Couples Counseling Therapists in Oceanside, CA

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
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 Marcella Santamaria, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marcella Santamaria
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oceanside, CA 92054
I provide couples therapy and love working with young adults and adolescents.
Are you someone who had a difficult childhood and notice it is having negative affects in your life? Are you having troubling developing intimate relationships with others, like dating or making friends because your too cautious or attach to easily. Is your relationship with your intimate partner, children or family members suffering because you are carrying over past hurt, anger or resentment. Are you unable to control worry, thoughts and emotions so you can be more present in your life? I am a experienced therapist who has helped many people navigate these issues.
I provide couples therapy and love working with young adults and adolescents.
Are you someone who had a difficult childhood and notice it is having negative affects in your life? Are you having troubling developing intimate relationships with others, like dating or making friends because your too cautious or attach to easily. Is your relationship with your intimate partner, children or family members suffering because you are carrying over past hurt, anger or resentment. Are you unable to control worry, thoughts and emotions so you can be more present in your life? I am a experienced therapist who has helped many people navigate these issues.
(760) 782-2524 View (760) 782-2524
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 Cameron Stone, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cameron Stone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oceanside, CA 92054
I specialize in helping people deal with a broad spectrum of issues such as anxiety, depression, overcoming trauma, and family/ relationship issues.
Hello, my name is Cameron and I have over 30 years of experience working in the mental health field. I am a Licensed Clinical Social worker and I see clients in person and virtually in California. Life can be very challenging and overwhelming at times. I strive to empower my clients to be able to cope with psychosocial stressors in healthy ways and to be the happiest versions of themselves. Collaborative development of an effective array of tools and coping skills is a primary focus of my work.
I specialize in helping people deal with a broad spectrum of issues such as anxiety, depression, overcoming trauma, and family/ relationship issues.
Hello, my name is Cameron and I have over 30 years of experience working in the mental health field. I am a Licensed Clinical Social worker and I see clients in person and virtually in California. Life can be very challenging and overwhelming at times. I strive to empower my clients to be able to cope with psychosocial stressors in healthy ways and to be the happiest versions of themselves. Collaborative development of an effective array of tools and coping skills is a primary focus of my work.
(442) 202-2845 View (442) 202-2845
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 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 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 Celeste Charbonnet-Cross, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Celeste Charbonnet-Cross
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oceanside, CA 92057
I have over 20 years of experience in helping individuals, couples and families move through the anger, hurt and fear often associated with difficult life transitions. I believe that while we cannot directly change events that happen in our lives, most of us can learn to change our perceptions about these issues.
I have over 20 years of experience in helping individuals, couples and families move through the anger, hurt and fear often associated with difficult life transitions. I believe that while we cannot directly change events that happen in our lives, most of us can learn to change our perceptions about these issues.
(818) 581-4018 View (818) 581-4018
Photo of Kirsten White - The Steven A Cohen Military Family Clinic at VVSD, MA, LPCC
The Steven A Cohen Military Family Clinic at VVSD
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Oceanside, CA 92056
The Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic at VVSD provides confidential, high-quality therapy, and local referral support services to: post-9/11 veterans, service members, National Guard and Reserves, and their family members, including spouse or partner, children, parents, siblings, caregivers and others. Care is available regardless of discharge status, role while in uniform, or combat experience. Insurance or ability to pay will never be a barrier to care. TRICARE referral needed for active duty service members seeking individual therapy.
The Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic at VVSD provides confidential, high-quality therapy, and local referral support services to: post-9/11 veterans, service members, National Guard and Reserves, and their family members, including spouse or partner, children, parents, siblings, caregivers and others. Care is available regardless of discharge status, role while in uniform, or combat experience. Insurance or ability to pay will never be a barrier to care. TRICARE referral needed for active duty service members seeking individual therapy.
(760) 253-1538 View (760) 253-1538
Photo of Bryce Thompson, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Bryce Thompson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oceanside, CA 92056
We ALL have a natural propensity to want to feel better, do better, and be better! My "calling" is to serve clients who are challenged by their sexuality, sexual orientation/natural attractions when needs, desires, and behaviors are not consistent with his nature, "REAL" SELF, beliefs and values that impacts quality of life and relationship longevity.
I believe you can create "what is," not "learn to accept what is." I provide help with sexual orientation and identity, "coming out," military life, family issues and religion, sexuality issues, premarital assessment, monogamy/commitment, relationship issues between Gay and Bisexual Men, life planning/goals and visions. I lead interns and first year licensed therapists in a MFT professional growth and discussion group. I offer training, gay couple's retreats, workshops, speaking, and consulting services for organizations and small businesses (50 employees or less).
We ALL have a natural propensity to want to feel better, do better, and be better! My "calling" is to serve clients who are challenged by their sexuality, sexual orientation/natural attractions when needs, desires, and behaviors are not consistent with his nature, "REAL" SELF, beliefs and values that impacts quality of life and relationship longevity.
I believe you can create "what is," not "learn to accept what is." I provide help with sexual orientation and identity, "coming out," military life, family issues and religion, sexuality issues, premarital assessment, monogamy/commitment, relationship issues between Gay and Bisexual Men, life planning/goals and visions. I lead interns and first year licensed therapists in a MFT professional growth and discussion group. I offer training, gay couple's retreats, workshops, speaking, and consulting services for organizations and small businesses (50 employees or less).
(760) 756-4105 View (760) 756-4105
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 Brittany Paulk, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Brittany Paulk
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 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 Jeanie Lee Vetter, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jeanie Lee Vetter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Oceanside, CA 92054
I support individuals and couples who struggle with self-esteem, conflict in relationships, and communication.
Is your relationship being impacted by low self-esteem, anxiety, depression or trauma? Would you like to engage in deep, meaningful work that addresses the cause of your pain while moving at your own pace? If so, we may be a great fit. I help people who want to make changes but aren't quite sure of how to get there. I provide a safe space to heal emotional wounds that may be holding you back from the person you want to be or from having the kind the relationships you really want. I'm passionate about guiding you towards reconnection and I help you find a loving place whether it's within yourself or with your partner.
I support individuals and couples who struggle with self-esteem, conflict in relationships, and communication.
Is your relationship being impacted by low self-esteem, anxiety, depression or trauma? Would you like to engage in deep, meaningful work that addresses the cause of your pain while moving at your own pace? If so, we may be a great fit. I help people who want to make changes but aren't quite sure of how to get there. I provide a safe space to heal emotional wounds that may be holding you back from the person you want to be or from having the kind the relationships you really want. I'm passionate about guiding you towards reconnection and I help you find a loving place whether it's within yourself or with your partner.
(442) 219-7990 View (442) 219-7990
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
Photo of Annette Conway - #1 Psychological Evaluations & Testing Service, PsyD, Psychologist
#1 Psychological Evaluations & Testing Service
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oceanside, CA 92058
Established in 1993, Help Therapy features over 50 licensed neuropsychologists and psychologists for comprehensive evaluations, and over 100 LCSWs, LMFTs, and NPs offering therapy and medication management. Patients are carefully matched with providers suited to their unique needs and preferences. Our experienced clinicians serve seniors, adults, families, couples and youth (age 7+) across California, ensuring personalized care for a diverse range of psychological needs.
Established in 1993, Help Therapy features over 50 licensed neuropsychologists and psychologists for comprehensive evaluations, and over 100 LCSWs, LMFTs, and NPs offering therapy and medication management. Patients are carefully matched with providers suited to their unique needs and preferences. Our experienced clinicians serve seniors, adults, families, couples and youth (age 7+) across California, ensuring personalized care for a diverse range of psychological needs.
(619) 815-7016 View (619) 815-7016
Photo of Heather A Burns - Heather Burns @ Grow Through Life Counseling, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Heather Burns @ Grow Through Life Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oceanside, CA 92054
Hello! Are you or a loved one experiencing loss, grief or a major life transition? If so, I would be happy to help! I provide therapy for all ages and love working with children, teens, individual adults, couples, & families. I have a background in helping clients working through anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, loss, and major life transitions. I am compassionate and understand it takes courage to seek therapy. I create a safe space for clients to navigate challenges and build a sense of autonomy. No matter what challenges you may be facing, I would be honored to walk alongside you through it.
Hello! Are you or a loved one experiencing loss, grief or a major life transition? If so, I would be happy to help! I provide therapy for all ages and love working with children, teens, individual adults, couples, & families. I have a background in helping clients working through anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, loss, and major life transitions. I am compassionate and understand it takes courage to seek therapy. I create a safe space for clients to navigate challenges and build a sense of autonomy. No matter what challenges you may be facing, I would be honored to walk alongside you through it.
(442) 249-7932 View (442) 249-7932
Photo of Alexandra Laifer, PhD, Psychologist
Alexandra Laifer
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oceanside, CA 92054
I deeply value the therapist-client relationship and will work collaboratively and compassionately with you to explore the nature of your difficulties, gain a deeper understanding of problematic patterns, and determine how best to address them so that you may move forward, toward a more meaningful, fulfilling life.
As a clinical psychologist, I aim to help you achieve personal growth and well-being. I specialize in the treatment of trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), employing mindfulness and other empirically-supported approaches to help you process and manage painful emotions as well as overcome the self-defeating patterns which often arise following the experience of traumatic events. I also specialize in relational and mindfulness-based approaches to treating interpersonal difficulties, depression, anxiety, and grief and loss while helping you to manage stress, academic difficulties, self-esteem issues, and life transitions.
I deeply value the therapist-client relationship and will work collaboratively and compassionately with you to explore the nature of your difficulties, gain a deeper understanding of problematic patterns, and determine how best to address them so that you may move forward, toward a more meaningful, fulfilling life.
As a clinical psychologist, I aim to help you achieve personal growth and well-being. I specialize in the treatment of trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), employing mindfulness and other empirically-supported approaches to help you process and manage painful emotions as well as overcome the self-defeating patterns which often arise following the experience of traumatic events. I also specialize in relational and mindfulness-based approaches to treating interpersonal difficulties, depression, anxiety, and grief and loss while helping you to manage stress, academic difficulties, self-esteem issues, and life transitions.
(760) 268-9104 View (760) 268-9104
Photo of Sandra Sundel - Sandra Sundel, Ph.D., PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sandra Sundel, Ph.D.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oceanside, CA 92056  (Online Only)
I have a doctoral degree and over 25 years of clinical experience utilizing cognitive-behavioral (CBT) and other evidence-based therapeutic solutions for individuals, couples, and families.
I understand the pain caused by relationship stress, depression, anxiety, and anger. Your goal is to live your best life -- my goal is to help make that happen. Focusing on your strengths, we will work together to develop a treatment plan that meets your needs. Whether you are experiencing depression, anxiety, relationship issues, grief, family conflict, work-related stress, difficult life transitions, other emotional challenges, or a desire to know yourself better, I can help. You will learn new techniques and connect with the coping skills you already have.
I have a doctoral degree and over 25 years of clinical experience utilizing cognitive-behavioral (CBT) and other evidence-based therapeutic solutions for individuals, couples, and families.
I understand the pain caused by relationship stress, depression, anxiety, and anger. Your goal is to live your best life -- my goal is to help make that happen. Focusing on your strengths, we will work together to develop a treatment plan that meets your needs. Whether you are experiencing depression, anxiety, relationship issues, grief, family conflict, work-related stress, difficult life transitions, other emotional challenges, or a desire to know yourself better, I can help. You will learn new techniques and connect with the coping skills you already have.
(442) 250-1496 View (442) 250-1496
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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.