Couples Counselling Therapists in Downtown, Toronto, ON

Photo of Patricia Bailey-Brown - Phoenix Counselling Services Canada, MSW, BSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Phoenix Counselling Services Canada
Registered Social Worker, MSW, BSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Downtown, Toronto, ON M5B
I specialize in supporting adults, seniors, families, and couples living with PTSD, anxiety and depression, substance/alcohol mis-use, first episode psychosis, and in need of ongoing one-on-one counselling, caregiver support and/or group counselling.
If trauma, abuse, and mental illness have left you feeling like you’re lost in the darkness, you’re not alone. It’s perfectly natural that the difficult emotions and loneliness you feel have cast a shadow over your life. But though the darkness may feel crushing, there is hope and light. The truth is your painful past does not mean that you are stuck with an unhappy future, and though your mental health might feel like it has taken charge of your life, it does not define you. As we work together, I’ll help you discover that you are much more than your circumstances, that your life matters, and that you have a powerful purpose.
I specialize in supporting adults, seniors, families, and couples living with PTSD, anxiety and depression, substance/alcohol mis-use, first episode psychosis, and in need of ongoing one-on-one counselling, caregiver support and/or group counselling.
If trauma, abuse, and mental illness have left you feeling like you’re lost in the darkness, you’re not alone. It’s perfectly natural that the difficult emotions and loneliness you feel have cast a shadow over your life. But though the darkness may feel crushing, there is hope and light. The truth is your painful past does not mean that you are stuck with an unhappy future, and though your mental health might feel like it has taken charge of your life, it does not define you. As we work together, I’ll help you discover that you are much more than your circumstances, that your life matters, and that you have a powerful purpose.
(844) 912-2201 View (844) 912-2201
Photo of Noah Mugenyi, MDiv, RP, Speaker, Author, Registered Psychotherapist
Noah Mugenyi
Registered Psychotherapist, MDiv, RP, Speaker, Author
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Downtown, Toronto, ON M5H
Seeking individual, couples or family counselling? You are in the right place. If you are experiencing difficulty making a decision, feeling stuck and stressed, wanting to improve some aspects in your life or a relationship; I am here to help. You don't have to go through it on your own. Life challenges require both taking the first step & reaching out for the right support. Areas of focus: stress and anger, marital issues, anxiety & depression, ADHD, trauma/PTSD, family conflict, substance use/addictions, self-esteem & identity, grief, loss & life transitions. An internationally recognized educator/speaker on Mental health & workplace wellness, workplace stress & suicide prevention.
Seeking individual, couples or family counselling? You are in the right place. If you are experiencing difficulty making a decision, feeling stuck and stressed, wanting to improve some aspects in your life or a relationship; I am here to help. You don't have to go through it on your own. Life challenges require both taking the first step & reaching out for the right support. Areas of focus: stress and anger, marital issues, anxiety & depression, ADHD, trauma/PTSD, family conflict, substance use/addictions, self-esteem & identity, grief, loss & life transitions. An internationally recognized educator/speaker on Mental health & workplace wellness, workplace stress & suicide prevention.
(855) 725-3578 View (855) 725-3578
Photo of Kaitlyn Swift, CCC, BComm, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist
Kaitlyn Swift
Registered Psychotherapist, CCC, BComm, MACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downtown, Toronto, ON M5C  (Online Only)
I am naturally drawn to a Solution Focused approach; however, I utilize interventions from several different modalities and maintain an overall humanistic approach to working with clients. I work with clients being challenged by anxiety, depression, and relationship issues in their daily lives. I believe that our personal experiences impact the way we view the world, and our emotions play a key role in our behaviour and choices.
I am naturally drawn to a Solution Focused approach; however, I utilize interventions from several different modalities and maintain an overall humanistic approach to working with clients. I work with clients being challenged by anxiety, depression, and relationship issues in their daily lives. I believe that our personal experiences impact the way we view the world, and our emotions play a key role in our behaviour and choices.
(647) 370-2480 View (647) 370-2480
Photo of Adhd Counseling Adhd Coaching Tracey Wade, BSW, MSW, RSW, AACC, ACSTH, Registered Social Worker
Adhd Counseling Adhd Coaching Tracey Wade
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW, AACC, ACSTH
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Downtown, Toronto, ON M6K
Waitlist for new clients
Whether you self-identify as an ADHDer or love someone who is, if you want support from someone who really gets it, I can help. If you seek answers to the challenges that often go with being an ADHDer, or if you're newly diagnosed and seek guidance on moving forward, I can help. If overwhelm, stress, or anxiety is making it difficult to function, I can help. If you're feeling misunderstood, alone, frustrated or hopeless in a relationship with an ADHDer or non ADHD partner, I can help. If you seek a better connection with those who matter, but struggle to create healthy boundaries and communication, I can help.
Whether you self-identify as an ADHDer or love someone who is, if you want support from someone who really gets it, I can help. If you seek answers to the challenges that often go with being an ADHDer, or if you're newly diagnosed and seek guidance on moving forward, I can help. If overwhelm, stress, or anxiety is making it difficult to function, I can help. If you're feeling misunderstood, alone, frustrated or hopeless in a relationship with an ADHDer or non ADHD partner, I can help. If you seek a better connection with those who matter, but struggle to create healthy boundaries and communication, I can help.
(289) 302-7397 View (289) 302-7397
Photo of Zoe Cohen, MSW, RSW, LCSW, Registered Social Worker
Zoe Cohen
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Downtown, Toronto, ON M6J
Not accepting new clients
With caring, compassion, and good humor, I can help you increase clarity into your personal values and goals, identify and change patterns that are holding you back, and make meaning from your experiences. I collaborate with you to ensure that we are effectively making strides to restoring a sense of balance. I provide Individual Therapy for Adolescents and Adults to treat Mood and Anxiety Disorders, Relationship Issues, Life and Career Transitions, Addiction, and Emotion Dysregulation. I have advanced training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy and have practiced in residential, intensive outpatient, and outpatient clinic settings.
With caring, compassion, and good humor, I can help you increase clarity into your personal values and goals, identify and change patterns that are holding you back, and make meaning from your experiences. I collaborate with you to ensure that we are effectively making strides to restoring a sense of balance. I provide Individual Therapy for Adolescents and Adults to treat Mood and Anxiety Disorders, Relationship Issues, Life and Career Transitions, Addiction, and Emotion Dysregulation. I have advanced training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy and have practiced in residential, intensive outpatient, and outpatient clinic settings.
(437) 747-5570 View (437) 747-5570
Photo of Kavita Patel, RSW, MSW, OASW, OCSWSSW, Registered Social Worker
Kavita Patel
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW, OASW, OCSWSSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downtown, Toronto, ON M5X  (Online Only)
Feeling alone in your relationship? Experiencing high levels of stress and anxiety and always feeling overwhelmed? Know that you are not alone. If your goal is to start feeling like an active participant and being an expert in your own life and if you are seeking for a safe space to talk and someone to truly listen to you, your journey towards this goal can begin now.
Feeling alone in your relationship? Experiencing high levels of stress and anxiety and always feeling overwhelmed? Know that you are not alone. If your goal is to start feeling like an active participant and being an expert in your own life and if you are seeking for a safe space to talk and someone to truly listen to you, your journey towards this goal can begin now.
(647) 957-8017 View (647) 957-8017
Photo of Ashlyn Marie James - Mindful Pleasures Therapy, Registered Psychotherapist
Mindful Pleasures Therapy
Registered Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Downtown, Toronto, ON M5V  (Online Only)
Our services include individual therapy, couples therapy and sex therapy.
Our goal at Mindful Pleasures Therapy practice is to provide a reliable online psychotherapy service that allows you grow, educate and heal. We aid clients in overcoming emerging issues including but not limited to anxiety, relationship difficulties, life transitions, co-dependancy, addictions, sex, spirituality, self-esteem, depression, women's issues and stress. LGBTQ+ & kink friendly practice. Life is not always easy and it can affect our psychological health and wellbeing. We strive in building a judgment-free, anti-oppressive, compassionate, safe space for Individuals and couples of all ages to work through challenging issues.
Our services include individual therapy, couples therapy and sex therapy.
Our goal at Mindful Pleasures Therapy practice is to provide a reliable online psychotherapy service that allows you grow, educate and heal. We aid clients in overcoming emerging issues including but not limited to anxiety, relationship difficulties, life transitions, co-dependancy, addictions, sex, spirituality, self-esteem, depression, women's issues and stress. LGBTQ+ & kink friendly practice. Life is not always easy and it can affect our psychological health and wellbeing. We strive in building a judgment-free, anti-oppressive, compassionate, safe space for Individuals and couples of all ages to work through challenging issues.
(437) 747-4793 View (437) 747-4793
Photo of Nicole Steffens, MAC, BA, OAMHP
Nicole Steffens
MAC, BA, OAMHP
Verified Verified
Downtown, Toronto, ON M5H
Practicing from a Cognitive-Behavioural and Emotion-Focused perspective, I offer treatment and support to individuals and couples presenting with a range of issues.
Whether seeking therapy for yourself, your family, or a loved one, it is my hope that I can play a role in facilitating lasting change in the lives of my clients. My approach to therapy is based on the belief that, with dedication and perseverance, moving forward in a positive direction is possible. Creating a safe and welcoming environment for you is my priority. Together, we can discuss your concerns, set goals, and work toward making those goals a reality. Throughout the healing process, I will seek to encourage, empower, and motivate you toward the change you hope to achieve.
Practicing from a Cognitive-Behavioural and Emotion-Focused perspective, I offer treatment and support to individuals and couples presenting with a range of issues.
Whether seeking therapy for yourself, your family, or a loved one, it is my hope that I can play a role in facilitating lasting change in the lives of my clients. My approach to therapy is based on the belief that, with dedication and perseverance, moving forward in a positive direction is possible. Creating a safe and welcoming environment for you is my priority. Together, we can discuss your concerns, set goals, and work toward making those goals a reality. Throughout the healing process, I will seek to encourage, empower, and motivate you toward the change you hope to achieve.
(437) 747-4675 View (437) 747-4675
Photo of Kerri Kimoto, MA, Registered Psychotherapist
Kerri Kimoto
Registered Psychotherapist, MA
Verified Verified
Downtown, Toronto, ON M5G  (Online Only)
If you feel I may be a fit for you to talk with, my non-judgmental approach to practice is centered around compassion and the development of an open and trusting therapeutic relationship.
I am a true believer in the human capacity to adapt, grow, and in the fact that it is possible to find genuine joy and happiness. I also know that that life is rife with adversity and that walking alone through challenge can push us to what feels like our limits. It is often in these moments that individuals choose to seek professional counselling supports and I know that this process can feel scary and overwhelming. With that, I would like to commend you on taking the first steps toward beginning your journey.
If you feel I may be a fit for you to talk with, my non-judgmental approach to practice is centered around compassion and the development of an open and trusting therapeutic relationship.
I am a true believer in the human capacity to adapt, grow, and in the fact that it is possible to find genuine joy and happiness. I also know that that life is rife with adversity and that walking alone through challenge can push us to what feels like our limits. It is often in these moments that individuals choose to seek professional counselling supports and I know that this process can feel scary and overwhelming. With that, I would like to commend you on taking the first steps toward beginning your journey.
(647) 490-2643 View (647) 490-2643
Photo of Samantha Hawke - Samantha Hawke, Ontario Sex Therapy, MEd, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Samantha Hawke, Ontario Sex Therapy
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downtown, Toronto, ON M5A
I have clinical experience in the areas of gender-based violence including sexual assault, childhood sexual abuse, intimate partner violence and masculinity expectations as well as depression, anxiety, PTSD and the effects of trauma, life transitions, post-partum and career issues.
I work with individuals and relationships of all genders and sexualities to help deepen a sense of connection with self and others while creating an environment that feels warm and safe for exploration. At the core, my therapeutic approach offers a space that fosters collaboration and encourages free and open communication. My foundational clinical orientation is Narrative Therapy for its emphasis on understanding how social and cultural norms influence who we are and how we identify in this world.
I have clinical experience in the areas of gender-based violence including sexual assault, childhood sexual abuse, intimate partner violence and masculinity expectations as well as depression, anxiety, PTSD and the effects of trauma, life transitions, post-partum and career issues.
I work with individuals and relationships of all genders and sexualities to help deepen a sense of connection with self and others while creating an environment that feels warm and safe for exploration. At the core, my therapeutic approach offers a space that fosters collaboration and encourages free and open communication. My foundational clinical orientation is Narrative Therapy for its emphasis on understanding how social and cultural norms influence who we are and how we identify in this world.
(416) 220-2656 View (416) 220-2656
Photo of Sonam K Singh, MA, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Sonam K Singh
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Downtown, Toronto, ON M5V
Together, we can explore and resolve depression, anxiety, past traumas, relationship challenges, body image concerns and self esteem.
NEW - Offering in person therapy on Mondays in Brampton. Do you feel a sense of disconnect from yourself? Do you feel at conflict with yourself and experience feelings of lack of control in your life and begin to wonder why? It’s important to understand that you can find the right support to guide you through these feelings. With the guidance of someone who cares deeply about your needs, we can begin to address and resolve what you think is important for you. I would be honoured to connect and support you in finding your way back to the best version of you, because I know it exists.
Together, we can explore and resolve depression, anxiety, past traumas, relationship challenges, body image concerns and self esteem.
NEW - Offering in person therapy on Mondays in Brampton. Do you feel a sense of disconnect from yourself? Do you feel at conflict with yourself and experience feelings of lack of control in your life and begin to wonder why? It’s important to understand that you can find the right support to guide you through these feelings. With the guidance of someone who cares deeply about your needs, we can begin to address and resolve what you think is important for you. I would be honoured to connect and support you in finding your way back to the best version of you, because I know it exists.
(289) 723-2141 View (289) 723-2141
Photo of Shane Pokroy, MA, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Shane Pokroy
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Downtown, Toronto, ON M6K
Navigating the complexities of life, especially hustle culture, can feel overwhelming—whether you're advancing in your career, managing relationships, or balancing personal growth with professional responsibilities, it's a lot to handle. Investing time in your mental health is crucial! As a psychotherapist, I specialize in supporting high-performance professionals in their struggling with stress, emotional overwhelm, and relationship challenges.
Navigating the complexities of life, especially hustle culture, can feel overwhelming—whether you're advancing in your career, managing relationships, or balancing personal growth with professional responsibilities, it's a lot to handle. Investing time in your mental health is crucial! As a psychotherapist, I specialize in supporting high-performance professionals in their struggling with stress, emotional overwhelm, and relationship challenges.
(437) 800-0533 View (437) 800-0533
Photo of Max Tkachenko, MEd, Registered Psychotherapist
Max Tkachenko
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Downtown, Toronto, ON M5E  (Online Only)
It's important to have a good and comfortable relationship with your therapist if you want to achieve your therapeutic goals.
Accepting New Clients. I offer a safe and comfortable space for you to explore your emotions and gain insight into life patterns that may no longer be serving you. Whether you need therapy to unpack past experiences or work towards future goals, I'm here to accompany you on this journey. Together, we can explore your potential, improve your relationships, and help you live a more authentic life.
It's important to have a good and comfortable relationship with your therapist if you want to achieve your therapeutic goals.
Accepting New Clients. I offer a safe and comfortable space for you to explore your emotions and gain insight into life patterns that may no longer be serving you. Whether you need therapy to unpack past experiences or work towards future goals, I'm here to accompany you on this journey. Together, we can explore your potential, improve your relationships, and help you live a more authentic life.
(437) 292-2999 View (437) 292-2999
Photo of Kevin Counselling -  Sex Therapy Solutions Toronto , MSW,  RSW, Registered Social Worker
Sex Therapy Solutions Toronto
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Downtown, Toronto, ON M5H
Are you struggling with sex or relationship issues? Do you feel anxious, confused, or frustrated? If so, support from a Specialist will help. My name is Kevin and as a licensed sex therapist, my purpose is to help men and women cultivate healthy and satisfying sex lives. I provide solutions for bodily function, physical health, emotional well-being, psychological complexes, and addiction (if relevant). I help people to understand their own sexual blueprint and resolve relationship challenges that prevent pleasure and connection. With proven techniques and customized strategies, I’ll create a simple, step by step,
Are you struggling with sex or relationship issues? Do you feel anxious, confused, or frustrated? If so, support from a Specialist will help. My name is Kevin and as a licensed sex therapist, my purpose is to help men and women cultivate healthy and satisfying sex lives. I provide solutions for bodily function, physical health, emotional well-being, psychological complexes, and addiction (if relevant). I help people to understand their own sexual blueprint and resolve relationship challenges that prevent pleasure and connection. With proven techniques and customized strategies, I’ll create a simple, step by step,
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Photo of Roselynne Webbo, PsyD, Psychologist
Roselynne Webbo
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downtown, Toronto, ON M5H  (Online Only)
Webbo provides psychological assessments and couples therapy.
Dr. Roselynne Webbo received her doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the United States International University in Kenya. Dr. Webbo has practiced in a wide range of settings in both Canada and Africa. As such, she has an open multicultural approach that is accommodative of her client’s different experiences and perspectives.
Webbo provides psychological assessments and couples therapy.
Dr. Roselynne Webbo received her doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the United States International University in Kenya. Dr. Webbo has practiced in a wide range of settings in both Canada and Africa. As such, she has an open multicultural approach that is accommodative of her client’s different experiences and perspectives.
(437) 524-2225 View (437) 524-2225
Photo of Tatum Bedard, MA, HBA, Registered Psychotherapist
Tatum Bedard
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, HBA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Downtown, Toronto, ON M5C
Are you struggling with anxiety, relationship challenges, depression, or a lost sense of self that affects your daily function? Do you feel overwhelmed or exhausted just getting through the day? Do you wonder whether life could feel lighter? Now more than ever, adults are feeling anxious and uncertain about how to manage their relationships and their lives in general. Not addressing those overwhelming feelings can lead to a lifetime of stress and discomfort. You deserve to live your life, one that isn’t dominated by overwhelming feelings.
Are you struggling with anxiety, relationship challenges, depression, or a lost sense of self that affects your daily function? Do you feel overwhelmed or exhausted just getting through the day? Do you wonder whether life could feel lighter? Now more than ever, adults are feeling anxious and uncertain about how to manage their relationships and their lives in general. Not addressing those overwhelming feelings can lead to a lifetime of stress and discomfort. You deserve to live your life, one that isn’t dominated by overwhelming feelings.
(289) 272-1519 View (289) 272-1519
Photo of Shift Collab - Shift Collab | We'll find your perfect fit!  , MSW, RSW, RP, Registered Social Worker
Shift Collab | We'll find your perfect fit!
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, RP
Verified Verified
Downtown, Toronto, ON M5V  (Online Only)
Are you struggling to find a therapist that feels like a good fit? Are you constantly scrolling through directories and feeling overwhelmed? Ya, we get it. Finding a therapist is kind of like dating, and it takes effort to find the right fit for you. We’ve got you. Shift Collab is one of Canada’s leading online therapy practices, offering exceptional mental health care across Canada. Our diverse team collaborates with you to navigate all of life’s challenges. We believe therapy should feel simple, actionable and relatable, which is why we’ve created an innovative matching process to partner you with a therapist who truly gets you.
Are you struggling to find a therapist that feels like a good fit? Are you constantly scrolling through directories and feeling overwhelmed? Ya, we get it. Finding a therapist is kind of like dating, and it takes effort to find the right fit for you. We’ve got you. Shift Collab is one of Canada’s leading online therapy practices, offering exceptional mental health care across Canada. Our diverse team collaborates with you to navigate all of life’s challenges. We believe therapy should feel simple, actionable and relatable, which is why we’ve created an innovative matching process to partner you with a therapist who truly gets you.
(647) 931-3708 View (647) 931-3708
Photo of Natasha Bachoo - Natasha Bachoo, Ontario Sex Therapy, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Natasha Bachoo, Ontario Sex Therapy
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Downtown, Toronto, ON M5A  (Online Only)
Natasha Bachoo specializes in sex therapy and has extensive experience working with individuals and couples struggling with challenges that affect their personal wellbeing and relationships, including: relationship anxiety, jealousy, infidelity, sexual inhibitions, navigating different types of relationships, including polyamorous, changes in sexual desire, questioning sexual interest, discomfort with one’s body/body parts, sexual expectations, sexual communication.
Natasha Bachoo specializes in sex therapy and has extensive experience working with individuals and couples struggling with challenges that affect their personal wellbeing and relationships, including: relationship anxiety, jealousy, infidelity, sexual inhibitions, navigating different types of relationships, including polyamorous, changes in sexual desire, questioning sexual interest, discomfort with one’s body/body parts, sexual expectations, sexual communication.
(437) 800-0442 View (437) 800-0442
Photo of Solmaz Barghgir, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Solmaz Barghgir
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Downtown, Toronto, ON M5C  (Online Only)
As an accomplished Certified Effective Relationship Strategist, I have successfully guided individuals through the complexities of personal and professional relationships with a unique approach empowering clients to set and surpass goals in various aspects of their lives.
Welcome to a supportive space where, as a Registered Psychotherapist, I guide you through the intricacies of your unique journey. Specializing in mental health and daily life challenges, particularly those entwined with the intricacies of merging as an immigrant. As a woman, I comprehend the nuances of adapting to a new culture and managing relationship complexities. Let's collaboratively navigate the path to mental well-being, resilience, and discovering your authentic self. Take the courageous step towards prioritizing your mental health and embark on a transformative journey to resilience and discovering your authentic self.
As an accomplished Certified Effective Relationship Strategist, I have successfully guided individuals through the complexities of personal and professional relationships with a unique approach empowering clients to set and surpass goals in various aspects of their lives.
Welcome to a supportive space where, as a Registered Psychotherapist, I guide you through the intricacies of your unique journey. Specializing in mental health and daily life challenges, particularly those entwined with the intricacies of merging as an immigrant. As a woman, I comprehend the nuances of adapting to a new culture and managing relationship complexities. Let's collaboratively navigate the path to mental well-being, resilience, and discovering your authentic self. Take the courageous step towards prioritizing your mental health and embark on a transformative journey to resilience and discovering your authentic self.
(647) 496-1209 View (647) 496-1209
Photo of Tori Mudie, BA, MA, CCC, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Tori Mudie
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, MA, CCC, RP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Downtown, Toronto, ON M5C  (Online Only)
Accepting New Virtual Clients! Do you feel unheard in your relationship? Have the dynamics of your relationship changed over the years? Are you thinking about ending your relationship? Are you struggling to have a conversation with your partner? Do you feel unsupported? Has there been a major rupture in your relationship, perhaps infidelity or betrayal? Are you considering if your partner is the one? Are you considering pre-marital counselling?
Accepting New Virtual Clients! Do you feel unheard in your relationship? Have the dynamics of your relationship changed over the years? Are you thinking about ending your relationship? Are you struggling to have a conversation with your partner? Do you feel unsupported? Has there been a major rupture in your relationship, perhaps infidelity or betrayal? Are you considering if your partner is the one? Are you considering pre-marital counselling?
(226) 773-4903 View (226) 773-4903

See more therapy options for Downtown, Toronto

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.