Couples Counseling Therapists in Old Naples, Naples, FL

Photo of Carol Cirabisi - Conscious Choices, Marriage & Family Therapist
Conscious Choices
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Old Naples, Naples, FL 34102
We are dedicated to providing Relationship Counseling, Individual Psychotherapy and other Supportive Services to help you become who you were born to be, so that you can create the relationships you desire and live the life you deserve.
We are dedicated to providing Relationship Counseling, Individual Psychotherapy and other Supportive Services to help you become who you were born to be, so that you can create the relationships you desire and live the life you deserve.
(239) 674-0776 View (239) 674-0776
Photo of Eve Scharf, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Eve Scharf
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Old Naples, Naples, FL 34102
If you are looking for a seasoned therapist, I am here to help you. The client-therapist relationship is key to your healing. I have worked in the field of psychotherapy since 1992 with training from New York University. I specialize in issues such as anxiety, depression, mood disorders, couples therapy and family therapy. Therapy is experienced in a relaxed and trusted setting. I look forward to working with you.
If you are looking for a seasoned therapist, I am here to help you. The client-therapist relationship is key to your healing. I have worked in the field of psychotherapy since 1992 with training from New York University. I specialize in issues such as anxiety, depression, mood disorders, couples therapy and family therapy. Therapy is experienced in a relaxed and trusted setting. I look forward to working with you.
(239) 230-4372 View (239) 230-4372
Photo of Brian Granneman, MA, CAP, RMHCI, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Brian Granneman
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, CAP, RMHCI
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Old Naples, Naples, FL 34102
I have used my life to serve others in a variety of ways - a Police Officer, a Child Protective Investigator, and now as a Counselor and Certified Addictions Professional. It is truly my honor to be a collaborative partner in helping others heal, stop self-defeating patterns, and break their own personal chains, ultimately leading to healthier relationships.
I have used my life to serve others in a variety of ways - a Police Officer, a Child Protective Investigator, and now as a Counselor and Certified Addictions Professional. It is truly my honor to be a collaborative partner in helping others heal, stop self-defeating patterns, and break their own personal chains, ultimately leading to healthier relationships.
(239) 212-1500 View (239) 212-1500
Photo of Robin Fatovic, PsyD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Robin Fatovic
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
Old Naples, Naples, FL 34102
Fatovic has experience working with individuals who struggle with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, relationship issues, grief, substance abuse, attentional issues, medical conditions, trauma, adjustment issues, and many other presenting concerns.
Dr. Fatovic completed her clinical internship at the Bruce W. Carter VA Medical Center in Miami, Florida. Her work there included providing mental health services to the veteran population in a variety of settings. This work included individual therapy and group therapy, comprehensive psychological and neuropsychological assessments, pre-surgical clearance assessments, bedside therapy for physical rehabilitation, psychosocial and substance abuse rehabilitation, outreach with law enforcement, and interdisciplinary work with the Miami-Dade courts to advocate for justice-involved veterans.
Fatovic has experience working with individuals who struggle with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, relationship issues, grief, substance abuse, attentional issues, medical conditions, trauma, adjustment issues, and many other presenting concerns.
Dr. Fatovic completed her clinical internship at the Bruce W. Carter VA Medical Center in Miami, Florida. Her work there included providing mental health services to the veteran population in a variety of settings. This work included individual therapy and group therapy, comprehensive psychological and neuropsychological assessments, pre-surgical clearance assessments, bedside therapy for physical rehabilitation, psychosocial and substance abuse rehabilitation, outreach with law enforcement, and interdisciplinary work with the Miami-Dade courts to advocate for justice-involved veterans.
(239) 522-8083 View (239) 522-8083
Photo of Brandon Wise Masters, MA, MSEd, RMHCI
Brandon Wise Masters
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MA, MSEd, RMHCI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Old Naples, Naples, FL 34102
With a passion for supporting couples and individuals of all ages, I use evidence-based practices and a person-first approach to help my clients thrive.
Life can be unpredictable, and many of us experience feeling overwhelmed or stuck. Therapy has profoundly changed my own life, helping me navigate through difficult times and rediscover my strengths. If you're facing anxiety, past trauma, or relationship issues, know that you're not alone. I'm here to provide a warm, supportive space where we can explore these challenges together. Your journey to a brighter, more fulfilling future begins with a single step. I look forward to walking this path with you.
With a passion for supporting couples and individuals of all ages, I use evidence-based practices and a person-first approach to help my clients thrive.
Life can be unpredictable, and many of us experience feeling overwhelmed or stuck. Therapy has profoundly changed my own life, helping me navigate through difficult times and rediscover my strengths. If you're facing anxiety, past trauma, or relationship issues, know that you're not alone. I'm here to provide a warm, supportive space where we can explore these challenges together. Your journey to a brighter, more fulfilling future begins with a single step. I look forward to walking this path with you.
(239) 653-8784 View (239) 653-8784
Photo of Carol Cirabisi, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Carol Cirabisi
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Old Naples, Naples, FL 34102
Whether you are seeking individual or couples counseling, I can help you navigate through the stuck places.
We all want to feel connected, right? To feel we belong and are seen, understood, valued and accepted for who we are. Often, how we protect ourselves from our own fears and vulnerabilities keeps us from allowing others to really know who we are. We hide our tender hearts and limit our true selves, for fear of being hurt. However, in doing so, we live "small;" our lives and our relationships can become diminished, unsatisfying, and hopeless. Wouldn't you rather live in truth, shining your brightest light?
Whether you are seeking individual or couples counseling, I can help you navigate through the stuck places.
We all want to feel connected, right? To feel we belong and are seen, understood, valued and accepted for who we are. Often, how we protect ourselves from our own fears and vulnerabilities keeps us from allowing others to really know who we are. We hide our tender hearts and limit our true selves, for fear of being hurt. However, in doing so, we live "small;" our lives and our relationships can become diminished, unsatisfying, and hopeless. Wouldn't you rather live in truth, shining your brightest light?
(239) 471-4469 View (239) 471-4469
Photo of Catherine Nolan Boniello, LCSW, CASAC, CPC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Catherine Nolan Boniello
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CASAC, CPC
Verified Verified
Old Naples, Naples, FL 34102
Are you struggling with unrelenting stress, sadness or fear? Are you trying to cope with the pain and anguish of watching someone you love abuse alcohol or other drugs? Perhaps you are a parent in need of help for your teen and at a loss with how to help them. I have almost 30 years of experience as a professional working with children, adolescents, adults and families both individually and in groups. Life's challenges can become overwhelming at times. Whether it is a life transition, a toxic relationship, a traumatic event or some other challenge that life has handed you, I believe there is no pain too great to be lessened.
Are you struggling with unrelenting stress, sadness or fear? Are you trying to cope with the pain and anguish of watching someone you love abuse alcohol or other drugs? Perhaps you are a parent in need of help for your teen and at a loss with how to help them. I have almost 30 years of experience as a professional working with children, adolescents, adults and families both individually and in groups. Life's challenges can become overwhelming at times. Whether it is a life transition, a toxic relationship, a traumatic event or some other challenge that life has handed you, I believe there is no pain too great to be lessened.
(239) 326-0263 View (239) 326-0263
Photo of Barbie Lopez, LMHC, Counselor
Barbie Lopez
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Old Naples, Naples, FL 34102
Barbie Lopez has over 10 years of experience providing therapy in Outpatient, Inpatient, and Intensive Outpatient settings with clients seeking help for various presenting issues. She works with various psychotherapy modalities for the overall wellness of her clients including but not limited to depression, anxiety, social anxiety, trauma, emotional wellbeing, self-esteem issues, life changes, relationship issues, interpersonal skills, bipolar disorder, and substance abuse disorder. Ms. Lopez is fluent in English and Spanish, and able to provide services in both languages.
Barbie Lopez has over 10 years of experience providing therapy in Outpatient, Inpatient, and Intensive Outpatient settings with clients seeking help for various presenting issues. She works with various psychotherapy modalities for the overall wellness of her clients including but not limited to depression, anxiety, social anxiety, trauma, emotional wellbeing, self-esteem issues, life changes, relationship issues, interpersonal skills, bipolar disorder, and substance abuse disorder. Ms. Lopez is fluent in English and Spanish, and able to provide services in both languages.
(239) 360-3985 View (239) 360-3985
Photo of Shielagh Shusta Hochberg, PhD, Psychologist
Shielagh Shusta Hochberg
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Old Naples, Naples, FL 34102
We'll work on your issues, be they new opportunities, or health, separation or grief & any crossroads you face with career, relationship or family decisions.
I’m Dr. Shielagh Hochberg, clinical psychologist in Naples, Florida. With a PhD in clinical psychology, I'm licensed in Florida & New York. With many years of experience treating anxiety, trauma, stress & grief, I can help you learn to take better care of yourself. Since the pandemic, many have lost a sense of direction. Our lives have changed. Some are ready for change, others fight change fiercely. As we age health and related decisions may become priorities. Whatever challenges you face, a skilled clinician can help you get through it. As a Jewish therapist practicing Buddhist meditation, I bring a unique perspective to the work.
We'll work on your issues, be they new opportunities, or health, separation or grief & any crossroads you face with career, relationship or family decisions.
I’m Dr. Shielagh Hochberg, clinical psychologist in Naples, Florida. With a PhD in clinical psychology, I'm licensed in Florida & New York. With many years of experience treating anxiety, trauma, stress & grief, I can help you learn to take better care of yourself. Since the pandemic, many have lost a sense of direction. Our lives have changed. Some are ready for change, others fight change fiercely. As we age health and related decisions may become priorities. Whatever challenges you face, a skilled clinician can help you get through it. As a Jewish therapist practicing Buddhist meditation, I bring a unique perspective to the work.
(239) 320-4905 View (239) 320-4905
Photo of Virginia Inglese, LCSW, MA, RDN, EMDR, CEDS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Virginia Inglese
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MA, RDN, EMDR, CEDS
Verified Verified
Old Naples, Naples, FL 34102
Are you struggling with an eating disorder, low self-esteem, relationship issues, or self harming behaviors? Have you suffered from trauma and abuse, or have lost touch of your own needs and feelings? I use an integrative approach that emphasizes emotional and physical healing and addresses the underlying core issues that continue to sabotage the recovery process. My treatment approach helps you let go of negative beliefs, self destructive patterns, and learn to develop positive relationships and healthy coping skills. We build on your strengths and focus is on recovery and self care to find your true inner self.
Are you struggling with an eating disorder, low self-esteem, relationship issues, or self harming behaviors? Have you suffered from trauma and abuse, or have lost touch of your own needs and feelings? I use an integrative approach that emphasizes emotional and physical healing and addresses the underlying core issues that continue to sabotage the recovery process. My treatment approach helps you let go of negative beliefs, self destructive patterns, and learn to develop positive relationships and healthy coping skills. We build on your strengths and focus is on recovery and self care to find your true inner self.
(703) 634-9922 View (703) 634-9922
Photo of Caroline Edgeton-Martin, MSEd, Pre-Licensed Professional
Caroline Edgeton-Martin
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSEd
Verified Verified
Old Naples, Naples, FL 34102
I completed my BA in English and Journalism from Wake Forest University and my M.S.Ed. in Mental Health Counseling at the University of Pennsylvania. My studies were multiculturally informed and focused on serving LGBTQIA+ individuals, providing mental health care to underserved communities, and relationship/intimacy counseling. I am currently a resident in counseling working towards LPC licensure in the state of Virginia. My aim is to create a brave space for you to feel safe being vulnerable without judgment. I provide a culturally responsive, trauma-informed, and strengths-based approach.
I completed my BA in English and Journalism from Wake Forest University and my M.S.Ed. in Mental Health Counseling at the University of Pennsylvania. My studies were multiculturally informed and focused on serving LGBTQIA+ individuals, providing mental health care to underserved communities, and relationship/intimacy counseling. I am currently a resident in counseling working towards LPC licensure in the state of Virginia. My aim is to create a brave space for you to feel safe being vulnerable without judgment. I provide a culturally responsive, trauma-informed, and strengths-based approach.
(571) 554-5640 View (571) 554-5640
Photo of Sarah E. Sears, MS, LCMHC, Counselor
Sarah E. Sears
Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Old Naples, Naples, FL 34102  (Online Only)
A strong sense of curiosity and compassion guides Sarah's work. Her experience with individuals and couples spans many areas, including ADHD, anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, traumatic brain injuries (TBI), life transitions, and grief. She primarily works with adults, professionals, and couples tailoring her approach to suit the unique needs of each individual.
A strong sense of curiosity and compassion guides Sarah's work. Her experience with individuals and couples spans many areas, including ADHD, anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, traumatic brain injuries (TBI), life transitions, and grief. She primarily works with adults, professionals, and couples tailoring her approach to suit the unique needs of each individual.
(802) 348-2315 View (802) 348-2315
Photo of Marci Wise, MA, LMHC, Author, EMDR, Counselor
Marci Wise
Counselor, MA, LMHC, Author, EMDR
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Old Naples, Naples, FL 34102
I provide both individual and couples counseling, offering tangible tools and techniques to improve communication, diffuse defensiveness, and heal childhood wounds.
Do you feel as if something is keeping you from living your ideal life? I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Author, seeing clients in the Fort Myers/Naples area, who specializes in personal empowerment. Whether you're battling anxiety, unfulfilling relationships, or the lasting effects of trauma, I can offer you the tools to take back control of your life. While our challenges can be difficult, our problems do not define us. I will help you rediscover your true self, move past obstacles, and start living your best life today. There is always hope when you know where to look for solutions.
I provide both individual and couples counseling, offering tangible tools and techniques to improve communication, diffuse defensiveness, and heal childhood wounds.
Do you feel as if something is keeping you from living your ideal life? I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Author, seeing clients in the Fort Myers/Naples area, who specializes in personal empowerment. Whether you're battling anxiety, unfulfilling relationships, or the lasting effects of trauma, I can offer you the tools to take back control of your life. While our challenges can be difficult, our problems do not define us. I will help you rediscover your true self, move past obstacles, and start living your best life today. There is always hope when you know where to look for solutions.
(239) 558-1482 View (239) 558-1482
Photo of Margo Friedman, LPC, LADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Margo Friedman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LADC
Verified Verified
Old Naples, Naples, FL 34102  (Online Only)
Also, I have a lot of experience with counseling college students and young adults to help them explore relationship issues, academic/work stressors and other life transitions.
Everyone has battles to fight and hurdles to overcome at some point in their lives. I specialize in supporting patients and their loved ones as they navigate complex illnesses such as chronic Lyme Disease and tick borne illnesses. It is important to me that my patients feel they can safely express their emotions and receive supportive feedback in a nonjudgmental manner. I would like to help you develop life-long coping strategies and achieve a better quality of life.
Also, I have a lot of experience with counseling college students and young adults to help them explore relationship issues, academic/work stressors and other life transitions.
Everyone has battles to fight and hurdles to overcome at some point in their lives. I specialize in supporting patients and their loved ones as they navigate complex illnesses such as chronic Lyme Disease and tick borne illnesses. It is important to me that my patients feel they can safely express their emotions and receive supportive feedback in a nonjudgmental manner. I would like to help you develop life-long coping strategies and achieve a better quality of life.
(203) 580-6497 View (203) 580-6497
Photo of Marci Wise - Wise Counseling, Inc, LMHC, LCSW, EMDRIA
Wise Counseling, Inc
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, LCSW, EMDRIA
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Old Naples, Naples, FL 34102
We provide both individual and couples counseling, offering tangible tools and techniques to improve communication, diffuse defensiveness, and heal childhood wounds.
Do you feel as if something is keeping you from living your ideal life? Whether you're battling anxiety, unfulfilling relationships, or the lasting effects of trauma, our staff of qualified counselors can offer you the tools to take back control of your life. We will help you rediscover your true self, move past obstacles, and start living your best life today. There is always hope when you know where to look for solutions. We see people as people - and problems as problems. You are not defined by your current struggles. We use evidence-based treatments and promote a sense of empowerment.
We provide both individual and couples counseling, offering tangible tools and techniques to improve communication, diffuse defensiveness, and heal childhood wounds.
Do you feel as if something is keeping you from living your ideal life? Whether you're battling anxiety, unfulfilling relationships, or the lasting effects of trauma, our staff of qualified counselors can offer you the tools to take back control of your life. We will help you rediscover your true self, move past obstacles, and start living your best life today. There is always hope when you know where to look for solutions. We see people as people - and problems as problems. You are not defined by your current struggles. We use evidence-based treatments and promote a sense of empowerment.
(239) 893-7797 View (239) 893-7797
Photo of J. R. Lippold, MA, MSW, LGSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
J. R. Lippold
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LGSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Old Naples, Naples, FL 34102
J.R. has extensive experience working with individuals, couples, and families in crisis, as well as adolescents, young adults, and members of the LGBTQ community. His unique and direct approach draws from his multifaceted experiences to provide insight into how environmental, mental/emotional, and health-related factors can influence an individual’s thoughts, feelings, and behaviors – all factors that can lead to emotional distress, anxiety, and depression.
J.R. has extensive experience working with individuals, couples, and families in crisis, as well as adolescents, young adults, and members of the LGBTQ community. His unique and direct approach draws from his multifaceted experiences to provide insight into how environmental, mental/emotional, and health-related factors can influence an individual’s thoughts, feelings, and behaviors – all factors that can lead to emotional distress, anxiety, and depression.
(703) 721-4625 View (703) 721-4625
Photo of Diane T. Colonnello, MSW, DCSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Diane T. Colonnello
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, DCSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Old Naples, Naples, FL 34101  (Online Only)
I have worked with individuals, couples, families, and groups.
During these trying times, you can reach out, trust and take refuge in the support I can provide you. Yes this is a leap of faith. I provide telehealth on Doxy me. Take comfort in knowing I have worked over thirty years in the field. My clients have seen great results with my work via Ego state therapy and EMDR. My style involves engaging clients in exploring the etiology of their symptoms, developing specific skills to effectively cope, and to resolve the source(s) of the problem.
I have worked with individuals, couples, families, and groups.
During these trying times, you can reach out, trust and take refuge in the support I can provide you. Yes this is a leap of faith. I provide telehealth on Doxy me. Take comfort in knowing I have worked over thirty years in the field. My clients have seen great results with my work via Ego state therapy and EMDR. My style involves engaging clients in exploring the etiology of their symptoms, developing specific skills to effectively cope, and to resolve the source(s) of the problem.
(239) 275-9665 View (239) 275-9665
Photo of Beth Kaplan Sommerfeld, PhD, Psychologist
Beth Kaplan Sommerfeld
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Old Naples, Naples, FL 34102
I view therapy as a collaborative process, as my clients and I work together to identify approaches to improving their lives. By actively listening, providing support and recommendations, then allowing the client to test out new behaviors, we are producing opportunities for new learning and change to occur. I treat adults, both individuals and couples, whose lives are being negatively impacted by depression, anxiety, relationship issues, health issues, and life stress generally. I believe that successful therapy includes supporting and reinforcing clients' strengths as well as addressing problematic symptoms and behaviors.
I view therapy as a collaborative process, as my clients and I work together to identify approaches to improving their lives. By actively listening, providing support and recommendations, then allowing the client to test out new behaviors, we are producing opportunities for new learning and change to occur. I treat adults, both individuals and couples, whose lives are being negatively impacted by depression, anxiety, relationship issues, health issues, and life stress generally. I believe that successful therapy includes supporting and reinforcing clients' strengths as well as addressing problematic symptoms and behaviors.
(239) 204-2129 View (239) 204-2129
Photo of Mary Ann Whalen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Ann Whalen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Old Naples, Naples, FL 34102
I work with adults as individuals and in couples and families.
The stories we construct about life often get in the way of feeling fully alive. We create them to make sense of the randomness of our experiences with the goal of feeling more secure. Unfortunately, they can limit us; our self knowledge, the development of our connections with others and experiencing success. Looking for patterns in language and behavior helps to uncover the underlying stories that contribute to unhappiness and stress. Knowing that we are all trying our best to find our way through life helps us to work as a team to move forward.
I work with adults as individuals and in couples and families.
The stories we construct about life often get in the way of feeling fully alive. We create them to make sense of the randomness of our experiences with the goal of feeling more secure. Unfortunately, they can limit us; our self knowledge, the development of our connections with others and experiencing success. Looking for patterns in language and behavior helps to uncover the underlying stories that contribute to unhappiness and stress. Knowing that we are all trying our best to find our way through life helps us to work as a team to move forward.
(707) 236-8794 View (707) 236-8794
Photo of Eva Smidova, PhDr, LMFT, LGBTQA+, CTCT, PhD, Marriage & Family Therapist
Eva Smidova
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhDr, LMFT, LGBTQA+, CTCT, PhD
Verified Verified
Old Naples, Naples, FL 34102
I am experienced in therapy with couples, families, individuals (since 2006), LGBTQ therapy (certified as a transgender care therapist 2014-2015), sex therapy (EU earned certificate in 2008), body focusing (in sport also), relaxation, and hypnotherapy.
Dear client, YOU ARE MY SPECIALTY! Let me help you get the most out of your life, relationships, and career. I am a skilled psychotherapist, counselor, certified transgender care therapist, and hypnotherapist with an international experience. My areas of emphasis are: psychotherapy with couples, families, individuals, children and teens, LGB and Transgender care, relational concerns, infidelity, sexual therapy, parenting challenges, personal growth, self-esteem and empowerment, mind and body connection work, transitions of life/career/family, anxiety and depression, death, loss and grief, trauma. Successful therapy is about you feeling better, changed, balanced, satisfied, challenged, glowing YOU!
I am experienced in therapy with couples, families, individuals (since 2006), LGBTQ therapy (certified as a transgender care therapist 2014-2015), sex therapy (EU earned certificate in 2008), body focusing (in sport also), relaxation, and hypnotherapy.
Dear client, YOU ARE MY SPECIALTY! Let me help you get the most out of your life, relationships, and career. I am a skilled psychotherapist, counselor, certified transgender care therapist, and hypnotherapist with an international experience. My areas of emphasis are: psychotherapy with couples, families, individuals, children and teens, LGB and Transgender care, relational concerns, infidelity, sexual therapy, parenting challenges, personal growth, self-esteem and empowerment, mind and body connection work, transitions of life/career/family, anxiety and depression, death, loss and grief, trauma. Successful therapy is about you feeling better, changed, balanced, satisfied, challenged, glowing YOU!
(239) 324-9785 View (239) 324-9785

See more therapy options for Old Naples, Naples

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.