you to overcome these difficulties. My 30 years experience working in the mental health field, both as a clinical therapist, as well as, providing clinical supervision to mental health practitioners underpins a strong, therapeutic foundation to aid in assisting you to overcome personal and relationship struggles.
Are you overwhelmed managing family stressors, couple conflict or struggling as a parent? Experiencing feelings of depression, anxiety or anger? Current crisis or life changing events or decisions? Work-Life balance? Please allow me the opportunity to work with you to overcome these difficulties. My 30 years experience working in the mental health field, both as a clinical therapist, as well as, providing clinical supervision to mental health practitioners underpins a strong, therapeutic foundation to aid in assisting you to overcome personal and relationship struggles.
(807) 809-8057 View (807) 809-8057
Photo of Alana Jacobsen - Alana Jacobsen Counselling & Psychotherapy, MACP, BA PSYC, Registered Psychotherapist
Alana Jacobsen Counselling & Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, BA PSYC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Thunder Bay, ON P7B
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome! I offer private in-person, phone, or online individual and couples therapy. I understand that reaching out for support can be difficult and intimidating. Therapy can help you improve relationships with yourself and others, process grief, discover solutions, cope with crises, heal from betrayal, infidelity & past trauma, learn healthier coping mechanisms, reduce stress and anxiety, and even prevent future emotional and mental health issues. I will provide a safe and non-judgmental space where you can process your thoughts and emotions, grieve, and work towards better understanding yourself to improve your overall well-being.
Welcome! I offer private in-person, phone, or online individual and couples therapy. I understand that reaching out for support can be difficult and intimidating. Therapy can help you improve relationships with yourself and others, process grief, discover solutions, cope with crises, heal from betrayal, infidelity & past trauma, learn healthier coping mechanisms, reduce stress and anxiety, and even prevent future emotional and mental health issues. I will provide a safe and non-judgmental space where you can process your thoughts and emotions, grieve, and work towards better understanding yourself to improve your overall well-being.
(807) 789-4773 View (807) 789-4773
Photo of Mikeala Headley - Headley & Co Mental Health, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Headley & Co Mental Health
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Thunder Bay, ON P7A
We have significant experience and training in areas such as; sexual abuse, trauma, addiction, relationship difficulties, family dynamics, anxiety, depressions, boundaries, BPD, grief and loss, etc.
Taking the first step toward healing, wellness, and progress can be difficult. At Headley & Co Mental Health we aim to make of clients feel welcomed, safe, and heard. We are a collective of Registered Psychotherapists (RP) and Social Workers (MSW) that work collaboratively together. Our practitioners use evidence-based frameworks to support our child, youth, and adult clients. We believe that therapy shouldn’t be “another chore” rather a form of self-care, as such we offer day time, evening, and weekend appointments to fit your schedule.
We have significant experience and training in areas such as; sexual abuse, trauma, addiction, relationship difficulties, family dynamics, anxiety, depressions, boundaries, BPD, grief and loss, etc.
Taking the first step toward healing, wellness, and progress can be difficult. At Headley & Co Mental Health we aim to make of clients feel welcomed, safe, and heard. We are a collective of Registered Psychotherapists (RP) and Social Workers (MSW) that work collaboratively together. Our practitioners use evidence-based frameworks to support our child, youth, and adult clients. We believe that therapy shouldn’t be “another chore” rather a form of self-care, as such we offer day time, evening, and weekend appointments to fit your schedule.
(807) 787-0709 View (807) 787-0709
Photo of Marnie Horst - Marnie Horst Counselling & Consulting, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Marnie Horst Counselling & Consulting
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Thunder Bay, ON P7E
Whether your needs are individual, couple, or family therapy, my professional support can help you discover solutions, better cope with life's crises, process past trauma, learn healthier coping strategies, maintain your current mental health, and support future emotional and mental health challenges. I place a high priority on the relationship between my clients and myself. I work from an integrative approach, modifying therapeutic skills, techniques, and interventions to each client's exclusive needs.
Whether your needs are individual, couple, or family therapy, my professional support can help you discover solutions, better cope with life's crises, process past trauma, learn healthier coping strategies, maintain your current mental health, and support future emotional and mental health challenges. I place a high priority on the relationship between my clients and myself. I work from an integrative approach, modifying therapeutic skills, techniques, and interventions to each client's exclusive needs.
(807) 789-9888 View (807) 789-9888
Photo of Maria Drohan, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Maria Drohan
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Thunder Bay, ON P7B
Whether you are coming to therapy in a moment of crisis, after years of stress and pain, or just needing another person to share your more guarded thoughts with - therapy is for you. I work with individuals experiencing grief and loss, anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns such as trauma, stress, and low self-esteem/self-confidence. I have a special interest in working with couples who are struggling with major life stages, recovering from an affair, or looking to enhance their communication and strengthen their relationship.
Whether you are coming to therapy in a moment of crisis, after years of stress and pain, or just needing another person to share your more guarded thoughts with - therapy is for you. I work with individuals experiencing grief and loss, anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns such as trauma, stress, and low self-esteem/self-confidence. I have a special interest in working with couples who are struggling with major life stages, recovering from an affair, or looking to enhance their communication and strengthen their relationship.
(807) 787-8617 View (807) 787-8617
Photo of Shanelle Connell, RCC, RP (q) , Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Shanelle Connell
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RCC, RP (q)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Thunder Bay, ON P7B
Some of my many areas of focus include anxiety, depression, relationship conflicts, ADHD, self-esteem, and narcissistic trauma.
Are you feeling stuck or overwhelmed, looking for a therapist who understands and genuinely cares? I believe that the heart of therapy lies in leaving people better off than when they came in. With a compassionate and down-to-earth approach, I create a space where you can be yourself without judgment. Authenticity, empathy, humor, and respect are at the core of every session. Whatever challenges you are facing, I’m here to support you on your journey of change and healing. I work with teens, adults, and individuals from diverse backgrounds, helping them navigate their unique challenges and find new ways to thrive.
Some of my many areas of focus include anxiety, depression, relationship conflicts, ADHD, self-esteem, and narcissistic trauma.
Are you feeling stuck or overwhelmed, looking for a therapist who understands and genuinely cares? I believe that the heart of therapy lies in leaving people better off than when they came in. With a compassionate and down-to-earth approach, I create a space where you can be yourself without judgment. Authenticity, empathy, humor, and respect are at the core of every session. Whatever challenges you are facing, I’m here to support you on your journey of change and healing. I work with teens, adults, and individuals from diverse backgrounds, helping them navigate their unique challenges and find new ways to thrive.
(289) 460-3181 View (289) 460-3181
Photo of Katya Verzilova, RSW, MSW, ART, CVAP, Registered Social Worker
Katya Verzilova
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW, ART, CVAP
Verified Verified
Thunder Bay, ON P7B
You will receive practical tools to enhance communication and resolve conflict in your relationship.
Feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or emotionally exhausted? Seeking meaningful change in your life and relationships? I offer individual and couples counselling from a trauma-informed approach to help you explore difficult emotions, understand patterns that keep you stuck, and develop effective regulation skills. I support individuals in processing trauma (PTSD, sexual, childhood), stress, anxiety (phobias, panic, OCD), grief, spiritual and existential concerns, self-criticism, and relationship issues
You will receive practical tools to enhance communication and resolve conflict in your relationship.
Feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or emotionally exhausted? Seeking meaningful change in your life and relationships? I offer individual and couples counselling from a trauma-informed approach to help you explore difficult emotions, understand patterns that keep you stuck, and develop effective regulation skills. I support individuals in processing trauma (PTSD, sexual, childhood), stress, anxiety (phobias, panic, OCD), grief, spiritual and existential concerns, self-criticism, and relationship issues
(431) 813-0985 View (431) 813-0985
Photo of Noémie Mary Irène Kyryluk, MA, MCA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Noémie Mary Irène Kyryluk
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, MCA, RP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Thunder Bay, ON P7J  (Online Only)
Thank you for considering me as your therapist! After receiving a masters in criminology from the University of Ottawa, I completed a placement in sexual behaviours working with the forensic population. I also completed a 2nd master in counselling, spirituality and psychotherapy at Saint Paul University. I have several years of experience in brain injury rehabilitation as well as with those suffering from co-occurring mental health and addiction issues. My areas of speciality are in sex therapy and alternative relationship styles, mental health and addictions.
Thank you for considering me as your therapist! After receiving a masters in criminology from the University of Ottawa, I completed a placement in sexual behaviours working with the forensic population. I also completed a 2nd master in counselling, spirituality and psychotherapy at Saint Paul University. I have several years of experience in brain injury rehabilitation as well as with those suffering from co-occurring mental health and addiction issues. My areas of speciality are in sex therapy and alternative relationship styles, mental health and addictions.
(343) 633-3813 View (343) 633-3813
Photo of Sheena Howard, RN, BNSc, MA
Sheena Howard
RN, Psychotherapist, RN, BNSc, MA
Verified Verified
20 Endorsed
Thunder Bay, ON P7B
I am an RN, Psychotherapist with 20+ years of expertise in helping individuals, couples, and families.
You didn't expect or plan your life to be like this. It wasn't supposed to be this hard. You're struggling with things that you thought you were over. Your relationship with your partner and/or children feels painful; there is a better way to connect but it seems hopeless. You want to feel comfortable with yourself, in your skin, and with others but just can't seem to. You're asking yourself "Why can't I get it together?" or "How come I can't just get over this?". You might wonder if people are judging you. You're so ready for you, your life, and your relationships to be peaceful and fun again. Welcome, I can't wait to meet you.
I am an RN, Psychotherapist with 20+ years of expertise in helping individuals, couples, and families.
You didn't expect or plan your life to be like this. It wasn't supposed to be this hard. You're struggling with things that you thought you were over. Your relationship with your partner and/or children feels painful; there is a better way to connect but it seems hopeless. You want to feel comfortable with yourself, in your skin, and with others but just can't seem to. You're asking yourself "Why can't I get it together?" or "How come I can't just get over this?". You might wonder if people are judging you. You're so ready for you, your life, and your relationships to be peaceful and fun again. Welcome, I can't wait to meet you.
(249) 488-2894 View (249) 488-2894
Photo of Michelle Dzialakiewicz - Inner Wellness Counselling Services, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Inner Wellness Counselling Services
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Thunder Bay, ON P7C
I provide counselling to adults struggling with trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, low self-esteem, stress, and relationship difficulties using integrated modalities based on the individual needs.
Currently accepting new clients! Life can be challenging at times, and those challenges can be difficult to navigate through on your own. You do not have to take this journey alone! I believe that you are the expert in your life, and that each and every one of us has what we need to heal already inside of us. Sometimes, we just need a little help to discover what works best for us.
I provide counselling to adults struggling with trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, low self-esteem, stress, and relationship difficulties using integrated modalities based on the individual needs.
Currently accepting new clients! Life can be challenging at times, and those challenges can be difficult to navigate through on your own. You do not have to take this journey alone! I believe that you are the expert in your life, and that each and every one of us has what we need to heal already inside of us. Sometimes, we just need a little help to discover what works best for us.
(226) 702-4579 View (226) 702-4579
Photo of Noah Casey, BA Hons, CRPO, Registered Psychotherapist
Noah Casey
Registered Psychotherapist, BA Hons, CRPO
Verified Verified
Thunder Bay, ON P7A  (Online Only)
I work with individuals, couples and youth.
Change is a difficult and humbling process. Being patient, kind, and forgiving of ourselves is not usually something we learned as children. Talk therapy is not advice or guidance: it's learning to hear your own decision-making processes, noticing feelings and what needs your trying to meet, discovering your value systems, and moving forward with small deliberate changes. Together in session we will tailor the work we do to suit your specific concerns. Researching therapists, going to therapy, looking at our least helpful patterns, or deliberating on whether to stay or leave a difficult situation takes courage. I congratulate you.
I work with individuals, couples and youth.
Change is a difficult and humbling process. Being patient, kind, and forgiving of ourselves is not usually something we learned as children. Talk therapy is not advice or guidance: it's learning to hear your own decision-making processes, noticing feelings and what needs your trying to meet, discovering your value systems, and moving forward with small deliberate changes. Together in session we will tailor the work we do to suit your specific concerns. Researching therapists, going to therapy, looking at our least helpful patterns, or deliberating on whether to stay or leave a difficult situation takes courage. I congratulate you.
(647) 694-4802 View (647) 694-4802
Photo of Dickson N Obi, BSC, MA, RPQ, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Dickson N Obi
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BSC, MA, RPQ
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Thunder Bay, ON P7A  (Online Only)
Drawing from evidence-based practices and a holistic perspective, tailored to the unique needs and goals of each client, specializing in trauma-informed care, relationship issues, and mindfulness-based interventions, integrates a blend of cognitive-behavioral technique, narrative therapy, and solution-focused approaches to promote lasting change.
The pain you feel today is the strength you feel tomorrow. For every challenge you encountered there is an opportunity for growth. "Though no one can go back and make a brand-new start, anyone can start from now and make a brand-new ending" - Carl Bard. I offer a compassionate and collaborative therapeutic experience for individuals, couples, and families seeking to navigate life's challenges with resilience and growth coupled with a deep commitment to fostering an empathetic and nonjudgmental space, facilitating a transformative journey that encourages self-discovery and personal empowerment, fostering a sense of trust and safety.
Drawing from evidence-based practices and a holistic perspective, tailored to the unique needs and goals of each client, specializing in trauma-informed care, relationship issues, and mindfulness-based interventions, integrates a blend of cognitive-behavioral technique, narrative therapy, and solution-focused approaches to promote lasting change.
The pain you feel today is the strength you feel tomorrow. For every challenge you encountered there is an opportunity for growth. "Though no one can go back and make a brand-new start, anyone can start from now and make a brand-new ending" - Carl Bard. I offer a compassionate and collaborative therapeutic experience for individuals, couples, and families seeking to navigate life's challenges with resilience and growth coupled with a deep commitment to fostering an empathetic and nonjudgmental space, facilitating a transformative journey that encourages self-discovery and personal empowerment, fostering a sense of trust and safety.
(343) 655-3647 View (343) 655-3647
Photo of Amy Freeman - Holding Hope: A Safe Space For Healing, Registered Social Worker
Holding Hope: A Safe Space For Healing
Registered Social Worker
Verified Verified
Thunder Bay, ON P7A  (Online Only)
Experience a traumatic event that caused you to have symptoms of anxiety or struggle with PTSD? Having relationship problems, or is your child struggling with their parents divorcing? Are you having a hard time in life and fear leaving the house? Look no further. I specialize in trauma, anxiety, PTSD, lifestyle changes, and more. I offer non-judgemental and empathetic therapy, as well as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy. No problem is too big or too small. We will figure it out together.
Experience a traumatic event that caused you to have symptoms of anxiety or struggle with PTSD? Having relationship problems, or is your child struggling with their parents divorcing? Are you having a hard time in life and fear leaving the house? Look no further. I specialize in trauma, anxiety, PTSD, lifestyle changes, and more. I offer non-judgemental and empathetic therapy, as well as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy. No problem is too big or too small. We will figure it out together.
(249) 480-1965 View (249) 480-1965
Photo of Tanya Rolfe, MA, RP(q), RTC, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Tanya Rolfe
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, RP(q), RTC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Thunder Bay, ON P7C  (Online Only)
I work with adults and couples who are ready to find peace and contentment in life.
I realize that taking the first step towards therapy can be daunting and I want to make this process as accessible as possible for you. My name is Tanya, I am a Registered Psychotherapist (q) and Registered Therapeutic Counsellor with over 10 years of experience helping clients get 'unstuck'. Whether it be from childhood experiences, life circumstances, emotional, mental or physical reasons - together we can overcome those patterns, help you heal from the past, break free of self-criticism, and discover new ways of living a fulfilling life.
I work with adults and couples who are ready to find peace and contentment in life.
I realize that taking the first step towards therapy can be daunting and I want to make this process as accessible as possible for you. My name is Tanya, I am a Registered Psychotherapist (q) and Registered Therapeutic Counsellor with over 10 years of experience helping clients get 'unstuck'. Whether it be from childhood experiences, life circumstances, emotional, mental or physical reasons - together we can overcome those patterns, help you heal from the past, break free of self-criticism, and discover new ways of living a fulfilling life.
(365) 363-3368 View (365) 363-3368
Photo of Stephanie McAlister - Virtual Connect, MA, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Virtual Connect
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Thunder Bay, ON P7B  (Online Only)
We work with individuals, couples, families, youth and children.
Are you in a place where you are feeling overwhelmed and wanting to begin prioritizing your mental health, but not sure where to start? If you are wanting to start your counselling journey with virtual counselling we are here to help! Virtual Connect is an online group practice with multiple clinicians who each specialize in different areas. This means that no matter what brings you into counselling, we will find someone who best fits your unique needs. Reach out to discuss your ideal fit for counselling.
We work with individuals, couples, families, youth and children.
Are you in a place where you are feeling overwhelmed and wanting to begin prioritizing your mental health, but not sure where to start? If you are wanting to start your counselling journey with virtual counselling we are here to help! Virtual Connect is an online group practice with multiple clinicians who each specialize in different areas. This means that no matter what brings you into counselling, we will find someone who best fits your unique needs. Reach out to discuss your ideal fit for counselling.
(548) 490-2630 View (548) 490-2630
Photo of Irene Salidis, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Irene Salidis
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Thunder Bay, ON P7B  (Online Only)
If you've noticed that you are struggling with your emotions and thoughts, and you're looking for personal growth and healing, you've come to the right place. I have a special passion for working with couples, as well as immigrants and refugees, though I have the skills and experience to support a variety of individuals. Life can be challenging, you don't have to do it alone.
If you've noticed that you are struggling with your emotions and thoughts, and you're looking for personal growth and healing, you've come to the right place. I have a special passion for working with couples, as well as immigrants and refugees, though I have the skills and experience to support a variety of individuals. Life can be challenging, you don't have to do it alone.
(807) 809-8209 View (807) 809-8209
1

See more therapy options for Thunder Bay

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.