Couples Counseling Therapists in Monterey, CA
![Photo of Zoe Avalon, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c68edb48-ecef-415d-ba09-4fd37e46f750/2/320x400.jpeg)
I recognize that people are incredibly unique and they have freedom of choice in all aspects of lifestyle, personal relationship and family arrangement.
We live in a demanding era in which the choices and pressures of everyday life can be overwhelming, causing both interpersonal and intrapersonal conflict. Therapy is the process of change, generating self-affirming thought patterns towards a hopeful and resilient future, a centered and balanced life.
I recognize that people are incredibly unique and they have freedom of choice in all aspects of lifestyle, personal relationship and family arrangement.
We live in a demanding era in which the choices and pressures of everyday life can be overwhelming, causing both interpersonal and intrapersonal conflict. Therapy is the process of change, generating self-affirming thought patterns towards a hopeful and resilient future, a centered and balanced life.
![Photo of Jennifer Dentici - Jennifer Dentici, LMFT, LMFT, PCCi, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e311a63-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
I offer video counseling & telehealth to ensure your safety! Specialties include depression, anxiety, relationship, divorce, parenting support, grief/loss, career, stress management, addiction, recovery, multicultural, and chronic illness.
Working collaboratively, in a way that feels supportive, we will identify and reach goals in a timely manner to ensure you gain initial and sustainable relief. I offer effective support. With over a decade of experience working in private practice, mental health agencies, and schools, I have the training, education, and experience required to effectively treat a wide range of issues. Please contact me for a consultation.
I offer video counseling & telehealth to ensure your safety! Specialties include depression, anxiety, relationship, divorce, parenting support, grief/loss, career, stress management, addiction, recovery, multicultural, and chronic illness.
Working collaboratively, in a way that feels supportive, we will identify and reach goals in a timely manner to ensure you gain initial and sustainable relief. I offer effective support. With over a decade of experience working in private practice, mental health agencies, and schools, I have the training, education, and experience required to effectively treat a wide range of issues. Please contact me for a consultation.
![Photo of Pamela M Hughes, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cbdb40f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Searching for a therapist? I offer counseling services to individuals, couples, and families. I use evidence based counseling techniques with a personable approach to help you make changes in your life. I am easy to talk to and have a passion for helping others.
Searching for a therapist? I offer counseling services to individuals, couples, and families. I use evidence based counseling techniques with a personable approach to help you make changes in your life. I am easy to talk to and have a passion for helping others.
![Photo of Lena M Allen, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2dd7da0c-9396-4c37-99e8-2faa3d0321e0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lena M Allen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Monterey, CA 93940
I grew up in Southern California and received my BA from California State University, San Marcos in Sociology and Liberal Arts. I obtained my MSW from the University of Southern California in 2002 and became a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in 2008. I have over 20 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults and families in a variety of settings. My experience includes working with individuals, couples, and families. I have a strong foundation in working with depression, anxiety, trauma, personality disorders, and substance use disorders.
I grew up in Southern California and received my BA from California State University, San Marcos in Sociology and Liberal Arts. I obtained my MSW from the University of Southern California in 2002 and became a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in 2008. I have over 20 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults and families in a variety of settings. My experience includes working with individuals, couples, and families. I have a strong foundation in working with depression, anxiety, trauma, personality disorders, and substance use disorders.
![Photo of Justine Joslyn, MA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9918920a-0a2e-4c84-a5ab-bb10c49fc898/1/320x400.png)
Hello! Since 2006, I have helped couples & families resolve stuck dynamics with communication & connection skills. I also assist individuals recover from depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction & ADHD/ADD, with support through transitions such as divorce, loss, abuse recovery & existential or spiritual awakening. My style is flexible and tailored to your preferences, balancing compassion with real results. You'll also learn how to re-connect to your with your wise inner guidance, and replace negative ego chatter with empowering narratives that inspire smart, bold moves with your career, creativity & relationships.
Hello! Since 2006, I have helped couples & families resolve stuck dynamics with communication & connection skills. I also assist individuals recover from depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction & ADHD/ADD, with support through transitions such as divorce, loss, abuse recovery & existential or spiritual awakening. My style is flexible and tailored to your preferences, balancing compassion with real results. You'll also learn how to re-connect to your with your wise inner guidance, and replace negative ego chatter with empowering narratives that inspire smart, bold moves with your career, creativity & relationships.
![Photo of Lori Galperin, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3de56d9e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lori Galperin, MSW has been a therapist, program founder, clinical director, teacher and writer for 27+ years. She is highly skilled in multiple types of therapeutic treatment. Her areas of specialization focus in the following areas: 1) Working with individuals and couples around issues of intimacy, relational and attachment problems, sexual dysfunction, trauma and compulsivity, and 2) Eating disorders recovery, including from anorexia, bulimia, and binge-eating; and 3) Clinical writing, focused on the "recovery" process from addictive behaviors and mental health problems to a state of vital aliveness, meaningfulness, and relatedness.
Lori Galperin, MSW has been a therapist, program founder, clinical director, teacher and writer for 27+ years. She is highly skilled in multiple types of therapeutic treatment. Her areas of specialization focus in the following areas: 1) Working with individuals and couples around issues of intimacy, relational and attachment problems, sexual dysfunction, trauma and compulsivity, and 2) Eating disorders recovery, including from anorexia, bulimia, and binge-eating; and 3) Clinical writing, focused on the "recovery" process from addictive behaviors and mental health problems to a state of vital aliveness, meaningfulness, and relatedness.
![Photo of Glenn Morrison, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c2210fd2-8196-4885-8332-4f1222c6ddfb/2/320x400.jpeg)
Glenn Morrison
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Monterey, CA 93940 (Online Only)
My areas of focus include LGBTQ+ issues, sexual and gender identity exploration, couples, family therapy, poly-positive and consensual non-monogamy, anxiety, depression, and existential therapy.
As a member of the LGBTQ+ community in the Monterey area, I recognize the need for therapy services that address the unique experiences of those with nondominant sexual and gender identities. I also focus on couples and family therapy with those from both traditional and nontraditional family structures, including polyamorous and consensual non-monogamous relationships.
My areas of focus include LGBTQ+ issues, sexual and gender identity exploration, couples, family therapy, poly-positive and consensual non-monogamy, anxiety, depression, and existential therapy.
As a member of the LGBTQ+ community in the Monterey area, I recognize the need for therapy services that address the unique experiences of those with nondominant sexual and gender identities. I also focus on couples and family therapy with those from both traditional and nontraditional family structures, including polyamorous and consensual non-monogamous relationships.
![Photo of Leane Genstler, MA, MBA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/409c5696-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
There are times in life when our paths lead us off course and we find ourselves struggling with serious issues like negativity, depression, worry, anxiety, interpersonal relational issues, difficulty with co-workers or unfulfilling marriages. Some of us struggle with unresolved trauma from our past, leaving us feeling distant, disconnected and alone. No matter how difficult your current situation seems, I believe that it is always possible to get back on track and feel better. In my years specializing in domestic violence, eating disorders and trauma related therapy, I have helped individuals, couples and families overcome multiple obstacles.
There are times in life when our paths lead us off course and we find ourselves struggling with serious issues like negativity, depression, worry, anxiety, interpersonal relational issues, difficulty with co-workers or unfulfilling marriages. Some of us struggle with unresolved trauma from our past, leaving us feeling distant, disconnected and alone. No matter how difficult your current situation seems, I believe that it is always possible to get back on track and feel better. In my years specializing in domestic violence, eating disorders and trauma related therapy, I have helped individuals, couples and families overcome multiple obstacles.
![Photo of Larry B Kerkhoff Psy.d, PsyD, DMFT, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e23a72a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Larry B Kerkhoff Psy.d
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, DMFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Monterey, CA 93940
Waitlist for new clients
I enjoy working with individuals and couples on the following issues: Relationship concerns, communication issues, depression, anxiety, difficulty dealing with life transitions, career issues, job stress, divorce recovery, grief and loss, healthy relationship skills, and finding that deeper sense of meaning and purpose in your life.
Accepting Aspire (MBIPA), Aspire Medicare Advantage, TriWest, TriCare insurance and private pay clients at the present time. I have a full practice but do try to squeeze new clients in. My calm and friendly demeanor puts people at ease and promotes a safe and nurturing counseling environment. I chose this second career to help people navigate through the obstacles and pain in their life. My comforting and supportive style helps instill hope, peace, and spirituality. I have the life experiences plus a Doctorate Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy to help you discover the needed tools for your personal relationship toolbox.
I enjoy working with individuals and couples on the following issues: Relationship concerns, communication issues, depression, anxiety, difficulty dealing with life transitions, career issues, job stress, divorce recovery, grief and loss, healthy relationship skills, and finding that deeper sense of meaning and purpose in your life.
Accepting Aspire (MBIPA), Aspire Medicare Advantage, TriWest, TriCare insurance and private pay clients at the present time. I have a full practice but do try to squeeze new clients in. My calm and friendly demeanor puts people at ease and promotes a safe and nurturing counseling environment. I chose this second career to help people navigate through the obstacles and pain in their life. My comforting and supportive style helps instill hope, peace, and spirituality. I have the life experiences plus a Doctorate Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy to help you discover the needed tools for your personal relationship toolbox.
![Photo of Rebecca Hardt, MA, LMFT, PMH-C, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/90c8d803-111f-4ee3-910d-47182ffcccd3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Rebecca Hardt
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Monterey, CA 93940 (Online Only)
Couples, individuals, teens and families come to me to face life’s challenges and transitions.
I wholeheartedly believe it’s my role as a therapist to assist you in realizing, accessing and cultivating the internal and external resources that you already possess. Stress, conflict, and pain are those given aspects of life. I'll support you in healing, reconnecting and making empowering choices to achieve peace and feel more joy on a daily basis. Together, we will create a safe space for vulnerability and strength; both are needed for change. Our sessions will allow you to move through stuck points in your mind, relationships and environment. My approach is empathic, direct, emotionally supportive and solutions focused.
Couples, individuals, teens and families come to me to face life’s challenges and transitions.
I wholeheartedly believe it’s my role as a therapist to assist you in realizing, accessing and cultivating the internal and external resources that you already possess. Stress, conflict, and pain are those given aspects of life. I'll support you in healing, reconnecting and making empowering choices to achieve peace and feel more joy on a daily basis. Together, we will create a safe space for vulnerability and strength; both are needed for change. Our sessions will allow you to move through stuck points in your mind, relationships and environment. My approach is empathic, direct, emotionally supportive and solutions focused.
![Photo of Brenda Lang, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e7e27dda-cc0f-47f6-8e11-256b428e73ed/3/320x400.jpeg)
Having made major life and career changes myself (from CPA to LMFT) gives me a unique ability to help clients who have emotional issues related to financial, career or life transition issues. I have also worked as a middle school counselor, which helps me in working with teens and families. My clinical areas of expertise include issues related to relationships and communication, career counseling, employment, education and money or life transition. I also work with depression, anxiety, stress management, grief and loss. I work with individuals, couples, families and adolescents.
Having made major life and career changes myself (from CPA to LMFT) gives me a unique ability to help clients who have emotional issues related to financial, career or life transition issues. I have also worked as a middle school counselor, which helps me in working with teens and families. My clinical areas of expertise include issues related to relationships and communication, career counseling, employment, education and money or life transition. I also work with depression, anxiety, stress management, grief and loss. I work with individuals, couples, families and adolescents.
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There are many reasons why you might be looking for a therapist: help with a long term struggle, support during a current life situation, and/or your personal growth. Whatever your reasons, I know how important it is to find a therapist you can develop a solid relationship with.
In our work together we will come to understand more about what isn't working. You may be feeling stuck, sad, alone, consumed by rage, or unsatisfied.
You and I will work together to build a trusting and non-judgmental relationship where you feel safe to talk about yourself openly.
There are many reasons why you might be looking for a therapist: help with a long term struggle, support during a current life situation, and/or your personal growth. Whatever your reasons, I know how important it is to find a therapist you can develop a solid relationship with.
In our work together we will come to understand more about what isn't working. You may be feeling stuck, sad, alone, consumed by rage, or unsatisfied.
You and I will work together to build a trusting and non-judgmental relationship where you feel safe to talk about yourself openly.
![Photo of Anjanette Brannon, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ee68df19-5d19-427b-8552-ae9f8393e7f3/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have 19 years of experience working with children, teens and adults providing individual therapy, couples therapy or family therapy.
Welcome to your first step in self discovery, empowerment and change. "Every moment is a fresh beginning." I find joy in working collaboratively with clients to discover their inner strength, self acceptance and forgiveness. By talking about the thoughts and feelings that emerge, there is insight and better understanding of oneself. This insight informs the change and development of increased self awareness that leads to profound change, healing and happiness.
I have 19 years of experience working with children, teens and adults providing individual therapy, couples therapy or family therapy.
Welcome to your first step in self discovery, empowerment and change. "Every moment is a fresh beginning." I find joy in working collaboratively with clients to discover their inner strength, self acceptance and forgiveness. By talking about the thoughts and feelings that emerge, there is insight and better understanding of oneself. This insight informs the change and development of increased self awareness that leads to profound change, healing and happiness.
![Photo of Chad Dispenza, MA, MS, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/224c5f6a-4121-4fb3-9860-720141288cb7/1/320x400.jpeg)
I work with individuals and couples to break free from unhelpful patterns and build healthier relationships.
Life can feel overwhelming, whether you're dealing with stress, anxiety, or relationship challenges. You might feel stuck in old patterns or seeking deeper connections. Together, we can explore new perspectives and uncover ways of living that align with your values & aspirations, bringing more clarity and fulfillment to your relationships and your life. If you're ready to take the next step, scroll down to learn more about how we can work together.
I work with individuals and couples to break free from unhelpful patterns and build healthier relationships.
Life can feel overwhelming, whether you're dealing with stress, anxiety, or relationship challenges. You might feel stuck in old patterns or seeking deeper connections. Together, we can explore new perspectives and uncover ways of living that align with your values & aspirations, bringing more clarity and fulfillment to your relationships and your life. If you're ready to take the next step, scroll down to learn more about how we can work together.
![Photo of Christina Shamah, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/59ca71db-fdd9-4f78-bc69-b471a252df9b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Christina Shamah
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Monterey, CA 93940
I enjoy working with individuals, children, adolescence, couples and families with a practice that is inclusive of lifespan, economic, educational, gender, and cultural diversity.
Are you searching for a sense of purpose, to better understand or be understood by others? Are you looking for support in making decisions more aligned with your values? I utilize an integrative counseling style tailored to your unique needs, providing the opportunity for you to tap into your strengths. Insight gained may provide you the opportunity to manage stressors and to make self driven choices in a balanced manner. Approaching life's most difficult challenges in a confidential way may allow you to work towards your goals, providing you the opportunity to safely delve into your relationship struggles.
I enjoy working with individuals, children, adolescence, couples and families with a practice that is inclusive of lifespan, economic, educational, gender, and cultural diversity.
Are you searching for a sense of purpose, to better understand or be understood by others? Are you looking for support in making decisions more aligned with your values? I utilize an integrative counseling style tailored to your unique needs, providing the opportunity for you to tap into your strengths. Insight gained may provide you the opportunity to manage stressors and to make self driven choices in a balanced manner. Approaching life's most difficult challenges in a confidential way may allow you to work towards your goals, providing you the opportunity to safely delve into your relationship struggles.
![Photo of Mary F McKenna LMFT, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45b32895-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Mary F McKenna LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Monterey, CA 93940 (Online Only)
For 30 years I have provided effective guidance to numerous individuals, couples and families.
We live in very challenging times, and that affects our mood, our sense of security and our capacity to deal with everyday life issues. Many of us are experiencing anxiety and depression which impact relationships. Are you finding that you and your partner get stuck in conflict or feeling distant from one another? Are you struggling with job or parenting issues? I can help you get to the root of the problem by offering guidance, help you find remedies, and create a plan of action to start you in a new direction.
For 30 years I have provided effective guidance to numerous individuals, couples and families.
We live in very challenging times, and that affects our mood, our sense of security and our capacity to deal with everyday life issues. Many of us are experiencing anxiety and depression which impact relationships. Are you finding that you and your partner get stuck in conflict or feeling distant from one another? Are you struggling with job or parenting issues? I can help you get to the root of the problem by offering guidance, help you find remedies, and create a plan of action to start you in a new direction.
![Photo of Mark P Willison, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8d927f4f-cb11-45bd-a07e-32c7665f4b7d/3/320x400.jpeg)
Specializing in: Helping individuals and couples find their happiness; Addressing anxiety and depression issues; Life transitions issues; Hypnosis for anxiety, phobias and pain; Peak Performance training for athletes and professionals; Corporate trainings, team building and conflict resolution.
Relationship difficulties? Depressed? Anxious? Challenged? It doesn't have to as hard as it seems right now. Trust me, there is a solution to what is affecting you and how you feel about life today. With nearly 40years experience I know I can help you find a healthier, happier life. Together, we'll find the solution that works for you. Be sure to leave a message, I will return your call the same day. To learn more about my work and me click on the WEBSITE icon under my picture.
Specializing in: Helping individuals and couples find their happiness; Addressing anxiety and depression issues; Life transitions issues; Hypnosis for anxiety, phobias and pain; Peak Performance training for athletes and professionals; Corporate trainings, team building and conflict resolution.
Relationship difficulties? Depressed? Anxious? Challenged? It doesn't have to as hard as it seems right now. Trust me, there is a solution to what is affecting you and how you feel about life today. With nearly 40years experience I know I can help you find a healthier, happier life. Together, we'll find the solution that works for you. Be sure to leave a message, I will return your call the same day. To learn more about my work and me click on the WEBSITE icon under my picture.
![Photo of Joshua Lederach, MA, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1cbadf64-41c7-43f2-8b3e-9ad00c9b9d6b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Joshua Lederach
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
Monterey, CA 93940 (Online Only)
Through working together in an open and honest relationship you can find insight, growth, and a sense of relief from current symptoms.
I work with a wide variety of people with varying mental health conditions. With individuals, I work with people experiencing effects of trauma, anxiety, phase of life changes, men's topics, depression, and anyone who is interested in deeper self reflection and understanding of self. With couples, I work with people struggling with communication, attuning and understanding one another, affairs/infidelity, sex and sexuality, and pre-marital counseling. If you are searching for relief from current symptoms and are seeking a deeper understanding of your self or your partner then I can help.
Through working together in an open and honest relationship you can find insight, growth, and a sense of relief from current symptoms.
I work with a wide variety of people with varying mental health conditions. With individuals, I work with people experiencing effects of trauma, anxiety, phase of life changes, men's topics, depression, and anyone who is interested in deeper self reflection and understanding of self. With couples, I work with people struggling with communication, attuning and understanding one another, affairs/infidelity, sex and sexuality, and pre-marital counseling. If you are searching for relief from current symptoms and are seeking a deeper understanding of your self or your partner then I can help.
![Photo of Ann D Kihara, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ba7c298-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ann D Kihara
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Monterey, CA 93940
Waitlist for new clients
Your relationship is important to me, and I will help you each develop the hope, the skills, and the strengths necessary to make your relationship flourish!.
Do you have fears or concerns about your relationship that keep you up at night? Do you ever feel that your partner rarely hears or understands your real concerns? Do you avoid certain topics that always lead to conflict? Do you have issues in your relationship that have been unresolved for years? Do you sometimes feel hopeless? Please call me - help is available! I provide Couples Counseling and I am dedicated to helping you bring peace and joy back into your truly most important relationship.
Your relationship is important to me, and I will help you each develop the hope, the skills, and the strengths necessary to make your relationship flourish!.
Do you have fears or concerns about your relationship that keep you up at night? Do you ever feel that your partner rarely hears or understands your real concerns? Do you avoid certain topics that always lead to conflict? Do you have issues in your relationship that have been unresolved for years? Do you sometimes feel hopeless? Please call me - help is available! I provide Couples Counseling and I am dedicated to helping you bring peace and joy back into your truly most important relationship.
![Photo of Robyn Martinez, LCSW, she/her, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/13fe31c0-6b64-44de-a8af-a8a17855af63/1/320x400.jpeg)
Stuck in a pattern that repeats itself almost magically again and again in your relationships, at work, or parenting. These patterns may have been useful at one time in our past, but now creates conflict, dulls creativity and spirit, wears down confidence, fortitude and hope. Or perhaps you are in the middle of change or in need of change painfully long overdue, but you just can’t...seem...to...fully...step...forward. I work with adults and couples to move through patterns of depression, anxiety, addiction, pain and trauma into growth and long-awaited thriving.
Stuck in a pattern that repeats itself almost magically again and again in your relationships, at work, or parenting. These patterns may have been useful at one time in our past, but now creates conflict, dulls creativity and spirit, wears down confidence, fortitude and hope. Or perhaps you are in the middle of change or in need of change painfully long overdue, but you just can’t...seem...to...fully...step...forward. I work with adults and couples to move through patterns of depression, anxiety, addiction, pain and trauma into growth and long-awaited thriving.
See more therapy options for Monterey
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.