Couples Counseling Therapists in Oceanside, CA

Photo of Kacey Klein, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kacey Klein
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oceanside, CA 92057  (Online Only)
I work with clients of all ages who seek help with depression, anxiety, eating disorders, grief/loss, and relationship conflicts, among others.
You are taking the first step in improving your emotional and mental health. Although difficult at first, it can feel easy in a safe, positive, therapeutic setting. In my office, therapy is a team effort and a journey we go through side by side. We work together, drawing on your unique needs, capacities and personal stories to build on your strengths, achieve peace of mind, and reach your goals. Peace of mind is different for each person. I work with you to help you find and sustain it. With my honest approach to therapy, I can help you discover your authentic self and answers to life's challenges.
I work with clients of all ages who seek help with depression, anxiety, eating disorders, grief/loss, and relationship conflicts, among others.
You are taking the first step in improving your emotional and mental health. Although difficult at first, it can feel easy in a safe, positive, therapeutic setting. In my office, therapy is a team effort and a journey we go through side by side. We work together, drawing on your unique needs, capacities and personal stories to build on your strengths, achieve peace of mind, and reach your goals. Peace of mind is different for each person. I work with you to help you find and sustain it. With my honest approach to therapy, I can help you discover your authentic self and answers to life's challenges.
(760) 990-7080 View (760) 990-7080
Photo of Melanie Castellari, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Melanie Castellari
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oceanside, CA 92056
Specializing in couples therapy, I am passionate about enhancing intimacy through effective communication.
As a seasoned therapist, I embrace an eclectic approach to mental health, dedicated to meeting clients in their current reality. My practice is grounded in empathetic listening and guided support, empowering individuals and couples to navigate life's complexities with less distress and greater fulfillment. Specializing in couples therapy, focusing on enhancing intimacy and sex through effective communication. Yet, my practice is not limited to relationships; it extends to individual self-development, behavior management, and crisis intervention. By fostering a nurturing and judgment-free environment.
Specializing in couples therapy, I am passionate about enhancing intimacy through effective communication.
As a seasoned therapist, I embrace an eclectic approach to mental health, dedicated to meeting clients in their current reality. My practice is grounded in empathetic listening and guided support, empowering individuals and couples to navigate life's complexities with less distress and greater fulfillment. Specializing in couples therapy, focusing on enhancing intimacy and sex through effective communication. Yet, my practice is not limited to relationships; it extends to individual self-development, behavior management, and crisis intervention. By fostering a nurturing and judgment-free environment.
(760) 903-5841 View (760) 903-5841
Photo of Michelle J Cyganik, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michelle J Cyganik
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oceanside, CA 92054
Are you ready to transform your life? I am here to help Individuals, Couples and Families navigate through the changes, challenges and struggles that we all experience in daily life. Whether you or a loved one are dealing with challenging life events, relationship difficulties, some type of loss, a difficult diagnosis or are just not sure why you are not happy or fulfilled, I believe that these situations are a great opportunity for growth! I am here to help you process your feelings, understand your reactions, develop healthy coping skills and help you find solutions for creating an amazing life. Let's get started!
Are you ready to transform your life? I am here to help Individuals, Couples and Families navigate through the changes, challenges and struggles that we all experience in daily life. Whether you or a loved one are dealing with challenging life events, relationship difficulties, some type of loss, a difficult diagnosis or are just not sure why you are not happy or fulfilled, I believe that these situations are a great opportunity for growth! I am here to help you process your feelings, understand your reactions, develop healthy coping skills and help you find solutions for creating an amazing life. Let's get started!
(760) 473-2229 View (760) 473-2229
Photo of Connie Yang, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Connie Yang
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oceanside, CA 92057  (Online Only)
I’m here to facilitate change in your dynamics as a couple, and to help you figure out what may be best for you and the relationship.
Couples, it's hard being in a relationship. You love each other and want to make it work, but lately, your relationship has felt more difficult. You’re not getting your points across, no one feels heard and understood, and your conflicts get in the way of truly appreciating each other. You’re not sure whether you should stay together or end the relationship. You’re thinking, “Should it be this hard?”
I’m here to facilitate change in your dynamics as a couple, and to help you figure out what may be best for you and the relationship.
Couples, it's hard being in a relationship. You love each other and want to make it work, but lately, your relationship has felt more difficult. You’re not getting your points across, no one feels heard and understood, and your conflicts get in the way of truly appreciating each other. You’re not sure whether you should stay together or end the relationship. You’re thinking, “Should it be this hard?”
(760) 428-1821 View (760) 428-1821
Photo of Jenna Wheaton, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jenna Wheaton
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
Oceanside, CA 92054
I work with adults (age 18+) and couples residing in California. So many of us experience seasons of life feeling lost, disconnected, and helpless. I am here to help. I have specialized experience working with anxiety, depression, eating disorders, addictions, grief and loss, traumas, and overall life transitions.
I work with adults (age 18+) and couples residing in California. So many of us experience seasons of life feeling lost, disconnected, and helpless. I am here to help. I have specialized experience working with anxiety, depression, eating disorders, addictions, grief and loss, traumas, and overall life transitions.
View
Photo of Aly Allen, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Aly Allen
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oceanside, CA 92054
Are you feeling stuck, lost, determined to make a change but not sure where to start? Maybe you're struggling in a relationship, navigating a life transition, or suffering under the weight of trauma? It could be that loss or grief feels insurmountable or you’re walking through a painful faith transition? Whatever you're going through, you want to grow into the version of yourself that you have always hoped was buried inside somewhere. You want to uncover your own wisdom, restore a relationship that feels broken, find wholeness or maybe even feel joy again. I'd consider it an honor to walk alongside you as you take this step.
Are you feeling stuck, lost, determined to make a change but not sure where to start? Maybe you're struggling in a relationship, navigating a life transition, or suffering under the weight of trauma? It could be that loss or grief feels insurmountable or you’re walking through a painful faith transition? Whatever you're going through, you want to grow into the version of yourself that you have always hoped was buried inside somewhere. You want to uncover your own wisdom, restore a relationship that feels broken, find wholeness or maybe even feel joy again. I'd consider it an honor to walk alongside you as you take this step.
(442) 239-4522 View (442) 239-4522
Photo of Brittany Paulk, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Brittany Paulk
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oceanside, CA 92054
I have experience working with people of all ages and backgrounds and those facing depression, anxiety, grief/loss, self-acceptance, life transitions, identity discovery, addiction/recovery, relationship issues, anger, trauma, and more. I work with children, teens, couples, LGBTQIA+, and families. I use an integrative client-centered approach with a holistic lens, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Mindfulness & Meditation, Emotion-Focused, Narrative Therapy, Play Therapy, Trauma-Informed, and more.
I have experience working with people of all ages and backgrounds and those facing depression, anxiety, grief/loss, self-acceptance, life transitions, identity discovery, addiction/recovery, relationship issues, anger, trauma, and more. I work with children, teens, couples, LGBTQIA+, and families. I use an integrative client-centered approach with a holistic lens, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Mindfulness & Meditation, Emotion-Focused, Narrative Therapy, Play Therapy, Trauma-Informed, and more.
(442) 434-1944 View (442) 434-1944
Photo of Lydia Lombardi Good, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lydia Lombardi Good
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Oceanside, CA 92054
I will teach you how the mind works and practical tools for healing grief, trauma and relationship breakdown.
I admire the natural resiliency humans demonstrate in the face of crisis and loss. I believe anyone can experience deep healing after any of life's disappointments and challenges by learning key strategies for wellness. These include, getting to know yourself better, building self- love, and connecting to a supportive community. As a social worker, I work with you to explore all aspects of your life to better understand the source of your concerns and feelings, while helping you to improve your overall well-being.
I will teach you how the mind works and practical tools for healing grief, trauma and relationship breakdown.
I admire the natural resiliency humans demonstrate in the face of crisis and loss. I believe anyone can experience deep healing after any of life's disappointments and challenges by learning key strategies for wellness. These include, getting to know yourself better, building self- love, and connecting to a supportive community. As a social worker, I work with you to explore all aspects of your life to better understand the source of your concerns and feelings, while helping you to improve your overall well-being.
(760) 957-0332 View (760) 957-0332
Karla Martinez
Associate Clinical Social Worker
Verified Verified
Oceanside, CA 92054
We provide individual and couples therapy for children and adults.
Karla is a therapist for San Diego based mental healthcare provider San Diego Therapy Center. San Diego Therapy Center is changing the way people think about and receive mental health service and support. We offer a welcoming and accepting environment where you can feel calm and comfortable while in our care. Our relaxed, modern atmosphere and our amazing, highly trained Psychologists, Psychiatrists and therapists are here for you. Our hope is to provide a place to help our clients achieve their life goals, explore life-circumstances, move through difficult life transitions.
We provide individual and couples therapy for children and adults.
Karla is a therapist for San Diego based mental healthcare provider San Diego Therapy Center. San Diego Therapy Center is changing the way people think about and receive mental health service and support. We offer a welcoming and accepting environment where you can feel calm and comfortable while in our care. Our relaxed, modern atmosphere and our amazing, highly trained Psychologists, Psychiatrists and therapists are here for you. Our hope is to provide a place to help our clients achieve their life goals, explore life-circumstances, move through difficult life transitions.
(442) 275-8457 View (442) 275-8457
Photo of Taji Huang, LCP, Psychologist
Taji Huang
Psychologist, LCP
Verified Verified
Oceanside, CA 92054
Taji's tone is compassionate and supportive, aiming to instill a sense of trust and collaboration in the therapeutic relationship.
Dr. Taji Huang, Ph.D., licensed psychologist, provides therapy to individuals and couples in Glendale, CA. She specializes in severe and persistent mental illness, counseling for couples, treatments for trauma-related conditions, and more. Call Dr. Taji to see if she can help you regain control over your life. Dr. Taji offers one-on-one, couples, and even group counseling sessions. Whether you are looking for a specific type of therapy or require intensive treatment for a disorder you are struggling with, she can assist you in getting your life back on track.
Taji's tone is compassionate and supportive, aiming to instill a sense of trust and collaboration in the therapeutic relationship.
Dr. Taji Huang, Ph.D., licensed psychologist, provides therapy to individuals and couples in Glendale, CA. She specializes in severe and persistent mental illness, counseling for couples, treatments for trauma-related conditions, and more. Call Dr. Taji to see if she can help you regain control over your life. Dr. Taji offers one-on-one, couples, and even group counseling sessions. Whether you are looking for a specific type of therapy or require intensive treatment for a disorder you are struggling with, she can assist you in getting your life back on track.
(442) 276-5721 View (442) 276-5721
Photo of Patricia Factor, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Patricia Factor
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oceanside, CA 92058
I also work with couples to help them with their communication and compassionate understanding of each other and each other's needs.
Hi, my name is Patricia Factor and I've had the great privilege of practicing as a marriage, family therapist for over thirty years. I believe in a holistic approach that nourishes one's physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. I've worked with individuals, families, and couples of a wide variety of ages, and mental health issues. I have assisted many with their relationship and personal challenges, including depression, anxiety, and life transitions.
I also work with couples to help them with their communication and compassionate understanding of each other and each other's needs.
Hi, my name is Patricia Factor and I've had the great privilege of practicing as a marriage, family therapist for over thirty years. I believe in a holistic approach that nourishes one's physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. I've worked with individuals, families, and couples of a wide variety of ages, and mental health issues. I have assisted many with their relationship and personal challenges, including depression, anxiety, and life transitions.
(442) 250-4537 View (442) 250-4537
Photo of Thomas Patrick Schmierer - Thomas Schmierer, Catholic Therapist, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Thomas Schmierer, Catholic Therapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oceanside, CA 92054
I help COUPLES: *Save their marriages, *Stop unfairly blaming one another, *Halt violent outbursts, *Greatly reduce the frequency and length of angry shouting matches, *Eradicate or reduce contempt for one another, *Rekindle their love for one another, & *Do heartfelt acts of love for one another.
I am a Catholic therapist who helps INDIVIDUALS, COUPLES, and FAMILIES in pain to experience deep personal and relational healing by using the top faith- and evidence-based treatments so that they can love with more peace, holiness, and joy. I help INDIVIDUALS: (1) Restore peace through deep healing and resolve various internal problems (Anxiety, Depression, Addiction, Post-traumatic stress, OCD, Bipolar disorder, & Poor concentration/organization), (2) Overcome relational challenges like: *Recovering from betrayals due to affairs, addiction, or abuse/neglect, *Overcoming co-dependent/enabling tendencies, *Making better relational choices, & *Dealing better with difficult people.
I help COUPLES: *Save their marriages, *Stop unfairly blaming one another, *Halt violent outbursts, *Greatly reduce the frequency and length of angry shouting matches, *Eradicate or reduce contempt for one another, *Rekindle their love for one another, & *Do heartfelt acts of love for one another.
I am a Catholic therapist who helps INDIVIDUALS, COUPLES, and FAMILIES in pain to experience deep personal and relational healing by using the top faith- and evidence-based treatments so that they can love with more peace, holiness, and joy. I help INDIVIDUALS: (1) Restore peace through deep healing and resolve various internal problems (Anxiety, Depression, Addiction, Post-traumatic stress, OCD, Bipolar disorder, & Poor concentration/organization), (2) Overcome relational challenges like: *Recovering from betrayals due to affairs, addiction, or abuse/neglect, *Overcoming co-dependent/enabling tendencies, *Making better relational choices, & *Dealing better with difficult people.
(760) 313-3878 View (760) 313-3878
Photo of Elaine Helen Stahlhofen, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Elaine Helen Stahlhofen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oceanside, CA 92054
I provide professional, caring and holistic psychotherapy in a safe and supportive environment for adults, couples, and families. With 30 years of counseling experience and as a solution-focused and intuitive psychotherapist I am able to rapidly identify and then provide insight, guidance and emotional support in the resolution of my client's core issues. We will unearth and clear long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling, meaningful and joyful life.
I provide professional, caring and holistic psychotherapy in a safe and supportive environment for adults, couples, and families. With 30 years of counseling experience and as a solution-focused and intuitive psychotherapist I am able to rapidly identify and then provide insight, guidance and emotional support in the resolution of my client's core issues. We will unearth and clear long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling, meaningful and joyful life.
(949) 274-4608 View (949) 274-4608
Photo of Walter Combs, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Walter Combs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oceanside, CA 92057
I'll treat your anxiety, depression, current & historical trauma, and even communication troubles between couples.
I use a CBT and DBT approach and include the Mind-Body connection. Sometimes we "feel" our anxiety, depression, trauma, etc... and that keeps us locked in the past or the future. I find if you can calm your body and your symptoms, exploring the cause is less of a chore. I started in Behavioral Therapy 14 years ago as a Drug and Alcohol Counselor.
I'll treat your anxiety, depression, current & historical trauma, and even communication troubles between couples.
I use a CBT and DBT approach and include the Mind-Body connection. Sometimes we "feel" our anxiety, depression, trauma, etc... and that keeps us locked in the past or the future. I find if you can calm your body and your symptoms, exploring the cause is less of a chore. I started in Behavioral Therapy 14 years ago as a Drug and Alcohol Counselor.
(760) 441-6204 View (760) 441-6204
Photo of Deborah K Berman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Deborah K Berman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oceanside, CA 92054
My wide range of experience provides me with the ability to approach many situations you may be facing with confidence and knowledge. I want to start where you are and I will respect your goals in the therapeutic process. I understand your need for confidentiality, privacy and trust. I have enjoyed providing extensive work and focusing my continued education on helping those with PTSD (to include military combat related PTSD), chronic illness, chronic pain, relationship problems, life transition issues, mood disorders, and personality disorders.
My wide range of experience provides me with the ability to approach many situations you may be facing with confidence and knowledge. I want to start where you are and I will respect your goals in the therapeutic process. I understand your need for confidentiality, privacy and trust. I have enjoyed providing extensive work and focusing my continued education on helping those with PTSD (to include military combat related PTSD), chronic illness, chronic pain, relationship problems, life transition issues, mood disorders, and personality disorders.
(760) 764-4621 View (760) 764-4621
Photo of John Dury, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
John Dury
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oceanside, CA 92057
John is a holistic therapist who specializes in helping people with a wide range of relationship issues, including anxiety, depression, anger, conflict resolution, substance abuse, and process addictions.
John Dury is an experienced professional counselor and marriage and family therapist who has been in practice for more than 25 years. John is also a Master Addiction Counselor as well as a member of the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy. I work with those experiencing a wide variety of issues that affect relationships such as anxiety, depression, anger, conflict resolution, and substance and process addictions.
John is a holistic therapist who specializes in helping people with a wide range of relationship issues, including anxiety, depression, anger, conflict resolution, substance abuse, and process addictions.
John Dury is an experienced professional counselor and marriage and family therapist who has been in practice for more than 25 years. John is also a Master Addiction Counselor as well as a member of the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy. I work with those experiencing a wide variety of issues that affect relationships such as anxiety, depression, anger, conflict resolution, and substance and process addictions.
(760) 389-3771 View (760) 389-3771
Photo of Cynthia Casey, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cynthia Casey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Oceanside, CA 92054
Specialties: Trauma and PTSD; Relational Issues and Couples counseling; Mood disorders - Depression, Bi-Polar, Anxiety, Borderline Personality; Addictions and compulsions - Alcohol, Drugs, Food, Sex, Internet and Video Games, or gambling; OCD and ADHD; Career and Life transitions; and Sexual Identity issues.
Through life's journey there are times that we may feel stuck as if there is a part of you that won't allow you to reach your goals? Do you want more from your life or are you finding it hard to get through your day without feeling anxious, angry, sad or overwhelmed? Do you struggle with addictive or compulsive behaviors? Or are you having relationship issues with your loved ones or coworkers? There is hope. I can be an effective resource in helping to you identify and move toward your goals, becoming a happier and healthier you.
Specialties: Trauma and PTSD; Relational Issues and Couples counseling; Mood disorders - Depression, Bi-Polar, Anxiety, Borderline Personality; Addictions and compulsions - Alcohol, Drugs, Food, Sex, Internet and Video Games, or gambling; OCD and ADHD; Career and Life transitions; and Sexual Identity issues.
Through life's journey there are times that we may feel stuck as if there is a part of you that won't allow you to reach your goals? Do you want more from your life or are you finding it hard to get through your day without feeling anxious, angry, sad or overwhelmed? Do you struggle with addictive or compulsive behaviors? Or are you having relationship issues with your loved ones or coworkers? There is hope. I can be an effective resource in helping to you identify and move toward your goals, becoming a happier and healthier you.
(760) 678-4295 View (760) 678-4295
Photo of Mark Brewer - WAVE Therapy Group Practice, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
WAVE Therapy Group Practice
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
Oceanside, CA 92054
We work with individuals, children, teens, parents, couples and families of all cultural backgrounds and sexual orientations.
We are a large group practice with over 35 therapists at 5 locations throughout San Diego and Orange County. We have been serving the San Diego community since 2014 and WAVE is a family owned and operated company. We specialize in a variety of issues and see clients from all age groups. We take most major insurances and also have affordable cash rates. Call today for immediate openings and therapy for the whole family in one place. We have locations in Oceanside, Carlsbad, Laguna Hills, Rancho Bernardo, and Mission Valley. See our website for more information: www.wavetherapist.org
We work with individuals, children, teens, parents, couples and families of all cultural backgrounds and sexual orientations.
We are a large group practice with over 35 therapists at 5 locations throughout San Diego and Orange County. We have been serving the San Diego community since 2014 and WAVE is a family owned and operated company. We specialize in a variety of issues and see clients from all age groups. We take most major insurances and also have affordable cash rates. Call today for immediate openings and therapy for the whole family in one place. We have locations in Oceanside, Carlsbad, Laguna Hills, Rancho Bernardo, and Mission Valley. See our website for more information: www.wavetherapist.org
(442) 219-7795 View (442) 219-7795
Photo of Erica McDaniel - Grow Through Life Counseling Oceanside, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Grow Through Life Counseling Oceanside
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oceanside, CA 92054
We continue to grow! We have multiple providers at each site and are able provide individual, families and couples sessions for multiple family members.
Hello and welcome! Grow Through Life Counseling is a group private practice welcoming both in person clients in Oceanside, CA and via Telehealth in CA. We have immediate openings and are accepting new clients. Our Mission is to provide quality counseling for all ages throughout life. We provide culturally sensitive and inclusive care for all children, teens, adults, couples and families. We respect each family member's unique identities, perspectives and experiences in life. With effective and creative psychotherapeutic interventions, we support emotional growth and development during the various stages of life to be healthier.
We continue to grow! We have multiple providers at each site and are able provide individual, families and couples sessions for multiple family members.
Hello and welcome! Grow Through Life Counseling is a group private practice welcoming both in person clients in Oceanside, CA and via Telehealth in CA. We have immediate openings and are accepting new clients. Our Mission is to provide quality counseling for all ages throughout life. We provide culturally sensitive and inclusive care for all children, teens, adults, couples and families. We respect each family member's unique identities, perspectives and experiences in life. With effective and creative psychotherapeutic interventions, we support emotional growth and development during the various stages of life to be healthier.
(442) 249-8625 View (442) 249-8625
Photo of Kathryn Benton, LPCC
Kathryn Benton
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Oceanside, CA 92056
I look forward to meeting you and beginning a relationship that can lead to healing and positive change.
Hello! I am Kathryn Benton, a licensed professional clinical counselor (LPCC), in practice for over 6 years. I currently work in the field of substance use treatment. In my previous work life, I was a family literacy advocate and adult education teacher. I have extensive experience with immigrants, disabled adults, and those struggling with substance use disorders. I have also worked with individuals with histories of trauma and current struggles with anxiety and depression.
I look forward to meeting you and beginning a relationship that can lead to healing and positive change.
Hello! I am Kathryn Benton, a licensed professional clinical counselor (LPCC), in practice for over 6 years. I currently work in the field of substance use treatment. In my previous work life, I was a family literacy advocate and adult education teacher. I have extensive experience with immigrants, disabled adults, and those struggling with substance use disorders. I have also worked with individuals with histories of trauma and current struggles with anxiety and depression.
(760) 990-1946 View (760) 990-1946
1
...
Couples Counseling Therapists

Does couples counseling work?

Research shows that couples counseling is effective; it can reduce relationship distress and improve emotional awareness, communication, empathy, intimacy, and overall relationship satisfaction. For example, emotionally focused therapy was found to be effective for about 75 percent of couples, and those benefits lasted at least two years.

When should a couple seek counseling?

Couples can benefit from counseling if they consistently struggle in their relationship. They may have lost the ability to communicate effectively, become entrenched in harmful patterns, begun to fight more than usual, broken the other’s trust, suffered from a mental or physical illness, or faced any number of other challenges. Many therapists offer free consultations, so if a couple isn’t sure whether therapy is necessary, asking directly can provide clarity.

How can I get my partner to go to couples therapy?

The decision to seek couples therapy is often driven by one partner, who then convinces the other to participate. When discussing the idea, the initiator should be direct and assertive. They can state the problems they see and explain how the relationship would benefit from therapy. In more serious cases, they can also explain how their relationship may suffer without making any changes or seeking professional help.

How does a couple prepare for couples counseling?

The anticipation of beginning couples counseling can be difficult—sometimes more difficult than the first session itself. Taking a few moments to reflect can allay those concerns: What are the current challenges? When and how did they begin? What do they want the relationship to look like in the future? Reflecting on these questions can help individuals or couples articulate their goals. Of course, the therapist will also ask questions and guide couples through the process.