Couples Counselling in Northumberland

Photo of David Merritt, MA, MBACP, Counsellor
David Merritt
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Morpeth NE61
Having said that, the relationship between counsellor and client is the most important thing and I seek to provide a safe and comfortable setting where we can work together in a trusting, teamworking relationship.
Life can be difficult. It throws up challenges, changes and conflicts. These can be within ourselves, or in our relationships and work, or from living in a worrying world. Counsellors work together with people who are faced with troubles, burdens and questions and seek to help them find a better place to be. Whatever the source of the problem I believe that counselling has the potential to help. People can talk to someone who will not judge them but listen to them carefully and supportively. Counsellors can also go a little deeper and use a range of techniques which may be of help.
Having said that, the relationship between counsellor and client is the most important thing and I seek to provide a safe and comfortable setting where we can work together in a trusting, teamworking relationship.
Life can be difficult. It throws up challenges, changes and conflicts. These can be within ourselves, or in our relationships and work, or from living in a worrying world. Counsellors work together with people who are faced with troubles, burdens and questions and seek to help them find a better place to be. Whatever the source of the problem I believe that counselling has the potential to help. People can talk to someone who will not judge them but listen to them carefully and supportively. Counsellors can also go a little deeper and use a range of techniques which may be of help.
01670 333771 View 01670 333771
Photo of Loveday Elisabeth Koranteng, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Loveday Elisabeth Koranteng
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Verified Verified
I offer short & longterm therapy for Individuals/ Couples.
Are you stressed, depressed, anxious, sad or just not feeling yourself? Then counselling might be something that can help you, whether it is a new concern or a long held one. Sometimes emotional pain or life events can temporarily cloud your ability to see possible solutions, leaving you feeling stuck, confused, unhappy, anxious, sad or even shut down. The process of talking about this can gradually make things seem clearer as you make sense of your feelings and your thoughts become more ordered. You can feel change taking place, sometimes to your own surprise and so start to find a way forward that feels right for you.
I offer short & longterm therapy for Individuals/ Couples.
Are you stressed, depressed, anxious, sad or just not feeling yourself? Then counselling might be something that can help you, whether it is a new concern or a long held one. Sometimes emotional pain or life events can temporarily cloud your ability to see possible solutions, leaving you feeling stuck, confused, unhappy, anxious, sad or even shut down. The process of talking about this can gradually make things seem clearer as you make sense of your feelings and your thoughts become more ordered. You can feel change taking place, sometimes to your own surprise and so start to find a way forward that feels right for you.
01434 307992 View 01434 307992
Photo of Anne Vanthoff, MA, MUKCP, Counsellor
Anne Vanthoff
Counsellor, MA, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Alnwick NE66
I work with bereavement, stress, anxiety, work related issues, relationship problems, eating disorders, addictions, abuse, trauma, social isolation, depression and many more mental health challenges.
I am an experienced and UKCP accredited counsellor and also a registered practitioner of the Institute of Brain Working Recursive Therapy. I work integratively with both talking therapy and BWRT as appropriate to help you deal with a range of mental health issues and things that are holding you back or that you want to change. Although we may be working with serious issues, my approach is always warm, friendly and welcoming. You will soon feel at ease. I aim to help you make a positive difference to your life, allowing you to overcome issues that affect your personal well-being and happiness.
I work with bereavement, stress, anxiety, work related issues, relationship problems, eating disorders, addictions, abuse, trauma, social isolation, depression and many more mental health challenges.
I am an experienced and UKCP accredited counsellor and also a registered practitioner of the Institute of Brain Working Recursive Therapy. I work integratively with both talking therapy and BWRT as appropriate to help you deal with a range of mental health issues and things that are holding you back or that you want to change. Although we may be working with serious issues, my approach is always warm, friendly and welcoming. You will soon feel at ease. I aim to help you make a positive difference to your life, allowing you to overcome issues that affect your personal well-being and happiness.
01665 252043 View 01665 252043
Photo of Dr Carolyn Law, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Carolyn Law
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
A positive relationship with your therapist is absolutely paramount to effective change taking place, and an overwhelming amount of evidence shows that the therapeutic relationship is more important than the techniques or approach used by the clinician.
Most importantly, I work with people, not diagnoses or labels. I specialise in working with those with a history of trauma, whether that’s one off events such as a car crash, sexual assault or attack, or layers of trauma in the form of childhood neglect/abuse, a military/medical career or an abusive relationship. I try to help my patients overcome their ongoing reactions to this trauma, such as nightmares, flashbacks, intrusive memories, high levels of anxiety and poor sleep. I also work with people experiencing moral injury and survivors guilt. Additionally, those experiencing depression, anxiety, OCD and relationship issues.
A positive relationship with your therapist is absolutely paramount to effective change taking place, and an overwhelming amount of evidence shows that the therapeutic relationship is more important than the techniques or approach used by the clinician.
Most importantly, I work with people, not diagnoses or labels. I specialise in working with those with a history of trauma, whether that’s one off events such as a car crash, sexual assault or attack, or layers of trauma in the form of childhood neglect/abuse, a military/medical career or an abusive relationship. I try to help my patients overcome their ongoing reactions to this trauma, such as nightmares, flashbacks, intrusive memories, high levels of anxiety and poor sleep. I also work with people experiencing moral injury and survivors guilt. Additionally, those experiencing depression, anxiety, OCD and relationship issues.
01661 523736 View 01661 523736
Photo of Jane Spowart, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Jane Spowart
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Morpeth NE61
I believe in the importance of developing a strong, collaborative relationship with each client, so that I can tailor services to best meet the needs of the individual and couple.
Do you believe that ‘you just have to get on with it’, but you’re finding it hard? Are you struggling with an issue at the moment or troubled by a situation in your past? Feeling sad, anxious, overwhelmed, defeated or 'stuck'? If you need someone to listen to you empathically and without judgement so that you can make sense of what is happening in your life, I can provide a safe place to support you to feel empowered to make positive changes in your life.
I believe in the importance of developing a strong, collaborative relationship with each client, so that I can tailor services to best meet the needs of the individual and couple.
Do you believe that ‘you just have to get on with it’, but you’re finding it hard? Are you struggling with an issue at the moment or troubled by a situation in your past? Feeling sad, anxious, overwhelmed, defeated or 'stuck'? If you need someone to listen to you empathically and without judgement so that you can make sense of what is happening in your life, I can provide a safe place to support you to feel empowered to make positive changes in your life.
01670 332490 View 01670 332490
Photo of Tabitha Appleby, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist
Tabitha Appleby
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Belford NE70
I am BACP Accredited integrative psychotherapist working with adults and couples. I and also a EMDR Therapist and Couples Counsellor and regularlywork with neurodiversity. I provide a free initial short call service to get more information regarding the presenting issue. Integrative means that I have many tools and can adapt my style to meet my clients needs. EMDR can help with trauma, phobias and anxiety and I work with Couples to help with communication and better relationships. I work online and face to face.
I am BACP Accredited integrative psychotherapist working with adults and couples. I and also a EMDR Therapist and Couples Counsellor and regularlywork with neurodiversity. I provide a free initial short call service to get more information regarding the presenting issue. Integrative means that I have many tools and can adapt my style to meet my clients needs. EMDR can help with trauma, phobias and anxiety and I work with Couples to help with communication and better relationships. I work online and face to face.
01798 304026 View 01798 304026
Photo of Next Step Ne - Next Step Psychotherapy & Wellbeing, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Next Step Psychotherapy & Wellbeing
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
 We are here to guide you with well-researched psychological models and theories as well as seeing each client as they come using the therapeutic  relationship to help understand yourself better.
Stop! No need to scroll further. Book Online Today! We are created for connection, you are not meant to do this alone. Whether you’re struggling with relationships, addiction, trauma, anxiety and depression to name a few, our team of friendly therapists are fully qualified & experienced and are at hand to help. We want to make you feel at at ease and make sure you feel comfortable in a safe and confidential environment, all of which is our top priority.
 We are here to guide you with well-researched psychological models and theories as well as seeing each client as they come using the therapeutic  relationship to help understand yourself better.
Stop! No need to scroll further. Book Online Today! We are created for connection, you are not meant to do this alone. Whether you’re struggling with relationships, addiction, trauma, anxiety and depression to name a few, our team of friendly therapists are fully qualified & experienced and are at hand to help. We want to make you feel at at ease and make sure you feel comfortable in a safe and confidential environment, all of which is our top priority.
0191 580 4468 View 0191 580 4468
Photo of Alex Jordon, DCounsPsych, MUKCP, Counsellor
Alex Jordon
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MUKCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I have vast experience in supporting clients with their relationship with food, body image and exercise especially.
Working face to face and online with adults, young people and older children, I offer daytime, evening and weekend appointments and charge £65-£85 per session. Difficult relationships with others and challenging traumatic events have a huge impact on our mental and physical health. Often we deal with these by distracting ourselves and numbing these uncomfortable feelings. I help clients process and work through these feelings in a safe and nurturing environment.
I have vast experience in supporting clients with their relationship with food, body image and exercise especially.
Working face to face and online with adults, young people and older children, I offer daytime, evening and weekend appointments and charge £65-£85 per session. Difficult relationships with others and challenging traumatic events have a huge impact on our mental and physical health. Often we deal with these by distracting ourselves and numbing these uncomfortable feelings. I help clients process and work through these feelings in a safe and nurturing environment.
0191 743 3329 View 0191 743 3329
Photo of Jacqueline Elizabeth Smikle, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Jacqueline Elizabeth Smikle
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
I work collaboration with young people and families, adults and couples.
A qualified Counsellor/Psychotherapist registered with the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). The focus of my work is reparative which is at the heart of what I do. I help people to understand and repair relationships. I provide a non-judgmental counselling space for people to talk through challenging feelings, emotions, and life experiences. My working style is collaborative, which is embedded in my work enabling adults, children, young people, couples and family groups to achieve their desired outcome. My approach is integrative Person Centre, Psychodynamic and Intercultural Therapy.
I work collaboration with young people and families, adults and couples.
A qualified Counsellor/Psychotherapist registered with the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). The focus of my work is reparative which is at the heart of what I do. I help people to understand and repair relationships. I provide a non-judgmental counselling space for people to talk through challenging feelings, emotions, and life experiences. My working style is collaborative, which is embedded in my work enabling adults, children, young people, couples and family groups to achieve their desired outcome. My approach is integrative Person Centre, Psychodynamic and Intercultural Therapy.
020 3835 3791 View 020 3835 3791
Photo of James Bowness Clarke, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
James Bowness Clarke
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hexham NE46
I am an experienced Consultant Clinical Psychologist with over 15 years of experience of working in the NHS and private practice. Whilst I typically work with clients who are experiencing anxiety or low mood, I have a special interest in Personality Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and complex grief. I am experienced in working with individual or couples and families, and I am qualified in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectic Behavior Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR). I hold clinics in the evenings in Jesmond or offer evening online appointments.
I am an experienced Consultant Clinical Psychologist with over 15 years of experience of working in the NHS and private practice. Whilst I typically work with clients who are experiencing anxiety or low mood, I have a special interest in Personality Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and complex grief. I am experienced in working with individual or couples and families, and I am qualified in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectic Behavior Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR). I hold clinics in the evenings in Jesmond or offer evening online appointments.
01434 307703 View 01434 307703
Photo of Monica Ann Julian - LOTUS Mind, MA, MBACP, Counsellor
LOTUS Mind
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
I believe clients move forward when offered the right environment, conditions and the best therapeutic relationship.
I have been a Counsellor / Psychotherapist / Hypnotherapist for over 25years I specialised in the field addiction for many years. Working within addiction offered a wide and varied opportunity to work and become familiar with many client issues. Clients relying upon substances, use as a coping mechanism, however substance use causes further mental health issues which further complicates their ability to cope. I now work solely within private practice based at home where clients can relax in a confidential informal setting. This allows them time explore their own needs in a time frame which meets their own specific needs.
I believe clients move forward when offered the right environment, conditions and the best therapeutic relationship.
I have been a Counsellor / Psychotherapist / Hypnotherapist for over 25years I specialised in the field addiction for many years. Working within addiction offered a wide and varied opportunity to work and become familiar with many client issues. Clients relying upon substances, use as a coping mechanism, however substance use causes further mental health issues which further complicates their ability to cope. I now work solely within private practice based at home where clients can relax in a confidential informal setting. This allows them time explore their own needs in a time frame which meets their own specific needs.
0191 917 5944 View 0191 917 5944
Photo of Dr Kristina Askew Westcott, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Kristina Askew Westcott
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Thank you for visiting my profile page. I am a Clinical Psychologist and accredited Cognitive Analytic Therapy (CAT) Practitioner with over 16 years experience working with adults with mental and physical health problems. I offer evidence based psychological assessment and therapy for a wide range of emotional, behavioural and psychological difficulties including anxiety, depression, low self esteem, relationship problems, trauma and post-traumatic stress, adjusting to medical conditions and treatment adherence. I work both individually (age 16+) and with couples.
Thank you for visiting my profile page. I am a Clinical Psychologist and accredited Cognitive Analytic Therapy (CAT) Practitioner with over 16 years experience working with adults with mental and physical health problems. I offer evidence based psychological assessment and therapy for a wide range of emotional, behavioural and psychological difficulties including anxiety, depression, low self esteem, relationship problems, trauma and post-traumatic stress, adjusting to medical conditions and treatment adherence. I work both individually (age 16+) and with couples.
07481 337259 View 07481 337259
Photo of Val Adlparvar - Jesmond Therapy Centre, MA, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Jesmond Therapy Centre
Counsellor, MA, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Our range of talking therapies primarily focus on counselling and psychotherapy for children (aged 9 and above) and for adults, couples and families.
We welcome you to a safe space....Coming for therapy can help you to identify what the issues are so that you can feel better about yourself, your relationships, your work and your life. All of our therapists are independent private practitioners with a great deal of experience of working with a vast range of issues in a variety of settings. We offer a wide range of daytime, late evening & Saturday appointments to fit around your busy schedule . If you're coming to us by car, we have free on-street parking and we are a few minutes walk from the nearest bus stop & metro stations.
Our range of talking therapies primarily focus on counselling and psychotherapy for children (aged 9 and above) and for adults, couples and families.
We welcome you to a safe space....Coming for therapy can help you to identify what the issues are so that you can feel better about yourself, your relationships, your work and your life. All of our therapists are independent private practitioners with a great deal of experience of working with a vast range of issues in a variety of settings. We offer a wide range of daytime, late evening & Saturday appointments to fit around your busy schedule . If you're coming to us by car, we have free on-street parking and we are a few minutes walk from the nearest bus stop & metro stations.
0191 743 1447 View 0191 743 1447
Photo of Ewan James Gillon - First Psychology Newcastle, PhD, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
First Psychology Newcastle
Psychologist, PhD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
We are experienced in helping people with a wide range of issues including stress/anxiety, low mood and relationship issues.
Hello! I am Professor Ewan Gillon, Clinical Director of First Psychology, an independent therapy practice based in Scotland and North East England. Here in Newcastle we have team of highly skilled counsellors, psychotherapists, CBT practitioners and applied psychologists. We offer a variety of therapy options including counselling, CBT, psychotherapy and couples therapy. Our approach is to work in a way that is tailored to your needs, whatever difficulties you are experiencing. We know that coming to therapy can be daunting and we are here to help. Our approach is always kind, friendly, experienced and highly professional.
We are experienced in helping people with a wide range of issues including stress/anxiety, low mood and relationship issues.
Hello! I am Professor Ewan Gillon, Clinical Director of First Psychology, an independent therapy practice based in Scotland and North East England. Here in Newcastle we have team of highly skilled counsellors, psychotherapists, CBT practitioners and applied psychologists. We offer a variety of therapy options including counselling, CBT, psychotherapy and couples therapy. Our approach is to work in a way that is tailored to your needs, whatever difficulties you are experiencing. We know that coming to therapy can be daunting and we are here to help. Our approach is always kind, friendly, experienced and highly professional.
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Photo of Georgia Giannopoulou, DCounsPsych, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Georgia Giannopoulou
Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Morpeth NE65
I am an experienced Integrative Psychotherapist with Transactional Analysis as my core model working with individuals and couples across genders and orientations. I practice in English and Greek. I work with a range of issues including trauma, stress, issues of identity and existential concerns, life transitions such as immigration, separations, divorce, parenthood, career changes as well as losses, eating and body image issues, relationship difficulties, domestic abuse and explorations of identity and self-actualisation. I am existentially minded and use a range of approaches tailored to the individual in support of their goals.
I am an experienced Integrative Psychotherapist with Transactional Analysis as my core model working with individuals and couples across genders and orientations. I practice in English and Greek. I work with a range of issues including trauma, stress, issues of identity and existential concerns, life transitions such as immigration, separations, divorce, parenthood, career changes as well as losses, eating and body image issues, relationship difficulties, domestic abuse and explorations of identity and self-actualisation. I am existentially minded and use a range of approaches tailored to the individual in support of their goals.
0191 743 1169 View 0191 743 1169
Photo of Lauren Clarissa Holmes, MBACP, Counsellor
Lauren Clarissa Holmes
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
I am committed to providing a counselling experience that creates a safe, comfortable environment for growth and healing. Transparency is a cornerstone of my practice; I will always be open and honest with you, fostering a genuine and trusting relationship. I work integratively, combining a range of therapeutic models and theories allowing me to adapt my approach depending on your needs. Throughout my career as a therapist, I have gained valuable experience working with a variety of clients across private practice, the charitable sector and within the NHS.
I am committed to providing a counselling experience that creates a safe, comfortable environment for growth and healing. Transparency is a cornerstone of my practice; I will always be open and honest with you, fostering a genuine and trusting relationship. I work integratively, combining a range of therapeutic models and theories allowing me to adapt my approach depending on your needs. Throughout my career as a therapist, I have gained valuable experience working with a variety of clients across private practice, the charitable sector and within the NHS.
0191 743 3196 View 0191 743 3196
Photo of Joshua Carter, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Joshua Carter
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Blyth NE24
By providing a safe and confidential space free from judgement to explore your difficulties, we can work together to meet your aims and goals in counselling some examples of this can be managing anxiety, dealing with depression, relationship issues or working through and process trauma.
Hi, I'm Joshua, a professional psychotherapist and registered member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). I know how daunting it can be to look for a counsellor, or finding who will match your needs and expectations. So I will talk you through how I work and what I can offer you, to hopefully take away any confusion and make your search a little easier. I am located at Nostell Priory in Wakefield.
By providing a safe and confidential space free from judgement to explore your difficulties, we can work together to meet your aims and goals in counselling some examples of this can be managing anxiety, dealing with depression, relationship issues or working through and process trauma.
Hi, I'm Joshua, a professional psychotherapist and registered member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). I know how daunting it can be to look for a counsellor, or finding who will match your needs and expectations. So I will talk you through how I work and what I can offer you, to hopefully take away any confusion and make your search a little easier. I am located at Nostell Priory in Wakefield.
01924 950697 View 01924 950697
Photo of Kate Jane Chartres - Kate Chartres Therapy and Consultation , MA
I am keen to connect with you and together work out the best treatment plan, by working in partnership we are able to achieve great benefits that guide you to a place of balance.
I am a Consultant Nurse currently on a career break, an accredited EMDR consultant and clinical supervisor. I specialise in working with co-morbid physical and mental health problems, although I work with people with everything from mild anxiety to complex trauma. I also have training in DBT, NLP, Hypnosis and am an accredited EFT practitioner. I believe that the mind and body are closely connected and one has to heal using the body and the mind to get the best benefit.
I am keen to connect with you and together work out the best treatment plan, by working in partnership we are able to achieve great benefits that guide you to a place of balance.
I am a Consultant Nurse currently on a career break, an accredited EMDR consultant and clinical supervisor. I specialise in working with co-morbid physical and mental health problems, although I work with people with everything from mild anxiety to complex trauma. I also have training in DBT, NLP, Hypnosis and am an accredited EFT practitioner. I believe that the mind and body are closely connected and one has to heal using the body and the mind to get the best benefit.
0191 743 9301 View 0191 743 9301
Photo of Wendy Anderson, MBACP, Counsellor
Wendy Anderson
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Prudhoe NE42
Waitlist for new clients
Hi, I'm Wendy. How are you doing? Having taken the courageous step to look for help, I'm guessing the answer to that is: 'Not great'. Are you feeling like your life has lost direction, suffering a loss in your life, or struggling with emotions that the current pandemic situation has brought to the forefront of your mind? I believe that we all have the innate ability to realise our full potential and live our best life. With the right help, you can take back control of your life.
Hi, I'm Wendy. How are you doing? Having taken the courageous step to look for help, I'm guessing the answer to that is: 'Not great'. Are you feeling like your life has lost direction, suffering a loss in your life, or struggling with emotions that the current pandemic situation has brought to the forefront of your mind? I believe that we all have the innate ability to realise our full potential and live our best life. With the right help, you can take back control of your life.
01661 525181 View 01661 525181
Photo of Luisa Williams - My Family Psychologist, MSc, HCPC - Forensic Psych., Psychologist
My Family Psychologist
Psychologist, MSc, HCPC - Forensic Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Morpeth NE61
My work is to empower you to understand and manage your own and your family's psychological wellbeing. From initial confusion and hopelessness the end game is enlightenment and clarity. I rely on data, clear aims, objectives, and objective measurement.
My work is to empower you to understand and manage your own and your family's psychological wellbeing. From initial confusion and hopelessness the end game is enlightenment and clarity. I rely on data, clear aims, objectives, and objective measurement.
01670 338152 View 01670 338152
1

See more therapy options for Northumberland

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.