Couples Counseling Therapists in Livermore, CA

Photo of Jennifer Lord, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jennifer Lord
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Livermore, CA 94550
My true passion is working with children and adolescents. I have found that by being honest and compassionate, even the most resistant teen tends to open up. Most people have a hard time trusting a stranger, kids and teens are no exception. I work to build that trust and provide an environment for people to feel safe enough to open up. I also enjoy working with adults and couples, and have discovered that they appreciate this approach as well.
My true passion is working with children and adolescents. I have found that by being honest and compassionate, even the most resistant teen tends to open up. Most people have a hard time trusting a stranger, kids and teens are no exception. I work to build that trust and provide an environment for people to feel safe enough to open up. I also enjoy working with adults and couples, and have discovered that they appreciate this approach as well.
(925) 308-9789 View (925) 308-9789
Photo of Jenny M Doying - Jenny M Doying, LMFT, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jenny M Doying, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Livermore, CA 94550
Supporting Adults, Teens, and Couples through Grief and Life Change.
Are you finding it difficult to make the changes you want on your own? Do you need insight and new tools to make your life more fulfilling? I am here to help you make those hopes for a better life a reality! Creating a safe place to explore new ideas and helping you develop new skills is what I do best. I use a collaborative approach, taking the time to understand your needs, working towards you living an authentic life. In a non-judgmental environment, with empathy and a sense of humor, I work with Couples, Adults and Teens promoting wellness and positive life change.
Supporting Adults, Teens, and Couples through Grief and Life Change.
Are you finding it difficult to make the changes you want on your own? Do you need insight and new tools to make your life more fulfilling? I am here to help you make those hopes for a better life a reality! Creating a safe place to explore new ideas and helping you develop new skills is what I do best. I use a collaborative approach, taking the time to understand your needs, working towards you living an authentic life. In a non-judgmental environment, with empathy and a sense of humor, I work with Couples, Adults and Teens promoting wellness and positive life change.
(510) 662-1284 View (510) 662-1284
Photo of Alanna Esquejo, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Alanna Esquejo
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Verified Verified
Livermore, CA 94551
I have client centered approach and I have completed Level 1 Training, in Gottman Method Couples Therapy.
I enjoy working with those who desire to improve their relationships, in an intimate partner setting or with family members. Change can often be difficult and uncomfortable. I strive to support you by providing a safe place to discuss challenges and goals they are seeking. I want to help you explore ways to navigate and implement changes more effectively. While also introducing tools to improve your communication and manage conflict.
I have client centered approach and I have completed Level 1 Training, in Gottman Method Couples Therapy.
I enjoy working with those who desire to improve their relationships, in an intimate partner setting or with family members. Change can often be difficult and uncomfortable. I strive to support you by providing a safe place to discuss challenges and goals they are seeking. I want to help you explore ways to navigate and implement changes more effectively. While also introducing tools to improve your communication and manage conflict.
(209) 879-0993 View (209) 879-0993
Photo of Emma Jones, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Emma Jones
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Livermore, CA 94550  (Online Only)
I help individuals and couples put words to things they haven't been able to say before, and many find that this unlocks new possibilities.
My patients come to me because they are stuck - maybe you and your partner keep having the same argument over and over; you can’t seem to shake certain thoughts, feelings, or habits; or your heart and life have broken open in a way you can’t seem to make sense of alone. Many of the people I work with experienced trauma in their past. These experiences can create barriers to fulfillment in relationships and life more broadly - often unknowingly. By remaining curious about what lies beneath the surface, and exploring new ways of relating to self and others, we will work together to create, and claim, a space that is truly your own.
I help individuals and couples put words to things they haven't been able to say before, and many find that this unlocks new possibilities.
My patients come to me because they are stuck - maybe you and your partner keep having the same argument over and over; you can’t seem to shake certain thoughts, feelings, or habits; or your heart and life have broken open in a way you can’t seem to make sense of alone. Many of the people I work with experienced trauma in their past. These experiences can create barriers to fulfillment in relationships and life more broadly - often unknowingly. By remaining curious about what lies beneath the surface, and exploring new ways of relating to self and others, we will work together to create, and claim, a space that is truly your own.
(925) 528-0520 View (925) 528-0520
Photo of Kim Kerr, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kim Kerr
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Livermore, CA 94550
I have trained in grief counseling, Multidimensional Family Therapy, Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFT), Hakomi for couples, and AEDP for couples.
Are you experiencing depression, anxiety, or loneliness? Are you having problems in communication with your partner or family member? Are you going through a life transition and feeling burdened, stuck, or overwhelmed? Crisis, trauma, loss, and suffering can lead to the discovery of new capacities for healing and growth. I believe therapy is a transformative and collaborative process which can help. I welcome working with individuals, as well as couples and families. I offer a safe, genuine, caring, and non judgmental environment where I support you in discovering the tools you need to meet your goals.
I have trained in grief counseling, Multidimensional Family Therapy, Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFT), Hakomi for couples, and AEDP for couples.
Are you experiencing depression, anxiety, or loneliness? Are you having problems in communication with your partner or family member? Are you going through a life transition and feeling burdened, stuck, or overwhelmed? Crisis, trauma, loss, and suffering can lead to the discovery of new capacities for healing and growth. I believe therapy is a transformative and collaborative process which can help. I welcome working with individuals, as well as couples and families. I offer a safe, genuine, caring, and non judgmental environment where I support you in discovering the tools you need to meet your goals.
(925) 892-3991 View (925) 892-3991
Photo of Amanda Smith, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Amanda Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Livermore, CA 94550
Hi, I'm Amanda Smith and I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist. My passion has been to help those who are struggling with eating disorders, depression, anxiety, and relationship issues, among others. I have trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), Motivational Interviewing, Seeking Safety, and Superhero Therapy. I began my Marriage and Family Telehealth practice in California out of a desire to use my life experience, education, and faith to help serve the emotional and behavioral health needs of our community and state.
Hi, I'm Amanda Smith and I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist. My passion has been to help those who are struggling with eating disorders, depression, anxiety, and relationship issues, among others. I have trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), Motivational Interviewing, Seeking Safety, and Superhero Therapy. I began my Marriage and Family Telehealth practice in California out of a desire to use my life experience, education, and faith to help serve the emotional and behavioral health needs of our community and state.
(925) 267-6490 View (925) 267-6490
Photo of Mary Vice, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mary Vice
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Livermore, CA 94550
I encourage individuals and couples to embark on a journey of deeper understanding of self and other, leading to healthy connection and communication.
Fulfilling relationships do not happen on their own: with self or other. The more intimate our relationship is with self lends to how deeply and authentically we can connect with others. My ideal clients are individuals or couples who seek to collaborate to build awareness, the first step to ANY meaningful change. We will work together to honor previous attachment injuries. We will identify your thoughts and patterns, and we will investigate the influences that drive your choices/behavior.
I encourage individuals and couples to embark on a journey of deeper understanding of self and other, leading to healthy connection and communication.
Fulfilling relationships do not happen on their own: with self or other. The more intimate our relationship is with self lends to how deeply and authentically we can connect with others. My ideal clients are individuals or couples who seek to collaborate to build awareness, the first step to ANY meaningful change. We will work together to honor previous attachment injuries. We will identify your thoughts and patterns, and we will investigate the influences that drive your choices/behavior.
(925) 239-4294 View (925) 239-4294
Photo of Joe Zummo, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Joe Zummo
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Livermore, CA 94550
I want to help you feel better, have a more honest relationship with yourself, and succeed in the way that you feel is best for yourself.
I currently have availability afternoons and evenings. My goal is to help you resolve pain, repair relationships, lessen negative thoughts, heal trauma, and feel better overall. I am down-to-earth and am comfortable talking with many different types of people. I am great at assessing the problem and helping you figure out what you want or need to get your life on track.
I want to help you feel better, have a more honest relationship with yourself, and succeed in the way that you feel is best for yourself.
I currently have availability afternoons and evenings. My goal is to help you resolve pain, repair relationships, lessen negative thoughts, heal trauma, and feel better overall. I am down-to-earth and am comfortable talking with many different types of people. I am great at assessing the problem and helping you figure out what you want or need to get your life on track.
(925) 369-7683 View (925) 369-7683
Photo of Isabel Archer, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Isabel Archer
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Livermore, CA 94550
I work with teens, adults, and couples who are struggling with life’s challenges.
Do you feel overwhelmed, anxious, stressed, or depressed? Do you struggle with accepting and appreciating yourself? Perhaps you are struggling with a trauma or in your relationships? Life can offer us sunny, bright warm days that feel unending. Life can also bring days where dark and ominous skies loom overhead, and we need a little support to help us weather the storm. I believe people grow and change when they can take a mindful, accepting inventory of the different facets of themselves, their relationships, and their lives. From this unique place, a person can heal their heart and make informed, impactful changes in their lives.
I work with teens, adults, and couples who are struggling with life’s challenges.
Do you feel overwhelmed, anxious, stressed, or depressed? Do you struggle with accepting and appreciating yourself? Perhaps you are struggling with a trauma or in your relationships? Life can offer us sunny, bright warm days that feel unending. Life can also bring days where dark and ominous skies loom overhead, and we need a little support to help us weather the storm. I believe people grow and change when they can take a mindful, accepting inventory of the different facets of themselves, their relationships, and their lives. From this unique place, a person can heal their heart and make informed, impactful changes in their lives.
(925) 319-6757 View (925) 319-6757
Photo of Holly Hambrick, MS, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Holly Hambrick
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
Livermore, CA 94550
I specialize in supporting couples and individuals who seek to navigate life’s challenges, reconnect with themselves and/or their partner, and create lasting change.
I offer empathetic and effective therapy at an affordable price with weekend availability. Life can be stressful and full of challenges. It can feel like everything is coming at you all at once and that you’re navigating the storms of life alone. When we're experiencing overwhelm and disconnection from ourselves and others, it can be difficult to know which way to turn. Well, you're in the right place. My therapeutic approach is rooted in empathy, collaboration, and evidence-based practices. I work hard to provide a supportive, judgment-free space where you are invited to be your authentic self and explore your inner world.
I specialize in supporting couples and individuals who seek to navigate life’s challenges, reconnect with themselves and/or their partner, and create lasting change.
I offer empathetic and effective therapy at an affordable price with weekend availability. Life can be stressful and full of challenges. It can feel like everything is coming at you all at once and that you’re navigating the storms of life alone. When we're experiencing overwhelm and disconnection from ourselves and others, it can be difficult to know which way to turn. Well, you're in the right place. My therapeutic approach is rooted in empathy, collaboration, and evidence-based practices. I work hard to provide a supportive, judgment-free space where you are invited to be your authentic self and explore your inner world.
(925) 320-3919 View (925) 320-3919
Photo of Gregory D. Burns, MA, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Gregory D. Burns
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Livermore, CA 94551
I am passionate about: Healing Shame (self-esteem, confidence, anger), Couples Counseling (Emotionally Focused Therapy), Old Trauma (co-dependency, PTSD), Alcoholism Recovery (12 Steps, emotional sobriety), Grief/Loss, Christian and/or Spiritual Counseling, Aging and special needs children. My deepest conviction is the dignity of the human person and my best tools are compassion, mercy, forgiveness and grace.
I am passionate about: Healing Shame (self-esteem, confidence, anger), Couples Counseling (Emotionally Focused Therapy), Old Trauma (co-dependency, PTSD), Alcoholism Recovery (12 Steps, emotional sobriety), Grief/Loss, Christian and/or Spiritual Counseling, Aging and special needs children. My deepest conviction is the dignity of the human person and my best tools are compassion, mercy, forgiveness and grace.
(925) 968-4753 View (925) 968-4753
Photo of Greta Meyerhof, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Greta Meyerhof
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Livermore, CA 94550
I also have experience with assisting couples to communicate more effectively and with parenting skills.
I am licensed in Marriage and Family Therapy. I will join you at where your needs are and I will guide you to fulfill your treatment goals. I have decades of experience helping clients heal and grow. My focus on treatment is person-centered, I will work with you at where your needs are and I will guide you to reach your treatment goals. I have training in cognitive behavioral interventions along with mindful-based practice as well. I have experience working with clients who see their symptoms of depression, anxiety, or grief as blocks to functioning to their fullest.
I also have experience with assisting couples to communicate more effectively and with parenting skills.
I am licensed in Marriage and Family Therapy. I will join you at where your needs are and I will guide you to fulfill your treatment goals. I have decades of experience helping clients heal and grow. My focus on treatment is person-centered, I will work with you at where your needs are and I will guide you to reach your treatment goals. I have training in cognitive behavioral interventions along with mindful-based practice as well. I have experience working with clients who see their symptoms of depression, anxiety, or grief as blocks to functioning to their fullest.
(925) 397-1289 View (925) 397-1289
Photo of Alison Zummo, LCSW, CMHIMP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alison Zummo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CMHIMP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Livermore, CA 94550
Feeling overwhelmed with so much to do? Is your partner or your kids getting on your nerves? Dealing with intrusive, negative thoughts? Therapy can help. I am non-judgmental, down-to-earth, honest, and compassionate. I offer a comfortable and safe environment, and a genuine interest to understand your experience(s). With more than 20 years of experience working with individuals and couples, I can help you achieve your goals. I am also certified as a Mental Health Integrative Medicine Provider. I believe that food, exercise, and stress greatly impact your medical and mental health.
Feeling overwhelmed with so much to do? Is your partner or your kids getting on your nerves? Dealing with intrusive, negative thoughts? Therapy can help. I am non-judgmental, down-to-earth, honest, and compassionate. I offer a comfortable and safe environment, and a genuine interest to understand your experience(s). With more than 20 years of experience working with individuals and couples, I can help you achieve your goals. I am also certified as a Mental Health Integrative Medicine Provider. I believe that food, exercise, and stress greatly impact your medical and mental health.
(925) 273-7647 View (925) 273-7647
Photo of Melissa Johnson, MS, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Melissa Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
Livermore, CA 94551
If you’d like to take the first step toward creating a more connected, fulfilling marriage/ relationship, schedule a free 15 minute phone consultation.
I’m a relationship satisfaction expert committed to helping partners learn how to move past their issues to create a more fulfilling, joyful, committed relationship. My work focuses on teaching *effective* communication, identifying and alleviating unmet needs, rebuilding connection, re-establishing trust, and creating a stronger sense of intimacy between partners. I’m particularly passionate about working with individuals and couples struggling with issues of infidelity.
If you’d like to take the first step toward creating a more connected, fulfilling marriage/ relationship, schedule a free 15 minute phone consultation.
I’m a relationship satisfaction expert committed to helping partners learn how to move past their issues to create a more fulfilling, joyful, committed relationship. My work focuses on teaching *effective* communication, identifying and alleviating unmet needs, rebuilding connection, re-establishing trust, and creating a stronger sense of intimacy between partners. I’m particularly passionate about working with individuals and couples struggling with issues of infidelity.
(925) 230-4099 View (925) 230-4099
Photo of Julie K McCloskey, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Julie K McCloskey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Livermore, CA 94550
If you are looking for someone to help provide a safe place for vulnerability and growth, to help bring the darkness to light, you've stumbled across the right match. You want someone to walk in that dangerous neighborhood that is sometimes your headspace with you? Here I am. I am the most interested in working with clients that want to get Unstuck and live a life they can feel proud of. I am firm but gentle in my approach to helping you overcome the challenges you seek help with. I value working with couples, teens, solo adults and families (multigenerational as well).
If you are looking for someone to help provide a safe place for vulnerability and growth, to help bring the darkness to light, you've stumbled across the right match. You want someone to walk in that dangerous neighborhood that is sometimes your headspace with you? Here I am. I am the most interested in working with clients that want to get Unstuck and live a life they can feel proud of. I am firm but gentle in my approach to helping you overcome the challenges you seek help with. I value working with couples, teens, solo adults and families (multigenerational as well).
(925) 308-5549 View (925) 308-5549
Photo of Lisa Gray, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lisa Gray
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Livermore, CA 94550
I do most of my sessions via video tele-health; some couples have reservations about that but almost ALL of my couples love it once we get started!.
Is conflict tearing your relationship apart? Every relationship has conflict, but no one really teaches us how to have healthy conflict or steps to follow to practice it. I can teach you this! Conflict is a skill, and you can get better at it. Not only that, but if you practice healthy conflict, you'll increase your intimacy and have a closer relationship. I know it sounds counterintuitive but I've seen it happen over and over. You don't have to be stuck in this pattern; I promise.
I do most of my sessions via video tele-health; some couples have reservations about that but almost ALL of my couples love it once we get started!.
Is conflict tearing your relationship apart? Every relationship has conflict, but no one really teaches us how to have healthy conflict or steps to follow to practice it. I can teach you this! Conflict is a skill, and you can get better at it. Not only that, but if you practice healthy conflict, you'll increase your intimacy and have a closer relationship. I know it sounds counterintuitive but I've seen it happen over and over. You don't have to be stuck in this pattern; I promise.
(925) 961-5308 View (925) 961-5308
Photo of Cassie Renz, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cassie Renz
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Livermore, CA 94550  (Online Only)
This relationship has you tied in knots. You’ve twisted yourself around this person for so long that you barely recognize who you are anymore. You’ve tried to end it before, but somehow you always wind up back together – trapped in the same unhealthy cycle. You’re constantly walking on eggshells, filled with anxiety, second-guessing every move, fearing that one small misstep will spark another round of berating. You try so hard to please, bending over backwards, but nothing is ever good enough. It’s overwhelming. You can’t sleep. You can’t eat. You feel trapped and hopeless. You know this can’t go on.
This relationship has you tied in knots. You’ve twisted yourself around this person for so long that you barely recognize who you are anymore. You’ve tried to end it before, but somehow you always wind up back together – trapped in the same unhealthy cycle. You’re constantly walking on eggshells, filled with anxiety, second-guessing every move, fearing that one small misstep will spark another round of berating. You try so hard to please, bending over backwards, but nothing is ever good enough. It’s overwhelming. You can’t sleep. You can’t eat. You feel trapped and hopeless. You know this can’t go on.
(925) 315-9404 View (925) 315-9404
Photo of Allysha Davis, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Allysha Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Livermore, CA 94550  (Online Only)
I have over 10 years’ experience working with those dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, identity and relationship concerns.
Relationship is a fundamental part of healing, and it is the foundation of how I practice therapy. My approach is compassionate, present, centered on your emotions and the relationships that shape your life. My work is grounded in the belief that healing begins with gentle awareness, allowing us to tune into our needs and desires with kindness and curiosity. I strive to create a safe, supportive space where you can explore your experiences and challenges, whether they stem from intersecting identities, trauma, oppression, loss, or the overwhelming realities of today's world.
I have over 10 years’ experience working with those dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, identity and relationship concerns.
Relationship is a fundamental part of healing, and it is the foundation of how I practice therapy. My approach is compassionate, present, centered on your emotions and the relationships that shape your life. My work is grounded in the belief that healing begins with gentle awareness, allowing us to tune into our needs and desires with kindness and curiosity. I strive to create a safe, supportive space where you can explore your experiences and challenges, whether they stem from intersecting identities, trauma, oppression, loss, or the overwhelming realities of today's world.
(925) 886-3423 View (925) 886-3423
Photo of Rachel Polack, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Polack
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Livermore, CA 94550
I use a toolbox of creative techniques to build our relationship.
I am Rachel and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I graduated with my Master's Degree in Social Work from the University of Michigan focusing on Mental Health and a specialty in School Social Work. My undergraduate studies also took place at The University of Michigan where I earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Psychology. I have experience working with children, teenagers, young adults, adults and couples. I specialize in grief, depression, anxiety, trauma, coping strategies and daily life difficulties.
I use a toolbox of creative techniques to build our relationship.
I am Rachel and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I graduated with my Master's Degree in Social Work from the University of Michigan focusing on Mental Health and a specialty in School Social Work. My undergraduate studies also took place at The University of Michigan where I earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Psychology. I have experience working with children, teenagers, young adults, adults and couples. I specialize in grief, depression, anxiety, trauma, coping strategies and daily life difficulties.
(209) 661-7291 View (209) 661-7291
Photo of Margaret Elaine Messerschmidt - Peggy Messerschmidt, MA, LMFT, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Peggy Messerschmidt, MA, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Livermore, CA 94551
While my primary orientations are psychodynamic, attachment and trauma focused, I believe that healing happens in a safe, respectful relationship and attuned, empathic environment.
Are you feeling anxious or depressed? Blocked? Do you struggle with relationships, being assertive, asking for what you need, setting appropriate boundaries or navigating conflict? Do you have a history of trauma or neglect and still struggle with its effects? As a LMFT, I can help you explore these issues and more, so you can come to understand yourself more deeply and make more conscious life choices.
While my primary orientations are psychodynamic, attachment and trauma focused, I believe that healing happens in a safe, respectful relationship and attuned, empathic environment.
Are you feeling anxious or depressed? Blocked? Do you struggle with relationships, being assertive, asking for what you need, setting appropriate boundaries or navigating conflict? Do you have a history of trauma or neglect and still struggle with its effects? As a LMFT, I can help you explore these issues and more, so you can come to understand yourself more deeply and make more conscious life choices.
(925) 241-5521 View (925) 241-5521
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.