Photo of Edward George Garren - Edward Garren, M.A., M.F.T., MA, LMFT, MFC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Edward Garren, M.A., M.F.T.
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, MFC
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90044
I offer a non judgmental space for personal exploration of issues that facilitates reconciliation and healing, both with individuals, couples and families.
"The purpose of therapy is to remove blocks to truth; to help you abandon any patterns of belief that no longer serve you in a productive way; to implement self-forgiveness. Therapy can alleviate suffering and open the door to peace of mind. It can assist in separating illusion from reality and even reality from truth. Finally, it can help you to learn to make your decisions from internal prompts because you have created an internal locus of control." From "A Course in Miracles" Most clients start noticing change in their perspectives, outlook and coping skills early in the process.
I offer a non judgmental space for personal exploration of issues that facilitates reconciliation and healing, both with individuals, couples and families.
"The purpose of therapy is to remove blocks to truth; to help you abandon any patterns of belief that no longer serve you in a productive way; to implement self-forgiveness. Therapy can alleviate suffering and open the door to peace of mind. It can assist in separating illusion from reality and even reality from truth. Finally, it can help you to learn to make your decisions from internal prompts because you have created an internal locus of control." From "A Course in Miracles" Most clients start noticing change in their perspectives, outlook and coping skills early in the process.
(213) 985-1093 View (213) 985-1093
Photo of Sandra Kushnir - Meridian Counseling: Individual & Family Therapy, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Meridian Counseling: Individual & Family Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90064
Life can get complicated and there is no handbook on how to handle things like depression, anxiety, addiction and relationship problems. It is important to know two things: 1. you are not alone, 2. challenges are always opportunities to grow and change your life. You are probably here because it's time to "do something different." Let us help guide you through this journey!
Life can get complicated and there is no handbook on how to handle things like depression, anxiety, addiction and relationship problems. It is important to know two things: 1. you are not alone, 2. challenges are always opportunities to grow and change your life. You are probably here because it's time to "do something different." Let us help guide you through this journey!
(323) 214-3699 View (323) 214-3699
Photo of Paula Corano, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Paula Corano
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90038  (Online Only)
As a certified therapist in Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), I can provide you with the tools to improve your relationship.
Do you feel a bit lost, down in the dumps, or as if life has thrown you one too many curveballs lately? Now imagine how it would be not to worry constantly, to have the strength to do things again. As a licensed MFT, I focus on promoting change and growth in individuals, couples, and families who are experiencing difficulties. I approach therapy in a holistic manner by supporting clients in setting goals, solving problems, and changing unhelpful patterns while providing empathy and practical feedback. Among my areas of expertise are anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, stress, coping with loss, adjustment to life changes, & parenting.
As a certified therapist in Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), I can provide you with the tools to improve your relationship.
Do you feel a bit lost, down in the dumps, or as if life has thrown you one too many curveballs lately? Now imagine how it would be not to worry constantly, to have the strength to do things again. As a licensed MFT, I focus on promoting change and growth in individuals, couples, and families who are experiencing difficulties. I approach therapy in a holistic manner by supporting clients in setting goals, solving problems, and changing unhelpful patterns while providing empathy and practical feedback. Among my areas of expertise are anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, stress, coping with loss, adjustment to life changes, & parenting.
(323) 747-5025 View (323) 747-5025
Photo of Ryan Sullivan, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ryan Sullivan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025
I offer secure video/phone individual and couples therapy sessions. It is my belief that therapy is a two-way street. You get out of it what you put into it. If you apply yourself and your efforts are sincere, your chances of success and improvement are far greater. I view myself as a facilitator, at times, as a therapist. A conduit between you and your truths. And at times I see my role as being more assertive and providing guidance when need be. I also understand the need, at times, to provide my clients with more specific answers to questions that they might have regarding their mental health concerns.
I offer secure video/phone individual and couples therapy sessions. It is my belief that therapy is a two-way street. You get out of it what you put into it. If you apply yourself and your efforts are sincere, your chances of success and improvement are far greater. I view myself as a facilitator, at times, as a therapist. A conduit between you and your truths. And at times I see my role as being more assertive and providing guidance when need be. I also understand the need, at times, to provide my clients with more specific answers to questions that they might have regarding their mental health concerns.
(424) 346-8991 View (424) 346-8991
Photo of Kate Lubahn, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kate Lubahn
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90039
Kate is passionate about treating couples, adolescents and adults facing diverse challenges such as depression, anxiety, bi-polar disorder, self-harm, and addiction.
Kate creates a safe, trusting atmosphere while helping her clients uncover key insights that lead to personal growth, greater clarity and peace. She focuses on improving her clients' relationships with themselves, their family, significant others and friends. Kate uses an integrative, collaborative approach to promote greater emotional health and wellbeing. Her work focuses on each client's unique history that shaped them into the person they are today. She stays curious and compassionate about all parts of the self in order to bring her clients into the person they wish to be now.
Kate is passionate about treating couples, adolescents and adults facing diverse challenges such as depression, anxiety, bi-polar disorder, self-harm, and addiction.
Kate creates a safe, trusting atmosphere while helping her clients uncover key insights that lead to personal growth, greater clarity and peace. She focuses on improving her clients' relationships with themselves, their family, significant others and friends. Kate uses an integrative, collaborative approach to promote greater emotional health and wellbeing. Her work focuses on each client's unique history that shaped them into the person they are today. She stays curious and compassionate about all parts of the self in order to bring her clients into the person they wish to be now.
(213) 293-3249 View (213) 293-3249
Photo of Dr. Janai Harris, PsyD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Janai Harris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PsyD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90052  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I am a licensed clinical social worker in both CA and IL with over nine years of experience as a therapist and life coach. I also have my doctorate in clinical psychology. My counseling style is warm and interactive and rooted in cognitive behavioral therapy and solution-focused therapy. I employ a humanistic, holistic, person-centered, strengths-based, culturally competent approach. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and prioritize fostering a healthy therapeutic relationship. I ensure the client is heard, validated, and contributes to their treatment plan and goal setting.
I am a licensed clinical social worker in both CA and IL with over nine years of experience as a therapist and life coach. I also have my doctorate in clinical psychology. My counseling style is warm and interactive and rooted in cognitive behavioral therapy and solution-focused therapy. I employ a humanistic, holistic, person-centered, strengths-based, culturally competent approach. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and prioritize fostering a healthy therapeutic relationship. I ensure the client is heard, validated, and contributes to their treatment plan and goal setting.
(818) 962-2824 View (818) 962-2824
Photo of Julia Galaudet Psyd Lcsw, PsyD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julia Galaudet Psyd Lcsw
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PsyD, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90038
With over twenty years of experience, I feel comfortable treating a vast variety of personal problems including; relationship struggles, death of loved ones, infidelity, marital conflicts, infertility, depression, anger, addictions, codependency, divorce, blended families etc.
Let's face it- Whatever you are going through and whatever is bringing you to seek a therapist, it is probably not fun. Whether it is a break up, a divorce, a job loss, a death of a loved one, you have come to the right place. Seeking therapy and gaining self awareness can be life changing. Whether it is a current life crisis or the desire to change old ugly repetitive patterns, my style is nurturing, directive and fun. I work with you as a team getting to the core of the problem, and to help you move forward, hopefully with a fresh and new perspective.
With over twenty years of experience, I feel comfortable treating a vast variety of personal problems including; relationship struggles, death of loved ones, infidelity, marital conflicts, infertility, depression, anger, addictions, codependency, divorce, blended families etc.
Let's face it- Whatever you are going through and whatever is bringing you to seek a therapist, it is probably not fun. Whether it is a break up, a divorce, a job loss, a death of a loved one, you have come to the right place. Seeking therapy and gaining self awareness can be life changing. Whether it is a current life crisis or the desire to change old ugly repetitive patterns, my style is nurturing, directive and fun. I work with you as a team getting to the core of the problem, and to help you move forward, hopefully with a fresh and new perspective.
(310) 927-6816 View (310) 927-6816
Photo of Stephanie J Hubbard, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Stephanie J Hubbard
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90016
Me: artist/parent/ wife then widow/dater/currently in long term relationship.
I offer in person, outdoor eco-garden sessions (w/ indoor & phone when needed.) I laugh a lot with my clients and though the work of healing can be painful, my clients usually begin to feel better and keep coming. I work well with creative people, BIPOC, and across the spectrums of straight to queer and mono to poly. I have specializations in Psychoanalytic psychotherapy, Mindfulness, Buddhist and Existential psychotherapy and a background in philosophy. I collaborate with your highest functioning self to support your confused, critical, scared young parts. The psyche is resilient and thrives on love and therapeutic attention.
Me: artist/parent/ wife then widow/dater/currently in long term relationship.
I offer in person, outdoor eco-garden sessions (w/ indoor & phone when needed.) I laugh a lot with my clients and though the work of healing can be painful, my clients usually begin to feel better and keep coming. I work well with creative people, BIPOC, and across the spectrums of straight to queer and mono to poly. I have specializations in Psychoanalytic psychotherapy, Mindfulness, Buddhist and Existential psychotherapy and a background in philosophy. I collaborate with your highest functioning self to support your confused, critical, scared young parts. The psyche is resilient and thrives on love and therapeutic attention.
(323) 999-5341 View (323) 999-5341
Photo of Jesse Romo, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Jesse Romo
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90042
Are you feeling stuck, burnt out, overwhelmed, or lost in life? Are you struggling to break harmful addictive/habitual patterns? Are you having difficulty navigating new conflicts in your family or relationship? Perhaps you are beginning to feel like something is wrong with you, or perhaps you have felt that way for a long time. I know how hard and painful it can feel to navigate these challenges alone. We humans are social creatures, built for connection, yet our sociocultural environment is increasingly isolating. It should be no wonder that more people are reporting feeling depressed and anxious.
Are you feeling stuck, burnt out, overwhelmed, or lost in life? Are you struggling to break harmful addictive/habitual patterns? Are you having difficulty navigating new conflicts in your family or relationship? Perhaps you are beginning to feel like something is wrong with you, or perhaps you have felt that way for a long time. I know how hard and painful it can feel to navigate these challenges alone. We humans are social creatures, built for connection, yet our sociocultural environment is increasingly isolating. It should be no wonder that more people are reporting feeling depressed and anxious.
(323) 968-9021 View (323) 968-9021
Photo of Meg Reinis, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Meg Reinis
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90066
I help individuals and couples identify and work through the blocks to their most authentic connections with self and others. Our work together will allow you to hone in on your truth first. From personal authenticity you can create a life that satisfies and elevates you. I work with you to heal past trauma and grow your resiliency. You are the expert of your healing. We can identify relationships and patterns that keep you feeling stuck and identify your path to wellness.
I help individuals and couples identify and work through the blocks to their most authentic connections with self and others. Our work together will allow you to hone in on your truth first. From personal authenticity you can create a life that satisfies and elevates you. I work with you to heal past trauma and grow your resiliency. You are the expert of your healing. We can identify relationships and patterns that keep you feeling stuck and identify your path to wellness.
(310) 895-9734 View (310) 895-9734
Photo of Marcela Rondani, MA, LMFT, CEDS, PsyD, Marriage & Family Therapist
Marcela Rondani
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CEDS, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025
I am specialized in Teens, Families, Eating Disorders, Trauma, Relationship issues, life struggles, depression, anxiety, Panic Disorder and Family Conflict.
I believe that psychotherapy can be a tool to help someone to increase their self-awareness and promote healing and reparation to the life's pain and struggles. If you would like someone on your side to the new journey of rediscovering who you are and who you want to be, that is my goal. To provide support through this new path with the objective that life will unfold with more joy and happiness.
I am specialized in Teens, Families, Eating Disorders, Trauma, Relationship issues, life struggles, depression, anxiety, Panic Disorder and Family Conflict.
I believe that psychotherapy can be a tool to help someone to increase their self-awareness and promote healing and reparation to the life's pain and struggles. If you would like someone on your side to the new journey of rediscovering who you are and who you want to be, that is my goal. To provide support through this new path with the objective that life will unfold with more joy and happiness.
(310) 933-3406 View (310) 933-3406
Photo of Kevin Kelley, MMFT, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kevin Kelley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MMFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90036  (Online Only)
I specialize in providing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Adult ADHD, together with extensive experience providing individual and couples therapy, counseling for Emerging Adulthood Issues, and Life Transitions.
My approach is compassionate and collaborative, providing a supportive environment to identify and challenge the thoughts, feelings and behaviors that may be keeping you stuck. What meaning do we attach to our experiences? How do we make sense of what happens to us? How are our relationships shaped by our expectations? How does our way of thinking affect our way of being? Together, we will explore ways to create positive change in your work, your relationships and your life.
I specialize in providing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Adult ADHD, together with extensive experience providing individual and couples therapy, counseling for Emerging Adulthood Issues, and Life Transitions.
My approach is compassionate and collaborative, providing a supportive environment to identify and challenge the thoughts, feelings and behaviors that may be keeping you stuck. What meaning do we attach to our experiences? How do we make sense of what happens to us? How are our relationships shaped by our expectations? How does our way of thinking affect our way of being? Together, we will explore ways to create positive change in your work, your relationships and your life.
(323) 391-2741 View (323) 391-2741
Photo of Dr. Jennifer Kashani, PsyD, MA, Psychologist
Dr. Jennifer Kashani
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025
You want a balanced life; fulfilling career, romantic relationship, genuine friendships, family bonds, health, and fun. Maybe some areas of your life feel full, yet there is still something missing, thus creating this imbalance. This does not happen in a vacuum; it happens in relationship with oneself and others. Healing also happens in relationships, which starts with me and you. I am an expert in healthy relationships and career; helping to create space for more in your life without feeling overwhelmed. I will help you improve your life and find the relief you need in a world that can sometimes feel unrelenting.
You want a balanced life; fulfilling career, romantic relationship, genuine friendships, family bonds, health, and fun. Maybe some areas of your life feel full, yet there is still something missing, thus creating this imbalance. This does not happen in a vacuum; it happens in relationship with oneself and others. Healing also happens in relationships, which starts with me and you. I am an expert in healthy relationships and career; helping to create space for more in your life without feeling overwhelmed. I will help you improve your life and find the relief you need in a world that can sometimes feel unrelenting.
(424) 238-3698 View (424) 238-3698
Photo of Scott O Harris, PhD, Psychologist
Scott O Harris
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90049
I have worked with children and adolescents throughout my training and career in settings such as schools, clinics and hospitals as well as in private practice. I work with a variety of adult clients with career-work, relationship and life-transitional issues. I have been licensed as a Psychologist and practicing for over 20 years. I recieved my BA at the University of Michigan and have a MA in Human Development from the University of Chicago I also have an MA and Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from the California School of Professional Psychology.
I have worked with children and adolescents throughout my training and career in settings such as schools, clinics and hospitals as well as in private practice. I work with a variety of adult clients with career-work, relationship and life-transitional issues. I have been licensed as a Psychologist and practicing for over 20 years. I recieved my BA at the University of Michigan and have a MA in Human Development from the University of Chicago I also have an MA and Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from the California School of Professional Psychology.
(310) 422-7468 View (310) 422-7468
Photo of Jose Luna, ASW, EMDR
Jose Luna
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025  (Online Only)
I also specialize in therapy that focuses on the relationship between the child and parents.
My therapeutic approach mainly focuses on helping my clients identify their strengths to help alleviate anxiety, depression, and trauma. I am a firm believer that our childhood experiences contribute to our beliefs, behavioral patterns, and selecting a romantic partner. Therapy is a process! To allow ourselves to be intimate and vulnerable with someone about our experiences and trauma can be daunting. As a therapist, it is my goal to help validate, create a safe environment and help understand aspects of lived experiences.
I also specialize in therapy that focuses on the relationship between the child and parents.
My therapeutic approach mainly focuses on helping my clients identify their strengths to help alleviate anxiety, depression, and trauma. I am a firm believer that our childhood experiences contribute to our beliefs, behavioral patterns, and selecting a romantic partner. Therapy is a process! To allow ourselves to be intimate and vulnerable with someone about our experiences and trauma can be daunting. As a therapist, it is my goal to help validate, create a safe environment and help understand aspects of lived experiences.
(310) 879-5673 View (310) 879-5673
Photo of Chelsea Gottfurcht, PsyD, Psychologist
Chelsea Gottfurcht
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90025
I see people for a range of issues, but I have developed a special interest and focus in the following areas: Depression, anxiety, relationship problems, eating disorders, self-sabotaging behaviors, trauma, insecurity about making changes, loneliness and emotional isolation.
Many of us have gone through experiences that leave us feeling stuck, unmotivated, or without hope for change. The promise of psychotherapy is that it offers a path that illuminates the conscious and unconscious limiting beliefs we unknowingly come to identify with. It allows us a framework where insight becomes possible - and the opportunity for a relationship that is dedicated to knowing you deeply. In this sense, I believe we are partners working to understand your motivations, fears, and deepest hopes so that you can feel a greater sense of freedom and empowerment in your life and in your future.
I see people for a range of issues, but I have developed a special interest and focus in the following areas: Depression, anxiety, relationship problems, eating disorders, self-sabotaging behaviors, trauma, insecurity about making changes, loneliness and emotional isolation.
Many of us have gone through experiences that leave us feeling stuck, unmotivated, or without hope for change. The promise of psychotherapy is that it offers a path that illuminates the conscious and unconscious limiting beliefs we unknowingly come to identify with. It allows us a framework where insight becomes possible - and the opportunity for a relationship that is dedicated to knowing you deeply. In this sense, I believe we are partners working to understand your motivations, fears, and deepest hopes so that you can feel a greater sense of freedom and empowerment in your life and in your future.
(310) 651-7208 View (310) 651-7208
Photo of David Burke, PsyD, Psychologist
David Burke
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90048
I work with adults and adolescents and provide therapy to individuals and couples.
I help people identify the deeper causes of their problems and make important changes in their lives. As a psychologist in practice for 20 years, I have experience working with a wide range of problems including depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, poor self-esteem, work-related stress, difficulty managing emotions, sexuality concerns, and addictions/compulsions. I have a particular expertise in helping individuals and couples work through relationship problems. My aim is to help people to develop greater self-awareness and internal strength, find meaning and hope, and create more satisfying relationships.
I work with adults and adolescents and provide therapy to individuals and couples.
I help people identify the deeper causes of their problems and make important changes in their lives. As a psychologist in practice for 20 years, I have experience working with a wide range of problems including depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, poor self-esteem, work-related stress, difficulty managing emotions, sexuality concerns, and addictions/compulsions. I have a particular expertise in helping individuals and couples work through relationship problems. My aim is to help people to develop greater self-awareness and internal strength, find meaning and hope, and create more satisfying relationships.
(310) 844-2770 View (310) 844-2770
Photo of Dr. Tala Johartchi - Tala Johartchi, PsyD, Best Life Therapy, PsyD, Psychologist
Tala Johartchi, PsyD, Best Life Therapy
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025  (Online Only)
Best Life Therapy is a premier tele-therapy practice offering Virtual Therapy services to individuals, couples, and families, in Los Angeles and throughout California. At Best Life our clinicians can help you cope with changes while gaining insight, enhancing communication, improving self-concept, and meeting your goals. Whether issues you are facing are due to depression, anxiety, stress, relationships, mental illness, addictions, trauma, or of another nature, we will be able to support you in setting goals, changing patterns and thinking, and support you in living your Best Life.
Best Life Therapy is a premier tele-therapy practice offering Virtual Therapy services to individuals, couples, and families, in Los Angeles and throughout California. At Best Life our clinicians can help you cope with changes while gaining insight, enhancing communication, improving self-concept, and meeting your goals. Whether issues you are facing are due to depression, anxiety, stress, relationships, mental illness, addictions, trauma, or of another nature, we will be able to support you in setting goals, changing patterns and thinking, and support you in living your Best Life.
(424) 231-6604 View (424) 231-6604
Photo of Gene Lichtenstein, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Gene Lichtenstein
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90036
I trained in Boston. Boston College was my graduate school, Beth Israel Hospital the site of my clinical education, and MIT, where I was a Senior Research Associate, the start of my professional career. In 1976, I emerged a licensed clinical psychologist in Massachusetts and began a practice treating young people, couples and families. I also worked as a community therapist with teachers, parents and students, to help integrate three Boston's public schools.
I trained in Boston. Boston College was my graduate school, Beth Israel Hospital the site of my clinical education, and MIT, where I was a Senior Research Associate, the start of my professional career. In 1976, I emerged a licensed clinical psychologist in Massachusetts and began a practice treating young people, couples and families. I also worked as a community therapist with teachers, parents and students, to help integrate three Boston's public schools.
(805) 323-9703 View (805) 323-9703
Photo of Barbara Benoualid, JD, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Barbara Benoualid
Marriage & Family Therapist, JD, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90068  (Online Only)
I conduct sessions in French & English in a caring manner to ensure couples, individuals & adolescents feel safe to explore and uncover the patterns that are impacting their satisfaction or keeping them stuck. Together we can make sense of your life, help you explore past and present hardships, learn new tools and access your strengths so that you can make better decisions, stop reoccurring behaviors and feel healthier. Your treatment will be tailored to meet your unique personality & goals. You don't need to be alone in your fears, pain, sadness, thoughts, or confusion. You can get through whatever you are dealing with- Let's talk.
I conduct sessions in French & English in a caring manner to ensure couples, individuals & adolescents feel safe to explore and uncover the patterns that are impacting their satisfaction or keeping them stuck. Together we can make sense of your life, help you explore past and present hardships, learn new tools and access your strengths so that you can make better decisions, stop reoccurring behaviors and feel healthier. Your treatment will be tailored to meet your unique personality & goals. You don't need to be alone in your fears, pain, sadness, thoughts, or confusion. You can get through whatever you are dealing with- Let's talk.
(323) 472-5920 View (323) 472-5920

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.