Couples Counseling Therapists in Moreno Valley, CA

Photo of Niedha Iota Welch, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Niedha Iota Welch
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Moreno Valley, CA 92553
Everything in life is a learned experience, and my goal is to help individuals, couples, and families reach the level of satisfaction and joy they desire.
Throughout life, we all experience heartaches, pains, trials, and tribulations that affect us in various ways. Many times we need someone to hear and understand us while providing support and guidance. I am a nonjudgmental Mental Health Clinician who enjoys working with children, adolescents, and adults to explore the highs and lows in life. I create a safe space for individuals to explore their thoughts and feelings while empowering them to be reflective. I encourage clients to explore solutions, deep-seated emotions, and the origins of those emotions, and strengthen relationships.
Everything in life is a learned experience, and my goal is to help individuals, couples, and families reach the level of satisfaction and joy they desire.
Throughout life, we all experience heartaches, pains, trials, and tribulations that affect us in various ways. Many times we need someone to hear and understand us while providing support and guidance. I am a nonjudgmental Mental Health Clinician who enjoys working with children, adolescents, and adults to explore the highs and lows in life. I create a safe space for individuals to explore their thoughts and feelings while empowering them to be reflective. I encourage clients to explore solutions, deep-seated emotions, and the origins of those emotions, and strengthen relationships.
(951) 476-3542 View (951) 476-3542
Photo of Nisha Elliott, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nisha Elliott
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Moreno Valley, CA 92557  (Online Only)
I am a licensed Marriage and Family therapist and have worked in Public Mental Health for 22 years. I have provided individuals therapy, group therapy and have counseled and provide training for couples. I have worked with adults, children and families and train staff to provide techniques that are evidenced based. In my private practice my focus is supporting Married Couples to transform their marriage so that they can build a healthy, sustainable loving relationship and I also support individuals to work toward their best selves, one day at a time one session at a time in order to last a lifetime.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family therapist and have worked in Public Mental Health for 22 years. I have provided individuals therapy, group therapy and have counseled and provide training for couples. I have worked with adults, children and families and train staff to provide techniques that are evidenced based. In my private practice my focus is supporting Married Couples to transform their marriage so that they can build a healthy, sustainable loving relationship and I also support individuals to work toward their best selves, one day at a time one session at a time in order to last a lifetime.
(951) 262-8195 View (951) 262-8195
Photo of Joanna Cain, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Joanna Cain
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Moreno Valley, CA 92553
My experience has been with adolescents, families, individuals, couples, and transgender youth who are fighting through challenges and life pressures.
Hey there, I'm Joanna Cain, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapy (LMFT) based in Los Angeles California, working with clients statewide via telehealth. With years of experience, I work with individuals of all ages, and different walks of life, specializing in mood disorders, anxiety, depression, and autism that interfere with those relationships and daily life demands. Assisting clients to identify their own needs and providing them with the skills needed to achieve their goals is my approach.
My experience has been with adolescents, families, individuals, couples, and transgender youth who are fighting through challenges and life pressures.
Hey there, I'm Joanna Cain, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapy (LMFT) based in Los Angeles California, working with clients statewide via telehealth. With years of experience, I work with individuals of all ages, and different walks of life, specializing in mood disorders, anxiety, depression, and autism that interfere with those relationships and daily life demands. Assisting clients to identify their own needs and providing them with the skills needed to achieve their goals is my approach.
(951) 724-3972 View (951) 724-3972
Photo of Luanne Hernandez-Storr, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Luanne Hernandez-Storr
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Moreno Valley, CA 92557
I work best with couples, parents, and mothers or fathers who are willing to accept their role in their difficulties.
My name is Luanne Hernandez, LMFT and I specialize in relationships and parenting. I use mindfulness and skill-building exercises to improve communication and emotional intimacy within families. My work is primarily focused on existential and humanistic approaches which means I allow the client to lead the direction of sessions and bring attention back to the deeper purpose or meaning of events occurring in a client's life to help them make sense of it and live a more authentic and genuine life. I employ mindfulness techniques and cognitive behavioral therapy techniques.
I work best with couples, parents, and mothers or fathers who are willing to accept their role in their difficulties.
My name is Luanne Hernandez, LMFT and I specialize in relationships and parenting. I use mindfulness and skill-building exercises to improve communication and emotional intimacy within families. My work is primarily focused on existential and humanistic approaches which means I allow the client to lead the direction of sessions and bring attention back to the deeper purpose or meaning of events occurring in a client's life to help them make sense of it and live a more authentic and genuine life. I employ mindfulness techniques and cognitive behavioral therapy techniques.
(951) 400-0245 View (951) 400-0245
Photo of Cheryl Stebbings, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cheryl Stebbings
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Moreno Valley, CA 92557  (Online Only)
Hello, my name is Cheryl and I have been working in this field for over eleven years. I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and my experience includes working with depression and anxiety related issues, mood instability, trauma response disorders, psychosis, personality disorders, self-harming behaviors, relationship conflicts, and individual concerns.I am skilled in Cognitive Behavioral, Dialectical Behavior, Motivational Interviewing, Psycho-dynamic, and Person Centered treatment. I am dedicated to helping my clients along their journey of self-discovery and healing and feel honored to be part of that experience.
Hello, my name is Cheryl and I have been working in this field for over eleven years. I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and my experience includes working with depression and anxiety related issues, mood instability, trauma response disorders, psychosis, personality disorders, self-harming behaviors, relationship conflicts, and individual concerns.I am skilled in Cognitive Behavioral, Dialectical Behavior, Motivational Interviewing, Psycho-dynamic, and Person Centered treatment. I am dedicated to helping my clients along their journey of self-discovery and healing and feel honored to be part of that experience.
(951) 468-9437 View (951) 468-9437
Photo of Ericka Paez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ericka Paez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Moreno Valley, CA 92553
Military veteran, first responder spouse, blended families, divorce proceedings, parent of small children and an adult child, former division 1 athlete, and chronic illness are all areas that resonate for me or I have direct experience within my own life and/ or family.
My name is Ericka Paez and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Brain Health Coach through the Amen Clinics. As a military veteran who served in the 82nd Airborne, spouse of a military veteran turned first responder and now spouse of that first responder I bring a multilayered experienced approach to understating what you're going through. My family is blended and we have navigated that dynamic for over a decade, as well.
Military veteran, first responder spouse, blended families, divorce proceedings, parent of small children and an adult child, former division 1 athlete, and chronic illness are all areas that resonate for me or I have direct experience within my own life and/ or family.
My name is Ericka Paez and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Brain Health Coach through the Amen Clinics. As a military veteran who served in the 82nd Airborne, spouse of a military veteran turned first responder and now spouse of that first responder I bring a multilayered experienced approach to understating what you're going through. My family is blended and we have navigated that dynamic for over a decade, as well.
(951) 944-0282 View (951) 944-0282
Photo of Rachel Ocampo, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rachel Ocampo
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Moreno Valley, CA 92557
Hi there! My name is Rachel Ocampo PhD who is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist! I have been described as a down-to-earth but straightforward therapist who will support you while telling you what you NEED to hear, not necessarily what you want to hear! I have extensive experience working with adolescents, women, couples, and families. I have worked with clients with complex trauma and co-occurring disorders. I also have experience as a foster parent, adoptive parent, and working with high-needs children who have experienced severe trauma in their past.
Hi there! My name is Rachel Ocampo PhD who is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist! I have been described as a down-to-earth but straightforward therapist who will support you while telling you what you NEED to hear, not necessarily what you want to hear! I have extensive experience working with adolescents, women, couples, and families. I have worked with clients with complex trauma and co-occurring disorders. I also have experience as a foster parent, adoptive parent, and working with high-needs children who have experienced severe trauma in their past.
(951) 425-4608 View (951) 425-4608
Photo of Kathryn Hulse, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kathryn Hulse
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Moreno Valley, CA 92557
I do tend to gravitate towards couples and grief.
Hi there, I'm Kathryn! My professional experience as Medical Social Worker and Marriage Family Therapist, along with my personal experiences of loss and life transitions, has improved my understanding of human experiences in adverse environments. The success of my clients, patients, and couples/families is reflected in my ability to think outside the box, be supportive when it comes to change and new ways of thinking, explore self-awareness, and the steps both I and the individual take together.
I do tend to gravitate towards couples and grief.
Hi there, I'm Kathryn! My professional experience as Medical Social Worker and Marriage Family Therapist, along with my personal experiences of loss and life transitions, has improved my understanding of human experiences in adverse environments. The success of my clients, patients, and couples/families is reflected in my ability to think outside the box, be supportive when it comes to change and new ways of thinking, explore self-awareness, and the steps both I and the individual take together.
(951) 724-4857 View (951) 724-4857
Photo of Jessica Hernandez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Hernandez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Moreno Valley, CA 92555
Hi, my name is Jessica Hernandez and I'm a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW). I utilize a client-centered approach to match client's needs and create an empowering environment. I utilize a client-centered approach, cognitive behavioral therapy, and play therapy. I have experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and couples. I'm comfortable working with clients who are experiencing depression, anxiety, and major life transitions. My goal with every client is to provide a safe environment where they can feel comfortable and supported in sharing their life experiences, trauma, and emotions.
Hi, my name is Jessica Hernandez and I'm a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW). I utilize a client-centered approach to match client's needs and create an empowering environment. I utilize a client-centered approach, cognitive behavioral therapy, and play therapy. I have experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and couples. I'm comfortable working with clients who are experiencing depression, anxiety, and major life transitions. My goal with every client is to provide a safe environment where they can feel comfortable and supported in sharing their life experiences, trauma, and emotions.
(951) 517-4914 View (951) 517-4914
Photo of Kelley Kuit, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kelley Kuit
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Moreno Valley, CA 92553  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with college & graduate students, young professionals, adults, and couples, and have experience addressing issues such as panic disorder, anxiety, depression, PTSD, grief, and more.
Attachment-Based Therapy for those struggling with difficult emotions, anxiety, depression, & relationship trauma - Most of us weren’t taught about emotions or how to care for them. But emotions follow us through our whole life and play an important role in how we relate to ourselves and to other people. When we don't learn to care for and communicate our emotions in a healthy way, we have a harder time in adulthood establishing healthy attachments to others and feeling secure within ourselves. This is often to case for those of us who have experienced trauma, emotional neglect, or betrayal in the past.
I specialize in working with college & graduate students, young professionals, adults, and couples, and have experience addressing issues such as panic disorder, anxiety, depression, PTSD, grief, and more.
Attachment-Based Therapy for those struggling with difficult emotions, anxiety, depression, & relationship trauma - Most of us weren’t taught about emotions or how to care for them. But emotions follow us through our whole life and play an important role in how we relate to ourselves and to other people. When we don't learn to care for and communicate our emotions in a healthy way, we have a harder time in adulthood establishing healthy attachments to others and feeling secure within ourselves. This is often to case for those of us who have experienced trauma, emotional neglect, or betrayal in the past.
(951) 916-1930 View (951) 916-1930
Photo of Monique N. Roach, DSW, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Monique N. Roach
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Moreno Valley, CA 92551  (Online Only)
I aim to partner with you during difficult seasons and help you navigate varying challenges.
Hello, I’m Monique. I have over 15 years of experience in mental health and community-based services for at-risk populations. I have provided various forms of advocacy and supportive services for children, adults, families, and geriatric populations in public and private sectors. I am fully committed to reducing mental health disparities and serving the needs of my community through the art of Social Work.
I aim to partner with you during difficult seasons and help you navigate varying challenges.
Hello, I’m Monique. I have over 15 years of experience in mental health and community-based services for at-risk populations. I have provided various forms of advocacy and supportive services for children, adults, families, and geriatric populations in public and private sectors. I am fully committed to reducing mental health disparities and serving the needs of my community through the art of Social Work.
(951) 724-5118 View (951) 724-5118
Photo of Sharon Koopmans-Hempton, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sharon Koopmans-Hempton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Moreno Valley, CA 92557
My approach to therapy is most importantly focused on creating a safe and secure relationship with my clients.
Hi, I'm Sharon! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is passionate about making strong human connections creating a safe place for growth and change. My approach is client-centered and strength-based. It is my belief in life we are ever-changing while often faced with difficulties and the ability to overcome. As a therapist, my goal is to create a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental environment to assist you in becoming the best version of yourself.
My approach to therapy is most importantly focused on creating a safe and secure relationship with my clients.
Hi, I'm Sharon! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is passionate about making strong human connections creating a safe place for growth and change. My approach is client-centered and strength-based. It is my belief in life we are ever-changing while often faced with difficulties and the ability to overcome. As a therapist, my goal is to create a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental environment to assist you in becoming the best version of yourself.
(916) 587-5306 View (916) 587-5306
Photo of Christina Stewart, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Christina Stewart
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Moreno Valley, CA 92555
I work with couples looking to strengthen their relationship or who may be overcoming obstacles.
Hello, My name is Christina Stewart. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, having received a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology and a Master's Degree in Counseling Psychology. I have been licensed with the State of California since 2015. I have extensive experience working with children of all ages. I also have experience working with adults to assist in their creating positive life changes. I find satisfaction in working with senior citizens as they navigate life transitions.
I work with couples looking to strengthen their relationship or who may be overcoming obstacles.
Hello, My name is Christina Stewart. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, having received a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology and a Master's Degree in Counseling Psychology. I have been licensed with the State of California since 2015. I have extensive experience working with children of all ages. I also have experience working with adults to assist in their creating positive life changes. I find satisfaction in working with senior citizens as they navigate life transitions.
(831) 851-3177 View (831) 851-3177
Photo of Jill Dictrow, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jill Dictrow
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Moreno Valley, CA 92553
I have been working with many couples who were effected by Covid both professionally, financially as well as emotionally so together we are trying to build a new normal.
My name is Jill Dictrow and I am a licensed Marriage and Family therspist certified on the state of California ie:license 97449. I approach my clients with empathy and compassion whatever reason they are seeking therapy. I have been trained specifically working with couples, relationships, individuals suffering anxiety, depression, PTSD, infidelity and grief. I want my clients to achieve results and tend to be very direct and honest to help each of my clients. Judgment does not exist in my sessions, however unconditional support and taking steps each session to slowly help to heal is . I use many therapeutic approaches.
I have been working with many couples who were effected by Covid both professionally, financially as well as emotionally so together we are trying to build a new normal.
My name is Jill Dictrow and I am a licensed Marriage and Family therspist certified on the state of California ie:license 97449. I approach my clients with empathy and compassion whatever reason they are seeking therapy. I have been trained specifically working with couples, relationships, individuals suffering anxiety, depression, PTSD, infidelity and grief. I want my clients to achieve results and tend to be very direct and honest to help each of my clients. Judgment does not exist in my sessions, however unconditional support and taking steps each session to slowly help to heal is . I use many therapeutic approaches.
(530) 654-1733 View (530) 654-1733
Photo of Glaser Burkhardt Emdr Therapist, MA, LMFT, EMDR, IEHP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Glaser Burkhardt Emdr Therapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, EMDR, IEHP
Verified Verified
Moreno Valley, CA 92553
Generally, the average amount of sessions for couples are 3-6 depending on the issues presented.
Therapy does not have to take a long time. My offices are in Riverside & Moreno Valley. I assist individuals & couples to successfully get through their difficult (or ongoing) stage) of their lives to acquire a healthier, more effective perspective of their relationships, their situations, & their lives. My professional background for the past 2 decades include working with adults and adolescents who have experienced trauma, grief & loss, Family/Parenting concerns, relationship issues, Depression, & Anxiety-Related challenges.
Generally, the average amount of sessions for couples are 3-6 depending on the issues presented.
Therapy does not have to take a long time. My offices are in Riverside & Moreno Valley. I assist individuals & couples to successfully get through their difficult (or ongoing) stage) of their lives to acquire a healthier, more effective perspective of their relationships, their situations, & their lives. My professional background for the past 2 decades include working with adults and adolescents who have experienced trauma, grief & loss, Family/Parenting concerns, relationship issues, Depression, & Anxiety-Related challenges.
(951) 605-7911 View (951) 605-7911
Photo of Carlos Haber, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carlos Haber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Moreno Valley, CA 92553
Most of all, I believe in creating a healthy partnership to help individuals achieve a fulfilling sense of self and zest for life.
With over twenty years of experience in a practice focusing primarily on personal issues and improving relationships. For me, therapy is about providing a safe, non-judgmental space, free from social pressures and prejudices, and labels. I see therapy as a partnership and dialogue between the therapist and the patient, where together we tackle challenges and questions and think and work together to craft answers. I have different approaches according to the patient's necessities. I was trained in psychoanalysis, CBT, trauma focus, EFT, mindfulness, and attachment theory, among other therapeutic interventions.
Most of all, I believe in creating a healthy partnership to help individuals achieve a fulfilling sense of self and zest for life.
With over twenty years of experience in a practice focusing primarily on personal issues and improving relationships. For me, therapy is about providing a safe, non-judgmental space, free from social pressures and prejudices, and labels. I see therapy as a partnership and dialogue between the therapist and the patient, where together we tackle challenges and questions and think and work together to craft answers. I have different approaches according to the patient's necessities. I was trained in psychoanalysis, CBT, trauma focus, EFT, mindfulness, and attachment theory, among other therapeutic interventions.
(209) 439-8213 View (209) 439-8213
Photo of Louis Battistone, MA, LMFT, LAADC, CAMS II, Marriage & Family Therapist
Louis Battistone
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LAADC, CAMS II
Verified Verified
Moreno Valley, CA 92551
I have been providing therapy for individuals, families and couples, and most recently on a panel for transgender psychological evaluations for over 25 years. I have certifications for anger management and chemical dependency.
I have been providing therapy for individuals, families and couples, and most recently on a panel for transgender psychological evaluations for over 25 years. I have certifications for anger management and chemical dependency.
(909) 402-2686 View (909) 402-2686
Photo of William Carey Shearer, Psychologist
William Carey Shearer
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Moreno Valley, CA 92551  (Online Only)
Clinical services include three specialties: treating anxiety disorders such as panic disorder and generalized anxiety disorder, eating disorder treatment such as the treatment of bulimia, anorexia nervosa, and binge eating, and the treatment of couple and family relationship difficulties, including co-parenting issues.
Are you struggling with stress, anxiety, food and weight issues, addictive or compulsive behaviors, or relationship problems? I provide a mindfulness based approach to Relationship building, managing stress and anxiety, and achieving well-being. For decades, we have focused on clients who want much more out of life, without the disabling qualities of anxiety, depression, and compulsive behavior. We help clients become more aware of the self-defeating stories they tell themselves, while becoming better able to live fuller, richer and empowered lives based upon an acceptance of what IS along with the courage to make solid and lasting changes.
Clinical services include three specialties: treating anxiety disorders such as panic disorder and generalized anxiety disorder, eating disorder treatment such as the treatment of bulimia, anorexia nervosa, and binge eating, and the treatment of couple and family relationship difficulties, including co-parenting issues.
Are you struggling with stress, anxiety, food and weight issues, addictive or compulsive behaviors, or relationship problems? I provide a mindfulness based approach to Relationship building, managing stress and anxiety, and achieving well-being. For decades, we have focused on clients who want much more out of life, without the disabling qualities of anxiety, depression, and compulsive behavior. We help clients become more aware of the self-defeating stories they tell themselves, while becoming better able to live fuller, richer and empowered lives based upon an acceptance of what IS along with the courage to make solid and lasting changes.
(951) 292-7261 View (951) 292-7261
Photo of Paul Gonsier, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Paul Gonsier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Moreno Valley, CA 92553
32 years of professional experience working with couples, families and individuals in various psychiatric and mental health clinics; including emergency room experience dealing with acute crisis.
I am interested in assisting you with your emotional growth and well-being so you can have a more rewarding life. There are occasions in our lives where we may need professional assistance to navigate through difficult situations and to resolve conflicts. Whether your feeling hurt or emotionally stuck in a relationship, questioning yourself, having problems in your personal or professional life; I am here to provide proven tools and techniques to guide and assist you toward enlightenment and achieving your goals.
32 years of professional experience working with couples, families and individuals in various psychiatric and mental health clinics; including emergency room experience dealing with acute crisis.
I am interested in assisting you with your emotional growth and well-being so you can have a more rewarding life. There are occasions in our lives where we may need professional assistance to navigate through difficult situations and to resolve conflicts. Whether your feeling hurt or emotionally stuck in a relationship, questioning yourself, having problems in your personal or professional life; I am here to provide proven tools and techniques to guide and assist you toward enlightenment and achieving your goals.
(951) 790-2939 View (951) 790-2939
Photo of Avis Attaway - Life Source Affordable Counseling Services, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Life Source Affordable Counseling Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Moreno Valley, CA 92557
We work with individual, couples, families and kids - teens and little ones - to help with depression, anxiety, trauma and the stresses of life, work and relationships.
If you have been looking for professional help with problems related to your marriage, family or stress in your life, but have not been able to afford the cost of therapy...we can help! You can get the help you need now at an extremely affordable rate by making an appointment with one of our qualified Associates or Graduate student Trainees in Marriage & Family Therapy. Life Source Training Institute in Riverside, Calif., is a 501(c)3 non-profit dedicated to providing affordable counseling and family education to the community.
We work with individual, couples, families and kids - teens and little ones - to help with depression, anxiety, trauma and the stresses of life, work and relationships.
If you have been looking for professional help with problems related to your marriage, family or stress in your life, but have not been able to afford the cost of therapy...we can help! You can get the help you need now at an extremely affordable rate by making an appointment with one of our qualified Associates or Graduate student Trainees in Marriage & Family Therapy. Life Source Training Institute in Riverside, Calif., is a 501(c)3 non-profit dedicated to providing affordable counseling and family education to the community.
(951) 977-3928 View (951) 977-3928
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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.