Couples Counseling Therapists in Mobile, AL

Photo of Julianne G Jackson, MEd, MS, LPC, CCPS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Julianne G Jackson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, MS, LPC, CCPS
Verified Verified
Mobile, AL 36608
Waitlist for new clients
I assist couples in relationship and marital distress with a specialty area in betrayal trauma.
I am a positive psychology practitioner. I help my clients to identify their underlying problems, but then assist them to know and embrace their personal character strengths in order to grow in resiliency. I help each of my clients to discover his/her best version of self through this strengths faith based perspective.
I assist couples in relationship and marital distress with a specialty area in betrayal trauma.
I am a positive psychology practitioner. I help my clients to identify their underlying problems, but then assist them to know and embrace their personal character strengths in order to grow in resiliency. I help each of my clients to discover his/her best version of self through this strengths faith based perspective.
(251) 333-6187 View (251) 333-6187
Photo of Andrew Patton, LPC, Counselor
Andrew Patton
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mobile, AL 36618
His areas of interest include addiction and recovery, anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, personality disorders, stress management, trauma, and relationship issues.
Andrew Patton is a Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor in the state of Alabama. He has over 10 years of experience in the field of substance abuse and mental health counseling. Andrew also holds credentialing as a National Certified Counselor and Certified Addiction Counselor. He has experience working with adults, adolescents, and families looking for positive change in their lives.
His areas of interest include addiction and recovery, anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, personality disorders, stress management, trauma, and relationship issues.
Andrew Patton is a Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor in the state of Alabama. He has over 10 years of experience in the field of substance abuse and mental health counseling. Andrew also holds credentialing as a National Certified Counselor and Certified Addiction Counselor. He has experience working with adults, adolescents, and families looking for positive change in their lives.
(251) 322-7875 View (251) 322-7875
Photo of Janel Porter, LMFT, ADC, ICADC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Janel Porter
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ADC, ICADC
Verified Verified
Mobile, AL 36606  (Online Only)
I treat a range of issues such as alcohol and drug abuse, depression, anxiety, grief, infidelity, and communication challenges for individuals, families and couples.
My ideal clients are people who desire to heal from painful relational wounds so they can start realizing their dreams. I believe you can be empowered to release shame from trauma, and feel alive, connected and free! Through therapy, my clients find comfort in sharing laughter, genuineness, and acceptance of themselves.
I treat a range of issues such as alcohol and drug abuse, depression, anxiety, grief, infidelity, and communication challenges for individuals, families and couples.
My ideal clients are people who desire to heal from painful relational wounds so they can start realizing their dreams. I believe you can be empowered to release shame from trauma, and feel alive, connected and free! Through therapy, my clients find comfort in sharing laughter, genuineness, and acceptance of themselves.
(251) 336-4960 View (251) 336-4960
Photo of Cecelia Delphine Johnson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cecelia Delphine Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mobile, AL 36609
Proficient in Individual, Family, Crisis, Couples Counseling and Group Education to promote personal and social growth.
As a Clinical Therapist my primary goal is to assist you in exploring and understanding the issues causing stress in your life. To help you explore choices and how you want to address the issues. My next goal is to assist you to move forward or learn to live affectively with the issues in a positive, healthy manner. It is not my job to solve or tell you what you need to do with your life. I ask questions to develop understanding of you and your issue. I make suggestions based on past experience with understanding of the issues presented. My responsibility is to respect the choices you want to make.
Proficient in Individual, Family, Crisis, Couples Counseling and Group Education to promote personal and social growth.
As a Clinical Therapist my primary goal is to assist you in exploring and understanding the issues causing stress in your life. To help you explore choices and how you want to address the issues. My next goal is to assist you to move forward or learn to live affectively with the issues in a positive, healthy manner. It is not my job to solve or tell you what you need to do with your life. I ask questions to develop understanding of you and your issue. I make suggestions based on past experience with understanding of the issues presented. My responsibility is to respect the choices you want to make.
(251) 261-0028 View (251) 261-0028
Photo of Savannah Parker, ALC, MS, Counselor
Savannah Parker
Counselor, ALC, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mobile, AL 36609
As a therapist, I believe connection brings about healing. Because people are so unique, I don’t use a one-size-fits-all approach. Rather, I enter the counseling relationship authentically and meet my client where they are. From a practical standpoint, I enjoy helping people identify their attachment styles and how they approach the world and the people around them. I often incorporate techniques from ACT, CBT, and Positive Psychology, as I’m ultimately about empowering my clients to have the tools to live a healthy and thriving life.
As a therapist, I believe connection brings about healing. Because people are so unique, I don’t use a one-size-fits-all approach. Rather, I enter the counseling relationship authentically and meet my client where they are. From a practical standpoint, I enjoy helping people identify their attachment styles and how they approach the world and the people around them. I often incorporate techniques from ACT, CBT, and Positive Psychology, as I’m ultimately about empowering my clients to have the tools to live a healthy and thriving life.
(251) 480-0070 View (251) 480-0070
Photo of Lauren Worth Poiroux, MS, ALC, Counselor
Lauren Worth Poiroux
Counselor, MS, ALC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Mobile, AL 36609
My concept of counseling is all about learning how to empower yourself to weather the ups and downs in life. My goal is to build a relationship with you that allows the space to process hardships and traumatic experiences that you have faced and might be facing still. I can help with a wide array of problems ranging from depression, anxiety, PTSD, and more. I work with children, teens, adults, and couples. My specialty and passion is trauma work. I specialize in helping people of all ages who have experienced domestic violence, sexual assault, and other forms of violence.
My concept of counseling is all about learning how to empower yourself to weather the ups and downs in life. My goal is to build a relationship with you that allows the space to process hardships and traumatic experiences that you have faced and might be facing still. I can help with a wide array of problems ranging from depression, anxiety, PTSD, and more. I work with children, teens, adults, and couples. My specialty and passion is trauma work. I specialize in helping people of all ages who have experienced domestic violence, sexual assault, and other forms of violence.
(251) 343-0566 View (251) 343-0566
Photo of Kathy L Sowder, LPC, ICDC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kathy L Sowder
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ICDC, NCC
Verified Verified
Mobile, AL 36609
I have experience working with all types of addictions, depressive and anxiety disorders,relationship issues, and helping clients deal more successfully with stress, trauma, and grief.
As an experienced therapist and a good listener,I most enjoy working with a client who is motivated to make some changes in his/her life, and who is willing to think in some new ways, as well as to attempt some new behaviors. I can easily support a client who is open, honest, and self-searching, rather than very defensive. I am usually able to help those with relationship issues to effect change, to help those with addictions and compulsions, and to help clients with depression, stress disorders, and anxiety disorders. I am also experienced in dealing with grief and loss issues.
I have experience working with all types of addictions, depressive and anxiety disorders,relationship issues, and helping clients deal more successfully with stress, trauma, and grief.
As an experienced therapist and a good listener,I most enjoy working with a client who is motivated to make some changes in his/her life, and who is willing to think in some new ways, as well as to attempt some new behaviors. I can easily support a client who is open, honest, and self-searching, rather than very defensive. I am usually able to help those with relationship issues to effect change, to help those with addictions and compulsions, and to help clients with depression, stress disorders, and anxiety disorders. I am also experienced in dealing with grief and loss issues.
(251) 219-0748 View (251) 219-0748
Photo of Robin Willis Wood, MS, LPC-S, NCC, RPT-S, AAPT
Robin Willis Wood
MS, LPC-S, NCC, RPT-S, AAPT
Verified Verified
Mobile, AL 36695
Couples, College, teens and children are thrilling to me; I love making a difference in the life of a family, of a child or an individual.
Being a therapist and helping others is my passion. I love working with all ages. At the LifeVesting Group we strive to help anyone we can; from all walks of life. We see individuals, families, & children; using Play Therapy & Sand Therapy for children. We have 3 licensed therapist in our Mobile office; we are able to help a wide variety of individuals. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor, a Registered Play Therapist Supervisor, Animal Assisted Play Therapist, with a MS in Marriage & Family. I use Family Systems, Direct Solution, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Eclectic, and Child Centered Play Therapy approaches.
Couples, College, teens and children are thrilling to me; I love making a difference in the life of a family, of a child or an individual.
Being a therapist and helping others is my passion. I love working with all ages. At the LifeVesting Group we strive to help anyone we can; from all walks of life. We see individuals, families, & children; using Play Therapy & Sand Therapy for children. We have 3 licensed therapist in our Mobile office; we are able to help a wide variety of individuals. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor, a Registered Play Therapist Supervisor, Animal Assisted Play Therapist, with a MS in Marriage & Family. I use Family Systems, Direct Solution, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Eclectic, and Child Centered Play Therapy approaches.
(251) 291-3787 View (251) 291-3787
Photo of Kate Hughes, ALC, NCC, Counselor
Kate Hughes
Counselor, ALC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mobile, AL 36609
I specialize in working with children, teens, college age, adults, and couples.
Sometimes life can be confusing or overwhelming for us or those we love. Are you or your loved one dwelling on negative "what-if" scenarios? Do you wake up and wonder where your life is going? Do you have a to-do list a mile long and feel guilty when you cannot stay on top of things? Are you and your loved one constantly fighting or struggling to connect? My passion lies in working with individuals and couples who are seeking confidence, safety, connection, and a future. If you are feeling stuck, purposeless, or alone, my desire is to walk alongside you and help you discover that your journey leads to hope.
I specialize in working with children, teens, college age, adults, and couples.
Sometimes life can be confusing or overwhelming for us or those we love. Are you or your loved one dwelling on negative "what-if" scenarios? Do you wake up and wonder where your life is going? Do you have a to-do list a mile long and feel guilty when you cannot stay on top of things? Are you and your loved one constantly fighting or struggling to connect? My passion lies in working with individuals and couples who are seeking confidence, safety, connection, and a future. If you are feeling stuck, purposeless, or alone, my desire is to walk alongside you and help you discover that your journey leads to hope.
(251) 357-1805 View (251) 357-1805
Photo of Joanna Snow - Reduced Fee Counseling- JSM Counseling
Reduced Fee Counseling- JSM Counseling
Verified Verified
Mobile, AL 36602
We know it can be hard to find affordable counseling. Our team provides reduced fee counseling for all ages and different clinical areas. We are located in Downtown Mobile. Our current team is Presley Ready who is trained in EMDR, works with trauma, children, teens and adults. Tucker Presley, is SYMBIS trained, works with adults and couples. Maria McKenna works with children, teens, couples, and adults. We provide online and in-person counseling sessions. You can check out our website, call, or text to receive more information about our staff.
We know it can be hard to find affordable counseling. Our team provides reduced fee counseling for all ages and different clinical areas. We are located in Downtown Mobile. Our current team is Presley Ready who is trained in EMDR, works with trauma, children, teens and adults. Tucker Presley, is SYMBIS trained, works with adults and couples. Maria McKenna works with children, teens, couples, and adults. We provide online and in-person counseling sessions. You can check out our website, call, or text to receive more information about our staff.
(251) 220-4728 View (251) 220-4728
Photo of Kim Baxter, ALC, MS, NCC, Counselor
Kim Baxter
Counselor, ALC, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
Mobile, AL 36604
I work with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma (childhood or later in life), life transitions, stress, and marriage/relationship challenges.
My goal is to meet you wherever you are as you begin your counseling journey. Perhaps you feel out of control, exhausted by life, anxious, or depressed. Maybe your marriage or relationship has reached a breaking point or you are in the middle of a life transition. I believe that the symptoms you are dealing with make sense in your unique story, and show the incredible resilience that we have to deal with life as we have known it. Sometimes these coping mechanisms no longer serve us. It is okay to realize things are not working! I have been there myself and would love to help you begin to find healing, hope, and a new path forward.
I work with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma (childhood or later in life), life transitions, stress, and marriage/relationship challenges.
My goal is to meet you wherever you are as you begin your counseling journey. Perhaps you feel out of control, exhausted by life, anxious, or depressed. Maybe your marriage or relationship has reached a breaking point or you are in the middle of a life transition. I believe that the symptoms you are dealing with make sense in your unique story, and show the incredible resilience that we have to deal with life as we have known it. Sometimes these coping mechanisms no longer serve us. It is okay to realize things are not working! I have been there myself and would love to help you begin to find healing, hope, and a new path forward.
(251) 333-9093 View (251) 333-9093
Photo of Terrance Battles, MA, LPC, Counselor
Terrance Battles
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Mobile, AL 36609
I am licensed in Alabama with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started! And I am looking forward to assist you on your journey.
I am licensed in Alabama with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started! And I am looking forward to assist you on your journey.
(251) 664-0257 View (251) 664-0257
Photo of Alefyah (A-Leaf-E-Yaa) Taqui, BA-Psy, LICSW, PIP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alefyah (A-Leaf-E-Yaa) Taqui
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BA-Psy, LICSW, PIP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Mobile, AL 36606
Since opening my private practice focusing extensively on relationship issues.
I am a humanistic therapist, working from an attachment based perspective. As a humanist I believe in combining a non-judgmental and supportive environment with intellectual curiosity to work with you as a whole person, thoughts and feelings.  In our relationship, I believe we are partners working together to determine root causes and patterns to find the best way forward. I am not the expert on you nor do I strive to be. I look forward to talking with you – not at you. I strive to understand you – not judge you. I have a Masters Degree from Columbia university and close to 20 years of experience in the field of mental health.
Since opening my private practice focusing extensively on relationship issues.
I am a humanistic therapist, working from an attachment based perspective. As a humanist I believe in combining a non-judgmental and supportive environment with intellectual curiosity to work with you as a whole person, thoughts and feelings.  In our relationship, I believe we are partners working together to determine root causes and patterns to find the best way forward. I am not the expert on you nor do I strive to be. I look forward to talking with you – not at you. I strive to understand you – not judge you. I have a Masters Degree from Columbia university and close to 20 years of experience in the field of mental health.
(251) 237-7494 View (251) 237-7494
Photo of Duane A Carley - Master's Life Counseling, LICSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Master's Life Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mobile, AL 36693
As a Christian professional for over 20 years, I have seen the challenges of life; for children, struggling couples, dysfunctional families, and hurting individuals.
I am a licensed, Christian therapist in Alabama and Mississippi. I hold a simple perspective on counseling; you are the expert about your life. I am a straightforward counselor who blends compassion and faith with proven psychological tools. Working together, we can identify your issues and your strengths, determine how to incorporate those strengths into your life to make the changes you want, and then monitor your progress. My job is to help you sort through your difficulties by offering a safe, hopeful, and encouraging place for you to be open and honest without any fear of judgment.
As a Christian professional for over 20 years, I have seen the challenges of life; for children, struggling couples, dysfunctional families, and hurting individuals.
I am a licensed, Christian therapist in Alabama and Mississippi. I hold a simple perspective on counseling; you are the expert about your life. I am a straightforward counselor who blends compassion and faith with proven psychological tools. Working together, we can identify your issues and your strengths, determine how to incorporate those strengths into your life to make the changes you want, and then monitor your progress. My job is to help you sort through your difficulties by offering a safe, hopeful, and encouraging place for you to be open and honest without any fear of judgment.
(251) 661-1551 View (251) 661-1551
Photo of Alison Grace Hampton, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alison Grace Hampton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Mobile, AL 36608
Waitlist for new clients
Whether you need relationship counseling, life coaching, or clinical counseling for OCD, depression, or substance abuse, my aim is to partner with you to bring about the change you desire. I work well with older teens, adults, and couples of all ages. I am trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) Therapy as well as The Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP).
Whether you need relationship counseling, life coaching, or clinical counseling for OCD, depression, or substance abuse, my aim is to partner with you to bring about the change you desire. I work well with older teens, adults, and couples of all ages. I am trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) Therapy as well as The Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP).
(251) 714-9930 View (251) 714-9930
Photo of Mark Miele, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mark Miele
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Mobile, AL 36606
I provide individual and couples counseling, integrating a range of therapeutic approaches and evidence based practices such as CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, and Acceptance and Commitment therapy to address issues such as depression, anxiety, family conflict, mens issues, self esteem, trauma, substance use, life changes, and serious mental illness.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor dedicated to providing you with a safe and non-judgmental environment where we can collaboratively navigate your personal challenges. I firmly believe in focusing on your strengths while also identifying opportunities for improvement and growth. Together we will build skills, increase awareness, and explore effective strategies to cope with the stressors that life presents. I understand the importance of addressing both immediate concerns and deeper issues and I am committed to helping you improve yourself and find meaningful solutions.
I provide individual and couples counseling, integrating a range of therapeutic approaches and evidence based practices such as CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, and Acceptance and Commitment therapy to address issues such as depression, anxiety, family conflict, mens issues, self esteem, trauma, substance use, life changes, and serious mental illness.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor dedicated to providing you with a safe and non-judgmental environment where we can collaboratively navigate your personal challenges. I firmly believe in focusing on your strengths while also identifying opportunities for improvement and growth. Together we will build skills, increase awareness, and explore effective strategies to cope with the stressors that life presents. I understand the importance of addressing both immediate concerns and deeper issues and I am committed to helping you improve yourself and find meaningful solutions.
(251) 313-6408 View (251) 313-6408
Photo of Christina Steele, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christina Steele
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Mobile, AL 36602
Waitlist for new clients
Life is hard. It can be beautiful and wonderful, and sometimes very hard. It is my passion to walk alongside people as they learn to navigate life’s challenges. If that looks like processing trauma, life changes, anxiety, relationship issues, or a combination of challenges, my goals are your goals. In my office I advocate for restored hope, even through dark deep emotions. I strive to provide a safe and supportive space to work through difficult emotional experiences. You are not alone in life’s journey, and it is my hope to help you discover your strengths so you can experience freedom from painful experiences.
Life is hard. It can be beautiful and wonderful, and sometimes very hard. It is my passion to walk alongside people as they learn to navigate life’s challenges. If that looks like processing trauma, life changes, anxiety, relationship issues, or a combination of challenges, my goals are your goals. In my office I advocate for restored hope, even through dark deep emotions. I strive to provide a safe and supportive space to work through difficult emotional experiences. You are not alone in life’s journey, and it is my hope to help you discover your strengths so you can experience freedom from painful experiences.
(251) 235-5180 View (251) 235-5180
Photo of Ellen L Odom, MS, LPC, Counselor
Ellen L Odom
Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Mobile, AL 36609
My sole purpose as a counselor is to help people. If you are dissatisfied with how things are going in your life, I am here to help you determine steps you can take to change that. I typically take a solution-focused approach to therapy, which is collaborative, practical, and goal-driven. YOU are the most important part of our relationship and, together, we will develop a plan that best helps you reach your goals. You can expect me to be honest, supportive, accepting, and thought provoking. You can also expect me to actively listen to you and provide feedback.
My sole purpose as a counselor is to help people. If you are dissatisfied with how things are going in your life, I am here to help you determine steps you can take to change that. I typically take a solution-focused approach to therapy, which is collaborative, practical, and goal-driven. YOU are the most important part of our relationship and, together, we will develop a plan that best helps you reach your goals. You can expect me to be honest, supportive, accepting, and thought provoking. You can also expect me to actively listen to you and provide feedback.
(251) 297-2610 View (251) 297-2610
Photo of Beverly B Steinhauer, RN, MS, LPC, CSAT, CMAT, Counselor
Beverly B Steinhauer
Counselor, RN, MS, LPC, CSAT, CMAT
Verified Verified
Mobile, AL 36695
If you or someone you are living with is struggling with compulsive sexual behaviors including sex outside of their primary relationship, pornography addiction, compulsive masturbation, sexual boundary issues, or sexual obsessions, I can help.
Whether you are struggling with everyday problems or more complex issues, learning to manage your problems so they do not manage you sometimes requires assistance. Your choice of therapist is important. With over thirty years of experience in nursing and counseling, I work with individuals and couples dealing with sex addiction, relationship and infidelity issues, while helping you learn to utilize the tools necessary and move beyond addiction. My office provides a comfortable level of privacy for those in high level or sensitive positions. Visit www.beverlysteinhauer.com.
If you or someone you are living with is struggling with compulsive sexual behaviors including sex outside of their primary relationship, pornography addiction, compulsive masturbation, sexual boundary issues, or sexual obsessions, I can help.
Whether you are struggling with everyday problems or more complex issues, learning to manage your problems so they do not manage you sometimes requires assistance. Your choice of therapist is important. With over thirty years of experience in nursing and counseling, I work with individuals and couples dealing with sex addiction, relationship and infidelity issues, while helping you learn to utilize the tools necessary and move beyond addiction. My office provides a comfortable level of privacy for those in high level or sensitive positions. Visit www.beverlysteinhauer.com.
(251) 732-2596 View (251) 732-2596
Photo of Zach F Thompson, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Zach F Thompson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Mobile, AL 36603
Through my studies at RTS, I was trained in an Objects Relational, person-centered approach which focuses on using the relationship of the therapist and the client during counseling.
I am an Allender Trained therapist working with clients who have significant stories of harm. My focus is in issues of trauma, addiction, grief, shame and relational issues for both men, women and couples. My training is in a narrative approach, helping people uncover their story, leading to pathways of healing. It is in relationships that we get wounded and it is in relationships that we find healing. We are storied people. Our stories include places of harm and trauma. I believe the work in healing and growth is uncovering our stories and bringing care to the places of harm.
Through my studies at RTS, I was trained in an Objects Relational, person-centered approach which focuses on using the relationship of the therapist and the client during counseling.
I am an Allender Trained therapist working with clients who have significant stories of harm. My focus is in issues of trauma, addiction, grief, shame and relational issues for both men, women and couples. My training is in a narrative approach, helping people uncover their story, leading to pathways of healing. It is in relationships that we get wounded and it is in relationships that we find healing. We are storied people. Our stories include places of harm and trauma. I believe the work in healing and growth is uncovering our stories and bringing care to the places of harm.
(251) 292-9028 View (251) 292-9028
Couples Counseling Therapists

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.