Couples Counseling Therapists in La Mesa, CA

Photo of Katherine Morrill, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katherine Morrill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
La Mesa, CA 91941
I have been a practicing clinician for over 20 years. I recently obtained a sport social work certification from University of Michigan and now specialize in working with high-school and collegiate student-athletes on sports performance. I have treated both youth and adults and work towards goals of healing, growth, and wellness. I provide individual and family therapy and have focused on clinical areas such as trauma, depression, anxiety, anger management, divorce and relationship conflict. I utilize a collaborative approach that is both strength-based and solution-focused.
I have been a practicing clinician for over 20 years. I recently obtained a sport social work certification from University of Michigan and now specialize in working with high-school and collegiate student-athletes on sports performance. I have treated both youth and adults and work towards goals of healing, growth, and wellness. I provide individual and family therapy and have focused on clinical areas such as trauma, depression, anxiety, anger management, divorce and relationship conflict. I utilize a collaborative approach that is both strength-based and solution-focused.
(978) 767-4916 View (978) 767-4916
Photo of Whittney Robertson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Whittney Robertson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
La Mesa, CA 91941  (Online Only)
My specialty is in individual and couples therapy, particularly focused on various fertility and surrogacy journeys, using evidence based approaches.
Life circumstances and relationships can sometimes be difficult to navigate. Whether you are dealing with new stressors, ongoing challenges, seeking clarity in relationship dynamics, or wanting to learn more about yourself, I am here to provide help! My belief is that through a supportive and safe environment, people can work through and process their personal challenges while recognizing their strengths and abilities. My passion is to help others help themselves through addressing both mind and body on the journey of moving from suffering to supportive healing.
My specialty is in individual and couples therapy, particularly focused on various fertility and surrogacy journeys, using evidence based approaches.
Life circumstances and relationships can sometimes be difficult to navigate. Whether you are dealing with new stressors, ongoing challenges, seeking clarity in relationship dynamics, or wanting to learn more about yourself, I am here to provide help! My belief is that through a supportive and safe environment, people can work through and process their personal challenges while recognizing their strengths and abilities. My passion is to help others help themselves through addressing both mind and body on the journey of moving from suffering to supportive healing.
(858) 302-4049 View (858) 302-4049
Photo of Dr. Edward Ramos, LCMFC, RBT, MBT, BAC, ACM, Pastoral Counselor
Dr. Edward Ramos
Pastoral Counselor, LCMFC, RBT, MBT, BAC, ACM
Verified Verified
La Mesa, CA 91942  (Online Only)
Call me today to get a relationship /marriage self assessment at no charge! Let me develop a unique Marriage counseling path tailored to your needs.
Are you feeling sad? distressed? overwhelmed? hurt ? betrayed? You are not alone. Let me help you. It takes courage to reach out for help and you are brave for taking this courageous step. It's certainly not easy, but there is hope. Lets go together to God to find love & healing. True healing begins when the pain is addressed where you can start your healing process. I bring a compassionate, collaborative, non-judgmental, strength based approach to marriage and family counseling to restore your relationships. As a Christian Counselor I utilize the Bible, prayer, effective curriculum, personal and professional experience to help you.
Call me today to get a relationship /marriage self assessment at no charge! Let me develop a unique Marriage counseling path tailored to your needs.
Are you feeling sad? distressed? overwhelmed? hurt ? betrayed? You are not alone. Let me help you. It takes courage to reach out for help and you are brave for taking this courageous step. It's certainly not easy, but there is hope. Lets go together to God to find love & healing. True healing begins when the pain is addressed where you can start your healing process. I bring a compassionate, collaborative, non-judgmental, strength based approach to marriage and family counseling to restore your relationships. As a Christian Counselor I utilize the Bible, prayer, effective curriculum, personal and professional experience to help you.
(619) 505-3686 View (619) 505-3686
Photo of Gary D Hittle, PhD, Marriage & Family Therapist
Gary D Hittle
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD
Verified Verified
La Mesa, CA 91942
I am comfortable assisting individuals, couples, and families in meeting the varied challenges and changes that come in life.
I have been in private psychological practice for over 30 years specializing in Marital and Relational therapy, Family problem interventions, Adolescents, and in the treatment of Sexual and Substance Abuse, and family therapy related to these issues. I have a broad range of training and utilize multiple modalities in the course of assisting my clients toward growth and personal change. I also assist clients with value related questions and am helpful for those looking for a "Christian Therapist". Further, I have extensive experience in dealing with the issues of aging, serious health issue, terminal illness, and chronic pain.
I am comfortable assisting individuals, couples, and families in meeting the varied challenges and changes that come in life.
I have been in private psychological practice for over 30 years specializing in Marital and Relational therapy, Family problem interventions, Adolescents, and in the treatment of Sexual and Substance Abuse, and family therapy related to these issues. I have a broad range of training and utilize multiple modalities in the course of assisting my clients toward growth and personal change. I also assist clients with value related questions and am helpful for those looking for a "Christian Therapist". Further, I have extensive experience in dealing with the issues of aging, serious health issue, terminal illness, and chronic pain.
(619) 377-3720 View (619) 377-3720
Photo of Aisha Pope, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Aisha Pope
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
La Mesa, CA 91941  (Online Only)
I work with couples, families, and individuals.
The decision to talk to someone about things you may be struggling with is a brave one. Whether you're struggling with a recent stressor or a chronic one, whether it's an internal conflict, a relationship conflict, parenting, work, you're having difficulty setting or reaching goals, or something else entirely, finding the right person to talk to makes all the difference. I specialize in helping people make radical and sustainable changes in their personal lives, relationships, parenting, work, and other areas. I take a non-judgmental solution focused approach to helping you set goals and reach them.
I work with couples, families, and individuals.
The decision to talk to someone about things you may be struggling with is a brave one. Whether you're struggling with a recent stressor or a chronic one, whether it's an internal conflict, a relationship conflict, parenting, work, you're having difficulty setting or reaching goals, or something else entirely, finding the right person to talk to makes all the difference. I specialize in helping people make radical and sustainable changes in their personal lives, relationships, parenting, work, and other areas. I take a non-judgmental solution focused approach to helping you set goals and reach them.
(619) 722-3096 View (619) 722-3096
Photo of Rachel Pittsley - Grow Through Life Counseling La Mesa, LMFT, PMH-C, Marriage & Family Therapist
Grow Through Life Counseling La Mesa
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Mesa, CA 91942
We continue to grow! We have multiple providers at each site and are able provide individual, families and couples sessions for multiple family members.
Hello and welcome! Grow Through Life Counseling is a group private practice welcoming both in person clients in La Mesa, CA and via Telehealth in CA. We have immediate openings and are accepting new clients. Our Mission is to provide quality counseling for all ages throughout life. We provide culturally sensitive and inclusive care for all children, teens, adults, couples and families. We respect each family member's unique identities, perspectives and experiences in life. With effective and creative psychotherapeutic interventions, we support emotional growth and development during the various stages of life to be healthier.
We continue to grow! We have multiple providers at each site and are able provide individual, families and couples sessions for multiple family members.
Hello and welcome! Grow Through Life Counseling is a group private practice welcoming both in person clients in La Mesa, CA and via Telehealth in CA. We have immediate openings and are accepting new clients. Our Mission is to provide quality counseling for all ages throughout life. We provide culturally sensitive and inclusive care for all children, teens, adults, couples and families. We respect each family member's unique identities, perspectives and experiences in life. With effective and creative psychotherapeutic interventions, we support emotional growth and development during the various stages of life to be healthier.
(619) 541-6011 View (619) 541-6011
Photo of Hais Lindeman, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Hais Lindeman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
La Mesa, CA 91941  (Online Only)
My specializations include individuals, families and relationships with co-occurring and complex mental health, substance use, problem gambling and personality disorders. Additionally, I have a special interest in women and couples who are experiencing a broad spectrum of fertility challenges, pregnancy losses, in-vitro fertilization (IVF) treatments, and postpartum concerns.
My specializations include individuals, families and relationships with co-occurring and complex mental health, substance use, problem gambling and personality disorders. Additionally, I have a special interest in women and couples who are experiencing a broad spectrum of fertility challenges, pregnancy losses, in-vitro fertilization (IVF) treatments, and postpartum concerns.
(619) 480-0245 View (619) 480-0245
Photo of Jacqueline Small, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jacqueline Small
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Mesa, CA 91942
I have over 25 years experience working with children, adolescents, adults and families providing individual, couples and family therapy in both Philadelphia and San Diego. I managed a school based program in San Diego County for 15 years providing an array of mental health services to children and adolescents with severe emotional and behavior problems. I have also worked as a Medical Social Worker at Rady Children's Hospital in San Diego for the past 20 years providing supportive counseling to children and their families during a medical and/or health crisis.
I have over 25 years experience working with children, adolescents, adults and families providing individual, couples and family therapy in both Philadelphia and San Diego. I managed a school based program in San Diego County for 15 years providing an array of mental health services to children and adolescents with severe emotional and behavior problems. I have also worked as a Medical Social Worker at Rady Children's Hospital in San Diego for the past 20 years providing supportive counseling to children and their families during a medical and/or health crisis.
(619) 452-3815 View (619) 452-3815
Photo of Carlos Gustavo Haber, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carlos Gustavo Haber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
La Mesa, CA 91942  (Online Only)
I see therapy as a partnership and dialogue between the therapist and the patient, where together we tackle challenges and questions, and think and work together to craft answers.
With over thirty years of experience in a practice focusing primarily on personal issues and improving relationships. I provide individual, couple and family therapy, including treatment for depression, anxiety, panic attacks, trauma, ADHD (adult), I help patients work through a variety of other issues: grief and mourning, family/ relationship conflicts, Issues around adoption, blended families, sexuality, coming out, and mood disorders. I work with patients ranging in age from 18 to adults, all in a comfortable therapeutic setting. Most of all I believe in helping my patients achieve a fulfilling sense of self and of life.
I see therapy as a partnership and dialogue between the therapist and the patient, where together we tackle challenges and questions, and think and work together to craft answers.
With over thirty years of experience in a practice focusing primarily on personal issues and improving relationships. I provide individual, couple and family therapy, including treatment for depression, anxiety, panic attacks, trauma, ADHD (adult), I help patients work through a variety of other issues: grief and mourning, family/ relationship conflicts, Issues around adoption, blended families, sexuality, coming out, and mood disorders. I work with patients ranging in age from 18 to adults, all in a comfortable therapeutic setting. Most of all I believe in helping my patients achieve a fulfilling sense of self and of life.
(619) 949-3129 View (619) 949-3129
Photo of Alex Santana, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alex Santana
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Mesa, CA 91942
I seek to support others by use of empathy, personal connection, and a judgment free relationship that we will build during our work together.
Accepting the responsibility to change is a difficult task but once you take the initiative, it is highly rewarding. Sometimes we need to take a step back to reflect on a new way to approach situations when "our way" seems to be getting in our way. These are common responses to trauma, depression, and many other conditions that we can't always think our way out of, despite our best efforts.
I seek to support others by use of empathy, personal connection, and a judgment free relationship that we will build during our work together.
Accepting the responsibility to change is a difficult task but once you take the initiative, it is highly rewarding. Sometimes we need to take a step back to reflect on a new way to approach situations when "our way" seems to be getting in our way. These are common responses to trauma, depression, and many other conditions that we can't always think our way out of, despite our best efforts.
(619) 759-5847 View (619) 759-5847
Photo of Trish Franzblau, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Trish Franzblau
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
La Mesa, CA 91941
I work with teens, young adults, adults and couples, as well as, the gay and lesbian population.
'It's never too late to have a happy childhood.' As a nurturing therapist, I believe my role is to provide support, guidance, and a SAFE place to share, vent, scream, cry, laugh or just sit quietly. I also believe it's not what happens to people that's most important, but what they do about it. Our background and circumstances may have influenced who we are, but we are responsible for who we become. Though daunting, this realization can be extremely EMPOWERING--You are in charge of your life and your future happiness! With this knowledge, change can unfold.
I work with teens, young adults, adults and couples, as well as, the gay and lesbian population.
'It's never too late to have a happy childhood.' As a nurturing therapist, I believe my role is to provide support, guidance, and a SAFE place to share, vent, scream, cry, laugh or just sit quietly. I also believe it's not what happens to people that's most important, but what they do about it. Our background and circumstances may have influenced who we are, but we are responsible for who we become. Though daunting, this realization can be extremely EMPOWERING--You are in charge of your life and your future happiness! With this knowledge, change can unfold.
(805) 214-8832 View (805) 214-8832
Photo of Pooja Bakshi, MBA, MA, AMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Pooja Bakshi
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MBA, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Mesa, CA 91942
My goal is to create a space that is nonjudgmental, where you feel heard, understood, and empowered. Whether it be If you have personal struggles or relationship issues, let's work together to create a positive change. I'm here to help you build resilience, develop effective coping strategies, and find greater fulfillment in life. I believe in the power of therapy to transform lives and I am dedicated to helping you achieve your goals. Feel free to reach out I am available to schedule a session or you can contact me to learn more about my services.
My goal is to create a space that is nonjudgmental, where you feel heard, understood, and empowered. Whether it be If you have personal struggles or relationship issues, let's work together to create a positive change. I'm here to help you build resilience, develop effective coping strategies, and find greater fulfillment in life. I believe in the power of therapy to transform lives and I am dedicated to helping you achieve your goals. Feel free to reach out I am available to schedule a session or you can contact me to learn more about my services.
(619) 257-5313 View (619) 257-5313
Photo of Kelsey Kickbush, LICSW, LCSW, RYT-200, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelsey Kickbush
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW, RYT-200
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
La Mesa, CA 91942
I am committed to creating a compassionate, nonjudgmental space for our relationship, where you can engage in self-inquiry and healing in mind and body.
We will work together to find the wholeness that is already within you, as you develop relationships with and care for all of the parts of you to nurture healing. I am passionate about working with those who belong to the LGBTQIA2S+ community and other marginalized communities; helping professionals; military/veterans; and those with complex trauma. I currently see adults, adolescents aged 16 and older, and families and partners, including those in polyamorous/CNM relationships.
I am committed to creating a compassionate, nonjudgmental space for our relationship, where you can engage in self-inquiry and healing in mind and body.
We will work together to find the wholeness that is already within you, as you develop relationships with and care for all of the parts of you to nurture healing. I am passionate about working with those who belong to the LGBTQIA2S+ community and other marginalized communities; helping professionals; military/veterans; and those with complex trauma. I currently see adults, adolescents aged 16 and older, and families and partners, including those in polyamorous/CNM relationships.
(619) 789-4247 View (619) 789-4247
Photo of Bannia Gomez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bannia Gomez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
La Mesa, CA 91942
My name is Bannia Gomez. I am a bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of California. Hablo Español. Individuals, Couples, and Family Therapy. Adults only. Experience in the areas of depression, PTSD, anxiety, cultural stressors, domestic violence, stress, anger management, and so many other mental health stressors. I use a narrative approach where the client is allowed to tell their stories without feeling ashamed or judge.
My name is Bannia Gomez. I am a bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of California. Hablo Español. Individuals, Couples, and Family Therapy. Adults only. Experience in the areas of depression, PTSD, anxiety, cultural stressors, domestic violence, stress, anger management, and so many other mental health stressors. I use a narrative approach where the client is allowed to tell their stories without feeling ashamed or judge.
(619) 966-4294 View (619) 966-4294
Photo of Kelsey Giovana Barillas - Kelsey Barillas, LMFT, #133292, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kelsey Barillas, LMFT, #133292
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
La Mesa, CA 91942  (Online Only)
(Se administran sesiones completamente en Español) I focus in most issues and work with individuals, couples, children ages 11+, adolescents, as well as the entire family system.
How’s life? Want to talk about it? It can be hard to take the first step in finding a psychotherapist who is a good fit for you but, you’ve already gotten closer by exploring the web. Depression, Anxiety, Stress, and other Mental Health matters can be hard to manage and get in the way of having a peaceful and fulfilling life. If you or your teen/young adult are struggling with your emotional wellbeing, thoughts, feelings, or adjustments to life experiences, we can work together to look at how to make progress and the changes that you need to process some of the current matters you are facing.
(Se administran sesiones completamente en Español) I focus in most issues and work with individuals, couples, children ages 11+, adolescents, as well as the entire family system.
How’s life? Want to talk about it? It can be hard to take the first step in finding a psychotherapist who is a good fit for you but, you’ve already gotten closer by exploring the web. Depression, Anxiety, Stress, and other Mental Health matters can be hard to manage and get in the way of having a peaceful and fulfilling life. If you or your teen/young adult are struggling with your emotional wellbeing, thoughts, feelings, or adjustments to life experiences, we can work together to look at how to make progress and the changes that you need to process some of the current matters you are facing.
(619) 375-5117 View (619) 375-5117
Shirley Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
La Mesa, CA 91942
I have provided individual, couples and family therapy throughout San Diego County for over 30 years.
I work with you toward: Understanding/coping with depression, sadness, guilt, or loss of self esteem; Dealing with sudden anxiety or continuing worry or stress; Achieving a more satisfying relationship with your mate/dealing with continuing, unresolved problems in your relationship; Dealing with a sudden, stressful life event, such as a divorce or the death of someone close; Facing the challenges of single parenting or co-parenting with a new spouse; Coping with someone you care about who drinks too much or uses drugs; Resolving continuing problems with coworkers or work-related stress.
I have provided individual, couples and family therapy throughout San Diego County for over 30 years.
I work with you toward: Understanding/coping with depression, sadness, guilt, or loss of self esteem; Dealing with sudden anxiety or continuing worry or stress; Achieving a more satisfying relationship with your mate/dealing with continuing, unresolved problems in your relationship; Dealing with a sudden, stressful life event, such as a divorce or the death of someone close; Facing the challenges of single parenting or co-parenting with a new spouse; Coping with someone you care about who drinks too much or uses drugs; Resolving continuing problems with coworkers or work-related stress.
(619) 736-8206 View (619) 736-8206
Photo of Darryl K Moore, PhD, CSAT, CMAT, Psychologist
Darryl K Moore
Psychologist, PhD, CSAT, CMAT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
La Mesa, CA 91942
I work with individuals and couples coping with sex addiction or the discovery of sex addiction in a partner. I also facilitate a recovery group for men dealing with sex addiction. The group is open to all men dealing with sex addiction. It is not required that you be a registered individual client. My practice has focused on men's issues with sexual and other addictions as well as anger and behavior management. Other areas of focus include relational issues and the associated problems of stress, anxiety, and depression and betrayal issues. Emphasis is on the Carns model using the texts Facing the Shadows and Facing Heartbreak.
I work with individuals and couples coping with sex addiction or the discovery of sex addiction in a partner. I also facilitate a recovery group for men dealing with sex addiction. The group is open to all men dealing with sex addiction. It is not required that you be a registered individual client. My practice has focused on men's issues with sexual and other addictions as well as anger and behavior management. Other areas of focus include relational issues and the associated problems of stress, anxiety, and depression and betrayal issues. Emphasis is on the Carns model using the texts Facing the Shadows and Facing Heartbreak.
(619) 457-6419 View (619) 457-6419
Talin Yesaie
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Mesa, CA 91941
Seeking therapy and parent coaching services can be an anxiety provoking process and I'm here to help make it as easy and possible. I would love to speak with you further to answer any questions you have to ensure that our relationship will be the right one for your and your loved ones. I pride myself in my ability to connect with children instantly and make children and families feel comfortable in seeking support, guidance care to improve relationships with their loved ones.
Seeking therapy and parent coaching services can be an anxiety provoking process and I'm here to help make it as easy and possible. I would love to speak with you further to answer any questions you have to ensure that our relationship will be the right one for your and your loved ones. I pride myself in my ability to connect with children instantly and make children and families feel comfortable in seeking support, guidance care to improve relationships with their loved ones.
(858) 914-4746 View (858) 914-4746
Photo of Adam Moore, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Adam Moore
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
La Mesa, CA 91942
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in San Diego, California who has been working in the field of psychology since 2013. I have experience working in residential, schools, outpatient, and crisis settings as well as work now in my own private practice with clients experiencing depression, anxiety, panic attacks, addiction, relationship issues, parenting problems, social concerns, life transitions, grief/loss, trauma, abuse, crisis situations, and general adjustment issues. I have diagnosed and helped clients work through most of the disorders listed in the DSM-5.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in San Diego, California who has been working in the field of psychology since 2013. I have experience working in residential, schools, outpatient, and crisis settings as well as work now in my own private practice with clients experiencing depression, anxiety, panic attacks, addiction, relationship issues, parenting problems, social concerns, life transitions, grief/loss, trauma, abuse, crisis situations, and general adjustment issues. I have diagnosed and helped clients work through most of the disorders listed in the DSM-5.
(619) 345-5939 View (619) 345-5939
Photo of Kristin Donahue, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kristin Donahue
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Mesa, CA 91942
You deserve to feel balanced and strong. You deserve a meaningful and full life. Stress, anxiety and trauma can manifest in our bodies in a variety of ways which can impact our ability to experience happiness and clarity. I have had the joy of working with children, adolescents, adults, couples, geriatric, insurance, crisis/first responder and military populations for 17 years. I integrate the perspective of resiliency and take a strength-based approach to inspire change. My genuine passion is working with military service members and their families as well as law enforcement and first responder populations.
You deserve to feel balanced and strong. You deserve a meaningful and full life. Stress, anxiety and trauma can manifest in our bodies in a variety of ways which can impact our ability to experience happiness and clarity. I have had the joy of working with children, adolescents, adults, couples, geriatric, insurance, crisis/first responder and military populations for 17 years. I integrate the perspective of resiliency and take a strength-based approach to inspire change. My genuine passion is working with military service members and their families as well as law enforcement and first responder populations.
(619) 815-4982 View (619) 815-4982
1
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.