Couples Counseling Therapists in Simi Valley, CA

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 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 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
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
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 Allison Jackson, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Allison Jackson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Simi Valley, CA 93065
My expertise extends to working with adults, couples, & youth, including a specialized interest in neurodivergent populations.
Are you struggling to navigate the intricate emotions of life, grappling with relationship challenges, battling negative self-image, or just feeling overwhelmed by anxious thoughts? If you're seeking a turning point toward a path to self-discovery and personal growth, therapy may be the next step in fostering meaningful insights, cultivating resilience, and building a foundation for positive change in your life.
My expertise extends to working with adults, couples, & youth, including a specialized interest in neurodivergent populations.
Are you struggling to navigate the intricate emotions of life, grappling with relationship challenges, battling negative self-image, or just feeling overwhelmed by anxious thoughts? If you're seeking a turning point toward a path to self-discovery and personal growth, therapy may be the next step in fostering meaningful insights, cultivating resilience, and building a foundation for positive change in your life.
(424) 397-2619 View (424) 397-2619
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 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 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
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 Oreet Daniella Schrader, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Oreet Daniella Schrader
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Simi Valley, CA 93065  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with young adults, couples and families.
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Are you feeling depressed or anxious? Are you struggling to gain control in life? Perhaps you are trying to manage a better relationship with food. Or it could be a daily challenge to maintain your sobriety. Maybe you find yourself in a relationship that lacks the sexual intimacy you crave. I have successfully helped many people like you overcome the obstacles that keep them trapped in cycles that are ineffective. I provide a safe and empathetic environment in which you can discuss things that are painful, challenging and personal.
I enjoy working with young adults, couples and families.
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Are you feeling depressed or anxious? Are you struggling to gain control in life? Perhaps you are trying to manage a better relationship with food. Or it could be a daily challenge to maintain your sobriety. Maybe you find yourself in a relationship that lacks the sexual intimacy you crave. I have successfully helped many people like you overcome the obstacles that keep them trapped in cycles that are ineffective. I provide a safe and empathetic environment in which you can discuss things that are painful, challenging and personal.
(818) 435-8363 View (818) 435-8363
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 Dr. Donna Novak, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Donna Novak
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 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 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 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 Jaayda Ellingham, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jaayda Ellingham
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Simi Valley, CA 93065  (Online Only)
I invite you to begin this journey with me, to learn the tools to cultivate a deeper sense of connection, and thereby change your relationship to self and the world around you.
Whether you're struggling with anxiety or depression, or feel you've hit a wall to progress, these states can create stress and disconnection, making personal fulfillment in career and relationships challenging. As we understand that physical exercise builds and strengthens our physical endurance, psychotherapy is a process of building and strengthening the mind's capacity to endure and respond. The therapeutic process is rooted in connection, transparency, and authenticity. I work from a collaborative and mindfulness approach to help guide my clients in understanding the relationship between their thoughts, feelings, and actions to effect change.
I invite you to begin this journey with me, to learn the tools to cultivate a deeper sense of connection, and thereby change your relationship to self and the world around you.
Whether you're struggling with anxiety or depression, or feel you've hit a wall to progress, these states can create stress and disconnection, making personal fulfillment in career and relationships challenging. As we understand that physical exercise builds and strengthens our physical endurance, psychotherapy is a process of building and strengthening the mind's capacity to endure and respond. The therapeutic process is rooted in connection, transparency, and authenticity. I work from a collaborative and mindfulness approach to help guide my clients in understanding the relationship between their thoughts, feelings, and actions to effect change.
(747) 229-0207 View (747) 229-0207
Photo of Dana Fortier, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dana Fortier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Simi Valley, CA 93065
I work with adult women and men dealing with trauma, depression, anxiety, work stress, relationship problems, and issues with actualizing their dreams and goals.
Hello there! I am Dana Suzanne Fortier and am a licensed clinical social worker and registered nurse seeing clients in California via telehealth sessions. I believe in the power of good therapy to help all of us to live the rich and fulfilling lives we deserve. Too often people settle for less than their dreams and then quietly slip into a grey world of indifference and resignation. Or they find they have chased the wrong dreams and are uncertain about how to make the changes their hearts and minds demand. If this describes you, therapy with me can help you.
I work with adult women and men dealing with trauma, depression, anxiety, work stress, relationship problems, and issues with actualizing their dreams and goals.
Hello there! I am Dana Suzanne Fortier and am a licensed clinical social worker and registered nurse seeing clients in California via telehealth sessions. I believe in the power of good therapy to help all of us to live the rich and fulfilling lives we deserve. Too often people settle for less than their dreams and then quietly slip into a grey world of indifference and resignation. Or they find they have chased the wrong dreams and are uncertain about how to make the changes their hearts and minds demand. If this describes you, therapy with me can help you.
(805) 301-6656 View (805) 301-6656
Photo of Natalie Anne Bologna, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Natalie Anne Bologna
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Simi Valley, CA 93063
You want to understand why you’re stuck, but more so, you want to learn how to move through it and grow. The hardest part is reaching out for someone to care – to find that you’re not alone in your pain and fear. The answers might seem far away and you can’t see the light at the end of the tunnel, wrestling with beasts of sadness, anxiousness, hopelessness, fear. Whether your relationship with your partner or child feels distant, or your view of yourself, your body, or your future seem bleak – you're ready to be un-stuck.
You want to understand why you’re stuck, but more so, you want to learn how to move through it and grow. The hardest part is reaching out for someone to care – to find that you’re not alone in your pain and fear. The answers might seem far away and you can’t see the light at the end of the tunnel, wrestling with beasts of sadness, anxiousness, hopelessness, fear. Whether your relationship with your partner or child feels distant, or your view of yourself, your body, or your future seem bleak – you're ready to be un-stuck.
(805) 209-0392 x1 View (805) 209-0392 x1
Photo of Judith C McMahon, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Judith C McMahon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Simi Valley, CA 93063
The issues range from anxiety, depression, chronic pain, relationship struggles, memory loss, and transitional stressors.
Being in practice for over 25 years and having worked with individuals of all ages, couples, and families in various settings. I approach my work with clients from a place of genuine courtesy and understanding. I aim to provide a safe space where we can discuss the challenges getting in the way of achieving one's goals, and creating a sustainable support system for lasting changes in one's life.
The issues range from anxiety, depression, chronic pain, relationship struggles, memory loss, and transitional stressors.
Being in practice for over 25 years and having worked with individuals of all ages, couples, and families in various settings. I approach my work with clients from a place of genuine courtesy and understanding. I aim to provide a safe space where we can discuss the challenges getting in the way of achieving one's goals, and creating a sustainable support system for lasting changes in one's life.
(805) 243-2196 View (805) 243-2196
1

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.