Couples Counseling Therapists in Ocala, FL

Photo of Scotty Lusk, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Scotty Lusk
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ocala, FL 34471
Couples counseling, personal life coaching, and helping people grow are areas where I enjoy working with people.
Choosing to seek counseling can be a big step. I want you to know that you will be supported, heard and encouraged as you work on the tools and skills to address the challenges you are facing. My participation as a non-biased guide is to assist you to experience love, cooperation, joy, and fulfillment in life. My aim is to help you evaluate and achieve healthy goals with real solutions and useful information that you can implement right away.
Couples counseling, personal life coaching, and helping people grow are areas where I enjoy working with people.
Choosing to seek counseling can be a big step. I want you to know that you will be supported, heard and encouraged as you work on the tools and skills to address the challenges you are facing. My participation as a non-biased guide is to assist you to experience love, cooperation, joy, and fulfillment in life. My aim is to help you evaluate and achieve healthy goals with real solutions and useful information that you can implement right away.
(352) 995-2313 View (352) 995-2313
Photo of Sparkle Cunningham - Revivify Therapeutic Services, LICSW, PIP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Revivify Therapeutic Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, PIP
Verified Verified
Ocala, FL 34481  (Online Only)
We are experienced in grief, bereavement, couples counseling, stress, anxiety, life transitions, and more.
Feeling the need to talk about what matters to you? Life's transitions, stressors, worries, and fears are on everybody's mind. Here at Revivify we focus on renewing, restoring, and reviving the most important person...you.
We are experienced in grief, bereavement, couples counseling, stress, anxiety, life transitions, and more.
Feeling the need to talk about what matters to you? Life's transitions, stressors, worries, and fears are on everybody's mind. Here at Revivify we focus on renewing, restoring, and reviving the most important person...you.
(205) 882-3724 View (205) 882-3724
Photo of Bailey Adams, M Ed, Ed S, RMHCI, Pre-Licensed Professional
Bailey Adams
Pre-Licensed Professional, M Ed, Ed S, RMHCI
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ocala, FL 34470
Waitlist for new clients
I enjoying working with adolescent and adult clients alike, primarily those experiencing relationship issues, childhood trauma, family systems difficulties, substance abuse and addiction, anxiety disorders, and struggles with everyday life in between these stressors or traumas. I most recently worked as a school-based therapist for a local community mental health agency with middle & high school students. I have found great satisfaction in helping relational units achieve successful communication and increase intimacy. Often times I am happy to work with individuals to reach these goals with others not in the counseling room.
I enjoying working with adolescent and adult clients alike, primarily those experiencing relationship issues, childhood trauma, family systems difficulties, substance abuse and addiction, anxiety disorders, and struggles with everyday life in between these stressors or traumas. I most recently worked as a school-based therapist for a local community mental health agency with middle & high school students. I have found great satisfaction in helping relational units achieve successful communication and increase intimacy. Often times I am happy to work with individuals to reach these goals with others not in the counseling room.
(352) 309-0605 View (352) 309-0605
Photo of Sabra Lunday - From the Heart Counseling Services PLLC, EdD, LMHC, CAP, CTT, EMDR, Counselor
From the Heart Counseling Services PLLC
Counselor, EdD, LMHC, CAP, CTT, EMDR
Verified Verified
Ocala, FL 34470
Dr. Sabra E. Lunday, Licensed mental health counselor & Qualified Supervisor, Certified in Trauma, Substance Addiction & EMDR. Received doctorate in Counseling Supervision & Education - Argosy University Sarasota, Master’s in Mental Health Counseling - Capella University & bachelor’s - Criminal Justice - Saint Leo University. I have worked with varied individuals and am well versed in trauma resolution, chemical dependency, grief therapy, sex/love addiction, somatic experiencing, co-occurring addictions, PTSD, emotional adjustment & behavioral issues, relationship issues, adoption, anxiety & depression.
Dr. Sabra E. Lunday, Licensed mental health counselor & Qualified Supervisor, Certified in Trauma, Substance Addiction & EMDR. Received doctorate in Counseling Supervision & Education - Argosy University Sarasota, Master’s in Mental Health Counseling - Capella University & bachelor’s - Criminal Justice - Saint Leo University. I have worked with varied individuals and am well versed in trauma resolution, chemical dependency, grief therapy, sex/love addiction, somatic experiencing, co-occurring addictions, PTSD, emotional adjustment & behavioral issues, relationship issues, adoption, anxiety & depression.
(352) 325-6049 View (352) 325-6049
Photo of Rick Stephan Neuropsychologist, PhD, MSCP, Psychologist
Rick Stephan Neuropsychologist
Psychologist, PhD, MSCP
Verified Verified
Ocala, FL 34482
Want to feel better? We should talk. As a neuropsychologist, philosophical counselor, and psychopharmacologist, I'm uniquely qualified to partner with you to transform challenges into new, far-reaching pathways to the life you seek. A thriving life with peace, contentment, and joy. Just bring your desire for change and I'll support you with a blend of modern neuroscience, time-tested philosophical wisdom, and unconditional compassion, empathy, and care.
Want to feel better? We should talk. As a neuropsychologist, philosophical counselor, and psychopharmacologist, I'm uniquely qualified to partner with you to transform challenges into new, far-reaching pathways to the life you seek. A thriving life with peace, contentment, and joy. Just bring your desire for change and I'll support you with a blend of modern neuroscience, time-tested philosophical wisdom, and unconditional compassion, empathy, and care.
(561) 666-9884 View (561) 666-9884
Photo of Brent P. Mruz, PsyD, PA, Psychologist
Brent P. Mruz
Psychologist, PsyD, PA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Ocala, FL 34470
While I work with a variety of concerns: relationship problems, addictions, eating disorders/obesity, trauma/PTSD, emotional adjustment and behavioral issues, sexual orientation conflicts, anxiety and depression, my goal is to help you understand the meaning of your particular symptoms so the underlying emotional experiences can be identified and resolved.
Hello! Do you find yourself struggling with the same problems or just want more from life? Though we long for real support, the world instead often tells us to "suck it up," "get over it" or "take your medication." Many of us turn to self-medication. But you don't have to settle for just "getting by." I help people safely make contact, and actively deal with the the emotional origin of their issues. More than just talking about feelings or trying to control negative thoughts, the goal is to identify, understand and complete the unfinished business that has been troubling your life until now.
While I work with a variety of concerns: relationship problems, addictions, eating disorders/obesity, trauma/PTSD, emotional adjustment and behavioral issues, sexual orientation conflicts, anxiety and depression, my goal is to help you understand the meaning of your particular symptoms so the underlying emotional experiences can be identified and resolved.
Hello! Do you find yourself struggling with the same problems or just want more from life? Though we long for real support, the world instead often tells us to "suck it up," "get over it" or "take your medication." Many of us turn to self-medication. But you don't have to settle for just "getting by." I help people safely make contact, and actively deal with the the emotional origin of their issues. More than just talking about feelings or trying to control negative thoughts, the goal is to identify, understand and complete the unfinished business that has been troubling your life until now.
(352) 895-5310 View (352) 895-5310
Photo of Margaret Proulx, LMHC, NCC, NY, FL, Counselor
Margaret Proulx
Counselor, LMHC, NCC, NY, FL
Verified Verified
Ocala, FL 34481  (Online Only)
Margaret’s key components of the therapeutic relationship are the following: Communication, empathy, understanding, acceptance, caring, and accessibility.
Please Note: Margaret is only virtual. Margaret is licensed in both New York and Florida. Margaret has been a practicing Mental Health Counselor since 2020. Margaret attended Capella University for her Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and graduated in 2020. She is a National Certified Counselor. Margaret also is an EMDR therapist. Margaret specializes in trauma,PTSD, sexual abuse, depression, and anxiety. Margaret believes that therapy is a mode of traveling through this life within healing. She has experience using the following therapeutic methods/approaches/philosophies: CBT, EMDR, ClientCentered, and TraumaInformed.
Margaret’s key components of the therapeutic relationship are the following: Communication, empathy, understanding, acceptance, caring, and accessibility.
Please Note: Margaret is only virtual. Margaret is licensed in both New York and Florida. Margaret has been a practicing Mental Health Counselor since 2020. Margaret attended Capella University for her Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and graduated in 2020. She is a National Certified Counselor. Margaret also is an EMDR therapist. Margaret specializes in trauma,PTSD, sexual abuse, depression, and anxiety. Margaret believes that therapy is a mode of traveling through this life within healing. She has experience using the following therapeutic methods/approaches/philosophies: CBT, EMDR, ClientCentered, and TraumaInformed.
(518) 760-0321 View (518) 760-0321
Photo of Nicale Caravella, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nicale Caravella
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ocala, FL 34471  (Online Only)
Entering a therapeutic relationship, whether for the first or fifth time, is a significant leap of faith for a client. I respect this decision greatly and take it seriously. I will work with you to ensure you feel safe and know your confidence is held in high regard, no matter what challenges you are facing. We will explore where you are and where you want to be, working together to develop a plan for self-development and change, whether it is processing a loss, traumatic event, or a more chronic issue is at hand. Exploring your strengths and skills can yield positive results. I am always honored to be trusted with your story.
Entering a therapeutic relationship, whether for the first or fifth time, is a significant leap of faith for a client. I respect this decision greatly and take it seriously. I will work with you to ensure you feel safe and know your confidence is held in high regard, no matter what challenges you are facing. We will explore where you are and where you want to be, working together to develop a plan for self-development and change, whether it is processing a loss, traumatic event, or a more chronic issue is at hand. Exploring your strengths and skills can yield positive results. I am always honored to be trusted with your story.
(352) 822-3483 View (352) 822-3483
Photo of Josh Pittman, LMHC, CTT, CSAT, Counselor
Josh Pittman
Counselor, LMHC, CTT, CSAT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Ocala, FL 34471
I am an LMHC, Certified in Trauma and Sex Addiction. I received a BA in psychology from Saint Leo University and my counseling career began with working at The Refuge, an inpatient facility, in 2010 as an intern while I earned my masters degree at Webster University. I am well versed in trauma resolution, chemical dependency, grief therapy, sex and love addiction, somatic experiencing, co-occurring addictions, PTSD, emotional adjustment and behavioral issues, relationship problems, anxiety and depression.
I am an LMHC, Certified in Trauma and Sex Addiction. I received a BA in psychology from Saint Leo University and my counseling career began with working at The Refuge, an inpatient facility, in 2010 as an intern while I earned my masters degree at Webster University. I am well versed in trauma resolution, chemical dependency, grief therapy, sex and love addiction, somatic experiencing, co-occurring addictions, PTSD, emotional adjustment and behavioral issues, relationship problems, anxiety and depression.
(352) 436-6976 View (352) 436-6976
Photo of Casey Sumner, PhD, ART, Pre-Licensed Professional
Casey Sumner
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD, ART
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ocala, FL 34471
My passion in life is to help others. From veterans, first responders, couples, or those just needing someone to talk to. I am currently accepting new clients at this time. I specialize in trauma informed care and those that suffer from PTSD/combat PTSD. I have over 10 years of experience working with those who have struggled with trauma and substance abuse. My goal is to help find the underlying reasons why we use process addictions (drugs, alcohol, gambling, sex, etc.) to cope with our traumas. I currently hold a PhD in Psychology with a specialization in General Psychology and I am trained in ART Advanced/Enhanced level 3.
My passion in life is to help others. From veterans, first responders, couples, or those just needing someone to talk to. I am currently accepting new clients at this time. I specialize in trauma informed care and those that suffer from PTSD/combat PTSD. I have over 10 years of experience working with those who have struggled with trauma and substance abuse. My goal is to help find the underlying reasons why we use process addictions (drugs, alcohol, gambling, sex, etc.) to cope with our traumas. I currently hold a PhD in Psychology with a specialization in General Psychology and I am trained in ART Advanced/Enhanced level 3.
(352) 449-3763 View (352) 449-3763
Photo of David S Moss, LMHC, CTT, Counselor
David S Moss
Counselor, LMHC, CTT
Verified Verified
Ocala, FL 34472
I have expertise treating a variety of concerns including trauma, addiction (including sex addiction), marital difficulties, relationship problems, child behavior, grief, anxiety, depression, and co-dependency.
Are your relationships broken, and you are wondering, "How did it ever get to this point?" Or have you ever thought: "If people knew this about me, they would shun me?" What if you are anxious and/or depressed? If we are brutally honest, most of what hurts us comes down to this question: "Am I worthy enough to be loved; to be known?" I want you to know you are not alone! There is hope! Because here is the truth, most everyone is worthy to be loved and known, you just have to learn to believe it!
I have expertise treating a variety of concerns including trauma, addiction (including sex addiction), marital difficulties, relationship problems, child behavior, grief, anxiety, depression, and co-dependency.
Are your relationships broken, and you are wondering, "How did it ever get to this point?" Or have you ever thought: "If people knew this about me, they would shun me?" What if you are anxious and/or depressed? If we are brutally honest, most of what hurts us comes down to this question: "Am I worthy enough to be loved; to be known?" I want you to know you are not alone! There is hope! Because here is the truth, most everyone is worthy to be loved and known, you just have to learn to believe it!
(352) 480-0009 View (352) 480-0009
Urban Counseling
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Ocala, FL 34471
It is also useful with adults who may be "stuck" in long term relationship issues.
I enjoy working with clients of all age groups and demographics. I am enthralled with the human condition and I like to help clients understand the motivations of their chosen behaviors. I love working with adolescents and witness many young adults develop and grow into who they are meant to be. I believe strongly in people recognizing and working toward their full potential. I rejoice when I am able to work for a client who accepts ownership of their actions and wants to work to improve their lives emotionally and physically.
It is also useful with adults who may be "stuck" in long term relationship issues.
I enjoy working with clients of all age groups and demographics. I am enthralled with the human condition and I like to help clients understand the motivations of their chosen behaviors. I love working with adolescents and witness many young adults develop and grow into who they are meant to be. I believe strongly in people recognizing and working toward their full potential. I rejoice when I am able to work for a client who accepts ownership of their actions and wants to work to improve their lives emotionally and physically.
(352) 354-4144 View (352) 354-4144
Photo of Carolynn White, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Carolynn White
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Ocala, FL 34474  (Online Only)
It's for individuals, couples, and families who are open to transforming their relationships and lives through a non-judgmental, holistic, and systemic approach.
Seek holistic well-being, personal growth, and lasting change? As a Marriage and Family Therapist, my unique approach blends systems thinking, Zen Buddhism, and cybernetic wisdom. I believe in transformation through understanding interconnected systems. We shift from working against ourselves to working with ourselves, and from battling circumstances to embracing them.
It's for individuals, couples, and families who are open to transforming their relationships and lives through a non-judgmental, holistic, and systemic approach.
Seek holistic well-being, personal growth, and lasting change? As a Marriage and Family Therapist, my unique approach blends systems thinking, Zen Buddhism, and cybernetic wisdom. I believe in transformation through understanding interconnected systems. We shift from working against ourselves to working with ourselves, and from battling circumstances to embracing them.
(754) 701-2168 View (754) 701-2168
Photo of Jessica Futoran, LMHC, Counselor
Jessica Futoran
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Ocala, FL 34481  (Online Only)
Hello! I'm Jessica, a licensed mental health counselor with over twelve years of professional experience. I specialize in working with teens and adults, providing individual and couples therapy. I'm a firm believer that each person's inherent strengths can aid individuals in navigating life's challenges. Seeking help is a challenging first step, and it requires bravery to make that move. I am excited to join with you on your path of growth and healing!
Hello! I'm Jessica, a licensed mental health counselor with over twelve years of professional experience. I specialize in working with teens and adults, providing individual and couples therapy. I'm a firm believer that each person's inherent strengths can aid individuals in navigating life's challenges. Seeking help is a challenging first step, and it requires bravery to make that move. I am excited to join with you on your path of growth and healing!
(352) 832-4183 View (352) 832-4183
Photo of Deborah E Cohen, LMFT, CHT, MPH, Marriage & Family Therapist
Deborah E Cohen
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CHT, MPH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ocala, FL 34481  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience in couples therapy and pre-marital counseling.
If you feel unfulfilled in your relationships and find loss and change difficult, and if you want to get to the source of the patterns and blocks keeping you stuck in worry, anxiety, emotional eating, lost sleep, and a lack of purpose, then I can help. I especially enjoy working with couples and individuals longing for a connection to their "soul's wisdom" so they can feel more balance, joy, and fulfillment. I am an integrative, holistic mind-body-spirit psychotherapist. I offer techniques that will help you tune into your deepest self, the part of you that has your best wisdom and answers for what you are seeking in your life.
I have extensive experience in couples therapy and pre-marital counseling.
If you feel unfulfilled in your relationships and find loss and change difficult, and if you want to get to the source of the patterns and blocks keeping you stuck in worry, anxiety, emotional eating, lost sleep, and a lack of purpose, then I can help. I especially enjoy working with couples and individuals longing for a connection to their "soul's wisdom" so they can feel more balance, joy, and fulfillment. I am an integrative, holistic mind-body-spirit psychotherapist. I offer techniques that will help you tune into your deepest self, the part of you that has your best wisdom and answers for what you are seeking in your life.
(916) 251-9983 View (916) 251-9983
Photo of Jackie Gibson - Ocala Consulting & Prevention, Counselor
Ocala Consulting & Prevention
Counselor
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Ocala, FL 34471
Using state-of-the-art therapeutic approaches, we can help you address personal issues, such as the following: *Emotional/Mental Health Issues * Relationship Issues *Addictions Counseling *Family Issues *Adolescent Issues *Grief and Loss Issues.
Ocala Consulting & Prevention provides a wide range of Outpatient Psychotherapy services to help individuals, couples and families identify and modify behaviors, learn communication skills, develop positive coping mechanisms, find support structures, and seek healthy outlets for expressing feelings.
Using state-of-the-art therapeutic approaches, we can help you address personal issues, such as the following: *Emotional/Mental Health Issues * Relationship Issues *Addictions Counseling *Family Issues *Adolescent Issues *Grief and Loss Issues.
Ocala Consulting & Prevention provides a wide range of Outpatient Psychotherapy services to help individuals, couples and families identify and modify behaviors, learn communication skills, develop positive coping mechanisms, find support structures, and seek healthy outlets for expressing feelings.
(352) 658-6575 View (352) 658-6575
Photo of Dawn Ferguson, LMHC, MCAP, Counselor
Dawn Ferguson
Counselor, LMHC, MCAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ocala, FL 34481  (Online Only)
Hi there, I am Dawn, Do you find yourself struggling with feelings of anxiety, depression, or substance use disorder issues? Are you struggling with traumatic memories embedded in childhood or other developmental stages and you are feeling sad and overwhelmed? Are you having relationship struggles and feeling stuck in your situation? Maybe your life has taken an unexpected turn and you are left feeling lost, confused, hurt, or even ashamed. Let’s begin walking this journey towards healing, wellness, and renewal together.
Hi there, I am Dawn, Do you find yourself struggling with feelings of anxiety, depression, or substance use disorder issues? Are you struggling with traumatic memories embedded in childhood or other developmental stages and you are feeling sad and overwhelmed? Are you having relationship struggles and feeling stuck in your situation? Maybe your life has taken an unexpected turn and you are left feeling lost, confused, hurt, or even ashamed. Let’s begin walking this journey towards healing, wellness, and renewal together.
(786) 971-2115 View (786) 971-2115
Photo of Michael Dunn, MA, LMFT, CSAT, MAC, CCTP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michael Dunn
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CSAT, MAC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Ocala, FL 34470
Mental health, drugs and alcohol, betrayal, unmet expectations, trauma, religion, money, and sex are reasons why individuals and couples start counseling.
I offer compassionate, non-judgmental help for individuals and couples who want relief from the painful results of mental health, infidelity, sex and porn addiction, substance abuse and behavioral problems. My office is a shame-free place where clients gain an understanding of their behaviors and create a plan to regain health and integrity, heal shattered relationships and recover from uncontrollable behaviors. There is hope. Recovery is possible. I have 20 years of experience in the fields of mental health and addiction. I've been trained by some of the best in the field and supervised by a seasoned clinician in everything I do.
Mental health, drugs and alcohol, betrayal, unmet expectations, trauma, religion, money, and sex are reasons why individuals and couples start counseling.
I offer compassionate, non-judgmental help for individuals and couples who want relief from the painful results of mental health, infidelity, sex and porn addiction, substance abuse and behavioral problems. My office is a shame-free place where clients gain an understanding of their behaviors and create a plan to regain health and integrity, heal shattered relationships and recover from uncontrollable behaviors. There is hope. Recovery is possible. I have 20 years of experience in the fields of mental health and addiction. I've been trained by some of the best in the field and supervised by a seasoned clinician in everything I do.
(352) 675-3968 View (352) 675-3968
Photo of Caroline Evelyn King, MA, RMHCI
Caroline Evelyn King
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MA, RMHCI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ocala, FL 34470
I offer individual and couples counseling for teens and adults.
Sometimes life feels out of balance or just "off." While we may or may not know why we feel this way, it is difficult to navigate next steps alone. We just want to feel better but aren't sure how. I am passionate about the power of the therapeutic relationship and the growth that can occur when we take the time to nurture our minds. As you begin to understand your story and how that relates to the ways in which you interact with and experience the world, change and growth can (and will) occur. I have experienced the positive impact of quality counseling in my own life, and I work hard to provide this for each of my clients.
I offer individual and couples counseling for teens and adults.
Sometimes life feels out of balance or just "off." While we may or may not know why we feel this way, it is difficult to navigate next steps alone. We just want to feel better but aren't sure how. I am passionate about the power of the therapeutic relationship and the growth that can occur when we take the time to nurture our minds. As you begin to understand your story and how that relates to the ways in which you interact with and experience the world, change and growth can (and will) occur. I have experienced the positive impact of quality counseling in my own life, and I work hard to provide this for each of my clients.
(352) 309-2675 View (352) 309-2675
Photo of Christine Gierer, LMFT, CSAT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Christine Gierer
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ocala, FL 34470
Together, we can establish the therapeutic relationship to work through your presenting problem, and to give you the tools you need to cope with your past, present, or future circumstances.
Life is full of events that help shape who we are. Some events that occur in our lives leaves us feeling hurt, alone, helpless, overwhelmed and can even bring us to question who we are or what we believe in. We are often left to cope with these events on our own. Many individuals self-medicate in a variety of ways to help cope, and get through life. Though self-medication can be a temporary solution, they are not void of lasting consequences that can negatively affect you or your relationships.
Together, we can establish the therapeutic relationship to work through your presenting problem, and to give you the tools you need to cope with your past, present, or future circumstances.
Life is full of events that help shape who we are. Some events that occur in our lives leaves us feeling hurt, alone, helpless, overwhelmed and can even bring us to question who we are or what we believe in. We are often left to cope with these events on our own. Many individuals self-medicate in a variety of ways to help cope, and get through life. Though self-medication can be a temporary solution, they are not void of lasting consequences that can negatively affect you or your relationships.
(352) 843-7640 View (352) 843-7640
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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.