Photo of Jocelyne Stancic, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jocelyne Stancic
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Redlands, CA 92373
I have successfully treated various issues such as depression, anxiety, women’s issues, trauma, adoption issues, as well as parenting and relationship problems.
Do you self-sabotage? You work very hard to get ahead, strive for success and accomplish goals that you desire. Meanwhile, another part of you criticizes, punishes and demeans everything you’re working hard for. Is it a constant battle between what you want to accomplish, how you want your life to be and that harsh critical voice inside your head? That voice is a big part of your depression, anxiety and addiction. You are not alone and you are not hopeless and doomed to repeat this cycle over and over. I understand that voice and I want to help you find freedom from it.
I have successfully treated various issues such as depression, anxiety, women’s issues, trauma, adoption issues, as well as parenting and relationship problems.
Do you self-sabotage? You work very hard to get ahead, strive for success and accomplish goals that you desire. Meanwhile, another part of you criticizes, punishes and demeans everything you’re working hard for. Is it a constant battle between what you want to accomplish, how you want your life to be and that harsh critical voice inside your head? That voice is a big part of your depression, anxiety and addiction. You are not alone and you are not hopeless and doomed to repeat this cycle over and over. I understand that voice and I want to help you find freedom from it.
(909) 265-7552 View (909) 265-7552
Photo of Bryan J. Strycula, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Bryan J. Strycula
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
I am here to help. It is my role and honor to provide a safe therapeutic environment that is comfortable. It can be hard to address personal issues, mental health complications, phase of life problems, identity troubles, and relationship issues. Just remember, you are not alone, almost everyone has gone through difficult times in their lives. It's how they're handled that makes the difference. My approach is client centered. Each person is different. It requires their unique experience to guide the therapeutic process. It is within your potential to have a more rewarding and fulfilling quality of life.
I am here to help. It is my role and honor to provide a safe therapeutic environment that is comfortable. It can be hard to address personal issues, mental health complications, phase of life problems, identity troubles, and relationship issues. Just remember, you are not alone, almost everyone has gone through difficult times in their lives. It's how they're handled that makes the difference. My approach is client centered. Each person is different. It requires their unique experience to guide the therapeutic process. It is within your potential to have a more rewarding and fulfilling quality of life.
(909) 345-2598 View (909) 345-2598
Photo of Donald J. Cook, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Donald J. Cook
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Apple Valley, CA 92307
I seek to treat all people; i see the person, not the age, weight, shape, hair-colour, skin, diagnosis, politics, or life-problem. Every client is my respected teacher. We are all valid and worthy human beings--even if we don't believe it! You are Wonderful! i treat PTSD, ADD/HD, school-related issues, anxiety, panic Disorders, depression, age-related issues, legal-related personal issues, and will also perform therapy with stabilized Bipolar, and Schizophrenic sufferers. i perform individual, couples, marital/pre-marital, family, and group sessions. i also perform individual/group parenting, and anger management sessions.
I seek to treat all people; i see the person, not the age, weight, shape, hair-colour, skin, diagnosis, politics, or life-problem. Every client is my respected teacher. We are all valid and worthy human beings--even if we don't believe it! You are Wonderful! i treat PTSD, ADD/HD, school-related issues, anxiety, panic Disorders, depression, age-related issues, legal-related personal issues, and will also perform therapy with stabilized Bipolar, and Schizophrenic sufferers. i perform individual, couples, marital/pre-marital, family, and group sessions. i also perform individual/group parenting, and anger management sessions.
(760) 203-4580 View (760) 203-4580
Photo of Rodney Reed, LCSW, MSW, PsyD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rodney Reed
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, PsyD
Verified Verified
Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91730  (Online Only)
I respect that each person is different and believe there is no one solution for everyone. I believe in treating the whole person which includes mind and body. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 20 years of experience counseling children, adults, seniors, couples and families. My training allows me to draw from different methods from which we can develop new ways to cope with sadness, worry or stress. I can assist you in getting your life back on track, helping you manage difficult thoughts and emotions or navigating through difficult times for you or your family members.
I respect that each person is different and believe there is no one solution for everyone. I believe in treating the whole person which includes mind and body. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 20 years of experience counseling children, adults, seniors, couples and families. My training allows me to draw from different methods from which we can develop new ways to cope with sadness, worry or stress. I can assist you in getting your life back on track, helping you manage difficult thoughts and emotions or navigating through difficult times for you or your family members.
(909) 498-4961 View (909) 498-4961
Photo of Kyle Carter Kasner, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kyle Carter Kasner
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Loma Linda, CA 92354
We all have challenging times in our life where we struggle with issues that can feel overwhelming. Often we can find a solution on our own, but at other times we may need to get support from someone who can be objective, supportive and focused on us. â;' I licensed therapist specializing in helping individuals, couples, and adolescents struggling with challenges related to addiction, attachment, relationships, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, and eating disorders.
We all have challenging times in our life where we struggle with issues that can feel overwhelming. Often we can find a solution on our own, but at other times we may need to get support from someone who can be objective, supportive and focused on us. â;' I licensed therapist specializing in helping individuals, couples, and adolescents struggling with challenges related to addiction, attachment, relationships, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, and eating disorders.
(423) 922-5715 View (423) 922-5715
Photo of Darryl J Huels, PhD, LCSW-R, CEAP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Darryl J Huels
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW-R, CEAP
Verified Verified
Ontario, CA 91761  (Online Only)
I am a PhD and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 30 years of experience working with people in helping them to resolve personal, social, relationship, and family problems.
I am a PhD and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 30 years of experience working with people in helping them to resolve personal, social, relationship, and family problems.
(858) 221-6773 View (858) 221-6773
Photo of Phillip Parra - Parra Counseling and Wellness Services, APC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Parra Counseling and Wellness Services, APC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Yucaipa, CA 92399
Anxiety, depression, substance abuse, relationship/family problems, behavioral issues and academic concerns are just some of the areas I work with.
Are you seeking change in your life, would you like to feel better, become more empowered and have support along the way? All of this is possible. No matter where you're at in life or what your goals are you can get the support you need. My goal as a therapist is to help you live the life you want to live and be happy doing it. I specialize in helping people see things differently, recognize their strengths, set healthy goals with a plan to achieve them, and live a more fulfilling life that brings them happiness and peace.
Anxiety, depression, substance abuse, relationship/family problems, behavioral issues and academic concerns are just some of the areas I work with.
Are you seeking change in your life, would you like to feel better, become more empowered and have support along the way? All of this is possible. No matter where you're at in life or what your goals are you can get the support you need. My goal as a therapist is to help you live the life you want to live and be happy doing it. I specialize in helping people see things differently, recognize their strengths, set healthy goals with a plan to achieve them, and live a more fulfilling life that brings them happiness and peace.
(951) 749-5773 View (951) 749-5773
Photo of Teje Aliberti, MA, MFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Teje Aliberti
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Big Bear, CA 92314
I work with individuals and couples who are struggling with a variety of personal and relationship issues.
Effective Talk Therapy for Individuals & Couples. Relationships are one of the most important aspects of our lives and yet they can be so problematic, stressful and confusing. Whether you are struggling with a partner, spouse, family member, child, parent or co-worker, it can be helpful to speak with a relationship specialist. Therapy Where You Need it. When You Need It. Dually Licensed and honored to be Serving all California and Hawaii Residents. Easy scheduling and reliable effective support. For quick online scheduling and additional information, please visit: www.TejeCounseling.com
I work with individuals and couples who are struggling with a variety of personal and relationship issues.
Effective Talk Therapy for Individuals & Couples. Relationships are one of the most important aspects of our lives and yet they can be so problematic, stressful and confusing. Whether you are struggling with a partner, spouse, family member, child, parent or co-worker, it can be helpful to speak with a relationship specialist. Therapy Where You Need it. When You Need It. Dually Licensed and honored to be Serving all California and Hawaii Residents. Easy scheduling and reliable effective support. For quick online scheduling and additional information, please visit: www.TejeCounseling.com
(949) 234-6576 View (949) 234-6576
Photo of Tina Besimanto - Clarity Family Therapy Services, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Clarity Family Therapy Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Are you Stressed, Depressed, Anxious? We offer therapy to help with many issues including stress, relationship issues, or deep trauma through our EMDR Treatments. We offer a safe space both telehealth and in person to process what you are struggling with and improve your life. Our group specializes in creating healthy relationships, working through anxiety, depression, getting "unstuck," working through addictions, and healing from trauma. We also have Spanish speaking therapy and accept LA Care.
Are you Stressed, Depressed, Anxious? We offer therapy to help with many issues including stress, relationship issues, or deep trauma through our EMDR Treatments. We offer a safe space both telehealth and in person to process what you are struggling with and improve your life. Our group specializes in creating healthy relationships, working through anxiety, depression, getting "unstuck," working through addictions, and healing from trauma. We also have Spanish speaking therapy and accept LA Care.
(818) 495-8986 View (818) 495-8986
Photo of Patricia Chan, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Patricia Chan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chino Hills, CA 91709
With over 15 years working in the community and graduate lecturer at USC, Patricia's main goal, as an LCSW and Doctorate of Psychology Candidate is to help you work out your problems- We experience problems everyday but sometimes it can become so overwhelming that we may begin to develop unhealthy/uncomfortable physical and emotional symptoms in our minds and bodies. These ailments may affect our behaviors and the way we function at work, home, school, and/or church. They may even disrupt our relationships with friends, families, and/or co-workers.
With over 15 years working in the community and graduate lecturer at USC, Patricia's main goal, as an LCSW and Doctorate of Psychology Candidate is to help you work out your problems- We experience problems everyday but sometimes it can become so overwhelming that we may begin to develop unhealthy/uncomfortable physical and emotional symptoms in our minds and bodies. These ailments may affect our behaviors and the way we function at work, home, school, and/or church. They may even disrupt our relationships with friends, families, and/or co-workers.
(909) 918-4616 View (909) 918-4616
Photo of Candace Deese - Guiding Hope Marriage and Family Counseling, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Guiding Hope Marriage and Family Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Yucaipa, CA 92399
Have you noticed an an increase in anxiety, chronic stress, loss of sleep or experiencing difficulty due to depression, difficulty within relationships, isolation or create behaviors that are harmful? Has life begun to feel like it is rocking you to our core and beginning to feel like life is unmanageable? If you are experiencing effects of trauma, mental health feeling unstable, addiction, individual, martial, family issues, teens, adjustment concerns, we are here to walk with you as we learn to understand the inner truth with healthy coping skills and restoration of strength to embrace life with all it has to offer.
Have you noticed an an increase in anxiety, chronic stress, loss of sleep or experiencing difficulty due to depression, difficulty within relationships, isolation or create behaviors that are harmful? Has life begun to feel like it is rocking you to our core and beginning to feel like life is unmanageable? If you are experiencing effects of trauma, mental health feeling unstable, addiction, individual, martial, family issues, teens, adjustment concerns, we are here to walk with you as we learn to understand the inner truth with healthy coping skills and restoration of strength to embrace life with all it has to offer.
(909) 316-1866 View (909) 316-1866

Online Therapists

Photo of Bruce Robertson Brodie - The Saturday Center for Psychotherapy, PhD, PsyD, MA, Psychologist
The Saturday Center for Psychotherapy
Psychologist, PhD, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
"Being listened to." That is the experience of being at the Saturday Center: intensely, deeply, actively, empathically listened to; seen, heard and understood. For over 30 years we have provided this type of counseling and psychotherapy to individuals, couples, and families. TSC is committed to dynamic psychotherapy and to providing treatment based on need rather than economics. The Center is staffed by advanced psychological interns, psychological assistants and marriage & family therapist interns who are supervised by a group of experienced, licensed private practitioners dedicated to the practice and teaching of psychotherapy.
"Being listened to." That is the experience of being at the Saturday Center: intensely, deeply, actively, empathically listened to; seen, heard and understood. For over 30 years we have provided this type of counseling and psychotherapy to individuals, couples, and families. TSC is committed to dynamic psychotherapy and to providing treatment based on need rather than economics. The Center is staffed by advanced psychological interns, psychological assistants and marriage & family therapist interns who are supervised by a group of experienced, licensed private practitioners dedicated to the practice and teaching of psychotherapy.
(310) 879-5804 View (310) 879-5804
Photo of Christy Cosper - Sano Counseling Center, LMFT, CSAT-S, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sano Counseling Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAT-S
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90803
Are you at a point in your life where you feel you are ready for a change but don’t know where to start? Have you been struggling to take control of an addiction or compulsive behavior and have had no luck on you own? Are you overwhelmed with negative thoughts that leave you paralyzed to take action? Are you struggling to find or maintain healthy relationships with partners, family, friends, or co-workers? Perhaps you're just finally ready to work on yourself, level-up, and enrich your life by establishing a deeper relationship with YOU.
Are you at a point in your life where you feel you are ready for a change but don’t know where to start? Have you been struggling to take control of an addiction or compulsive behavior and have had no luck on you own? Are you overwhelmed with negative thoughts that leave you paralyzed to take action? Are you struggling to find or maintain healthy relationships with partners, family, friends, or co-workers? Perhaps you're just finally ready to work on yourself, level-up, and enrich your life by establishing a deeper relationship with YOU.
(562) 268-4191 View (562) 268-4191
Photo of Melanie Reyes - Lives Renewed Counseling Services -EMDR Therapy, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lives Renewed Counseling Services -EMDR Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orange, CA 92867  (Online Only)
Please call or email me for an individual, couples, family, adolescent, or child therapy consultation today.
Perhaps you are visiting today to obtain answers to confusion, peace in the torment, clarity from the chaos, healing from the pain. Maybe you just want someone to understand your pain. You might be feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, or hopeless. Whatever your reasoning may be, I am dedicated to help you achieve hope and healing. Thank you for taking the first step to work toward your personal healing journey. I am passionate about understanding, accepting, and empathyzing with my clients. I approach therapy holistically, which encompasses spirit, body, and mind.
Please call or email me for an individual, couples, family, adolescent, or child therapy consultation today.
Perhaps you are visiting today to obtain answers to confusion, peace in the torment, clarity from the chaos, healing from the pain. Maybe you just want someone to understand your pain. You might be feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, or hopeless. Whatever your reasoning may be, I am dedicated to help you achieve hope and healing. Thank you for taking the first step to work toward your personal healing journey. I am passionate about understanding, accepting, and empathyzing with my clients. I approach therapy holistically, which encompasses spirit, body, and mind.
(714) 710-8266 View (714) 710-8266
Photo of Paul Kramer - Remarkable Services, EdD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Remarkable Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, EdD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Cerritos, CA 90703
RS provides therapy counseling support to children, teens, adults, couples, and families.
At some point, we all struggle to adjust to change and fail to respond to life’s challenges with our best effort. It’s normal to feel stuck. We at Remarkable Services (RS) believe people inherently have what it takes within themselves to adjust, change and heal. No matter if it’s a challenging work situation, a parenting struggle, a tough year of high school or college, we all know what it feels like to struggle. Parents and their children are not immune, in that over the course of the first 18 years of life there are bound to be countless transitions, developments, change and of course, points of contention. RS is here to help!
RS provides therapy counseling support to children, teens, adults, couples, and families.
At some point, we all struggle to adjust to change and fail to respond to life’s challenges with our best effort. It’s normal to feel stuck. We at Remarkable Services (RS) believe people inherently have what it takes within themselves to adjust, change and heal. No matter if it’s a challenging work situation, a parenting struggle, a tough year of high school or college, we all know what it feels like to struggle. Parents and their children are not immune, in that over the course of the first 18 years of life there are bound to be countless transitions, developments, change and of course, points of contention. RS is here to help!
(925) 436-1725 View (925) 436-1725
Photo of Paula Bruce - PBA Psychology Group, Inc., PhD, LP, Psychologist
PBA Psychology Group, Inc.
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Beverly Hills, CA 90212
Welcome to our practice! We are experienced clinicians in Beverly Hills and DTLA available to work with adults, children, couples and families. Some typical psychotherapy concerns are relationship issues, interracial/intercultural/interfaith relationships, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, undereating and overeating, body image issues, personality disorders, infidelity, high conflict divorce, family reunification, racial trauma, parenting/child behavior problems, sexual compulsivity/addiction, sexual abuse/assault, complex trauma/PTSD, compulsive spending/shopping, LGBTQIA+ concerns, BIPOC concerns, and more.
Welcome to our practice! We are experienced clinicians in Beverly Hills and DTLA available to work with adults, children, couples and families. Some typical psychotherapy concerns are relationship issues, interracial/intercultural/interfaith relationships, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, undereating and overeating, body image issues, personality disorders, infidelity, high conflict divorce, family reunification, racial trauma, parenting/child behavior problems, sexual compulsivity/addiction, sexual abuse/assault, complex trauma/PTSD, compulsive spending/shopping, LGBTQIA+ concerns, BIPOC concerns, and more.
(310) 271-2275 View (310) 271-2275
Photo of Fiona Nottingham, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Fiona Nottingham
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brea, CA 92821
I work with a wide range of diverse presenting problems affecting individuals, couples, families, and groups. I bring a wealth of experience treating populations with substance use disorders, process addictions, mood disorders, eating disorders, personality disorders, mental health issues, and forensics for people interacting with the legal system. Some areas of specialty include Trauma, Addiction, Gambling Disorder, Dual Diagnosis, and Life Transitions.
I work with a wide range of diverse presenting problems affecting individuals, couples, families, and groups. I bring a wealth of experience treating populations with substance use disorders, process addictions, mood disorders, eating disorders, personality disorders, mental health issues, and forensics for people interacting with the legal system. Some areas of specialty include Trauma, Addiction, Gambling Disorder, Dual Diagnosis, and Life Transitions.
(657) 300-5174 View (657) 300-5174
Photo of Stefanie Lucia, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Stefanie Lucia
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Valencia, CA 91355
I'm qualified to help with a variety of challenges; however, I specialize in helping teens, adults, and couples improve communication, set healthy boundaries, learn to regulate emotions, increase confidence, stop people-pleasing, heal from trauma, overcome insecurity, and reduce overthinking.
Are you struggling with identity? Feeling worthless or like an imposter? Are you snapping at loved ones over little things? Or repeating relationships, patterns, or situations, and wishing you could break the cycle? Sometimes, we aren't sure what causes our distress, but we can sense we're not reaching our potential for health, happiness, or success. That's where I come in. My job is to listen, help you understand the root causes of your issues, break unwanted patterns, and teach you practical tools to change your life. Therapy isn't always easy, but neither is the distress you're feeling now. And it's ok to need help; we all do.
I'm qualified to help with a variety of challenges; however, I specialize in helping teens, adults, and couples improve communication, set healthy boundaries, learn to regulate emotions, increase confidence, stop people-pleasing, heal from trauma, overcome insecurity, and reduce overthinking.
Are you struggling with identity? Feeling worthless or like an imposter? Are you snapping at loved ones over little things? Or repeating relationships, patterns, or situations, and wishing you could break the cycle? Sometimes, we aren't sure what causes our distress, but we can sense we're not reaching our potential for health, happiness, or success. That's where I come in. My job is to listen, help you understand the root causes of your issues, break unwanted patterns, and teach you practical tools to change your life. Therapy isn't always easy, but neither is the distress you're feeling now. And it's ok to need help; we all do.
(707) 708-4461 View (707) 708-4461
Photo of Mark Gallo - Therapywerkz!, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mark Gallo - Therapywerkz!
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
West Hollywood, CA 90048  (Online Only)
After growing up in a small industrial town in Ohio, I earned a bachelor’s degree from Georgetown University in the nascent field of Psycholinguistics. Upon graduation I became an activist at its inception when West Hollywood became the “first gay city in the US”. As a manager of a major niteclub I'm proud to have the doors for guests and staff alike without regard to race, sexuality, gender identity, or abledness and my Practice reflects such inclusivity. I see primarily Adult Individuals of any age; as well as teens ranging in age from 14yo+; and Couples.
After growing up in a small industrial town in Ohio, I earned a bachelor’s degree from Georgetown University in the nascent field of Psycholinguistics. Upon graduation I became an activist at its inception when West Hollywood became the “first gay city in the US”. As a manager of a major niteclub I'm proud to have the doors for guests and staff alike without regard to race, sexuality, gender identity, or abledness and my Practice reflects such inclusivity. I see primarily Adult Individuals of any age; as well as teens ranging in age from 14yo+; and Couples.
(323) 997-8086 View (323) 997-8086
Photo of Cathy Trenary, APCC
Cathy Trenary
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, APCC
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92604
I have over 10 years of experience working with adults, couples, and families in various capacities.
Our life experiences can lead us to question our identity and purpose in the world we live in. This can lead us to anxiety, depression, and trauma. Do you want to improve how you face challenges, function in your relationships, and face overwhelming feelings? I place heavy importance on addressing trauma. Trauma disintegrates the parts that make up your whole self, which can leave aspects of who you are hidden from your awareness. Left unaddressed, anxiety and depression can worsen, which can rob you of the necessary connection that all human beings need to thrive. I aim to help you process unresolved trauma.
I have over 10 years of experience working with adults, couples, and families in various capacities.
Our life experiences can lead us to question our identity and purpose in the world we live in. This can lead us to anxiety, depression, and trauma. Do you want to improve how you face challenges, function in your relationships, and face overwhelming feelings? I place heavy importance on addressing trauma. Trauma disintegrates the parts that make up your whole self, which can leave aspects of who you are hidden from your awareness. Left unaddressed, anxiety and depression can worsen, which can rob you of the necessary connection that all human beings need to thrive. I aim to help you process unresolved trauma.
(949) 779-5462 View (949) 779-5462

See more therapy options for San Bernardino County

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.