Couples Counseling Therapists in Simi Valley, CA

Photo of Elizabeth Hope Sorenson, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Elizabeth Hope Sorenson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Simi Valley, CA 93065  (Online Only)
This consultation is meant to help you, you and your partner/s, or you and your family to feel safe and welcomed into this process.
I am committed to guiding my clients through barriers that hinder or impede upon thier inner peace. Trauma-informed treatment aims to equip the client with an experience that increases their ability to trust themselves, others, and the world around them. I am EMDR Certified and DBT Trained. These modalities compliment the therapeutic alliance and are aimed at outcomes that work to see, affirm, and celebrate you as a whole person. You deserve to experience life without carrying all of the weight of what has happened to you. I look forward to working together to find, explore, and safeguard what makes life meaningful to you.
This consultation is meant to help you, you and your partner/s, or you and your family to feel safe and welcomed into this process.
I am committed to guiding my clients through barriers that hinder or impede upon thier inner peace. Trauma-informed treatment aims to equip the client with an experience that increases their ability to trust themselves, others, and the world around them. I am EMDR Certified and DBT Trained. These modalities compliment the therapeutic alliance and are aimed at outcomes that work to see, affirm, and celebrate you as a whole person. You deserve to experience life without carrying all of the weight of what has happened to you. I look forward to working together to find, explore, and safeguard what makes life meaningful to you.
(661) 215-8212 View (661) 215-8212
Delphine DeMore
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Simi Valley, CA 93063  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Couples therapy,depression and anxiety as well as growth and development are part of my expertise.
I am a pragmatic, direct person and I am particularly good at cutting through the clutter and coming to the point. In addition,I have a warm and comforting presence which makes most people feel at home easily. After 30 years of treating people, I make it easier to address the painful things that get in the way of making life meaningful and important. In addition, I study the most updated research on the brain and how it functions, making my approach efficient as well as helpful quickly.
Couples therapy,depression and anxiety as well as growth and development are part of my expertise.
I am a pragmatic, direct person and I am particularly good at cutting through the clutter and coming to the point. In addition,I have a warm and comforting presence which makes most people feel at home easily. After 30 years of treating people, I make it easier to address the painful things that get in the way of making life meaningful and important. In addition, I study the most updated research on the brain and how it functions, making my approach efficient as well as helpful quickly.
(818) 336-1943 View (818) 336-1943
Photo of Yashwanthi Mirji, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Yashwanthi Mirji
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Simi Valley, CA 93065
I specialize in treating unresolved trauma, complex grief, chronic stress, relationship issues as well as depression and anxiety.
Are you anxious, depressed or sad? Have you experienced a traumatic event? Are you finding yourself stuck in unhealthy patterns in your relationships/career ? Recognizing that you need help, can be difficult as well as intimidating. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist I have had extensive training and experience working with adults (individuals and couples), children and adolescents for over 10 years.
I specialize in treating unresolved trauma, complex grief, chronic stress, relationship issues as well as depression and anxiety.
Are you anxious, depressed or sad? Have you experienced a traumatic event? Are you finding yourself stuck in unhealthy patterns in your relationships/career ? Recognizing that you need help, can be difficult as well as intimidating. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist I have had extensive training and experience working with adults (individuals and couples), children and adolescents for over 10 years.
(805) 262-9147 View (805) 262-9147
Photo of Ann Conrad, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ann Conrad
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Simi Valley, CA 93065
Hi there, I'm Ann! I love working with adults, families and some younger people. I have helped with many different types of issues such as depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, generational trauma, and physical and emotional trauma. I am trained in many techniques and modalities including Attachment-Based Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, CBT, DBT, EMDR, Mindfulness Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Trauma-Focused Therapy. I have a cultural experience with generational trauma in cross-cultural settings as well as Indigenous communities.
Hi there, I'm Ann! I love working with adults, families and some younger people. I have helped with many different types of issues such as depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, generational trauma, and physical and emotional trauma. I am trained in many techniques and modalities including Attachment-Based Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, CBT, DBT, EMDR, Mindfulness Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Trauma-Focused Therapy. I have a cultural experience with generational trauma in cross-cultural settings as well as Indigenous communities.
(805) 254-7278 View (805) 254-7278
Photo of Bella Boas, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Bella Boas
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Simi Valley, CA 93063
I love working with adolescents, adults, and couples/marriages, including fellow colleagues who need a place to be seen and heard.
My name is Bella Boas, LMFT. I meet you exactly where you are and work with you to determine the optimal tools to reach your goals. I will create a safe space where you can authentically show up with no judgment, shame, or guilt. Equipping clients with tools and education in combination with the process is empowering. I am passionate about working with motivated, dedicated teens, individuals, couples, and marriages who are pursuing health. I have an eclectic approach grounded in Person-Centered and Gestalt. Brainspotting is a powerful and effective tool for working with trauma and overall efficient processing.
I love working with adolescents, adults, and couples/marriages, including fellow colleagues who need a place to be seen and heard.
My name is Bella Boas, LMFT. I meet you exactly where you are and work with you to determine the optimal tools to reach your goals. I will create a safe space where you can authentically show up with no judgment, shame, or guilt. Equipping clients with tools and education in combination with the process is empowering. I am passionate about working with motivated, dedicated teens, individuals, couples, and marriages who are pursuing health. I have an eclectic approach grounded in Person-Centered and Gestalt. Brainspotting is a powerful and effective tool for working with trauma and overall efficient processing.
(805) 600-3821 View (805) 600-3821
Photo of Shari Balbien, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Shari Balbien
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Simi Valley, CA 93063
Hi there! My name is Shari Balbien, and I am a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) based in Southern California and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with children as young as five years of age, adolescents, families, and couples struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship conflict, as well as issues related to trauma, self-esteem, and grief. I have found that my style and approach are a good match for young children, families, and couples, who may be dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, and communication issues.
Hi there! My name is Shari Balbien, and I am a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) based in Southern California and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with children as young as five years of age, adolescents, families, and couples struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship conflict, as well as issues related to trauma, self-esteem, and grief. I have found that my style and approach are a good match for young children, families, and couples, who may be dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, and communication issues.
(805) 855-1505 View (805) 855-1505
Photo of Trauma Adhd Anxiety And Depression Jennifer N Earnest, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Trauma Adhd Anxiety And Depression Jennifer N Earnest
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Simi Valley, CA 93065  (Online Only)
Everyone needs a safe space to process whatever is troubling them in life. I want to assure you that this is a place where your authentic self is welcomed and celebrated. Life can offer us many challenges, whether that is trauma, depression, anxiety, executive dysfunction, or if we're struggling with life management, our relationship(s) or friendships. We all deserve help making our life into one that is easier, more enjoyable, and happier.
Everyone needs a safe space to process whatever is troubling them in life. I want to assure you that this is a place where your authentic self is welcomed and celebrated. Life can offer us many challenges, whether that is trauma, depression, anxiety, executive dysfunction, or if we're struggling with life management, our relationship(s) or friendships. We all deserve help making our life into one that is easier, more enjoyable, and happier.
(747) 444-0545 View (747) 444-0545
Photo of Melissa Sanderson, MS LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Melissa Sanderson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Simi Valley, CA 93063  (Online Only)
I work w/adolescents, adults, couples, and families.
I am trained in providing evidence-based treatment for anxiety, depression, mood changes, and other mental health difficulties, including addiction and dual diagnoses and often work w/clients who are struggling in their relationships and dealing with difficult life events. I have a specialization in family mediation, as it pertains to varied nuclear family structures, which may include the family court system. I am passionate about providing a comprehensive, multi-culturally competent, and LGBTQ+ affirming environment. I enjoy working with COUPLES & FAMILIES (high conflict or otherwise), including Discernment Couples Therapy.
I work w/adolescents, adults, couples, and families.
I am trained in providing evidence-based treatment for anxiety, depression, mood changes, and other mental health difficulties, including addiction and dual diagnoses and often work w/clients who are struggling in their relationships and dealing with difficult life events. I have a specialization in family mediation, as it pertains to varied nuclear family structures, which may include the family court system. I am passionate about providing a comprehensive, multi-culturally competent, and LGBTQ+ affirming environment. I enjoy working with COUPLES & FAMILIES (high conflict or otherwise), including Discernment Couples Therapy.
(805) 947-0770 View (805) 947-0770
Photo of Seraphina Geiter, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Seraphina Geiter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Simi Valley, CA 93065
My name is Seraphina Geiter, and I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based out of Ojai, CA & offering Telehealth therapy statewide. I work with college students, adults, and couples, and I specialize in anxiety, stress, depression, life transitions, relationship issues, and substance abuse recovery.
My name is Seraphina Geiter, and I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based out of Ojai, CA & offering Telehealth therapy statewide. I work with college students, adults, and couples, and I specialize in anxiety, stress, depression, life transitions, relationship issues, and substance abuse recovery.
(805) 749-5388 View (805) 749-5388
Photo of Joseph K Collins, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Joseph K Collins
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Simi Valley, CA 93065
I also work with couples and families to improve communication, lessen conflict, and create healthy family dynamics.
INVEST in yourself! My passion is walking with people through life's victories and difficulties. With a combined 25 years of pastoral counseling and clinical experience, I take a holistic, collaborative, and strength-based approach to counseling. I believe everyone can change and grow.
I also work with couples and families to improve communication, lessen conflict, and create healthy family dynamics.
INVEST in yourself! My passion is walking with people through life's victories and difficulties. With a combined 25 years of pastoral counseling and clinical experience, I take a holistic, collaborative, and strength-based approach to counseling. I believe everyone can change and grow.
(805) 463-6590 View (805) 463-6590
Photo of Avrille Birnbaum, LCP, Psychologist
Avrille Birnbaum
Psychologist, LCP
Verified Verified
Simi Valley, CA 93065
I have clients who are processing issues related to societal microaggressions due to gender, gender expression, being part of a non-dominant culture, non-traditional family/ partner structures, and being part of the BDSM/kink community.
Hi, I'm Avrille Birnbaum! I'm a Clinical Psychologist, practicing therapy via video for clients who are in need but might not be able to take time off weekly to come to an office. I am a believer in doing what I can to make self-care accessible and relevant for each client, and I strive to make each person feel that they are having a conversation in which they feel supported, heard, and receive tools to use in their daily lives. Most often, my clients come to me struggling with issues regarding neurodivergence, depression, social anxiety, living with bipolar disorder, chronic pain, and autoimmune disorders.
I have clients who are processing issues related to societal microaggressions due to gender, gender expression, being part of a non-dominant culture, non-traditional family/ partner structures, and being part of the BDSM/kink community.
Hi, I'm Avrille Birnbaum! I'm a Clinical Psychologist, practicing therapy via video for clients who are in need but might not be able to take time off weekly to come to an office. I am a believer in doing what I can to make self-care accessible and relevant for each client, and I strive to make each person feel that they are having a conversation in which they feel supported, heard, and receive tools to use in their daily lives. Most often, my clients come to me struggling with issues regarding neurodivergence, depression, social anxiety, living with bipolar disorder, chronic pain, and autoimmune disorders.
(805) 360-4291 View (805) 360-4291
Photo of Teri Tingey, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Teri Tingey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Simi Valley, CA 93063
Counseling can help with various life challenges that can range from trauma, depression, anxiety, grief and loss , relationship difficulties, parenting, self-harm, addiction or abuse.
Everyone goes through challenging situations and rough times in life. While you may have successfully navigated through previous difficulties, it's not uncommon to have heightened problems arise where extra support and guidance is needed. As a licensed Marriage and Family therapist in Private Practice, I specialize in the treatment of adolescents, individuals, couples and families experiencing a wide range of psychological, emotional, behavioral and relational problems.
Counseling can help with various life challenges that can range from trauma, depression, anxiety, grief and loss , relationship difficulties, parenting, self-harm, addiction or abuse.
Everyone goes through challenging situations and rough times in life. While you may have successfully navigated through previous difficulties, it's not uncommon to have heightened problems arise where extra support and guidance is needed. As a licensed Marriage and Family therapist in Private Practice, I specialize in the treatment of adolescents, individuals, couples and families experiencing a wide range of psychological, emotional, behavioral and relational problems.
(805) 918-5087 View (805) 918-5087
Photo of Dr. Brendan J Nierenberg, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Brendan J Nierenberg
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Simi Valley, CA 93065  (Online Only)
I have been very fortunate to work with a wide range of populations including traumatic brain injury, substance abuse, eating disorders, couples and relationship issues, gender identity issues, borderline personality disorder, and men's issues.
It takes a great amount of courage to be seeking a therapist as you are doing right now. You have made the choice to seek out help, and for that, I can say you are already on your journey of healing. In a session with me, you will find acceptance, understanding, and compassion with any challenge you are facing. No matter what your goal is, you don't have to do it alone.
I have been very fortunate to work with a wide range of populations including traumatic brain injury, substance abuse, eating disorders, couples and relationship issues, gender identity issues, borderline personality disorder, and men's issues.
It takes a great amount of courage to be seeking a therapist as you are doing right now. You have made the choice to seek out help, and for that, I can say you are already on your journey of healing. In a session with me, you will find acceptance, understanding, and compassion with any challenge you are facing. No matter what your goal is, you don't have to do it alone.
(805) 243-1580 View (805) 243-1580
Photo of Dr. Donna Novak, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Donna Novak
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Simi Valley, CA 93063
Offering both in person and virtual sessions specializing in couples therapy and sex therapy.
You don't even recognize the person sleeping next to you. You feel so desperate and alone. All you want is to feel the way you felt on your wedding day. You want to know that you have a partner by your side that you can actually rely on. It feels like you are so far away from where you really want to be that you just don't know what to do next. You can't remember the last time you had a real kiss. Not one of those pecks on the lips but a real kiss. Sex and intimacy feels so distant from you. It's so hard to feel like wanting to touch him let alone have sex.
Offering both in person and virtual sessions specializing in couples therapy and sex therapy.
You don't even recognize the person sleeping next to you. You feel so desperate and alone. All you want is to feel the way you felt on your wedding day. You want to know that you have a partner by your side that you can actually rely on. It feels like you are so far away from where you really want to be that you just don't know what to do next. You can't remember the last time you had a real kiss. Not one of those pecks on the lips but a real kiss. Sex and intimacy feels so distant from you. It's so hard to feel like wanting to touch him let alone have sex.
(805) 322-7963 View (805) 322-7963
Photo of Jennifer Lynn Evans, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jennifer Lynn Evans
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Simi Valley, CA 93063
Parents, I know it's hard taking that first step in finding the right therapist your child can build a trusting relationship with, as well as you.
I have worked with various populations and have a diverse background, including working with children (ages 3-18) using play therapy, individuals, couples, family problems, grief and loss. Everyone goes through grief at some point in life. Loss of a loved one, loss of a job or the ending of a relationship and much more. Is your child struggling in school, experiencing anxiety, struggling with peer relationships or at home with sibling? I believe in working collaboratively with my clients and creating a warm therapeutic relationships.
Parents, I know it's hard taking that first step in finding the right therapist your child can build a trusting relationship with, as well as you.
I have worked with various populations and have a diverse background, including working with children (ages 3-18) using play therapy, individuals, couples, family problems, grief and loss. Everyone goes through grief at some point in life. Loss of a loved one, loss of a job or the ending of a relationship and much more. Is your child struggling in school, experiencing anxiety, struggling with peer relationships or at home with sibling? I believe in working collaboratively with my clients and creating a warm therapeutic relationships.
(805) 749-2529 View (805) 749-2529
Photo of Patricia VanBuskirk, MFT, CYT-E, Marriage & Family Therapist
Patricia VanBuskirk
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, CYT-E
Verified Verified
Simi Valley, CA 93063
After many years of experience with children and parents, my psychotherapy practice also includes play therapy with children, parent education, and couples therapy.
If you are feeling unfulfilled, stuck, anxious, sad or resentful, or if you find yourself continuing to react to external events in a pattern which does not bring you (or those around you) peace and harmony, the practice of Mindfulness can help reduce your habitual patterns of reactivity and guide you to a more harmonious and peaceful life. We will examine your present needs and personal goals, and together we will determine the best course of action. I highly respect your integrity and belief system, and we will work together to uncover the wisdom that lies within you.
After many years of experience with children and parents, my psychotherapy practice also includes play therapy with children, parent education, and couples therapy.
If you are feeling unfulfilled, stuck, anxious, sad or resentful, or if you find yourself continuing to react to external events in a pattern which does not bring you (or those around you) peace and harmony, the practice of Mindfulness can help reduce your habitual patterns of reactivity and guide you to a more harmonious and peaceful life. We will examine your present needs and personal goals, and together we will determine the best course of action. I highly respect your integrity and belief system, and we will work together to uncover the wisdom that lies within you.
(805) 285-3923 View (805) 285-3923
Photo of Jillian Zamora, MSW, ACSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jillian Zamora
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Simi Valley, CA 93063  (Online Only)
I am here to provide compassion, support, and resources to individuals, couples, and families.
Life transitions and stressful events can cause us to feel anxious or isolated. We often realize in times of transition or high stress that unhealed pain from the past rises to the surface. This can be an ideal time to reach out for support and a safe place to process your feelings. I can help you cope with your present challenges and make sense of unresolved emotions from the past. Whether you are looking to enter therapy as an individual to find your own sense of peace, as a couple to reconnect or repair a relationship, or as a family to achieve harmony and understanding, it would be an honor to be a part of your journey.
I am here to provide compassion, support, and resources to individuals, couples, and families.
Life transitions and stressful events can cause us to feel anxious or isolated. We often realize in times of transition or high stress that unhealed pain from the past rises to the surface. This can be an ideal time to reach out for support and a safe place to process your feelings. I can help you cope with your present challenges and make sense of unresolved emotions from the past. Whether you are looking to enter therapy as an individual to find your own sense of peace, as a couple to reconnect or repair a relationship, or as a family to achieve harmony and understanding, it would be an honor to be a part of your journey.
(805) 749-5395 View (805) 749-5395
Photo of Bernie-Bernadine M Gleason, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Bernie-Bernadine M Gleason
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Simi Valley, CA 93062
I am a Certified AF-EMDR (Attachment-Focused: Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing) Therapist assisting in freedom from trauma in many areas including Relational/Attachment, Grief, Physical, Sexual & Emotional Abuse, Betrayal, Anxiety & Depression; also trained in TRM (Trauma Resiliency Model) & couples (Emotionally Focused Therapy); also Sandtray.
Is sharing your life with a stranger comfortable for you? It's not easy for anyone and yet from my own experience and from the testimony of others (clients/friends/family), therapy has proven to be a positive life-changing experience that I would want for you. I count it a privilege to be invited into your life and heart and I wouldn't take that lightly. My goals are to make therapy a "safe place" by welcoming you with empathy, validation, affirmation, assistance and tender care (the way we all want to be treated). Maybe you're suffering from trauma or loss or hurt or...please give me an opportunity to work with you to make your life a new and safe place. I also offer faith-based counseling.
I am a Certified AF-EMDR (Attachment-Focused: Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing) Therapist assisting in freedom from trauma in many areas including Relational/Attachment, Grief, Physical, Sexual & Emotional Abuse, Betrayal, Anxiety & Depression; also trained in TRM (Trauma Resiliency Model) & couples (Emotionally Focused Therapy); also Sandtray.
Is sharing your life with a stranger comfortable for you? It's not easy for anyone and yet from my own experience and from the testimony of others (clients/friends/family), therapy has proven to be a positive life-changing experience that I would want for you. I count it a privilege to be invited into your life and heart and I wouldn't take that lightly. My goals are to make therapy a "safe place" by welcoming you with empathy, validation, affirmation, assistance and tender care (the way we all want to be treated). Maybe you're suffering from trauma or loss or hurt or...please give me an opportunity to work with you to make your life a new and safe place. I also offer faith-based counseling.
(661) 276-8826 View (661) 276-8826
Lynn Comley
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Simi Valley, CA 93065
Lynn is a contributor to the With These Rings Project (WTR), facilitating couples' groups and WTR marriage seminars, bringing a strong emphasis of skill-building to re-vision healthy and vibrant relationship.
Lynn Comley, PsyD, MFT30361, is a psychotherapist in private practice who brings a broad spectrum of experience, skills, and knowledge to her life and work. With a rich mix of humor and compassion, and the standing, practice, and methods of a consummate healing professional, Dr. Comley guides her clients through difficult transitions toward benefit and well-being. "The big question is whether you are going to be able to say a hearty yes to your adventure". (Joseph Campbell)
Lynn is a contributor to the With These Rings Project (WTR), facilitating couples' groups and WTR marriage seminars, bringing a strong emphasis of skill-building to re-vision healthy and vibrant relationship.
Lynn Comley, PsyD, MFT30361, is a psychotherapist in private practice who brings a broad spectrum of experience, skills, and knowledge to her life and work. With a rich mix of humor and compassion, and the standing, practice, and methods of a consummate healing professional, Dr. Comley guides her clients through difficult transitions toward benefit and well-being. "The big question is whether you are going to be able to say a hearty yes to your adventure". (Joseph Campbell)
(805) 419-3868 View (805) 419-3868
Photo of Wendy Jones, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Wendy Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Simi Valley, CA 93065  (Online Only)
Hello there! My name is Wendy and I work with people with the following issues: depression, anxiety, gender identity issues, relationship difficulties, addiction, neurodiversity and family of origin trauma and/or abuse. Reaching out for help is an important step in creating postive change, and I look forward to hearing your story and assisting you along the way. I am currently accepting new telehealth clients and accept Venmo/Zelle for payment (I am NOT on any insurance panels, but I do provide super bills). I am also licensed for telehealth in Florida. Reach out for a free 15 minute consultation- I hope to talk with you soon!
Hello there! My name is Wendy and I work with people with the following issues: depression, anxiety, gender identity issues, relationship difficulties, addiction, neurodiversity and family of origin trauma and/or abuse. Reaching out for help is an important step in creating postive change, and I look forward to hearing your story and assisting you along the way. I am currently accepting new telehealth clients and accept Venmo/Zelle for payment (I am NOT on any insurance panels, but I do provide super bills). I am also licensed for telehealth in Florida. Reach out for a free 15 minute consultation- I hope to talk with you soon!
(805) 719-7526 View (805) 719-7526
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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.