Couples Counseling Therapists in Long Beach, CA

Photo of Elizabeth Gonzalez Morales, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Elizabeth Gonzalez Morales
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90802
Healing happens in connection and safety; thus, I cherish our relationship built on empathy, compassion, vulnerability, equity, and sense of safety.
Welcome to our space! I recognize the effort It takes to see inside and looking for a therapist. With intergenerational(trauma), we learn to exist as a way to survive and move along life with little meaning. Still, we can transform that which no longer helps but harms. The journey of self-discovery and healing is one of most precious gifts we ca do for ourselves and our lineage. We may seek therapy to have healthier relationships with ourselves, partners, and others; feeling safer; reclaiming our identity; thrive authentically in the world; reparent our inner child; connect to our path in this lifetime; and healing the soul.
Healing happens in connection and safety; thus, I cherish our relationship built on empathy, compassion, vulnerability, equity, and sense of safety.
Welcome to our space! I recognize the effort It takes to see inside and looking for a therapist. With intergenerational(trauma), we learn to exist as a way to survive and move along life with little meaning. Still, we can transform that which no longer helps but harms. The journey of self-discovery and healing is one of most precious gifts we ca do for ourselves and our lineage. We may seek therapy to have healthier relationships with ourselves, partners, and others; feeling safer; reclaiming our identity; thrive authentically in the world; reparent our inner child; connect to our path in this lifetime; and healing the soul.
(424) 230-8720 View (424) 230-8720
Photo of Eugenia G Reeves, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Eugenia G Reeves
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90807
We all have issues: unmet needs, hurts, relationship conflicts, work stress and many others. At times these issues may become "too much" and interfere with your life. As a licensed therapist with over 25 years of experience I work effectively with adults wanting to heal from depression, anxiety, manage work stress, couples seeking to develop a more loving relationship; divorce or other life transitions. I will listen to your concerns and work with you to develop personal tools necessary to improve the quality of your life.
We all have issues: unmet needs, hurts, relationship conflicts, work stress and many others. At times these issues may become "too much" and interfere with your life. As a licensed therapist with over 25 years of experience I work effectively with adults wanting to heal from depression, anxiety, manage work stress, couples seeking to develop a more loving relationship; divorce or other life transitions. I will listen to your concerns and work with you to develop personal tools necessary to improve the quality of your life.
(562) 273-1108 View (562) 273-1108
Photo of Cathy Trenary, APCC
Cathy Trenary
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, APCC
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90814
I have over 10 years of experience working with adults, couples, and families in various capacities.
Our life experiences can lead us to question our identity and purpose in the world we live in. This can lead us to anxiety, depression, and trauma. Do you want to improve how you face challenges, function in your relationships, and face overwhelming feelings? I place heavy importance on addressing trauma. Trauma disintegrates the parts that make up your whole self, which can leave aspects of who you are hidden from your awareness. Left unaddressed, anxiety and depression can worsen, which can rob you of the necessary connection that all human beings need to thrive. I aim to help you process unresolved trauma.
I have over 10 years of experience working with adults, couples, and families in various capacities.
Our life experiences can lead us to question our identity and purpose in the world we live in. This can lead us to anxiety, depression, and trauma. Do you want to improve how you face challenges, function in your relationships, and face overwhelming feelings? I place heavy importance on addressing trauma. Trauma disintegrates the parts that make up your whole self, which can leave aspects of who you are hidden from your awareness. Left unaddressed, anxiety and depression can worsen, which can rob you of the necessary connection that all human beings need to thrive. I aim to help you process unresolved trauma.
(562) 662-4861 View (562) 662-4861
Photo of Dr. Matthew Jaurequi, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Matthew Jaurequi
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90804  (Online Only)
Individuals, couples, and families deserve the right to overcome life's challenges. The strongest can get bogged down by sadness, worry, stress, or difficulties in close relationships. Moreover, even the best couples can find themselves stuck in patterns of poor communication often resulting in feelings of isolation despite the strong desire for closeness. Lastly, the family is one of the most important environments that shape our lives. Yet, unexpected events can derail individual and family relationships and development. My goal is to help you tap into the courage and strength you posses and move from distress to empowerment.
Individuals, couples, and families deserve the right to overcome life's challenges. The strongest can get bogged down by sadness, worry, stress, or difficulties in close relationships. Moreover, even the best couples can find themselves stuck in patterns of poor communication often resulting in feelings of isolation despite the strong desire for closeness. Lastly, the family is one of the most important environments that shape our lives. Yet, unexpected events can derail individual and family relationships and development. My goal is to help you tap into the courage and strength you posses and move from distress to empowerment.
(562) 539-2180 View (562) 539-2180
Photo of Kyra M Mendoza-James, PsyD, MA, Psychologist
Kyra M Mendoza-James
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90807  (Online Only)
I am an experienced psychologist with over 12 years experience having worked with children, adults, families, couples, and LGBTQ individuals.
My mission in life and my personal passion as a Psychologist is to be of service to those navigating life’s most complex and difficult challenges in their day to day lives. That is why I am so excited about your decision to begin therapy. Sharing your life experiences is not made lightly and that is why I am always humbled to be apart of each new journey. We will work collaboratively throughout the process in navigating through the anxiety, depression, self-doubt, and other challenges keeping you from enjoying the life you envision.
I am an experienced psychologist with over 12 years experience having worked with children, adults, families, couples, and LGBTQ individuals.
My mission in life and my personal passion as a Psychologist is to be of service to those navigating life’s most complex and difficult challenges in their day to day lives. That is why I am so excited about your decision to begin therapy. Sharing your life experiences is not made lightly and that is why I am always humbled to be apart of each new journey. We will work collaboratively throughout the process in navigating through the anxiety, depression, self-doubt, and other challenges keeping you from enjoying the life you envision.
(562) 249-1757 View (562) 249-1757
Photo of Amanda j Chinchilla, LMFT, CSAT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Amanda j Chinchilla
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90803
Have you discovered that your spouse or partner has been unfaithful, using porn compulsively, or has been engaging in any other sexual or addictive behaviors that are concerning? Have you discovered inappropriate text messages or emails on your partner's phone or computer? If you answered yes to any of the above you may be feeling overwhelmed, betrayed, and confused about what to do next. You will need a safe space to explore your emotions and thoughts.I believe you will need time to sort through your emotions and make decisions that are healthy for you and your family.
Have you discovered that your spouse or partner has been unfaithful, using porn compulsively, or has been engaging in any other sexual or addictive behaviors that are concerning? Have you discovered inappropriate text messages or emails on your partner's phone or computer? If you answered yes to any of the above you may be feeling overwhelmed, betrayed, and confused about what to do next. You will need a safe space to explore your emotions and thoughts.I believe you will need time to sort through your emotions and make decisions that are healthy for you and your family.
(310) 589-3708 View (310) 589-3708
Photo of Wendy Parslow-Helton, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Wendy Parslow-Helton
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90803
My specialties include relationship issues, health anxiety, and trauma related to grief and loss.
Accepting new clients again beginning August 2024 - - - Have you been through recent changes or losses that have left you feeling anxious, depressed, and isolated, and not sure where to turn for help? I provide therapy for individual adults and couples, and can help you start your journey on the road to healing and hope. I can guide you as you navigate significant life transitions - to help you feel supported and confident, and to give you tools to cope and thrive. I bring compassion and experience to my clients; I've been a licensed therapist for 25+ years.
My specialties include relationship issues, health anxiety, and trauma related to grief and loss.
Accepting new clients again beginning August 2024 - - - Have you been through recent changes or losses that have left you feeling anxious, depressed, and isolated, and not sure where to turn for help? I provide therapy for individual adults and couples, and can help you start your journey on the road to healing and hope. I can guide you as you navigate significant life transitions - to help you feel supported and confident, and to give you tools to cope and thrive. I bring compassion and experience to my clients; I've been a licensed therapist for 25+ years.
(562) 393-6225 View (562) 393-6225
Photo of Marla J Holt - Holt Consulting LLC, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Holt Consulting LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90807
In my practice, I strive to guide couples struggling with connection and intimacy issues a roadmap to a healthier more fulfilling security that they may not have thought possible. As a trained in the Emotionally Focused Therapy, I have guided many couples successfully through this process. It is a privilege to work in joint effort with my clients in utilizing their strengths to safely and compassionately discover a path towards healing and resolution. My practice specialties include: Depression Anxiety, Grief/Loss, Trauma, Individual Therapy and Family Therapy, Parenting, Relationship Issues, Self-Esteem, Personal Growth Issues, Life Transition Issues, Stress Management.
In my practice, I strive to guide couples struggling with connection and intimacy issues a roadmap to a healthier more fulfilling security that they may not have thought possible. As a trained in the Emotionally Focused Therapy, I have guided many couples successfully through this process. It is a privilege to work in joint effort with my clients in utilizing their strengths to safely and compassionately discover a path towards healing and resolution. My practice specialties include: Depression Anxiety, Grief/Loss, Trauma, Individual Therapy and Family Therapy, Parenting, Relationship Issues, Self-Esteem, Personal Growth Issues, Life Transition Issues, Stress Management.
(424) 625-2176 View (424) 625-2176
Photo of Christi Gallon, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christi Gallon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90814
I also have extensive experience working with children, adolescents and adults who are experiencing relationship/family issues, divorce, and LGBTQ challenges.
Are you hindered by anxiety, depression, or trauma, preventing you from expressing your authentic self? Do you find yourself trapped in navigating challenging family and relationship situations? Every minor issue now feels incredibly overwhelming, reopening past wounds and creating new ones. Despite attempting to bury the pain, it persists, leaving you feeling isolated and tormented. The constant exhaustion, stress, and anger make you question your resilience. Unsure of where to seek assistance, you don't have to endure this painful journey by yourself. I aim to assist you in achieving a more integrated and balanced sense of self.
I also have extensive experience working with children, adolescents and adults who are experiencing relationship/family issues, divorce, and LGBTQ challenges.
Are you hindered by anxiety, depression, or trauma, preventing you from expressing your authentic self? Do you find yourself trapped in navigating challenging family and relationship situations? Every minor issue now feels incredibly overwhelming, reopening past wounds and creating new ones. Despite attempting to bury the pain, it persists, leaving you feeling isolated and tormented. The constant exhaustion, stress, and anger make you question your resilience. Unsure of where to seek assistance, you don't have to endure this painful journey by yourself. I aim to assist you in achieving a more integrated and balanced sense of self.
(562) 379-3301 View (562) 379-3301
Photo of Pat Rodriguez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Pat Rodriguez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90807  (Online Only)
With over 25 years of experience working with adults, children, couples and families experiencing a variety of life's challenges, El Arco Iris Family Counseling Center can help you get back on track. I have extensive experience with adoptive parents, gay/lesbian parents, blended, step-families and couples of all kinds. I work with individuals dealing with life's stressors, feeling unbalanced or overwhelmed. I have a deep understanding of the life-long complications stemming from childhood abuse and ACA (adult child of alcoholics) issues. Issues that often cause recurring problems in relationships, parenting, and at work. Se habla espanol.
With over 25 years of experience working with adults, children, couples and families experiencing a variety of life's challenges, El Arco Iris Family Counseling Center can help you get back on track. I have extensive experience with adoptive parents, gay/lesbian parents, blended, step-families and couples of all kinds. I work with individuals dealing with life's stressors, feeling unbalanced or overwhelmed. I have a deep understanding of the life-long complications stemming from childhood abuse and ACA (adult child of alcoholics) issues. Issues that often cause recurring problems in relationships, parenting, and at work. Se habla espanol.
(424) 226-4894 View (424) 226-4894
Photo of Tiana Rogachevsky - DBT Center of Long Beach, Marriage & Family Therapist
DBT Center of Long Beach
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90814
Our client focus ranges from adolescents/teens to adults and we can accommodate individuals, couples and families.
Located in Long Beach, CA, DBT Center of Long Beach was founded to provide a compassionate, welcoming and supportive environment for individuals seeking treatment for Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), anxiety, depression, self-harm, substance abuse and suicidal ideation through Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
Our client focus ranges from adolescents/teens to adults and we can accommodate individuals, couples and families.
Located in Long Beach, CA, DBT Center of Long Beach was founded to provide a compassionate, welcoming and supportive environment for individuals seeking treatment for Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), anxiety, depression, self-harm, substance abuse and suicidal ideation through Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
(949) 649-4965 View (949) 649-4965
Photo of Sterling Walker, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Sterling Walker
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90814
I specialize in LGBTQ issues, couples therapy, and sex therapy.
Throughout our lives, we all have experienced feelings of depression, anxiety, and anger. These emotions leave you feeling insecure, shameful, lonely, unworthy and stuck in unhealthy patterns of behavior. Trauma can have negative emotional and physical effects and can lead to family/relationship issues. I specialize in solution-focused brief therapy, motivational interviewing, mindfulness and CBT. These approaches allow me to work with the client to decrease symptoms of anxiety and depression and other health/behavioral issues.
I specialize in LGBTQ issues, couples therapy, and sex therapy.
Throughout our lives, we all have experienced feelings of depression, anxiety, and anger. These emotions leave you feeling insecure, shameful, lonely, unworthy and stuck in unhealthy patterns of behavior. Trauma can have negative emotional and physical effects and can lead to family/relationship issues. I specialize in solution-focused brief therapy, motivational interviewing, mindfulness and CBT. These approaches allow me to work with the client to decrease symptoms of anxiety and depression and other health/behavioral issues.
(562) 553-6658 View (562) 553-6658
Photo of Ella Jackson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ella Jackson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90805
I specialize in relationship issues, couples work, codependency, addiction, narcissistic abuse, and issues stemming from depression, anxiety, and trauma. I create an environment in therapy that makes it easy to explore the issues a person is wanting to talk about. I believe humor, playfulness, and understanding are key ingredients to helping a person heal and feel better. I am not a therapist who sits quietly and nods my head. I believe in getting into the work with a client and am involved and engaged throughout the process.
I specialize in relationship issues, couples work, codependency, addiction, narcissistic abuse, and issues stemming from depression, anxiety, and trauma. I create an environment in therapy that makes it easy to explore the issues a person is wanting to talk about. I believe humor, playfulness, and understanding are key ingredients to helping a person heal and feel better. I am not a therapist who sits quietly and nods my head. I believe in getting into the work with a client and am involved and engaged throughout the process.
(323) 861-3136 View (323) 861-3136
Photo of Leya Navarro Solis, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Leya Navarro Solis
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90804
Whether it's individual, couples, or family therapy, I look forward to meeting in our sessions.
Do you have difficulty managing your love life, work stress, and/or children? Are you feeling anxious and/or depressed? Need help getting through a traumatic event, or just life itself? If you are feeling tired of the same symptoms and behavioral patterns - therapy will help! From a trauma-informed and attachment-based lens, we delve into underlying core issues and improve your overall mental health and emotional wellbeing. You can elevate your mood, heal past trauma, have healthier relationships, regulate your emotions, communicate effectively, and more. Learn to love your mind and life, and be the very best version of yourself.
Whether it's individual, couples, or family therapy, I look forward to meeting in our sessions.
Do you have difficulty managing your love life, work stress, and/or children? Are you feeling anxious and/or depressed? Need help getting through a traumatic event, or just life itself? If you are feeling tired of the same symptoms and behavioral patterns - therapy will help! From a trauma-informed and attachment-based lens, we delve into underlying core issues and improve your overall mental health and emotional wellbeing. You can elevate your mood, heal past trauma, have healthier relationships, regulate your emotions, communicate effectively, and more. Learn to love your mind and life, and be the very best version of yourself.
(562) 662-4093 View (562) 662-4093
Photo of Jill Rubinelli, MS, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Jill Rubinelli
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90807
With over 20 years of experience working with diverse populations, I warmly welcome adolescents, adults, older adults, couples, and families of all cultural backgrounds, developmental stages, and gender/sexual orientations.
I want to understand who you are, where you are, and how I can support your mental health journey. With a warm and welcoming approach to connection and collaboration, together, we will explore the many factors that may be contributing to your struggle and what tools we can identify to help you address them.
With over 20 years of experience working with diverse populations, I warmly welcome adolescents, adults, older adults, couples, and families of all cultural backgrounds, developmental stages, and gender/sexual orientations.
I want to understand who you are, where you are, and how I can support your mental health journey. With a warm and welcoming approach to connection and collaboration, together, we will explore the many factors that may be contributing to your struggle and what tools we can identify to help you address them.
(562) 545-3880 View (562) 545-3880
Photo of Dr. Cryssol Marquez, PsyD, LMFT, MA Ed, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Cryssol Marquez
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT, MA Ed
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90807  (Online Only)
My expertise includes working with clients dealing with domestic violence, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting, teen concerns, life transitions, grief/loss, trauma, sexual and physical abuse, crisis intervention, and adjustment issues.
My experience spans community mental health and private practice since 2013, where I've worked extensively with clients facing various challenges in life, relational issues, and victims of crimes. I collaborate with DCFS when appropriate, meeting clients "where they are in their journey," and supporting their unique process of self-discovery and realization. Together, we work collaboratively to address your needs and achieve your goals.
My expertise includes working with clients dealing with domestic violence, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting, teen concerns, life transitions, grief/loss, trauma, sexual and physical abuse, crisis intervention, and adjustment issues.
My experience spans community mental health and private practice since 2013, where I've worked extensively with clients facing various challenges in life, relational issues, and victims of crimes. I collaborate with DCFS when appropriate, meeting clients "where they are in their journey," and supporting their unique process of self-discovery and realization. Together, we work collaboratively to address your needs and achieve your goals.
(323) 797-5860 View (323) 797-5860
Photo of Davi Weber, MA, AMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Davi Weber
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90814  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with individuals and couples living with challenges such as attachment wounds, trauma, anxiety, codependence, and ADHD to cultivate more intentional ways of being.
Are you finding that experiences and beliefs rooted in your past are bubbling up and causing challenges in your current life and relationships? Exploring the meanings behind emotional pain can be challenging, but it can also serve as a guide for growth and healing. Together we will explore the thoughts, feelings, and stories at the root of your emotional distress, so you can move towards improved communication, healthier boundaries, and a greater sense of connection.
I enjoy working with individuals and couples living with challenges such as attachment wounds, trauma, anxiety, codependence, and ADHD to cultivate more intentional ways of being.
Are you finding that experiences and beliefs rooted in your past are bubbling up and causing challenges in your current life and relationships? Exploring the meanings behind emotional pain can be challenging, but it can also serve as a guide for growth and healing. Together we will explore the thoughts, feelings, and stories at the root of your emotional distress, so you can move towards improved communication, healthier boundaries, and a greater sense of connection.
(626) 869-2643 View (626) 869-2643
Photo of Stacia Deiro, PsyD, Psychologist
Stacia Deiro
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90803
Are you struggling with managing stress, low mood, grief, or a loss of your sense of self that's impacting your daily life? Do you feel overwhelmed by life's challenges and unsure where to start for improvement? I understand how circumstances can sometimes feel overwhelming or hopeless, and I'm here to support you through these difficult times. Whether you're dealing with a life-changing event, adolescent challenges, or mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, addiction, or simply feeling stuck, I am here to help.
Are you struggling with managing stress, low mood, grief, or a loss of your sense of self that's impacting your daily life? Do you feel overwhelmed by life's challenges and unsure where to start for improvement? I understand how circumstances can sometimes feel overwhelming or hopeless, and I'm here to support you through these difficult times. Whether you're dealing with a life-changing event, adolescent challenges, or mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, addiction, or simply feeling stuck, I am here to help.
(949) 270-3313 View (949) 270-3313
Photo of Dr. Scott Harris, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Scott Harris
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90806  (Online Only)
New Clients can be seen within 48 hours for intake session. I am a licensed psychologist with direct clinical experience for over 30 years. Using proven, solution focused cognitive behavioral therapy, I have successfully treated individuals and couples and families with a wide range of challenges. We do not have to suffer with self-defeating and negative thoughts. You can quickly learn new skills to promote mental health and positive problem solving.
New Clients can be seen within 48 hours for intake session. I am a licensed psychologist with direct clinical experience for over 30 years. Using proven, solution focused cognitive behavioral therapy, I have successfully treated individuals and couples and families with a wide range of challenges. We do not have to suffer with self-defeating and negative thoughts. You can quickly learn new skills to promote mental health and positive problem solving.
(559) 461-3016 View (559) 461-3016
Photo of Daniel W McQuoid, PsyD, Psychologist
Daniel W McQuoid
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90803
I work with individuals, couples, and families with a focus on healing past trauma, compulsive addictive behaviors (alcoholism, codependency, sexual addiction, etc.
I have over 30 years experience in individual, marital, family, and group counseling, working with those who have faced a variety of issues in life. Counseling will guide you through a healing process to find a profound sense of your purpose. You will find a warm, healing environment that will impact you intellectually, emotionally, relationally and spiritually. Tools will be provided to increase your sense of well being, your ability to cope with adversity, and your understanding of your brain chemistry as it relates to your emotional struggles along with exploring how one's faith can impact their transformation.
I work with individuals, couples, and families with a focus on healing past trauma, compulsive addictive behaviors (alcoholism, codependency, sexual addiction, etc.
I have over 30 years experience in individual, marital, family, and group counseling, working with those who have faced a variety of issues in life. Counseling will guide you through a healing process to find a profound sense of your purpose. You will find a warm, healing environment that will impact you intellectually, emotionally, relationally and spiritually. Tools will be provided to increase your sense of well being, your ability to cope with adversity, and your understanding of your brain chemistry as it relates to your emotional struggles along with exploring how one's faith can impact their transformation.
(714) 769-6986 View (714) 769-6986
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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.