Couples Counseling Therapists in Flagstaff, AZ

Photo of Hollie White, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Hollie White
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Flagstaff, AZ 86001
I am a specialist in working with couples to help them build closeness and safety. I am passionate about supporting people in living their most authentic lives, both in relationships and individually. I utilize an experiential therapy approach, embracing the belief that everyone has the ability for creating change for healthier relationships with others and self. I have experience working with children and families with culturally diverse backgrounds, including veterans and the LGBTQ+ community. I also have experience working with individuals on decreasing the daily impact of anxiety and depression and processing trauma.
I am a specialist in working with couples to help them build closeness and safety. I am passionate about supporting people in living their most authentic lives, both in relationships and individually. I utilize an experiential therapy approach, embracing the belief that everyone has the ability for creating change for healthier relationships with others and self. I have experience working with children and families with culturally diverse backgrounds, including veterans and the LGBTQ+ community. I also have experience working with individuals on decreasing the daily impact of anxiety and depression and processing trauma.
(928) 420-8300 View (928) 420-8300
Photo of Demi Schmieder, MA, LAC, Counselor
Demi Schmieder
Counselor, MA, LAC
Verified Verified
Flagstaff, AZ 86001
I specialize in working with people experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, or PTSD, but have worked with a variety of clients and different demographics, including those seeking couples therapy.
I enjoy working with clients that are looking to incorporate healthy habits into their therapeutic journey. Some tools that have been most effective in supporting my clients are yoga, meditation, breathing exercises, somatic awareness, parts work, exercise and nutrition. However, each client is unique and finding tools that resonate with the individual is important to me. I have experience with CBT, DBT, ACT, parts work and Hypnotherapy, but pull from other therapies as well.
I specialize in working with people experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, or PTSD, but have worked with a variety of clients and different demographics, including those seeking couples therapy.
I enjoy working with clients that are looking to incorporate healthy habits into their therapeutic journey. Some tools that have been most effective in supporting my clients are yoga, meditation, breathing exercises, somatic awareness, parts work, exercise and nutrition. However, each client is unique and finding tools that resonate with the individual is important to me. I have experience with CBT, DBT, ACT, parts work and Hypnotherapy, but pull from other therapies as well.
(520) 518-3541 View (520) 518-3541
Photo of Cristina Piastrini, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cristina Piastrini
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Flagstaff, AZ 86001  (Online Only)
Cristina is a Licensed Professional Counselor with more than a decade of experience in the mental health field. She is passionate about helping individuals, couples, and families address unresolved trauma, life transitions, and life stressors to achieve optimal wellness in multiple areas of their lives. Cristina practices evidence-based practices, and is engaged in continuous exploration of research of effective therapy practices. Cristina completed her Master in Counseling at Northern Arizona University. Prior to becoming a counselor, Cristina completed her graduate studies in Anthropology and worked as an anthropologist.
Cristina is a Licensed Professional Counselor with more than a decade of experience in the mental health field. She is passionate about helping individuals, couples, and families address unresolved trauma, life transitions, and life stressors to achieve optimal wellness in multiple areas of their lives. Cristina practices evidence-based practices, and is engaged in continuous exploration of research of effective therapy practices. Cristina completed her Master in Counseling at Northern Arizona University. Prior to becoming a counselor, Cristina completed her graduate studies in Anthropology and worked as an anthropologist.
(928) 955-4773 View (928) 955-4773
Photo of Tracy Bussey, EdD, MEd, LPC, LMHC, ACS, Counselor
Tracy Bussey
Counselor, EdD, MEd, LPC, LMHC, ACS
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Flagstaff, AZ 86001
My approach to therapy is integrative as I tailor therapy to fit the unique needs of each individual. I also believe in a holistic therapeutic perspective-exploring the mental, physical, emotional and spiritual needs of each client and support maintaining a healthy balance in life. When indicated, I incorporate holistic nutrition and lifestyle education into my work. I offer individual, couple, and group counseling. With 25+ years of clinical expertise, I specialize in treating clients with anxiety and depression, relationship issues, life transitions, trauma recovery, nutrition and mental health, and multicultural challenges.
My approach to therapy is integrative as I tailor therapy to fit the unique needs of each individual. I also believe in a holistic therapeutic perspective-exploring the mental, physical, emotional and spiritual needs of each client and support maintaining a healthy balance in life. When indicated, I incorporate holistic nutrition and lifestyle education into my work. I offer individual, couple, and group counseling. With 25+ years of clinical expertise, I specialize in treating clients with anxiety and depression, relationship issues, life transitions, trauma recovery, nutrition and mental health, and multicultural challenges.
(928) 224-3237 View (928) 224-3237
Photo of Angelica Kennedy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Angelica Kennedy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Flagstaff, AZ 86001
Through our work together, my hope is to help couples and individuals gain skills, education, and clarity to create a more fulfilling and satisfying relationship and life.
As a therapist, it is my belief that every individual has the ability to grow, heal, and transform themselves. Life can be chaotic, unexpected, and turbulent. It can take a toll on us in ways we did not imagine and were unable to foresee. It is my goal to assist you when there is chaos, to hold your hand through the unexpected, and to be a guide during the turbulence. It is of the utmost importance in practicing therapy that I create a safe, non-judgmental, and compassionate space to foster healing.
Through our work together, my hope is to help couples and individuals gain skills, education, and clarity to create a more fulfilling and satisfying relationship and life.
As a therapist, it is my belief that every individual has the ability to grow, heal, and transform themselves. Life can be chaotic, unexpected, and turbulent. It can take a toll on us in ways we did not imagine and were unable to foresee. It is my goal to assist you when there is chaos, to hold your hand through the unexpected, and to be a guide during the turbulence. It is of the utmost importance in practicing therapy that I create a safe, non-judgmental, and compassionate space to foster healing.
(928) 440-1145 View (928) 440-1145
Photo of James Kip W Moyer - Moyer Counseling Services, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Moyer Counseling Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
Flagstaff, AZ 86001
Learn to navigate the relationship with your Self.
Are you or a family member struggling with a partner, parent, child, or with your relationship with your self? Is anxiety, depression, uncertainty, overwhelm or balancing all of life's commitments presenting challenges for your everyday functioning? Managing everything life throws our way can be frustrating, frightening, depressing and anxiety producing. Relationships are one of the most rewarding parts of our lives and they can also be one of the most challenging endeavors we pursue. It is a sign of strength to ask for help! Including a licensed professional can provide insight to improve your relationships.
Learn to navigate the relationship with your Self.
Are you or a family member struggling with a partner, parent, child, or with your relationship with your self? Is anxiety, depression, uncertainty, overwhelm or balancing all of life's commitments presenting challenges for your everyday functioning? Managing everything life throws our way can be frustrating, frightening, depressing and anxiety producing. Relationships are one of the most rewarding parts of our lives and they can also be one of the most challenging endeavors we pursue. It is a sign of strength to ask for help! Including a licensed professional can provide insight to improve your relationships.
(928) 236-5439 View (928) 236-5439
Photo of Alicja B Stewart, PhD, Psychologist
Alicja B Stewart
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Flagstaff, AZ 86001
Having worked for years with individuals and couples from wide array of backgrounds on several continents allows me to better understand human condition.
Life with its transitions can be stressful and overwhelming. Even positive changes trigger distress. On this challenging path I offer my extensive training and experience to provide guidance helping you overcome obstacles to feeling better, to increase your curiosity and exploration of your self-growth, to understand yourself deeply, your relationship concerns; to make possible your working through the difficult situation. I have been successfully working with adolescents, adults, couples, and families. Together we identify long or short-term life difficulties such as helplessness, low self-esteem, relationship problems; we work them through, and increase satisfaction and meaning of life.
Having worked for years with individuals and couples from wide array of backgrounds on several continents allows me to better understand human condition.
Life with its transitions can be stressful and overwhelming. Even positive changes trigger distress. On this challenging path I offer my extensive training and experience to provide guidance helping you overcome obstacles to feeling better, to increase your curiosity and exploration of your self-growth, to understand yourself deeply, your relationship concerns; to make possible your working through the difficult situation. I have been successfully working with adolescents, adults, couples, and families. Together we identify long or short-term life difficulties such as helplessness, low self-esteem, relationship problems; we work them through, and increase satisfaction and meaning of life.
(928) 298-4912 View (928) 298-4912
Photo of Kathryn Fenster, MS, NCC, LPC, Counselor
Kathryn Fenster
Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Flagstaff, AZ 86004
In my free time I strive to balance rest & rejuvenation through gardening, reading, backpacking, hiking, snowboarding, and watching netflix with my spouse and dogs.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and National Certified Counselor license. I earned my BA in Anthropology and Mathematics from Grinnell College and my Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from South Dakota State University. I am EMDR trained, DC 0-5 trained, and have extensive training in play therapy, including neurobiology, brain development and trauma. I take a trauma informed approach to counseling, working to understand the impacts of past experiences and increasing your ability to live life as your authentic self.
In my free time I strive to balance rest & rejuvenation through gardening, reading, backpacking, hiking, snowboarding, and watching netflix with my spouse and dogs.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and National Certified Counselor license. I earned my BA in Anthropology and Mathematics from Grinnell College and my Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from South Dakota State University. I am EMDR trained, DC 0-5 trained, and have extensive training in play therapy, including neurobiology, brain development and trauma. I take a trauma informed approach to counseling, working to understand the impacts of past experiences and increasing your ability to live life as your authentic self.
(928) 612-3673 View (928) 612-3673
Photo of Aaron L Cohen - Aaron Cohen - Pathways to Mindful Living, MA
Aaron Cohen - Pathways to Mindful Living
MA
Verified Verified
Flagstaff, AZ 86001
You've recognized that to navigate life's challenges, sometimes you need guidance along the way. You may have tried traditional therapy in the past, but are aware of an inner longing for a deeper, more soulful change. Whether you're seeking help for yourself, your relationship, or family, it would be an honor to be a guide along your path. My approach is the natural outcome of my training in Contemplative Psychotherapy, 20+ years as a meditator and counselor for children, adults, families and couples, and the calling to support other in going "Beyond Therapy."
You've recognized that to navigate life's challenges, sometimes you need guidance along the way. You may have tried traditional therapy in the past, but are aware of an inner longing for a deeper, more soulful change. Whether you're seeking help for yourself, your relationship, or family, it would be an honor to be a guide along your path. My approach is the natural outcome of my training in Contemplative Psychotherapy, 20+ years as a meditator and counselor for children, adults, families and couples, and the calling to support other in going "Beyond Therapy."
(928) 440-0152 View (928) 440-0152
Photo of Raquel Mickelson, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Raquel Mickelson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Flagstaff, AZ 86001
At this time I am able to provide short/long term support for individuals and couples.
We grow as individuals and within relationships, however, at times this can be difficult. We work through conflict, changes in self esteem, depression, anxiety and much more. My goal is to support you through this process while focusing on your personal growth.
At this time I am able to provide short/long term support for individuals and couples.
We grow as individuals and within relationships, however, at times this can be difficult. We work through conflict, changes in self esteem, depression, anxiety and much more. My goal is to support you through this process while focusing on your personal growth.
(928) 225-5429 View (928) 225-5429
Photo of Elizabeth Budge, Pre-Licensed Professional
Elizabeth Budge
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Flagstaff, AZ 86004
Jennifer Finlayson-Fife, a renowned relationship therapist, and Harvard happiness researcher Shawn Achor.
My primary professional focus is assisting individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship problems, marriage troubles, parenting issues, and those seeking guidance in exploring their values, navigating life transitions, and developing more effective mindsets.
Jennifer Finlayson-Fife, a renowned relationship therapist, and Harvard happiness researcher Shawn Achor.
My primary professional focus is assisting individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship problems, marriage troubles, parenting issues, and those seeking guidance in exploring their values, navigating life transitions, and developing more effective mindsets.
(928) 263-6737 View (928) 263-6737
Photo of Jennifer Babendir - Abundant Hope Integrated Solutions, LLC, LPC, LMSW, LAC, Interns, Counselor
Abundant Hope Integrated Solutions, LLC
Counselor, LPC, LMSW, LAC, Interns
Verified Verified
Flagstaff, AZ 86001
Through evidence-based techniques, I create a safe space for exploration, coping strategies, and meaningful growth, empowering clients to live fulfilling lives through individual, couples, or group counseling.
My ideal client seeks growth and healing, recognizing the value of introspection and self-improvement. They may be grappling with challenges such as anxiety, depression, or trauma, seeking to untangle complex emotions and develop coping strategies. Their need encompass a safe, empathetic space for introspection and coping strategies. Their goals include gaining insight, building resilience, and fostering healthier relationships. They aspire to understand themselves better, enhance emotional well-being, and navigate life with clarity and confidence. Their desire for self-discovery stems from a commitment to living a fulfilling life.
Through evidence-based techniques, I create a safe space for exploration, coping strategies, and meaningful growth, empowering clients to live fulfilling lives through individual, couples, or group counseling.
My ideal client seeks growth and healing, recognizing the value of introspection and self-improvement. They may be grappling with challenges such as anxiety, depression, or trauma, seeking to untangle complex emotions and develop coping strategies. Their need encompass a safe, empathetic space for introspection and coping strategies. Their goals include gaining insight, building resilience, and fostering healthier relationships. They aspire to understand themselves better, enhance emotional well-being, and navigate life with clarity and confidence. Their desire for self-discovery stems from a commitment to living a fulfilling life.
(928) 589-5503 View (928) 589-5503
Photo of Anna E McClaugherty, LPC, SEP, CEDS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Anna E McClaugherty
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, SEP, CEDS
Verified Verified
Flagstaff, AZ 86004
Waitlist for new clients
I believe that we heal in the context of relationship.
Anna specializes in working with couples, individuals healing from eating disorders, families, members of the LGBTQIA community, survivors of trauma, individuals facing life transitions, chronic medical conditions, and a variety of mood disorders, particularly long-term depression and anxiety. Anna is committed to the deep work of healing through the body and would be honored to assist you on your self-growth journey.
I believe that we heal in the context of relationship.
Anna specializes in working with couples, individuals healing from eating disorders, families, members of the LGBTQIA community, survivors of trauma, individuals facing life transitions, chronic medical conditions, and a variety of mood disorders, particularly long-term depression and anxiety. Anna is committed to the deep work of healing through the body and would be honored to assist you on your self-growth journey.
(928) 212-2708 View (928) 212-2708
Photo of Michelle Martin, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michelle Martin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Flagstaff, AZ 86001
Waitlist for new clients
I am committed to building a trusting therapeutic relationship that serves as the foundation for growth and transformation.
I believe therapy is a journey of self-discovery, healing, and growth. It's about uncovering your inner strengths, embracing the desire to change, and finding the courage to heal from past wounds, self-doubt, and challenging emotions. My goal is to sit alongside you with compassion, supporting you as you explore who you are, who you aspire to be, and how you wish to be perceived by the world. I work with a diverse range of clients, including first responders, veterans, teens, adults, couples, and individuals in the LGBTQ community. My expertise lies in creating a safe and affirming environment where everyone feels seen and heard.
I am committed to building a trusting therapeutic relationship that serves as the foundation for growth and transformation.
I believe therapy is a journey of self-discovery, healing, and growth. It's about uncovering your inner strengths, embracing the desire to change, and finding the courage to heal from past wounds, self-doubt, and challenging emotions. My goal is to sit alongside you with compassion, supporting you as you explore who you are, who you aspire to be, and how you wish to be perceived by the world. I work with a diverse range of clients, including first responders, veterans, teens, adults, couples, and individuals in the LGBTQ community. My expertise lies in creating a safe and affirming environment where everyone feels seen and heard.
(928) 236-2295 View (928) 236-2295
Photo of Keith A. Cross (Prescott Relationship Center), PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Keith A. Cross (Prescott Relationship Center)
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Flagstaff, AZ 86001  (Online Only)
Cross has conducted numerous marital enrichment workshops for couples and trains therapists most frequently on counseling ethics as well as the use of Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy.
At the Prescott Relationship Center, PLLC, Dr. Cross will help you stop the pain and conflict so you can feel connected, safe, and appreciated in your relationship. Visit our website at www.prescottrelationshipcenter.com for more information. Dr. Cross is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a passion for coaching individuals and couples. Because I am now exclusively offering coaching services, if you are interested in counseling services, please feel free to contact us to get scheduled with one of our relationship counseling experts!
Cross has conducted numerous marital enrichment workshops for couples and trains therapists most frequently on counseling ethics as well as the use of Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy.
At the Prescott Relationship Center, PLLC, Dr. Cross will help you stop the pain and conflict so you can feel connected, safe, and appreciated in your relationship. Visit our website at www.prescottrelationshipcenter.com for more information. Dr. Cross is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a passion for coaching individuals and couples. Because I am now exclusively offering coaching services, if you are interested in counseling services, please feel free to contact us to get scheduled with one of our relationship counseling experts!
(928) 420-8300 View (928) 420-8300
Photo of Misha Luther, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Misha Luther
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Flagstaff, AZ 86001
I enjoy working with adult individuals (18+) and couples who may be experiencing a wide variety of symptoms.
Are you struggling with loneliness, anxiety, isolation, depression, relationship issues, a difficult life transition, trauma or PTSD? Therapy can be the tool that leads to a meaningful and enjoyable life. At Halcyon Sky Counseling you can count on learning new coping skills, cultivating a feeling of connection with yourself and others, positive growth in your relationships, and a safe place to explore difficult issues.
I enjoy working with adult individuals (18+) and couples who may be experiencing a wide variety of symptoms.
Are you struggling with loneliness, anxiety, isolation, depression, relationship issues, a difficult life transition, trauma or PTSD? Therapy can be the tool that leads to a meaningful and enjoyable life. At Halcyon Sky Counseling you can count on learning new coping skills, cultivating a feeling of connection with yourself and others, positive growth in your relationships, and a safe place to explore difficult issues.
(928) 285-6926 View (928) 285-6926
Photo of Gabrielle Clements, Pre-Licensed Professional
Gabrielle Clements
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Flagstaff, AZ 86001
Whether you're facing ADHD, women's issues, relationship challenges, or stress and anxiety, I offer a supportive environment to explore, build resilience, and help you feel empowered.
I’m passionate about guiding individuals through identity exploration, particularly within the LGBTQIA+ community. I focus on empowering others by fostering self-compassion and addressing women's issues and ADHD. My goal is to support you in discovering your unique self, boosting your confidence, and navigating life’s challenges with understanding and care. If you’re ready to explore and grow, I’m here to help you on that journey.
Whether you're facing ADHD, women's issues, relationship challenges, or stress and anxiety, I offer a supportive environment to explore, build resilience, and help you feel empowered.
I’m passionate about guiding individuals through identity exploration, particularly within the LGBTQIA+ community. I focus on empowering others by fostering self-compassion and addressing women's issues and ADHD. My goal is to support you in discovering your unique self, boosting your confidence, and navigating life’s challenges with understanding and care. If you’re ready to explore and grow, I’m here to help you on that journey.
(928) 414-8822 View (928) 414-8822
Photo of Dr. Rielly Lawry, PhD, PMH-C, Psychologist
Dr. Rielly Lawry
Psychologist, PhD, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Flagstaff, AZ 86001
Currently accepting new adult clients for in-person and telehealth therapy. I am a licensed psychologist with 12+ years of experience working with individuals across the lifespan from diverse backgrounds. I value working with individuals on many different topics including anxiety, depression, stress, relationship and interpersonal issues, difficulty with change, grief and loss, postpartum difficulties, & health and wellness, among others.
Currently accepting new adult clients for in-person and telehealth therapy. I am a licensed psychologist with 12+ years of experience working with individuals across the lifespan from diverse backgrounds. I value working with individuals on many different topics including anxiety, depression, stress, relationship and interpersonal issues, difficulty with change, grief and loss, postpartum difficulties, & health and wellness, among others.
(928) 433-5482 View (928) 433-5482
Photo of Laura Fallon, LAC,  MS, Counselor
Laura Fallon
Counselor, LAC, MS
Verified Verified
Flagstaff, AZ 86001
Waitlist for new clients
I use an integrative approach to my work with individual adults, teens, and couples.
There are many reasons to be in therapy, no two people need the same thing. My approach to therapy is similar, tailored to what an individual needs at that moment in their life. Some come to therapy to gain support for a particular challenge or shift in their life. Some come to therapy to understand themselves better- why do they do, think, feel the way they do? Some want to process trauma, something that has happened to them that has impacted the way they live their lives. Everyone is different, and everyone needs support at different times of their lives. I provide a non-judgemental witness to where you are right now.
I use an integrative approach to my work with individual adults, teens, and couples.
There are many reasons to be in therapy, no two people need the same thing. My approach to therapy is similar, tailored to what an individual needs at that moment in their life. Some come to therapy to gain support for a particular challenge or shift in their life. Some come to therapy to understand themselves better- why do they do, think, feel the way they do? Some want to process trauma, something that has happened to them that has impacted the way they live their lives. Everyone is different, and everyone needs support at different times of their lives. I provide a non-judgemental witness to where you are right now.
(928) 248-8596 View (928) 248-8596
Photo of Cristina Piastrini - Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Flagstaff, Licensed Professional Counselor
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Flagstaff
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Flagstaff, AZ 86001
We offer individual counseling, psychiatry/medication management (virtual only), family counseling, couples therapy/marriage counseling, and child & teen therapy.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
We offer individual counseling, psychiatry/medication management (virtual only), family counseling, couples therapy/marriage counseling, and child & teen therapy.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
(855) 524-5193 View (855) 524-5193
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.