Couples Counseling Therapists in Birmingham, AL

Photo of Kenneth J Wade, PhD, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kenneth J Wade
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35205
I have experience with couples issues such as communication, infidelity, and blended families.
Most of us arrive at times when we can benefit from talking with a knowledgeable person who can listen with the objective of helping us to understand ourselves. My goal as a counselor is to help each person know and accept themselves. When I can provide that kind of counseling relationship, clients are much more likely to find their own strengths and wisdom. By listening with compassion and empathy, rather than judgment, I am more likely to help clients find greater harmony and peace in their relationships.
I have experience with couples issues such as communication, infidelity, and blended families.
Most of us arrive at times when we can benefit from talking with a knowledgeable person who can listen with the objective of helping us to understand ourselves. My goal as a counselor is to help each person know and accept themselves. When I can provide that kind of counseling relationship, clients are much more likely to find their own strengths and wisdom. By listening with compassion and empathy, rather than judgment, I am more likely to help clients find greater harmony and peace in their relationships.
(205) 265-1975 View (205) 265-1975
Photo of Susan C Kirkland - Dunn-Kirkland Counseling & Consulting Services,LLC, M Ed, ALC, Counselor
Dunn-Kirkland Counseling & Consulting Services,LLC
Counselor, M Ed, ALC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35242  (Online Only)
I have over 15 years of experience working with clients concerning: ADHD/ADD Assessments, PTSD & Trauma, Anxiety, Behavioral Issues, Conflict Resolution, Couples and Family Conflict, Depression, Divorce, Grief, Goal Setting, Stress Management, Parenting Skills Development, Prenatal and Postpartum Depression and Physical and Sexual Abuse.
Have you felt that waking up every morning has become difficult? The day to day tasks appear to be mountains that you must climb. You do not have to go through this alone. Our services are designed to meet the various mental health needs of adolescents, young adults/adults and couples as you navigate the trials of life. Take the first step by taking care of you. Here at Dunn-Kirkland Counseling & Consulting Services, you will be with someone that will allow you to breathe and assist you by using therapeutic strategies to improve your mental health and who will be with you when those conversations become difficult but necessary.
I have over 15 years of experience working with clients concerning: ADHD/ADD Assessments, PTSD & Trauma, Anxiety, Behavioral Issues, Conflict Resolution, Couples and Family Conflict, Depression, Divorce, Grief, Goal Setting, Stress Management, Parenting Skills Development, Prenatal and Postpartum Depression and Physical and Sexual Abuse.
Have you felt that waking up every morning has become difficult? The day to day tasks appear to be mountains that you must climb. You do not have to go through this alone. Our services are designed to meet the various mental health needs of adolescents, young adults/adults and couples as you navigate the trials of life. Take the first step by taking care of you. Here at Dunn-Kirkland Counseling & Consulting Services, you will be with someone that will allow you to breathe and assist you by using therapeutic strategies to improve your mental health and who will be with you when those conversations become difficult but necessary.
(205) 883-2466 View (205) 883-2466
Photo of Jordyn Diggs - Diggs Deeper Counseling & Consulting , LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Diggs Deeper Counseling & Consulting
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35294  (Online Only)
We will dig into areas such as depression, anxiety, trauma, behavioral struggles, relationship issues, and more to sow the seeds for a healthier existence.
Welcome to Diggs Deeper, where our mission is explore the emotions, thoughts, and experiences that can sometimes create challenges in life. I am excited to work with you because our mental health impacts every aspect of our life’s and how we perceive and experience the world. Our objectives revolve around fostering healing and unveiling a life that is not only manageable but radiant.
We will dig into areas such as depression, anxiety, trauma, behavioral struggles, relationship issues, and more to sow the seeds for a healthier existence.
Welcome to Diggs Deeper, where our mission is explore the emotions, thoughts, and experiences that can sometimes create challenges in life. I am excited to work with you because our mental health impacts every aspect of our life’s and how we perceive and experience the world. Our objectives revolve around fostering healing and unveiling a life that is not only manageable but radiant.
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Photo of Katy Powell, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katy Powell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35244
Waitlist for new clients
Are you looking to put the past in the past and move on to a better future? That can be easy to say but tough to do. Taking steps to prioritize your emotional wellbeing and heal from anxiety, trauma and post-trauma symptoms is where I would love to partner with you. Working together, I can help you achieve that better future. Are you concerned about the impact that relationships are having on your happiness? Through therapy, we can work together to recognize unhealthy dynamics in relationships that are having a negative impact and build a plan that will help you to truly enjoy fulfilling relationships with those you care about.
Are you looking to put the past in the past and move on to a better future? That can be easy to say but tough to do. Taking steps to prioritize your emotional wellbeing and heal from anxiety, trauma and post-trauma symptoms is where I would love to partner with you. Working together, I can help you achieve that better future. Are you concerned about the impact that relationships are having on your happiness? Through therapy, we can work together to recognize unhealthy dynamics in relationships that are having a negative impact and build a plan that will help you to truly enjoy fulfilling relationships with those you care about.
(205) 742-9539 View (205) 742-9539
Photo of Melissa Fay Brooks, MA, NCC, ALC, Counselor
Melissa Fay Brooks
Counselor, MA, NCC, ALC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35216
I work with children (3 and older), teens, new moms, adults, and couples.
I have a passion for sitting with clients in their time of need and enjoy collaborating with clients to meet their goals. Using a foundation in CBT, I enjoy developing a solid treatment plan with the client to meet their needs and reach their goals in counseling. I am a birth, foster, and adoptive mom and have a passion for working with other moms as they transition into a new stage of life. Additionally, I have training and experience working with children and teens. Using specific techniques and interventions, I can work along side your child during their time of need.
I work with children (3 and older), teens, new moms, adults, and couples.
I have a passion for sitting with clients in their time of need and enjoy collaborating with clients to meet their goals. Using a foundation in CBT, I enjoy developing a solid treatment plan with the client to meet their needs and reach their goals in counseling. I am a birth, foster, and adoptive mom and have a passion for working with other moms as they transition into a new stage of life. Additionally, I have training and experience working with children and teens. Using specific techniques and interventions, I can work along side your child during their time of need.
(205) 955-7345 View (205) 955-7345
Photo of Candace Headland, ALC, Counselor
Candace Headland
Counselor, ALC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35226
I am committed to creating a partnership with you as we unlock new potential in our work together.
Let's face it, life can be challenging. If you feel like you are struggling to navigate life's obstacles, let's work together on uncovering and empowering the best version of you. My aim as your therapist is to create a safe space for discovery and healing, guiding you on a path toward inner peace and joy. I will help you unpack the complexities of life and explore how your experiences may be impacting your emotional well-being.
I am committed to creating a partnership with you as we unlock new potential in our work together.
Let's face it, life can be challenging. If you feel like you are struggling to navigate life's obstacles, let's work together on uncovering and empowering the best version of you. My aim as your therapist is to create a safe space for discovery and healing, guiding you on a path toward inner peace and joy. I will help you unpack the complexities of life and explore how your experiences may be impacting your emotional well-being.
(205) 953-1400 View (205) 953-1400
Photo of Andrea Lane - Let's Talk Counseling Services, LLC, MS, LPC, NCC, CATP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Let's Talk Counseling Services, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, CATP
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35203  (Online Only)
Feeling overwhelmed by life's challenges? My counseling and life coaching services are here to help. Tailored to support individuals, families, and couples, I offer compassionate guidance and practical tools for overcoming obstacles and embracing positive change. With a holistic approach, I draw from diverse therapeutic techniques and personal coaching strategies to address your unique needs and goals. Together, we'll uncover insights, foster resilience, and empower you to lead a life of purpose and fulfillment. Whether you're navigating grief, anxiety, career decisions, or self-discovery, I'm here to walk alongside you, guiding you
Feeling overwhelmed by life's challenges? My counseling and life coaching services are here to help. Tailored to support individuals, families, and couples, I offer compassionate guidance and practical tools for overcoming obstacles and embracing positive change. With a holistic approach, I draw from diverse therapeutic techniques and personal coaching strategies to address your unique needs and goals. Together, we'll uncover insights, foster resilience, and empower you to lead a life of purpose and fulfillment. Whether you're navigating grief, anxiety, career decisions, or self-discovery, I'm here to walk alongside you, guiding you
(205) 772-1570 View (205) 772-1570
Photo of Lauren Roberts Jones, MS, LPC, Counselor
Lauren Roberts Jones
Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35205
Alabama Counseling & Consulting Services (ACCS) is founded by Lauren Roberts Jones, MS, LPC. Lauren has a wide range of clinical training and experience working with individuals and families. Her specific areas of interests and expertise include, but are not limited to: relationship/family issues, anxiety, eating disorders, ADHD, depression, and autism. Therapeutically, she works from an integrative perspective, utilizing a variety of orientations and therapies according to the client's individual needs. Lauren's approach involves unconditional acceptance and understanding toward each client.
Alabama Counseling & Consulting Services (ACCS) is founded by Lauren Roberts Jones, MS, LPC. Lauren has a wide range of clinical training and experience working with individuals and families. Her specific areas of interests and expertise include, but are not limited to: relationship/family issues, anxiety, eating disorders, ADHD, depression, and autism. Therapeutically, she works from an integrative perspective, utilizing a variety of orientations and therapies according to the client's individual needs. Lauren's approach involves unconditional acceptance and understanding toward each client.
(256) 661-4015 View (256) 661-4015
Photo of Christina Webb, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christina Webb
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35235
I work with teens and adults of all ages in individual, couples and family therapy.
Are you feeling lost, or overwhelmed by changes in your life? Life was not delivered with a book of instructions. It can be challenging, disappointing, stressful, and even lonely at times. Each of us has to make sense of our world. When things don't make sense we experience anxiety, depression, anger, confusion, stress, or other difficulties. Therapy is directed at helping each individual or couple become more effective at dealing with and developing coping skills so they can better manage their own unique life situation. Each person is unique; therefore, we will work together to craft a specific plan designed for your needs.
I work with teens and adults of all ages in individual, couples and family therapy.
Are you feeling lost, or overwhelmed by changes in your life? Life was not delivered with a book of instructions. It can be challenging, disappointing, stressful, and even lonely at times. Each of us has to make sense of our world. When things don't make sense we experience anxiety, depression, anger, confusion, stress, or other difficulties. Therapy is directed at helping each individual or couple become more effective at dealing with and developing coping skills so they can better manage their own unique life situation. Each person is unique; therefore, we will work together to craft a specific plan designed for your needs.
(205) 751-4010 View (205) 751-4010
Photo of Kimberly Marable Winters, LPCS, CEAP, SAP, CRC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kimberly Marable Winters
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCS, CEAP, SAP, CRC, NCC
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35226
Areas of focus: Depression, anxiety, stress management, work-related concerns/ stress, marital/ premarital and relationship issues, as well as, substance use disorders and addictive behaviors.
Therapist passionate about helping you make changes in your life that ultimately improve the quality of your life. Seeking to guide, educate, motivate and support you along the journey of finding the healthiest YOU possible! I seek to help people modify their responses to life experiences, change, pain and trauma. Group support is extremely beneficial so don't overlook the options presented by Coach K's Korner to address relationship issues, stress/ anxiety and spiritual growth. Text 205-960-9150 for more information.
Areas of focus: Depression, anxiety, stress management, work-related concerns/ stress, marital/ premarital and relationship issues, as well as, substance use disorders and addictive behaviors.
Therapist passionate about helping you make changes in your life that ultimately improve the quality of your life. Seeking to guide, educate, motivate and support you along the journey of finding the healthiest YOU possible! I seek to help people modify their responses to life experiences, change, pain and trauma. Group support is extremely beneficial so don't overlook the options presented by Coach K's Korner to address relationship issues, stress/ anxiety and spiritual growth. Text 205-960-9150 for more information.
(205) 518-9643 View (205) 518-9643
Photo of David Eckhardt Kilmer, LCSW, PIP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
David Eckhardt Kilmer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PIP
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35209
I have worked in the mental health field for 40+ years. During my career I have worked with a variety of patients including adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I have treated trauma exposure, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, mild autism spectrum disorders, attention deficit disorder (and related issues). I have also provided support for individuals in recovery. I believe that by identifying, focusing on, and enhancing clients' strengths, I can assist them in developing additional individualized tools to meet mental health challenges.
I have worked in the mental health field for 40+ years. During my career I have worked with a variety of patients including adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I have treated trauma exposure, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, mild autism spectrum disorders, attention deficit disorder (and related issues). I have also provided support for individuals in recovery. I believe that by identifying, focusing on, and enhancing clients' strengths, I can assist them in developing additional individualized tools to meet mental health challenges.
(205) 769-4938 View (205) 769-4938
Photo of Isabella Ashley, ALC, NCC, Counselor
Isabella Ashley
Counselor, ALC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35235
I specialize in couples and family therapy, anger management, life transitions for adults, and anxiety.
A famous quote says.... "Life is 10 percent of what happens and 90 percent of how you react to it". What does this mean to you? I believe it means that although some life experiences are out of our control, we hold the power to choose how we navigate through them. As a human being, I understand how life’s challenges can cause doubt, hopelessness, and feeling stuck. As a clinician, I understand the importance of mental wellness, and a safe space to equip you to better handle every aspect of daily living. With 7 years of experience, I've helped empower teens, adults, families and couples to manage and embrace life at its fullness.
I specialize in couples and family therapy, anger management, life transitions for adults, and anxiety.
A famous quote says.... "Life is 10 percent of what happens and 90 percent of how you react to it". What does this mean to you? I believe it means that although some life experiences are out of our control, we hold the power to choose how we navigate through them. As a human being, I understand how life’s challenges can cause doubt, hopelessness, and feeling stuck. As a clinician, I understand the importance of mental wellness, and a safe space to equip you to better handle every aspect of daily living. With 7 years of experience, I've helped empower teens, adults, families and couples to manage and embrace life at its fullness.
(205) 891-5072 View (205) 891-5072
Photo of Michael S Martin, MDiv, MEd, LPC, CSAT, Counselor
Michael S Martin
Counselor, MDiv, MEd, LPC, CSAT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35223
I have worked extensively with families, parents, and couples.
Telling your struggles takes a great deal of courage. I have been inspired by the journeys we are all required to take. Carl Jung stated, "who looks outside, dreams; who looks inside, awakes." In my work I help individuals begin the healing process to reclaim the power that has been lost., and in building coping skills. This involves the risk of examing who you are, where you come from, and where you hope to go. I specialize in chemical addiction, sexual addiction, families, and couples. I also have extensive experience with men's issues, including relationship coaching, shame reduction, and relapse prevention.
I have worked extensively with families, parents, and couples.
Telling your struggles takes a great deal of courage. I have been inspired by the journeys we are all required to take. Carl Jung stated, "who looks outside, dreams; who looks inside, awakes." In my work I help individuals begin the healing process to reclaim the power that has been lost., and in building coping skills. This involves the risk of examing who you are, where you come from, and where you hope to go. I specialize in chemical addiction, sexual addiction, families, and couples. I also have extensive experience with men's issues, including relationship coaching, shame reduction, and relapse prevention.
(205) 435-6448 View (205) 435-6448
Photo of Janice E Martin, EdD, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Janice E Martin
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35226
Most people are experiencing normal reactions to unusual stress or situations in their lives, past or present. My approaches support working through issues, and building stronger skills for meeting any additional challenges. These can include traditional and mind-body-spirit techniques, including NLP, time-line therapy, rational thinking, meditative and relaxation methods, and overall support for the journey. I work with individuals, parent-child issues, couples, and blended family relationships. Working in areas of physical and mental wellness, we partner together to support mental and physical well-being and ongoing growth.
Most people are experiencing normal reactions to unusual stress or situations in their lives, past or present. My approaches support working through issues, and building stronger skills for meeting any additional challenges. These can include traditional and mind-body-spirit techniques, including NLP, time-line therapy, rational thinking, meditative and relaxation methods, and overall support for the journey. I work with individuals, parent-child issues, couples, and blended family relationships. Working in areas of physical and mental wellness, we partner together to support mental and physical well-being and ongoing growth.
(205) 301-2774 View (205) 301-2774
Photo of Katie O'Donnell Pietri, ALC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Katie O'Donnell Pietri
Pre-Licensed Professional, ALC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35226
I additionally enjoy working with couples.
Reaching out for help is hard. As your therapist, my goal is to help you walk through what comes after asking for help. One of the most important parts of being a therapist is creating a safe space for you to share your story. I honor the courage it takes in being vulnerable and make every effort to create a space where you can feel encouraged to share.
I additionally enjoy working with couples.
Reaching out for help is hard. As your therapist, my goal is to help you walk through what comes after asking for help. One of the most important parts of being a therapist is creating a safe space for you to share your story. I honor the courage it takes in being vulnerable and make every effort to create a space where you can feel encouraged to share.
(205) 851-8596 View (205) 851-8596
Photo of Rebecca Welsh, MEd, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rebecca Welsh
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35223
It has been said: "God uses our deepest pain as a launchpad for our highest calling". However, a lot of the times we become immobilized aka "stuck" by the pains we have endured. My goal in counseling is to remind believers and non-believers that there is hope past the pain, shame, and doubt they are experiencing; through modalities of individual, couples, family and pre-marital counseling. Do not let shame and doubt rule over you any longer but instead gain insight and authenticity as you understand your Creator, your process and yourself more fully.
It has been said: "God uses our deepest pain as a launchpad for our highest calling". However, a lot of the times we become immobilized aka "stuck" by the pains we have endured. My goal in counseling is to remind believers and non-believers that there is hope past the pain, shame, and doubt they are experiencing; through modalities of individual, couples, family and pre-marital counseling. Do not let shame and doubt rule over you any longer but instead gain insight and authenticity as you understand your Creator, your process and yourself more fully.
(205) 858-9520 View (205) 858-9520
Photo of Misty Smith - Mind, Body & Heart Wellness Clinic, PhD, LPC, CST, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mind, Body & Heart Wellness Clinic
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, CST
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35226
MBH offers a variety of services for couples, families, and individuals of all ages.
At Mind, Body & Heart Wellness Clinic our shared goal is to provide an integrative approach to counseling that assists you in finding your optimal mental, emotional, spiritual, and sexual health. MBH Wellness is comprised of multiple licensed therapists who specialize in and are passionate about a wide range of mental health concerns. We addresses the relational, cognitive, emotional, sexual, physical, cultural, and socio-economic factors impacting your wellbeing. When you are paired with a therapist that fits your unique needs, positive change is a logical consequence!
MBH offers a variety of services for couples, families, and individuals of all ages.
At Mind, Body & Heart Wellness Clinic our shared goal is to provide an integrative approach to counseling that assists you in finding your optimal mental, emotional, spiritual, and sexual health. MBH Wellness is comprised of multiple licensed therapists who specialize in and are passionate about a wide range of mental health concerns. We addresses the relational, cognitive, emotional, sexual, physical, cultural, and socio-economic factors impacting your wellbeing. When you are paired with a therapist that fits your unique needs, positive change is a logical consequence!
(205) 509-1811 View (205) 509-1811
Photo of Becca Shaw, MA, Counselor
Becca Shaw
Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35223
You might be experiencing emotional turmoil, spiritual conflict, or social isolation due to your partner’s betrayal or narcissistic behaviors.
As a therapist specializing in helping individuals navigate the complexities of betrayal trauma and narcissistic abuse in marriage, I offer a compassionate, partner-sensitive approach tailored to your unique needs. With training in betrayal trauma and expertise in EMDR, and nervous system regulation, I provide a safe, judgment-free space where you can process trauma, set healthy boundaries, and make decisions that honor both your faith and personal well-being. While these types of betrayal and hurt are a primary focus of my practice, I also offer care and support to people struggling with depression, anxiety, and trauma recovery.
You might be experiencing emotional turmoil, spiritual conflict, or social isolation due to your partner’s betrayal or narcissistic behaviors.
As a therapist specializing in helping individuals navigate the complexities of betrayal trauma and narcissistic abuse in marriage, I offer a compassionate, partner-sensitive approach tailored to your unique needs. With training in betrayal trauma and expertise in EMDR, and nervous system regulation, I provide a safe, judgment-free space where you can process trauma, set healthy boundaries, and make decisions that honor both your faith and personal well-being. While these types of betrayal and hurt are a primary focus of my practice, I also offer care and support to people struggling with depression, anxiety, and trauma recovery.
(205) 984-3656 View (205) 984-3656
Photo of Tyana D Alexander, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tyana D Alexander
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35209
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience in dealing with depressive symptoms, grief, eating disorders and relationship issues.
Make a choice.....create a change. I enjoy working with adults, couples and families with a variety of concerns. Depression, grief and compulsive behaviors can impact our relationships with others. I will spend time with you, increasing your awareness about unhealthy behaviors and to help identify new, more beneficial behaviors to improve your relationships. I have a special interest in working with clients who wish to explore forgiveness as a means to improve their connections with others.
I have experience in dealing with depressive symptoms, grief, eating disorders and relationship issues.
Make a choice.....create a change. I enjoy working with adults, couples and families with a variety of concerns. Depression, grief and compulsive behaviors can impact our relationships with others. I will spend time with you, increasing your awareness about unhealthy behaviors and to help identify new, more beneficial behaviors to improve your relationships. I have a special interest in working with clients who wish to explore forgiveness as a means to improve their connections with others.
(205) 319-7016 View (205) 319-7016
Photo of Peggy Sanderford Ponder, MDiv, MEd, LMFT, CPC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Peggy Sanderford Ponder
Marriage & Family Therapist, MDiv, MEd, LMFT, CPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35233
Therapy is helpful for anyone experiencing a bump in the road, or feeling stuck and in need of a guide along the path. I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and families who are struggling through painful life experiences and transitions, who may feel stuck or hopeless. We both bring our expertise to help you get to where you want to be: you bring your expertise about yourself -your strengths, and the ways you typically act; I bring my expertise in healing, growth, change and human development. Together we work toward more hopeful outcomes.
Therapy is helpful for anyone experiencing a bump in the road, or feeling stuck and in need of a guide along the path. I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and families who are struggling through painful life experiences and transitions, who may feel stuck or hopeless. We both bring our expertise to help you get to where you want to be: you bring your expertise about yourself -your strengths, and the ways you typically act; I bring my expertise in healing, growth, change and human development. Together we work toward more hopeful outcomes.
(205) 315-4069 View (205) 315-4069
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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.