Couples Counseling Therapists in North Scottsdale, Scottsdale, AZ

Photo of Dr. Rosalie Hydock - Changepoints Couples Therapy, PhD, Psychologist
Changepoints Couples Therapy
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
North Scottsdale, Scottsdale, AZ 85260  (Online Only)
All relationships change over time. If they're healthy, they are evolving to something deeper and more meaningful for each partner. Is your primary relationship as strong as it could be or are you struggling? Has communication become difficult? Do you and your partner feel at a loss about sharing differences or resolving conflicts? Have you just learned about a betrayal?Have you tried therapy before and found it disappointing? Do you feel alone instead of in a real partnership? If you answered yes to any of these, there is help. Couples therapy can get beyond the challenges and help you create the relationship you want and deserve.
All relationships change over time. If they're healthy, they are evolving to something deeper and more meaningful for each partner. Is your primary relationship as strong as it could be or are you struggling? Has communication become difficult? Do you and your partner feel at a loss about sharing differences or resolving conflicts? Have you just learned about a betrayal?Have you tried therapy before and found it disappointing? Do you feel alone instead of in a real partnership? If you answered yes to any of these, there is help. Couples therapy can get beyond the challenges and help you create the relationship you want and deserve.
(480) 608-9993 View (480) 608-9993
Photo of Stephanie Levitt - Pathways Counseling Services, MA, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Pathways Counseling Services
Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Scottsdale, Scottsdale, AZ 85258
I specialize in working with clients experiencing but not limited to the following: OCD, Trauma and PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, Phobias, Interpersonal/Relationship Problems, Impulsive Behaviors, and Low Self Esteem.
My primary goal is to offer a safe and caring environment where clients will be able to work through problematic thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. In doing so, the journey of healing and growth begins. I prefer to utilize a holistic approach to counseling, incorporating various treatment methods into my practice depending upon the needs of each client. As a result, individuals are able to heal from deep rooted issues and trauma. I offer a complimentary 20 minute phone consultation in order for clients to learn more about my approach to counseling and get a sense for my particular style. I also offer evening appointments.
I specialize in working with clients experiencing but not limited to the following: OCD, Trauma and PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, Phobias, Interpersonal/Relationship Problems, Impulsive Behaviors, and Low Self Esteem.
My primary goal is to offer a safe and caring environment where clients will be able to work through problematic thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. In doing so, the journey of healing and growth begins. I prefer to utilize a holistic approach to counseling, incorporating various treatment methods into my practice depending upon the needs of each client. As a result, individuals are able to heal from deep rooted issues and trauma. I offer a complimentary 20 minute phone consultation in order for clients to learn more about my approach to counseling and get a sense for my particular style. I also offer evening appointments.
(480) 351-5426 View (480) 351-5426
Photo of Marc Bagnasco, MA, LPC, Counselor
Marc Bagnasco
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
North Scottsdale, Scottsdale, AZ 85260
Marc is a Licensed Professional Counselor who has been practicing in Arizona since 2002. He works with individual adults, couples, families and adolescents (16 years and older he does his best work with) to improve their quality of life by strengthening/developing/utilizing problem solving skills, improving interpersonal relationships, managing/regulating emotions, increasing motivation for change, and overcoming past traumatic experiences so as to live more freely in the here and now.
Marc is a Licensed Professional Counselor who has been practicing in Arizona since 2002. He works with individual adults, couples, families and adolescents (16 years and older he does his best work with) to improve their quality of life by strengthening/developing/utilizing problem solving skills, improving interpersonal relationships, managing/regulating emotions, increasing motivation for change, and overcoming past traumatic experiences so as to live more freely in the here and now.
(480) 725-4713 View (480) 725-4713
Photo of Jesca Wales, MA, LAC, Counselor
Jesca Wales
Counselor, MA, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Scottsdale, Scottsdale, AZ 85255
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, a challenging relationship, or unresolved trauma that affects your ability to live a flourishing life? Do you long to find a nonjudgmental therapist who can understand your overwhelm and frustration from a trauma-informed lens to support your own discovery in the process? Today more than ever teens and adults are feeling uncertain about how to create the life they desperately need.
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, a challenging relationship, or unresolved trauma that affects your ability to live a flourishing life? Do you long to find a nonjudgmental therapist who can understand your overwhelm and frustration from a trauma-informed lens to support your own discovery in the process? Today more than ever teens and adults are feeling uncertain about how to create the life they desperately need.
(520) 505-1127 View (520) 505-1127
Photo of Jamie Pattee, MEd, MAS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jamie Pattee
Marriage & Family Therapist, MEd, MAS, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
North Scottsdale, Scottsdale, AZ 85260
I work with individuals and couples on a variety of issues: rebuilding connection, relationship injury repair, communication, conflict, anxiety, parenting skills, and trauma.
I provide a safe, nonjudgemental space for individuals, couples, and families to build strong and healthy relationships. I believes in guiding individuals through life's obstacles with healthy communication, empathy, and openness, all to ensure change and personal growth with every client.
I work with individuals and couples on a variety of issues: rebuilding connection, relationship injury repair, communication, conflict, anxiety, parenting skills, and trauma.
I provide a safe, nonjudgemental space for individuals, couples, and families to build strong and healthy relationships. I believes in guiding individuals through life's obstacles with healthy communication, empathy, and openness, all to ensure change and personal growth with every client.
(480) 485-3995 View (480) 485-3995
Photo of Diane P Goula - Diane P. Goula LCSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Diane P. Goula LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
North Scottsdale, Scottsdale, AZ 85260
Let me help you find your balance. We'll focus on the goals and timelines you set by building upon your individual strengths, beliefs and life experience. I'm interactive and will intertwine technology, insights, and practical feedback with compassion and humor (especially if you have a mentally ill family member, difficult or special-needs child /spouse or an aging parent). I'm available to conduct video and in-person sessions after 5:00 pm. You can book your first appointment in less than 5 minutes via my 24/7 online scheduler. Please visit my website, www.DianeGoula.com to learn more.
Let me help you find your balance. We'll focus on the goals and timelines you set by building upon your individual strengths, beliefs and life experience. I'm interactive and will intertwine technology, insights, and practical feedback with compassion and humor (especially if you have a mentally ill family member, difficult or special-needs child /spouse or an aging parent). I'm available to conduct video and in-person sessions after 5:00 pm. You can book your first appointment in less than 5 minutes via my 24/7 online scheduler. Please visit my website, www.DianeGoula.com to learn more.
(480) 568-4425 View (480) 568-4425
Photo of Sandrine A Aegerter, MS, LMHC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sandrine A Aegerter
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Scottsdale, Scottsdale, AZ 85260  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My calling is to help people on their journey to healing and wellness. Real healing and growth, I believe, is achieved by addressing the multiple dimensions that make us human beings: caring not only for the body but also the mind and spirit. I work with individuals and couples to resolve issues related to anxiety, depression, relationship issues and life transition issues. I offer secure online counseling services.
My calling is to help people on their journey to healing and wellness. Real healing and growth, I believe, is achieved by addressing the multiple dimensions that make us human beings: caring not only for the body but also the mind and spirit. I work with individuals and couples to resolve issues related to anxiety, depression, relationship issues and life transition issues. I offer secure online counseling services.
(480) 571-5429 View (480) 571-5429
Photo of John Michael, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
John Michael
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
North Scottsdale, Scottsdale, AZ 85260
I have been counseling individuals, couples, and families since 1997. I am honored to be the Managing Partner of Professional Counseling Associates in Scottsdale and Mesa, and the Founder of Lifetime Marriage, LLC. My counseling team and I work to provide compassionate, professional, and accurate care for people in need of help. My specialties include Pre-marriage and Marriage Counseling, Marriage Restoration Intensives, Individual Counseling for struggles with anxiety, depression, addictions, and relationship stress.
I have been counseling individuals, couples, and families since 1997. I am honored to be the Managing Partner of Professional Counseling Associates in Scottsdale and Mesa, and the Founder of Lifetime Marriage, LLC. My counseling team and I work to provide compassionate, professional, and accurate care for people in need of help. My specialties include Pre-marriage and Marriage Counseling, Marriage Restoration Intensives, Individual Counseling for struggles with anxiety, depression, addictions, and relationship stress.
(480) 771-2776 View (480) 771-2776
Photo of Isa Jones, LMFT, CST, Marriage & Family Therapist
Isa Jones
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CST
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
North Scottsdale, Scottsdale, AZ 85253
Waitlist for new clients
As a Certified Sex and Relationship Therapist, I provide a safe, comfortable space to discuss and resolve difficult challenges. Together, we will work to create new possibilities, find hope and develop a plan so you can reach your personal and relational goals. I specialize in couples intimacy, communication, infidelity, eroticism and addressing specific sexual challenges. Some common challenges I treat include: Low Desire, Sexless or Awkward Sexual relationships, Erotic Conflicts, Early Ejaculation, Erectile Challenges, Pre-Orgasmic Women, Pain Associated with Sex, Compulsive Sexual Behaviors, Sexual Inhibitions, Sexual Trauma, Incompatible Fantasies, Alternative Love Styles, and Integrating Spirituality with Sexuality.
As a Certified Sex and Relationship Therapist, I provide a safe, comfortable space to discuss and resolve difficult challenges. Together, we will work to create new possibilities, find hope and develop a plan so you can reach your personal and relational goals. I specialize in couples intimacy, communication, infidelity, eroticism and addressing specific sexual challenges. Some common challenges I treat include: Low Desire, Sexless or Awkward Sexual relationships, Erotic Conflicts, Early Ejaculation, Erectile Challenges, Pre-Orgasmic Women, Pain Associated with Sex, Compulsive Sexual Behaviors, Sexual Inhibitions, Sexual Trauma, Incompatible Fantasies, Alternative Love Styles, and Integrating Spirituality with Sexuality.
(480) 426-8547 View (480) 426-8547
Photo of Loretta Rodriguez-White, LAC, MAC, MAOM, Counselor
Loretta Rodriguez-White
Counselor, LAC, MAC, MAOM
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
North Scottsdale, Scottsdale, AZ 85260
I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and teens with a variety of issues—anxiety, depression, relationships, grief & loss, spirituality, and boundaries.
I believe in hope and healing. Whether you are navigating a stressful situation, marital challenges, or processing childhood trauma, we can work together with curiosity and grace to help you find your strength and become more connected to self, loved ones and God. I desire to meet you where you are in life.
I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and teens with a variety of issues—anxiety, depression, relationships, grief & loss, spirituality, and boundaries.
I believe in hope and healing. Whether you are navigating a stressful situation, marital challenges, or processing childhood trauma, we can work together with curiosity and grace to help you find your strength and become more connected to self, loved ones and God. I desire to meet you where you are in life.
(602) 922-1793 View (602) 922-1793
Photo of Susan Tully, MS, LAMFT, OTR/L, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Susan Tully
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, LAMFT, OTR/L
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
North Scottsdale, Scottsdale, AZ 85260
A positive therapeutic relationship is about finding the right fit between client and therapist.
Life can be so challenging. Stress builds up and we get stuck in dysfunctional behavioral patterns and negative thought loops. Relationships are sometimes hard work, and we find ourselves going round & round with our partner, child or parent—feeling unheard, misunderstood, frustrated and disconnected. Often our reactions to present day stressors stem from early life experiences or unresolved trauma. Healing happens in the presence of someone who sees us and accepts us just as we are; and can help us process emotions like anxiety, despair, anger, shame, grief, and longing. This leads to greater self-understanding and self-compassion.
A positive therapeutic relationship is about finding the right fit between client and therapist.
Life can be so challenging. Stress builds up and we get stuck in dysfunctional behavioral patterns and negative thought loops. Relationships are sometimes hard work, and we find ourselves going round & round with our partner, child or parent—feeling unheard, misunderstood, frustrated and disconnected. Often our reactions to present day stressors stem from early life experiences or unresolved trauma. Healing happens in the presence of someone who sees us and accepts us just as we are; and can help us process emotions like anxiety, despair, anger, shame, grief, and longing. This leads to greater self-understanding and self-compassion.
(623) 294-5690 View (623) 294-5690
Photo of Randi Rotwein, MA, LMFT, license, AZ & CA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Randi Rotwein
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, license, AZ & CA
Verified Verified
North Scottsdale, Scottsdale, AZ 85258  (Online Only)
I work with Adults; Individuals and Couples.
Are you feeling stuck in some aspect of your life, and can't figure out how to change things for the better? My professionaI guidance may help you find the answers needed to attain the life you want. Are you are struggling with issues such as Anxiety, Grief/Loss, or you are feeling stressed from work and everyday life?.. Or, perhaps you are struggling with your health, can’t motivate yourself to get healthy, lose weight, set goals and achieve them.? Or are you struggling with your current relationship(s)?Then LET'S TALK. I have 28+ years of experience and I am passionate about helping people find healing and happiness . .
I work with Adults; Individuals and Couples.
Are you feeling stuck in some aspect of your life, and can't figure out how to change things for the better? My professionaI guidance may help you find the answers needed to attain the life you want. Are you are struggling with issues such as Anxiety, Grief/Loss, or you are feeling stressed from work and everyday life?.. Or, perhaps you are struggling with your health, can’t motivate yourself to get healthy, lose weight, set goals and achieve them.? Or are you struggling with your current relationship(s)?Then LET'S TALK. I have 28+ years of experience and I am passionate about helping people find healing and happiness . .
(520) 462-3166 View (520) 462-3166
Photo of Analecia Kinkade, MA, LAMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Analecia Kinkade
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LAMFT
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
North Scottsdale, Scottsdale, AZ 85258  (Online Only)
Hello! I am a NCU graduate with Magna Cum Laude honors in Marriage and Family Therapy with an emphasis on Couples Therapy. Currently the Clinic Manager as a Licensed Associate Marriage and Family Therapist at Ellie Mental Health. My passion is about helping clients feel comfortable in a safe space to share their life experience, while being a huge proponent of meeting my clients where they are and putting a lot of emphasis on a strong therapeutic relationship. My clientele ranges from 2 years old to adulthood. My background allows me to have extensive experience
Hello! I am a NCU graduate with Magna Cum Laude honors in Marriage and Family Therapy with an emphasis on Couples Therapy. Currently the Clinic Manager as a Licensed Associate Marriage and Family Therapist at Ellie Mental Health. My passion is about helping clients feel comfortable in a safe space to share their life experience, while being a huge proponent of meeting my clients where they are and putting a lot of emphasis on a strong therapeutic relationship. My clientele ranges from 2 years old to adulthood. My background allows me to have extensive experience
(520) 525-1261 View (520) 525-1261
Photo of Nicole Sbordone, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nicole Sbordone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
North Scottsdale, Scottsdale, AZ 85260
We all go through difficult times in our life. We can feel overwhelmed and completely stuck. My goal as your therapist is to allow you to express your feelings in a non-judgmental and safe space, as well as provide you with skills to improve your overall quality of life. I work with adolescents, adults, as well as couples and families. My specialties include: eating disorders, depression, anxiety, as well as pregnancy loss and miscarriage. Please see below for a full list.
We all go through difficult times in our life. We can feel overwhelmed and completely stuck. My goal as your therapist is to allow you to express your feelings in a non-judgmental and safe space, as well as provide you with skills to improve your overall quality of life. I work with adolescents, adults, as well as couples and families. My specialties include: eating disorders, depression, anxiety, as well as pregnancy loss and miscarriage. Please see below for a full list.
(781) 789-9085 View (781) 789-9085
Photo of Clint Cooper, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Clint Cooper
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
North Scottsdale, Scottsdale, AZ 85254
He has worked extensively with individuals, couples, and families during some of life's hardest moments to create understanding, refresh and restore connection to oneself and partner, and to regain a sense of purpose.
Reaching out can be the hardest step in making a change, but you are not alone. Times in our lives can be painful, confusing, and difficult to navigate, which can leave us feeling conflicted, anxious, grieving, and having an overwhelming sense of being stuck. Know there is hope. I will journey with you to help find relief from inner turmoil while also incorporating practical solutions. Being trained as an MFT and EMDR Therapist equips me to address emotional distress, PTSD, trauma, stress, anxiety, relationships, and couples issues, among others with clients from all backgrounds to provide individualized care.
He has worked extensively with individuals, couples, and families during some of life's hardest moments to create understanding, refresh and restore connection to oneself and partner, and to regain a sense of purpose.
Reaching out can be the hardest step in making a change, but you are not alone. Times in our lives can be painful, confusing, and difficult to navigate, which can leave us feeling conflicted, anxious, grieving, and having an overwhelming sense of being stuck. Know there is hope. I will journey with you to help find relief from inner turmoil while also incorporating practical solutions. Being trained as an MFT and EMDR Therapist equips me to address emotional distress, PTSD, trauma, stress, anxiety, relationships, and couples issues, among others with clients from all backgrounds to provide individualized care.
(623) 299-2439 View (623) 299-2439
Photo of Sumer Statler Aeed, EdD, Psychologist
Sumer Statler Aeed
Psychologist, EdD
Verified Verified
North Scottsdale, Scottsdale, AZ 85254  (Online Only)
For 22 years I have been helping people solve challenges in life and to find the power and abilities that have been inside them all along. I work with people who face challenges in life as well as those who simply seek ongoing growth and joy in their lives. Let's collaborate to find solutions and to help you develop the skills to improve your quality of life and create lasting change in your relationships with yourself and others. My goal is to create a collaborative relationship with you to help you uncover your authentic self. My style is caring, direct, and often humorous.
For 22 years I have been helping people solve challenges in life and to find the power and abilities that have been inside them all along. I work with people who face challenges in life as well as those who simply seek ongoing growth and joy in their lives. Let's collaborate to find solutions and to help you develop the skills to improve your quality of life and create lasting change in your relationships with yourself and others. My goal is to create a collaborative relationship with you to help you uncover your authentic self. My style is caring, direct, and often humorous.
(480) 526-7033 View (480) 526-7033
Photo of Jennifer Kaye, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Kaye
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
North Scottsdale, Scottsdale, AZ 85260
I provide strength based counseling for children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families dealing with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, women's issues, parenting challenges, stress management, medical health issues, life transitions, grief counseling, and relationship problems.
I provide strength based counseling for children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families dealing with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, women's issues, parenting challenges, stress management, medical health issues, life transitions, grief counseling, and relationship problems.
(480) 695-1863 View (480) 695-1863
Photo of Shauna Osten-The Counseling Consultants, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shauna Osten-The Counseling Consultants
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Scottsdale, Scottsdale, AZ 85258
I firmly believe in connection and relationship building together to ensure you feel comfortable and providing a space to challenge you, to foster growth and real change.
Are you feeling stressed, anxious or overwhelmed? Clients have shared that I create a safe space ensuring that you are able to engage and connect. Whatever life stage you are in, navigating life's challenges can be overwhelming. I have experience in supporting children and youth with various diagnoses, complex mental health, neuro-divergent and behavioral challenges. Additionally, I offer support to individuals and families struggling in many areas such as substance-use, parenting skills, and trauma recovery. As an LGBT2QIA+ affirming therapist, I welcome clients from all backgrounds holding empathy and understanding.
I firmly believe in connection and relationship building together to ensure you feel comfortable and providing a space to challenge you, to foster growth and real change.
Are you feeling stressed, anxious or overwhelmed? Clients have shared that I create a safe space ensuring that you are able to engage and connect. Whatever life stage you are in, navigating life's challenges can be overwhelming. I have experience in supporting children and youth with various diagnoses, complex mental health, neuro-divergent and behavioral challenges. Additionally, I offer support to individuals and families struggling in many areas such as substance-use, parenting skills, and trauma recovery. As an LGBT2QIA+ affirming therapist, I welcome clients from all backgrounds holding empathy and understanding.
(480) 994-9773 View (480) 994-9773
Photo of Valerie Dawson, LCSW, CHT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Valerie Dawson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CHT
Verified Verified
North Scottsdale, Scottsdale, AZ 85258
Whether you want to improve your mood, heal the past, repair your relationship, or change your habits, I can help.
Life is very challenging! As you navigate this stressful world you may sometimes feel that your moods and behaviors are out of your control. While we were taught many subjects in school, we never had a class to learn effective strategies on how to manage our thoughts, feelings and actions. You're finding that your efforts to feel better on your own haven't been working for you. Some of the things that you’ve tried may have even made everything worse. Perhaps you feel bad that you can’t seem to get unstuck on your own. However, it’s not your fault, because you were never taught the skills you really needed!
Whether you want to improve your mood, heal the past, repair your relationship, or change your habits, I can help.
Life is very challenging! As you navigate this stressful world you may sometimes feel that your moods and behaviors are out of your control. While we were taught many subjects in school, we never had a class to learn effective strategies on how to manage our thoughts, feelings and actions. You're finding that your efforts to feel better on your own haven't been working for you. Some of the things that you’ve tried may have even made everything worse. Perhaps you feel bad that you can’t seem to get unstuck on your own. However, it’s not your fault, because you were never taught the skills you really needed!
(480) 690-9748 View (480) 690-9748
Photo of Laurie Beth Morales - Laurie Beth Morales Inc., MSW, LCSW, CADAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laurie Beth Morales Inc.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CADAC
Verified Verified
North Scottsdale, Scottsdale, AZ 85260
It is my hope that I will serve as your partner in offering guidance through grief of what happens when we encounter an unwanted, unexpected reality and to share this concept with you……Pain is inevitable, suffering is optional.
Many people look for happiness outside of themselves, but true happiness must come from within...I specialize in helping individuals and families with grief, trauma and loss especially loss of children, victims of crime, sudden death, infertility and major life changes. I also have an expertise in palliative counseling with those who are living with or have family members living with chronic, terminal illnesses. My approach is to support you in preventing and relieving suffering. I am certified in addictions and provide telemedicine as clinically indicated.
It is my hope that I will serve as your partner in offering guidance through grief of what happens when we encounter an unwanted, unexpected reality and to share this concept with you……Pain is inevitable, suffering is optional.
Many people look for happiness outside of themselves, but true happiness must come from within...I specialize in helping individuals and families with grief, trauma and loss especially loss of children, victims of crime, sudden death, infertility and major life changes. I also have an expertise in palliative counseling with those who are living with or have family members living with chronic, terminal illnesses. My approach is to support you in preventing and relieving suffering. I am certified in addictions and provide telemedicine as clinically indicated.
(480) 448-1240 View (480) 448-1240
1
...

See more therapy options for North Scottsdale, Scottsdale

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.