Couples Counseling Therapists in San Diego, CA

Photo of Tiffany Lin Lasky, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tiffany Lin Lasky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92101
Is there an aspect of your career, relationships, or identity that needs sorting out? Are you struggling to make decisions as you prepare to take the next step in your life? Maybe you are feeling anxious or depressed and having difficulty managing stress. I'm here to help. I currently specialize in working with individuals and couples who have struggles with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, difficulty managing stress, life adjustment, trauma, grief and loss, and familial conflict. I utilize a trauma-informed, culturally sensitive approach to help you in your journey toward growth and healing.
Is there an aspect of your career, relationships, or identity that needs sorting out? Are you struggling to make decisions as you prepare to take the next step in your life? Maybe you are feeling anxious or depressed and having difficulty managing stress. I'm here to help. I currently specialize in working with individuals and couples who have struggles with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, difficulty managing stress, life adjustment, trauma, grief and loss, and familial conflict. I utilize a trauma-informed, culturally sensitive approach to help you in your journey toward growth and healing.
(619) 374-3408 View (619) 374-3408
Photo of Tanya Ridaura-Valdez - Tanya Ridaura, LPCC, NCC | Bloom Family Therapy, LPCC, NCC
Tanya Ridaura, LPCC, NCC | Bloom Family Therapy
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108  (Online Only)
I am a bilingual Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor who is passionate about joining you through this new journey into your best self. I truly believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship and working together to overcome your challenges. My approach is tailored to help you regain control of your life and empower you to connect to your authentic self.
I am a bilingual Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor who is passionate about joining you through this new journey into your best self. I truly believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship and working together to overcome your challenges. My approach is tailored to help you regain control of your life and empower you to connect to your authentic self.
(619) 489-9334 View (619) 489-9334
Photo of Emily Essid, PsyD, Psychologist
Emily Essid
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92129  (Online Only)
I'm a compassionate psychologist specializing in individual and couples therapy for adults, with expertise in infertility and maternal mental health. Tailoring my approach to each person's journey, I draw from Psychodynamic Theory to guide clients toward healing and growth. I create a space of trust and acceptance, offering empathy and gentle support through challenges. My expertise includes depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship dynamics, and identity exploration. I'm fluent in French, embrace diversity, and invite individuals and couples to join me in a journey of self-discovery and healing.
I'm a compassionate psychologist specializing in individual and couples therapy for adults, with expertise in infertility and maternal mental health. Tailoring my approach to each person's journey, I draw from Psychodynamic Theory to guide clients toward healing and growth. I create a space of trust and acceptance, offering empathy and gentle support through challenges. My expertise includes depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship dynamics, and identity exploration. I'm fluent in French, embrace diversity, and invite individuals and couples to join me in a journey of self-discovery and healing.
(858) 567-1780 View (858) 567-1780
Photo of Tamara Sharifov, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tamara Sharifov
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92103
The therapeutic relationship is vital when embarking on this journey of opening and courageously facing some of our deepest pains. My process involves assisting you in locating your wisdom, and helping generate a life full of meaning and acceptance - while honoring your unique story. It also is important to respect and integrate the intersectionality of your identity during this process. I know how important feeling recognized, seen, and heard can be. Whether needing to process trauma, life-transitions, anxiety or depression, how to develop better boundaries, concerns regarding sexuality and gender, relationship concerns, and more.
The therapeutic relationship is vital when embarking on this journey of opening and courageously facing some of our deepest pains. My process involves assisting you in locating your wisdom, and helping generate a life full of meaning and acceptance - while honoring your unique story. It also is important to respect and integrate the intersectionality of your identity during this process. I know how important feeling recognized, seen, and heard can be. Whether needing to process trauma, life-transitions, anxiety or depression, how to develop better boundaries, concerns regarding sexuality and gender, relationship concerns, and more.
(760) 309-6306 View (760) 309-6306
Photo of Deborah Craig, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Deborah Craig
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108
As an Individual, Couples, and Family Therapist, I address personal, relational, and professional concerns as well as the physical and emotional issues that influence health and well-being.
Everyone needs a safe place and an open non-judgmental environment to express needs, work through issues, and be validated as an individual. Relationships, personal and professional, can define us, support us, overwhelm us, and/or give meaning to our lives. A therapy session is a gift we give ourselves, one of the few times we have permission to elevate our own needs and, in so doing, heal ourselves.
As an Individual, Couples, and Family Therapist, I address personal, relational, and professional concerns as well as the physical and emotional issues that influence health and well-being.
Everyone needs a safe place and an open non-judgmental environment to express needs, work through issues, and be validated as an individual. Relationships, personal and professional, can define us, support us, overwhelm us, and/or give meaning to our lives. A therapy session is a gift we give ourselves, one of the few times we have permission to elevate our own needs and, in so doing, heal ourselves.
(619) 486-9857 View (619) 486-9857
Photo of Jacqueline Bonelli Smith, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jacqueline Bonelli Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108
Welcome! My name is Jacque Smith, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist working in the mental health field for over 25 years. I offer in-person and on-line psychotherapy for individuals and couples. My goal is to help people develop sustainable coping skills to deal with a variety of issues. You will learn so much more about my practice by visiting me at www.sdpsychotherapist.com
Welcome! My name is Jacque Smith, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist working in the mental health field for over 25 years. I offer in-person and on-line psychotherapy for individuals and couples. My goal is to help people develop sustainable coping skills to deal with a variety of issues. You will learn so much more about my practice by visiting me at www.sdpsychotherapist.com
(619) 378-7111 View (619) 378-7111
Photo of June Cabales, MS, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
June Cabales
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92103  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Together, we can be in better understanding of how you've come to story your life - challenging the limiting influence of messages that sound like "what should be" and "what's supposed to be" - and come into more preferred ways of being. I am guided to support you through sex and gender issues, identity development across different contexts like age and culture, relationship problems, and life transitions by my own experiences in the identities I hold as a queer, 1st generation Filipino-American as well as my training and values as a therapist. We may encounter difficult moments together, but I'll be with you every step of the way!
Together, we can be in better understanding of how you've come to story your life - challenging the limiting influence of messages that sound like "what should be" and "what's supposed to be" - and come into more preferred ways of being. I am guided to support you through sex and gender issues, identity development across different contexts like age and culture, relationship problems, and life transitions by my own experiences in the identities I hold as a queer, 1st generation Filipino-American as well as my training and values as a therapist. We may encounter difficult moments together, but I'll be with you every step of the way!
(619) 344-9634 View (619) 344-9634
Photo of Heather Glover, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Heather Glover
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92106
I specialize in treating binge eating and compulsive overeating by exploring triggers, relationship with food, body image, coping skills, and emotional needs.
If you're ready for change, or contemplating change, I'm ready to help you achieve it! Together, we can take your biggest challenges and use them as opportunities to thrive. My focus is providing support to individuals, couples, and families in need of healing and positive change. I will provide a compassionate and comfortable space to help you manage and resolve life challenges including binge eating/compulsive overeating, stress, low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, weathering change, anger management, and conflict in relationships!
I specialize in treating binge eating and compulsive overeating by exploring triggers, relationship with food, body image, coping skills, and emotional needs.
If you're ready for change, or contemplating change, I'm ready to help you achieve it! Together, we can take your biggest challenges and use them as opportunities to thrive. My focus is providing support to individuals, couples, and families in need of healing and positive change. I will provide a compassionate and comfortable space to help you manage and resolve life challenges including binge eating/compulsive overeating, stress, low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, weathering change, anger management, and conflict in relationships!
(858) 309-4632 View (858) 309-4632
Photo of Lisa Marie Anzaldua - Relationship Healing Intensives, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Relationship Healing Intensives
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92122
Waitlist for new clients
Relationship Healing Intensives 2 days (6 hrs. /day) in-person offer a dynamic and efficient process gracefully and safely gets to the roots, resolves issues effectively, and empowers couples. This is for couples who need immediate results. Who are experiencing any of the following - Stuck in destructive cycles (continually repeating harmful interactions and conflicts without resolution). Facing a crisis. Dealing with infidelity or betrayal of any sort. Other major relationship upheavals. On the brink of separation. Experiencing emotional disconnection. Recovering from trauma (past experiences that are impacting your relationship).
Relationship Healing Intensives 2 days (6 hrs. /day) in-person offer a dynamic and efficient process gracefully and safely gets to the roots, resolves issues effectively, and empowers couples. This is for couples who need immediate results. Who are experiencing any of the following - Stuck in destructive cycles (continually repeating harmful interactions and conflicts without resolution). Facing a crisis. Dealing with infidelity or betrayal of any sort. Other major relationship upheavals. On the brink of separation. Experiencing emotional disconnection. Recovering from trauma (past experiences that are impacting your relationship).
(858) 682-1477 View (858) 682-1477
Photo of Kelly Ahearn, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kelly Ahearn
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108
I specialize working with individuals, couples, and families with advanced training in Emotional Focused Therapy, Brainspotting, and certified in Self Meaning Based Therapy.
Sometimes it's just not easy and we get stuck repeating the same cycles because it's familiar but not helpful. Coping skills learned to survive in the past worked then but most likely are not helpful to you now which can be a great cause of you feeling anxious, depressed, stressed, or struggling with managing it all. I promise you are not alone. Discomforts stem from your early learned beliefs and experiences that are present today. The most effective therapy that produces lasting results is through an honest and comfortable relationship between you and the therapist. Let's see if together we can be the best team moving you forward!
I specialize working with individuals, couples, and families with advanced training in Emotional Focused Therapy, Brainspotting, and certified in Self Meaning Based Therapy.
Sometimes it's just not easy and we get stuck repeating the same cycles because it's familiar but not helpful. Coping skills learned to survive in the past worked then but most likely are not helpful to you now which can be a great cause of you feeling anxious, depressed, stressed, or struggling with managing it all. I promise you are not alone. Discomforts stem from your early learned beliefs and experiences that are present today. The most effective therapy that produces lasting results is through an honest and comfortable relationship between you and the therapist. Let's see if together we can be the best team moving you forward!
(858) 381-4700 View (858) 381-4700
Photo of Kevin Fawcett, PhD, Psychologist
Kevin Fawcett
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108
The quality of the therapeutic relationship is strongly correlated to the success of therapy.
I applaud your willingness to take this first and courageous step. Making the decision to begin therapy can be extremely difficult but the result can be highly rewarding--and life changing. I provide therapy services for adolescents, adults, couples, and families struggling with depression, anxiety, stress, and many other life or relationship problems. Though I enjoy working with individuals of all ages, I have developed a passion and distinctive skill set for working with the college-aged/young adult population and their unique issues, finding that the work I am doing has not only been highly effective but also rewarding.
The quality of the therapeutic relationship is strongly correlated to the success of therapy.
I applaud your willingness to take this first and courageous step. Making the decision to begin therapy can be extremely difficult but the result can be highly rewarding--and life changing. I provide therapy services for adolescents, adults, couples, and families struggling with depression, anxiety, stress, and many other life or relationship problems. Though I enjoy working with individuals of all ages, I have developed a passion and distinctive skill set for working with the college-aged/young adult population and their unique issues, finding that the work I am doing has not only been highly effective but also rewarding.
(619) 722-3233 View (619) 722-3233
Photo of Susan Berzon, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Susan Berzon
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92109
As a psychodynamic therapist, I work with individuals, couples, and families with varying issues and goals. Certified in EMDR, I specialize in trauma assessment on the premise of shame within the human condition. Through a holistic practice, I use evidence-based treatments such as Attachment style, CBT, Narrative, Solution Focused, and Strengths-based therapy with experience in clinical settings such as partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient, substance rehabilitation, and schools.
As a psychodynamic therapist, I work with individuals, couples, and families with varying issues and goals. Certified in EMDR, I specialize in trauma assessment on the premise of shame within the human condition. Through a holistic practice, I use evidence-based treatments such as Attachment style, CBT, Narrative, Solution Focused, and Strengths-based therapy with experience in clinical settings such as partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient, substance rehabilitation, and schools.
(619) 848-0970 View (619) 848-0970
Photo of Shoma Rao, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Shoma Rao
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92169  (Online Only)
Starting and staying in therapy can be intimidating! It doesn’t have to be that way. I enjoy using humor and just being a fellow human with my clients while we navigate the path of mental health together. Having a session with me is like talking to an old friend. I strongly believe that the connection between the therapist and yourself is the most crucial aspect of a successful therapeutic relationship. I treat adults 18 and over in our lovely state of California via telehealth (video) who are dealing with anxiety, boundary issues and difficult relationship and family dynamics along with career strategizing and coaching.
Starting and staying in therapy can be intimidating! It doesn’t have to be that way. I enjoy using humor and just being a fellow human with my clients while we navigate the path of mental health together. Having a session with me is like talking to an old friend. I strongly believe that the connection between the therapist and yourself is the most crucial aspect of a successful therapeutic relationship. I treat adults 18 and over in our lovely state of California via telehealth (video) who are dealing with anxiety, boundary issues and difficult relationship and family dynamics along with career strategizing and coaching.
(619) 486-5408 View (619) 486-5408
Photo of Kacey Truong, ASW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kacey Truong
Pre-Licensed Professional, ASW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92103
Do you struggle with anxiety and depression due to your childhood trauma? Are you having problems with your partner or family members due to life transition issues? Are you experiencing increased stress, fears, and doubts around the future? I believe that we all have the capacity to heal our emotional wounds and create meaningful changes. My goal as a therapist is to offer you a safe place in which you can process insights, concerns, and emotions associated with trauma.
Do you struggle with anxiety and depression due to your childhood trauma? Are you having problems with your partner or family members due to life transition issues? Are you experiencing increased stress, fears, and doubts around the future? I believe that we all have the capacity to heal our emotional wounds and create meaningful changes. My goal as a therapist is to offer you a safe place in which you can process insights, concerns, and emotions associated with trauma.
(760) 263-6896 View (760) 263-6896
Photo of Dr. Chris Fragiskatos, PhD, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Chris Fragiskatos
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108
My newest offering is individual relationship counseling, which differs from relationship or couples counseling in that you, individually, have the opportunity to explore your relationship and assess the benefits and challenges it presents, and use those insights to determine the best way forward to improve and enhance its connection and intimacy.
COVID-19 UPDATE VIDEO: https://youtu.be/CKUV1dPRQS8. Have the arguments with your partner become more frequent? More intense? Do you feel that your relationship has lost its spark? Do you find yourself feeling emotionally alone, sad, unappreciated, or frequently let down? If you do, I want to assure you that it can get better. There is nothing to be gained by continuing in a frustrating or lackluster relationship. I have a system that quickly sorts out problem areas, and provides a road map for you and your partner to follow to get back on track and regain your prior emotional and physical intimacy. Please reach out today.
My newest offering is individual relationship counseling, which differs from relationship or couples counseling in that you, individually, have the opportunity to explore your relationship and assess the benefits and challenges it presents, and use those insights to determine the best way forward to improve and enhance its connection and intimacy.
COVID-19 UPDATE VIDEO: https://youtu.be/CKUV1dPRQS8. Have the arguments with your partner become more frequent? More intense? Do you feel that your relationship has lost its spark? Do you find yourself feeling emotionally alone, sad, unappreciated, or frequently let down? If you do, I want to assure you that it can get better. There is nothing to be gained by continuing in a frustrating or lackluster relationship. I have a system that quickly sorts out problem areas, and provides a road map for you and your partner to follow to get back on track and regain your prior emotional and physical intimacy. Please reach out today.
(619) 457-6736 View (619) 457-6736
Photo of Kathryn Christine Herrera - Kathryn Christine & Calm Connections-Mental Health, LPCC, MS, PPS, Counselor
Kathryn Christine & Calm Connections-Mental Health
Counselor, LPCC, MS, PPS
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92101  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) also certified to treat couples and families.
I AM CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS-My passion in life is to provide therapeutic counseling support and interventions for adults, adolescents, and children whom are experiencing difficulty in some area of their life. I have over 17 years of experience treating clients struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, trauma, self esteem, behavior/anger management, eating disorders, weight management and provide family and marriage therapy. I am currently providing tele-health services to provide support to clients throughout California! Please email or call if interested in making an appointment.
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) also certified to treat couples and families.
I AM CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS-My passion in life is to provide therapeutic counseling support and interventions for adults, adolescents, and children whom are experiencing difficulty in some area of their life. I have over 17 years of experience treating clients struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, trauma, self esteem, behavior/anger management, eating disorders, weight management and provide family and marriage therapy. I am currently providing tele-health services to provide support to clients throughout California! Please email or call if interested in making an appointment.
(760) 705-1801 View (760) 705-1801
Photo of Matthew Paul Paez, ASW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Matthew Paul Paez
Pre-Licensed Professional, ASW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92123
I specialize in trauma/PTSD, substance use, military, LEOs, self-defeating behaviors, anger mastery, family of origin issues, marriage/couples counseling, emotional stability, family counseling, parenting, rebuilding healthy relationships and behaviors.
Hello. I am Matthew Paez, ASW. I believe in providing evidenced based psychological treatments from a holistic and person-centered approach. After retiring from the Marine Corps, I graduated from USC and trained at the Naval Hospital Camp Pendleton. I like helping clients conquer difficulties with proven treatments that allow you to engage life with a peaceful mind, a healthy outlook, and joy. We'll learn how to stop white knuckling life's problems and proudly use new and effective techniques to engage our family, friends, and co-workers with. Call me for a free consult or I can help match you with one of our therapists.
I specialize in trauma/PTSD, substance use, military, LEOs, self-defeating behaviors, anger mastery, family of origin issues, marriage/couples counseling, emotional stability, family counseling, parenting, rebuilding healthy relationships and behaviors.
Hello. I am Matthew Paez, ASW. I believe in providing evidenced based psychological treatments from a holistic and person-centered approach. After retiring from the Marine Corps, I graduated from USC and trained at the Naval Hospital Camp Pendleton. I like helping clients conquer difficulties with proven treatments that allow you to engage life with a peaceful mind, a healthy outlook, and joy. We'll learn how to stop white knuckling life's problems and proudly use new and effective techniques to engage our family, friends, and co-workers with. Call me for a free consult or I can help match you with one of our therapists.
(619) 375-5063 View (619) 375-5063
Photo of Ian Witter, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ian Witter
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108
Relationships can be wonderful at the best of times, and downright painful at the worst of times. How well do you understand your reactions in these distressed moments? Your partner's? Do you feel out of control? Do you feel disconnected? These are just two ways that people can respond to relational distress. I can help you to slow down in these moments to help you express yourself in a way that is congruent, and most importantly, in a way that lets you be heard by your partner, family, co-workers, and yourself.
Relationships can be wonderful at the best of times, and downright painful at the worst of times. How well do you understand your reactions in these distressed moments? Your partner's? Do you feel out of control? Do you feel disconnected? These are just two ways that people can respond to relational distress. I can help you to slow down in these moments to help you express yourself in a way that is congruent, and most importantly, in a way that lets you be heard by your partner, family, co-workers, and yourself.
(619) 319-9749 View (619) 319-9749
Photo of Amanda Lance-Sexton, LMFT, ATR-BC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Amanda Lance-Sexton
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92163
Waitlist for new clients
I offer an attachment-based, family systems, whole person approach to wellness that embraces individuals across the lifespan. From children to tweens, adults, couples, and families, my goal is to create a warm and inviting space where healing and growth can flourish. Drawing from attachment theory, my therapeutic approach includes exploring the importance of early relationships and how they shape our well-being. I specialize in working with life transitions, anxiety, depression, relationships, and parenting.
I offer an attachment-based, family systems, whole person approach to wellness that embraces individuals across the lifespan. From children to tweens, adults, couples, and families, my goal is to create a warm and inviting space where healing and growth can flourish. Drawing from attachment theory, my therapeutic approach includes exploring the importance of early relationships and how they shape our well-being. I specialize in working with life transitions, anxiety, depression, relationships, and parenting.
(619) 344-8532 View (619) 344-8532
Photo of Ran Ren, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ran Ren
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92114
My name is Rena, a licensed clinical therapist. I am a multicultural client-centered therapist fluent in English and Mandarin who has worked in the mental health field for 7 years. I have worked with adults, seniors, children, families, and veterans, and have helped people with depression, anxiety, life coaching, behavioral issues, coping skills, divorce, relationship issues, trauma, PTSD, women's issues, and more. I tailor my approach based on individual needs. My goal is to equip you with a set of tools to increase self-awareness, face difficult emotions, develop healthy relationships and make more mindful choices.
My name is Rena, a licensed clinical therapist. I am a multicultural client-centered therapist fluent in English and Mandarin who has worked in the mental health field for 7 years. I have worked with adults, seniors, children, families, and veterans, and have helped people with depression, anxiety, life coaching, behavioral issues, coping skills, divorce, relationship issues, trauma, PTSD, women's issues, and more. I tailor my approach based on individual needs. My goal is to equip you with a set of tools to increase self-awareness, face difficult emotions, develop healthy relationships and make more mindful choices.
(619) 489-6265 View (619) 489-6265
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.