Couples Counseling Therapists in Mira Mesa, San Diego, CA

Photo of Tracy Bevington - Pacific Marriage & Family Therapy Network, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Pacific Marriage & Family Therapy Network
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Mira Mesa, San Diego, CA 92126  (Online Only)
Our wide variety of specialties includes Depression, Anxiety, Eating Disorders, Addiction, Panic Attacks, Grief and Loss, Trauma, Child and Teen Behaviors, Family Issues, Couples, Divorce, Co-parenting, Communication, Dating, Life Transitions, LGBTQIA+, Racial/Ethnic Identity, and clinicians who are trained in EMDR, CBT, IFS, ERP, ACT, and Brain Spotting.
Pacific MFT Network is a group of highly skilled, diverse, and well-trained therapists. Our mission is to empower you to live the life you want. We do so by creating supportive, caring, and non-judgmental relationships with our clients. We work to provide you with the best care possible and reduce obstacles to participation. Additional benefits to working with us include a unique concierge billing service and a wide range of scheduling options (all weekdays, weekends, day and evening appointments are available). We work with children, teens, and adults of all ages.
Our wide variety of specialties includes Depression, Anxiety, Eating Disorders, Addiction, Panic Attacks, Grief and Loss, Trauma, Child and Teen Behaviors, Family Issues, Couples, Divorce, Co-parenting, Communication, Dating, Life Transitions, LGBTQIA+, Racial/Ethnic Identity, and clinicians who are trained in EMDR, CBT, IFS, ERP, ACT, and Brain Spotting.
Pacific MFT Network is a group of highly skilled, diverse, and well-trained therapists. Our mission is to empower you to live the life you want. We do so by creating supportive, caring, and non-judgmental relationships with our clients. We work to provide you with the best care possible and reduce obstacles to participation. Additional benefits to working with us include a unique concierge billing service and a wide range of scheduling options (all weekdays, weekends, day and evening appointments are available). We work with children, teens, and adults of all ages.
(858) 544-5537 View (858) 544-5537
Photo of Afarin Rajaei - The Relationship Institute, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
The Relationship Institute
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Mira Mesa, San Diego, CA 92126
At the Relationship Institute, we offer individual, couple, and family therapy to help you build stronger connections.
At the Relationship Institute, we know you may feel disconnected—whether within yourself, with a partner, or in your family. Perhaps you’re navigating transitions, relationship conflicts, or family stress, leaving you feeling isolated. You want to feel seen, valued, and connected in meaningful relationships. We’re here to support you on that journey. Together, we’ll work to build self-compassion, strengthen your bonds, and create harmony in your relationships. You don’t have to do this alone; let’s nurture the connections that matter most to you.
At the Relationship Institute, we offer individual, couple, and family therapy to help you build stronger connections.
At the Relationship Institute, we know you may feel disconnected—whether within yourself, with a partner, or in your family. Perhaps you’re navigating transitions, relationship conflicts, or family stress, leaving you feeling isolated. You want to feel seen, valued, and connected in meaningful relationships. We’re here to support you on that journey. Together, we’ll work to build self-compassion, strengthen your bonds, and create harmony in your relationships. You don’t have to do this alone; let’s nurture the connections that matter most to you.
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Photo of Angele Suarez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Angele Suarez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mira Mesa, San Diego, CA 92126
Hello, my name is Angele Suarez, and I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 22 years of experience. I believe if I can help one person become the best version of themselves, then this will directly impact the other relationships in their lives. Through empowerment and support, the adults I work with will be able to model healthy communication and respect towards others (i.e., their children, family members, friends, colleagues, etc.), thus creating a domino effect. I enjoy working with adults and couples who are struggling with relationship issues, past childhood trauma, and parenting challenges.
Hello, my name is Angele Suarez, and I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 22 years of experience. I believe if I can help one person become the best version of themselves, then this will directly impact the other relationships in their lives. Through empowerment and support, the adults I work with will be able to model healthy communication and respect towards others (i.e., their children, family members, friends, colleagues, etc.), thus creating a domino effect. I enjoy working with adults and couples who are struggling with relationship issues, past childhood trauma, and parenting challenges.
(858) 723-0161 View (858) 723-0161
Photo of Tracy Wutzke, PsyD, Psychologist
Tracy Wutzke
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Mira Mesa, San Diego, CA 92126
I specialize in counseling couples, adults, and adolescents.
Come enjoy the process of growth through therapy and become happier and more fulfilled. Life brings many unexpected blessings and challenges. We all love to cherish and celebrate the blessings. But what do you do when your relationship is rocky? How do you grieve the loss of a relationship or a loved one? How do you manage a disrespectful teenager? How do you find solutions for workplace challenges? How do you move from feeling isolated and misunderstood to feeling connected and loved? Seeking help when needed demonstrates strength and courage.
I specialize in counseling couples, adults, and adolescents.
Come enjoy the process of growth through therapy and become happier and more fulfilled. Life brings many unexpected blessings and challenges. We all love to cherish and celebrate the blessings. But what do you do when your relationship is rocky? How do you grieve the loss of a relationship or a loved one? How do you manage a disrespectful teenager? How do you find solutions for workplace challenges? How do you move from feeling isolated and misunderstood to feeling connected and loved? Seeking help when needed demonstrates strength and courage.
(858) 298-3663 View (858) 298-3663
Photo of Maren Jorgensen, LMFT, CST, Marriage & Family Therapist
Maren Jorgensen
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CST
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Mira Mesa, San Diego, CA 92126  (Online Only)
I specialize in individual and couples/ relationship therapy.
Receiving therapy should no longer be a taboo. Confiding in others and receiving professional help is something we all do in many facets of our life. Most of us see a doctor or go get our car fixed when we have issues with our physical health or a tire is loose, so why not see a therapist to help improve our mental health? Therapy can also be preventative. Why wait before issues feel too far out of reach?
I specialize in individual and couples/ relationship therapy.
Receiving therapy should no longer be a taboo. Confiding in others and receiving professional help is something we all do in many facets of our life. Most of us see a doctor or go get our car fixed when we have issues with our physical health or a tire is loose, so why not see a therapist to help improve our mental health? Therapy can also be preventative. Why wait before issues feel too far out of reach?
(858) 221-6961 View (858) 221-6961
Photo of Maxwell Trzcinski, PhD , Psychologist
Maxwell Trzcinski
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Mira Mesa, San Diego, CA 92126
My approach to therapy is informed by my belief that we discover who we are in relationship.
Considering therapy is difficult and reaching out to a therapist requires courage. Whether you are beginning to look for a therapist or if you are ready to initiate an initial conversation, I respect your willingness to consider something new, to ask for help, to prioritize your needs, and or to pursue growth. My practice is focused on assisting those feeling held back, burnt out, stuck, scared, frustrated, overwhelmed, and insufficient to move toward a life of vitality, connection, peace, health, and flexibility.
My approach to therapy is informed by my belief that we discover who we are in relationship.
Considering therapy is difficult and reaching out to a therapist requires courage. Whether you are beginning to look for a therapist or if you are ready to initiate an initial conversation, I respect your willingness to consider something new, to ask for help, to prioritize your needs, and or to pursue growth. My practice is focused on assisting those feeling held back, burnt out, stuck, scared, frustrated, overwhelmed, and insufficient to move toward a life of vitality, connection, peace, health, and flexibility.
(858) 746-7724 View (858) 746-7724
Photo of Nadine La Fleur, CP, Psychologist
Nadine La Fleur
Psychologist, CP
Verified Verified
Mira Mesa, San Diego, CA 92126
Once I feel that we have a collaborative relationship I like to discuss what and how their goals might be reached in a timely manner.
Hi there, I'm Nadine! The atmosphere I provide is warm and trusting without judgement. I allow the client to tell me their story without interruption. If I feel they need more help or direction it is provided. The helping professional has always allured. It felt like a natural and nice way to spend one's time in a career. There was also a desire to find out more about myself and what drives my own behavior. In addition, there was also a need to improve myself and be a compassionate and understanding human being.
Once I feel that we have a collaborative relationship I like to discuss what and how their goals might be reached in a timely manner.
Hi there, I'm Nadine! The atmosphere I provide is warm and trusting without judgement. I allow the client to tell me their story without interruption. If I feel they need more help or direction it is provided. The helping professional has always allured. It felt like a natural and nice way to spend one's time in a career. There was also a desire to find out more about myself and what drives my own behavior. In addition, there was also a need to improve myself and be a compassionate and understanding human being.
(858) 683-0811 View (858) 683-0811
Photo of Ellen M Greenfield, PhD, Psychologist
Ellen M Greenfield
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Mira Mesa, San Diego, CA 92126
My primary goal in working with individuals, couples, and families is to help you achieve your full potential and lead a life in the present that is fulfilling and meaningful. We achieve this through a structured, non-confrontational approach where together, we will search for patterns in your life that are causing you difficulties. I am a cognitive-behavioral therapist with 15 years experience in private practice. My office is conveniently located just west of the 15 freeway and Miramar Road. For more detailed information about my services, please visit my website at Cognitivebehaviortherapy.net
My primary goal in working with individuals, couples, and families is to help you achieve your full potential and lead a life in the present that is fulfilling and meaningful. We achieve this through a structured, non-confrontational approach where together, we will search for patterns in your life that are causing you difficulties. I am a cognitive-behavioral therapist with 15 years experience in private practice. My office is conveniently located just west of the 15 freeway and Miramar Road. For more detailed information about my services, please visit my website at Cognitivebehaviortherapy.net
(619) 822-1692 View (619) 822-1692
Photo of Kendra Hadley, LCPC
Kendra Hadley
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Mira Mesa, San Diego, CA 92126
I provide trauma-informed mental health services to people of all ages and demographics and specialize in couples counseling for those in monogamous and non-monogamous partnerships.
Hi, there! My name is Kendra Hadley, and I am a licensed professional clinical counselor in the state of California (LPCC 14503). My areas of expertise are addiction, mental health, trauma, and couples counseling. I utilize a variety of therapeutic modalities and interventions to help people become the best possible versions of themselves. I work primarily with a culturally diverse population of young adults who struggle with a variety of habits and hang-ups, i.e. drug and alcohol addiction, process addiction (i.e. sex, gaming, etc.), and more.
I provide trauma-informed mental health services to people of all ages and demographics and specialize in couples counseling for those in monogamous and non-monogamous partnerships.
Hi, there! My name is Kendra Hadley, and I am a licensed professional clinical counselor in the state of California (LPCC 14503). My areas of expertise are addiction, mental health, trauma, and couples counseling. I utilize a variety of therapeutic modalities and interventions to help people become the best possible versions of themselves. I work primarily with a culturally diverse population of young adults who struggle with a variety of habits and hang-ups, i.e. drug and alcohol addiction, process addiction (i.e. sex, gaming, etc.), and more.
(858) 381-9751 View (858) 381-9751
Photo of Cynthia Haynes, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cynthia Haynes
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Mira Mesa, San Diego, CA 92126
Hi, my name is Cynthia Haynes, LMFT. I provide individual, couples, and family therapy. I provide telehealth services at this time using Zoom App. I mostly practice psychoanalysis with an emphasis on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I work with individuals ages 12 and up. I treat anxiety, depression, PTSD, anger management, and matrimonial challenges to name a few. Most clients enjoy my therapeutic approach and continue on with therapy even after the original challenges have been resolved. I love working with people and helping people. God has blessed with a beautiful talent.
Hi, my name is Cynthia Haynes, LMFT. I provide individual, couples, and family therapy. I provide telehealth services at this time using Zoom App. I mostly practice psychoanalysis with an emphasis on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I work with individuals ages 12 and up. I treat anxiety, depression, PTSD, anger management, and matrimonial challenges to name a few. Most clients enjoy my therapeutic approach and continue on with therapy even after the original challenges have been resolved. I love working with people and helping people. God has blessed with a beautiful talent.
(858) 465-4539 View (858) 465-4539
Photo of Jaina Sarkisyan, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jaina Sarkisyan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mira Mesa, San Diego, CA 92126
We may not be responsible for the world that created our mind, but we may take responsibility for the mind which we create our world as Dr Gabor Mate states. Let me help you heal through this journey. Jaina is an experienced licensed clinician with 18 years of experience providing exceptional clinical care to adults, adolescents, couples and families. Jaina has experience working with all individuals & military, law enforcement, veterans and their families. Jaina sees people from all backgrounds. Issues addressed but not limited to polyamory, anxiety, depression, addiction, emotional disturbances, trauma, addiction and codependency.
We may not be responsible for the world that created our mind, but we may take responsibility for the mind which we create our world as Dr Gabor Mate states. Let me help you heal through this journey. Jaina is an experienced licensed clinician with 18 years of experience providing exceptional clinical care to adults, adolescents, couples and families. Jaina has experience working with all individuals & military, law enforcement, veterans and their families. Jaina sees people from all backgrounds. Issues addressed but not limited to polyamory, anxiety, depression, addiction, emotional disturbances, trauma, addiction and codependency.
(858) 227-6212 View (858) 227-6212
Photo of Negar Nazari, PhD, Psychologist
Negar Nazari
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Mira Mesa, San Diego, CA 92126  (Online Only)
I help individuals and couples experiencing infertility, coping with pregnancy loss, single parents by choice, considering third-party reproduction or adoption, egg/sperm donor, LGBT family building, or choosing to live child-free.
We have immediate telehealth availability! Contemplating therapy is a courageous first step and I admire your decision to seek help. Perhaps you have been overworked, feeling stressed, worried, and struggling to keep it all together. I will meet you as you are and create a safe space to explore your unique inner world. Together we can identify your strengths, change old patterns, increase self-compassion, strengthen coping skills, enhance relationships, and make life much more meaningful. I provide an environment that is non-judgmental, utilizing a caring and collaborative approach to help you feel heard, supported, and empowered.
I help individuals and couples experiencing infertility, coping with pregnancy loss, single parents by choice, considering third-party reproduction or adoption, egg/sperm donor, LGBT family building, or choosing to live child-free.
We have immediate telehealth availability! Contemplating therapy is a courageous first step and I admire your decision to seek help. Perhaps you have been overworked, feeling stressed, worried, and struggling to keep it all together. I will meet you as you are and create a safe space to explore your unique inner world. Together we can identify your strengths, change old patterns, increase self-compassion, strengthen coping skills, enhance relationships, and make life much more meaningful. I provide an environment that is non-judgmental, utilizing a caring and collaborative approach to help you feel heard, supported, and empowered.
(619) 391-0174 View (619) 391-0174
Photo of Candi Kizer - Intuitive Therapy with Candi Kizer, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Intuitive Therapy with Candi Kizer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mira Mesa, San Diego, CA 92126  (Online Only)
I am a licensed therapist who is trauma informed and culturally aware. I am caring and supportive and always strive to help my clients through a strength-based lens. I focus on ensuring that individuals feel safe to discover their true selves, develop resilience and can navigate their futures in healthy and optimistic ways. As a veteran of the US Army I have worked with a vast array of populations. My life experiences, education and training have made me the ideal therapist for individuals, couples, families, active duty, veterans and their dependents.
I am a licensed therapist who is trauma informed and culturally aware. I am caring and supportive and always strive to help my clients through a strength-based lens. I focus on ensuring that individuals feel safe to discover their true selves, develop resilience and can navigate their futures in healthy and optimistic ways. As a veteran of the US Army I have worked with a vast array of populations. My life experiences, education and training have made me the ideal therapist for individuals, couples, families, active duty, veterans and their dependents.
(858) 463-4369 View (858) 463-4369
Photo of Jessica Schumacher, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Schumacher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mira Mesa, San Diego, CA 92126  (Online Only)
From incarcerated persons, unhoused individuals, medical patients, end-of-life care, youth, families, and couples.
Hello, my name is Jessica Schumacher. I am a dedicated LCSW with 5 years of experience. I specialize in supporting individuals and families through challenging times. I am passionate about advocating for social justice and empowering clients to achieve personal and social goals.
From incarcerated persons, unhoused individuals, medical patients, end-of-life care, youth, families, and couples.
Hello, my name is Jessica Schumacher. I am a dedicated LCSW with 5 years of experience. I specialize in supporting individuals and families through challenging times. I am passionate about advocating for social justice and empowering clients to achieve personal and social goals.
(951) 916-1554 View (951) 916-1554
Photo of Page Lauer, MFT, CEDS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Page Lauer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, CEDS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mira Mesa, San Diego, CA 92126  (Online Only)
I'd love to work with you - together let's transform what's before you! I partner with clients in building internal meaning and substance that translates outwardly into day to day life and relationships.
HELLO and WELCOME! I hope to meet you soon and be of REAL help. I've been working with individuals and couples for over 20 years, and after all this time, remain incredibly passionate about offering expert therapy that transforms lives. Beginning therapy is very brave. To partner with you, I bring years of skill, insight, personal experience...and a presence that hears and sees where you are and what you desire. For me this isn't just work, it is a powerful partnership in true transformation where it matters most. Therapists are different, please contact me so I can support you!
I'd love to work with you - together let's transform what's before you! I partner with clients in building internal meaning and substance that translates outwardly into day to day life and relationships.
HELLO and WELCOME! I hope to meet you soon and be of REAL help. I've been working with individuals and couples for over 20 years, and after all this time, remain incredibly passionate about offering expert therapy that transforms lives. Beginning therapy is very brave. To partner with you, I bring years of skill, insight, personal experience...and a presence that hears and sees where you are and what you desire. For me this isn't just work, it is a powerful partnership in true transformation where it matters most. Therapists are different, please contact me so I can support you!
(442) 291-7104 View (442) 291-7104
Photo of Annette Pfister, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Annette Pfister
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Mira Mesa, San Diego, CA 92126
Whether you are struggling with a major life transition, trauma, relationship difficulty, or simply general unhappiness, together, we can achieve a richer understanding of your path and the behavioral patterns that may be impeding your personal growth.
My passion is helping people affect real positive change, harnessing already-held wisdom and unlocking their more profound capacities for self-actualizing, healing, and connecting with the true inner self. Using a collaborative and supportive approach, I honor the diversity among human beings and experiences. I believe that a caring and respectful therapeutic relationship is the foundation for positive and enduring change.
Whether you are struggling with a major life transition, trauma, relationship difficulty, or simply general unhappiness, together, we can achieve a richer understanding of your path and the behavioral patterns that may be impeding your personal growth.
My passion is helping people affect real positive change, harnessing already-held wisdom and unlocking their more profound capacities for self-actualizing, healing, and connecting with the true inner self. Using a collaborative and supportive approach, I honor the diversity among human beings and experiences. I believe that a caring and respectful therapeutic relationship is the foundation for positive and enduring change.
(909) 351-5830 View (909) 351-5830
Photo of Irwin Ford Rosenfarb, PhD, Psychologist
Irwin Ford Rosenfarb
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Mira Mesa, San Diego, CA 92126
Hello and welcome. I offer psychotherapy for adults, couples, families, and teens dealing with relationship difficulties, depression and anxiety, bipolar disorder, personality issues, schizophrenia, and other mental health problems. I also help family members understand their loved one's difficulties and help couples and families communicate more effectively. I believe that change occurs within the context of a positive therapeutic relationship and my focus is on creating a caring, compassionate, and sensitive space where individuals, couples, and families can make significant change in their lives.
Hello and welcome. I offer psychotherapy for adults, couples, families, and teens dealing with relationship difficulties, depression and anxiety, bipolar disorder, personality issues, schizophrenia, and other mental health problems. I also help family members understand their loved one's difficulties and help couples and families communicate more effectively. I believe that change occurs within the context of a positive therapeutic relationship and my focus is on creating a caring, compassionate, and sensitive space where individuals, couples, and families can make significant change in their lives.
(858) 943-4693 View (858) 943-4693
Photo of Baya L Mebarek, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Baya L Mebarek
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Mira Mesa, San Diego, CA 92126
I specialize in helping singles, couples, and families dealing with communication, conflicts and other relational challenges.
I can help you learn to develop and sustain the relationship you have always wanted, re-discover the love that brought you together, heal the wounds that have severed your bond re-build the trust and intimacy, communicate honestly and respectfully, handle and resolve conflicts in a way that brings you closer to one another, and build shared meaning, and purpose for you and your family. Although challenging at times, making the decision to enter into therapy may help you move beyond your relationship pain and challenges and help you live your life more confidently, more passionately and more fully.
I specialize in helping singles, couples, and families dealing with communication, conflicts and other relational challenges.
I can help you learn to develop and sustain the relationship you have always wanted, re-discover the love that brought you together, heal the wounds that have severed your bond re-build the trust and intimacy, communicate honestly and respectfully, handle and resolve conflicts in a way that brings you closer to one another, and build shared meaning, and purpose for you and your family. Although challenging at times, making the decision to enter into therapy may help you move beyond your relationship pain and challenges and help you live your life more confidently, more passionately and more fully.
(858) 905-5966 View (858) 905-5966
Photo of Dr. Marcia Garceau, PhD, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Marcia Garceau
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MFT
Verified Verified
Mira Mesa, San Diego, CA 92126  (Online Only)
Certified Cognitive Behavioral Therapist, PhD, LMFT with over 16 years of clinical experience helping individuals and couples acquire strategies and tools to overcome issues/disorders that interfere with functioning and enjoying life. Key areas of expertise include OCD as well as anything on the anxiety spectrum including general anxiety, social anxiety, panic, PTSD, phobias. Also work extensively with depression, relationship and adult attachment problems, other self-sabotaging behaviors, positive aging, career and life transitions, grief, and parenting/family issues.
Certified Cognitive Behavioral Therapist, PhD, LMFT with over 16 years of clinical experience helping individuals and couples acquire strategies and tools to overcome issues/disorders that interfere with functioning and enjoying life. Key areas of expertise include OCD as well as anything on the anxiety spectrum including general anxiety, social anxiety, panic, PTSD, phobias. Also work extensively with depression, relationship and adult attachment problems, other self-sabotaging behaviors, positive aging, career and life transitions, grief, and parenting/family issues.
(858) 281-2734 View (858) 281-2734
Photo of Brynn Spiegel - Brynn Spiegel, LMFT, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Brynn Spiegel, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Mira Mesa, San Diego, CA 92126  (Online Only)
Do you get frustrated when you just can't let go of things that happened in the past? Are you realizing that the "stories" you keep telling yourself are getting in the way of finding happiness in your life? Are you stuck in a relationship that is just not working? Or are you a couple who is looking for help to break through long-standing blocks that have challenged the love you felt for each other when you first got together? Working with a compassionate therapist who understands how to help you let go of the past can dramatically change your life.
Do you get frustrated when you just can't let go of things that happened in the past? Are you realizing that the "stories" you keep telling yourself are getting in the way of finding happiness in your life? Are you stuck in a relationship that is just not working? Or are you a couple who is looking for help to break through long-standing blocks that have challenged the love you felt for each other when you first got together? Working with a compassionate therapist who understands how to help you let go of the past can dramatically change your life.
(858) 367-0969 View (858) 367-0969
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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.