Couples Counseling Therapists in Baltimore, MD

Photo of Tosh Provancher, MA, LCMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tosh Provancher
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LCMFT
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21201  (Online Only)
If you're looking for a therapist who is direct, nurturing, challenging, swears a lot and INVESTS in you and your relationship, we might work! I'm a total therapy nerd and I believe in and experience genuine passion for the therapeutic process and the capacity it has to heal.
Hey there! I feel so fortunate to have a specialty working with diverse sexualities, gender identities, and relationship structures over the past 18 years. Whether I am supporting individuals and their families with social and/or medical transition, helping folx design relationships that actually work or creating a space where you can simply fall apart.. my hope for all of my clients is to learn how to love themselves and each other better and resolve differences more directly and fairly. I am extremely interpersonal in my work and if you'd like more clarity around that - just ask :)
If you're looking for a therapist who is direct, nurturing, challenging, swears a lot and INVESTS in you and your relationship, we might work! I'm a total therapy nerd and I believe in and experience genuine passion for the therapeutic process and the capacity it has to heal.
Hey there! I feel so fortunate to have a specialty working with diverse sexualities, gender identities, and relationship structures over the past 18 years. Whether I am supporting individuals and their families with social and/or medical transition, helping folx design relationships that actually work or creating a space where you can simply fall apart.. my hope for all of my clients is to learn how to love themselves and each other better and resolve differences more directly and fairly. I am extremely interpersonal in my work and if you'd like more clarity around that - just ask :)
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Photo of LaShaunna Lipscomb - Journey into Wellness, LLC, PhD, LCPC
Journey into Wellness, LLC
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, PhD, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21201
Additionally, we provide quality clinical treatment to adult individuals as well as couples counseling for heterosexual, and same sex couples.
Most people contemplate therapy at a point where life's stressors have become so intense that talking about these things can be very difficult and even embarrassing. However, making a decision to seek therapy is an act that reflects a great deal of humility and self-love. If you or your family have been experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, or grief, my practice is well experienced in helping you during this healing process. Additionally, we have worked with families who were experiencing conflict due to separation, divorce, child welfare involvement, exposure to trauma, or just non-compliant/defiant behavior.
Additionally, we provide quality clinical treatment to adult individuals as well as couples counseling for heterosexual, and same sex couples.
Most people contemplate therapy at a point where life's stressors have become so intense that talking about these things can be very difficult and even embarrassing. However, making a decision to seek therapy is an act that reflects a great deal of humility and self-love. If you or your family have been experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, or grief, my practice is well experienced in helping you during this healing process. Additionally, we have worked with families who were experiencing conflict due to separation, divorce, child welfare involvement, exposure to trauma, or just non-compliant/defiant behavior.
(518) 633-4236 View (518) 633-4236
Photo of Phill Sheldon, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Phill Sheldon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21212
I grew up in the Maryland suburbs outside of Washington, DC. I acquired my bachelor's degree from Johns Hopkins and a master of social work degree from University of Pennsylvania. I have been licensed and practicing since 2015. I work with individual adults and couples. I have extensive experience working with grief, adjustment to illness, depression, anxiety, life transitions, and the varied ambiguities of marriage, extramarital affairs, and separation.
I grew up in the Maryland suburbs outside of Washington, DC. I acquired my bachelor's degree from Johns Hopkins and a master of social work degree from University of Pennsylvania. I have been licensed and practicing since 2015. I work with individual adults and couples. I have extensive experience working with grief, adjustment to illness, depression, anxiety, life transitions, and the varied ambiguities of marriage, extramarital affairs, and separation.
(410) 334-9558 View (410) 334-9558
Photo of Mayer Solomon, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mayer Solomon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21209
I work with both individuals and couples.
Do you have a hard time expressing your feelings, knowing what you are feeling, or saying no? Does this impact your everyday and intimate relationships? I'd like to help work through this. My gentle, thoughtful, and practical nature, creates an environment for learning to better know and express your feelings, and what you want/need from others. My work at one of the most prestigious therapy settings in the country, has given me the opportunity to see almost every situation and diagnosis.
I work with both individuals and couples.
Do you have a hard time expressing your feelings, knowing what you are feeling, or saying no? Does this impact your everyday and intimate relationships? I'd like to help work through this. My gentle, thoughtful, and practical nature, creates an environment for learning to better know and express your feelings, and what you want/need from others. My work at one of the most prestigious therapy settings in the country, has given me the opportunity to see almost every situation and diagnosis.
(410) 417-7576 View (410) 417-7576
Photo of Leon Ginn, LPC, LCPC, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Leon Ginn
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21211  (Online Only)
We will build a treatment plan and relationship that uniquely suits you, joining in understanding your past, paying attention to your embodied way of living, and creating new ways of being, socializing, and thinking.
Life is difficult; making sense of challenges and choices can be complicated. Times of stress can tax every relationship, even the relationship with our self. As a Professional Counselor my goal is to create a relationship in which you can feel comfortable exploring your thoughts and emotions, assisting in discovering new opportunities for growth and change.
We will build a treatment plan and relationship that uniquely suits you, joining in understanding your past, paying attention to your embodied way of living, and creating new ways of being, socializing, and thinking.
Life is difficult; making sense of challenges and choices can be complicated. Times of stress can tax every relationship, even the relationship with our self. As a Professional Counselor my goal is to create a relationship in which you can feel comfortable exploring your thoughts and emotions, assisting in discovering new opportunities for growth and change.
(240) 617-3430 View (240) 617-3430
Photo of Adrienne Ward Noel, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Adrienne Ward Noel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21223  (Online Only)
I work with individuals, families, and couples from diverse populations who are seeking more effective communication, healthier relationships and improvements in overall functioning. I have over 25 years of experience in the areas of trauma, grief, anxiety, and depression. I use a strengths-based, non-pathological, and culturally-sensitive approach to provide therapy in a warm and supportive manner.
I work with individuals, families, and couples from diverse populations who are seeking more effective communication, healthier relationships and improvements in overall functioning. I have over 25 years of experience in the areas of trauma, grief, anxiety, and depression. I use a strengths-based, non-pathological, and culturally-sensitive approach to provide therapy in a warm and supportive manner.
(410) 504-1506 View (410) 504-1506
Photo of After We Say I Do - Marriage Therapy, PsyD, Psychologist
After We Say I Do - Marriage Therapy
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21224  (Online Only)
Joshua and his team are excited to offer therapy to couples in close to 40 states through PsyPact and Telepsychology.
Available in 40 States Via Telepsychology! Welcome to After We Say I Do Marriage Therapy, where we believe that love is a journey, and we're here to support you along the way. We are committed to helping you navigate the challenges and joys of married life, building a solid foundation for a lifetime of love and happiness. At After We Say I Do, we believe that every marriage is unique and requires a personalized approach. Our therapy sessions are designed to create a safe and nurturing space for couples to explore their feelings, identify areas of improvement, and develop effective strategies for overcoming obstacles.
Joshua and his team are excited to offer therapy to couples in close to 40 states through PsyPact and Telepsychology.
Available in 40 States Via Telepsychology! Welcome to After We Say I Do Marriage Therapy, where we believe that love is a journey, and we're here to support you along the way. We are committed to helping you navigate the challenges and joys of married life, building a solid foundation for a lifetime of love and happiness. At After We Say I Do, we believe that every marriage is unique and requires a personalized approach. Our therapy sessions are designed to create a safe and nurturing space for couples to explore their feelings, identify areas of improvement, and develop effective strategies for overcoming obstacles.
(240) 734-2860 View (240) 734-2860
Photo of Najja Edwards, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Najja Edwards
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21202  (Online Only)
My ideal client is someone who is motivated, honest with themselves, willing to be vulnerable in the therapeutic relationship, and open to being gently challenged in order to reach their desired growth and change.
I am passionate about supporting and helping clients through anxiety and depressive symptoms, adjusting to life changes/transitions, managing stress, and challenges within interpersonal relationships.
My ideal client is someone who is motivated, honest with themselves, willing to be vulnerable in the therapeutic relationship, and open to being gently challenged in order to reach their desired growth and change.
I am passionate about supporting and helping clients through anxiety and depressive symptoms, adjusting to life changes/transitions, managing stress, and challenges within interpersonal relationships.
(443) 501-2842 View (443) 501-2842
Photo of Sophie Sgarlat, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sophie Sgarlat
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21202
Do you think you may have ADHD or Autism? Have you struggled to assert boundaries at work, with family, & partners? Have you felt curious about exploring different pronouns and gender identity? Do you feel bad that you have a disability and don't know how to tell your friends that you can't do certain activities? You may have goals to tell your friends your preferred pronouns. Goals to get a diagnosis for your disability & curious about medication, goals to reevaluate your relationship with cannabis/alcohol. You may feel shame & anger about your childhood & the way your parents handled your behavior.
Do you think you may have ADHD or Autism? Have you struggled to assert boundaries at work, with family, & partners? Have you felt curious about exploring different pronouns and gender identity? Do you feel bad that you have a disability and don't know how to tell your friends that you can't do certain activities? You may have goals to tell your friends your preferred pronouns. Goals to get a diagnosis for your disability & curious about medication, goals to reevaluate your relationship with cannabis/alcohol. You may feel shame & anger about your childhood & the way your parents handled your behavior.
(443) 331-9071 View (443) 331-9071
Photo of Amy Sanchez, PhD, Psychologist
Amy Sanchez
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21209  (Online Only)
Many people come to me concerned that therapy cannot work for them. They feel hopeless, or discouraged, or worried that they are beyond help. In fact, some have had previous therapy experiences that have reinforced these fears. If that is your experience, don't give up hope. We will work together to create a treatment plan tailored to address your individual needs. I am an active and engaged therapist, which means I will not sit back and quietly smoke a pipe while you lie on my office couch. I strive to create a collaborative therapy environment where you are an equal partner in identifying your treatment goals.
Many people come to me concerned that therapy cannot work for them. They feel hopeless, or discouraged, or worried that they are beyond help. In fact, some have had previous therapy experiences that have reinforced these fears. If that is your experience, don't give up hope. We will work together to create a treatment plan tailored to address your individual needs. I am an active and engaged therapist, which means I will not sit back and quietly smoke a pipe while you lie on my office couch. I strive to create a collaborative therapy environment where you are an equal partner in identifying your treatment goals.
(410) 989-1414 View (410) 989-1414
Photo of Stephanie Gurka - Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Baltimore
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Baltimore
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21224
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
Photo of David Adashek, LGPC, Counselor
David Adashek
Counselor, LGPC
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21211  (Online Only)
David works both with individuals and couples.
David is a queer, neurodivergent Jewish dude who wants to do nothing more than leave the world a better place than when he came into it. David believes in a humanistic approach to therapy, which means that much of what you focus on in the therapy room is what you find to be personally affecting you. He has training in cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and Interpersonal Therapy, amongst others, which he uses to build a framework in order to help set goals, but ultimately the approach used will be based on what you vibe the most with.
David works both with individuals and couples.
David is a queer, neurodivergent Jewish dude who wants to do nothing more than leave the world a better place than when he came into it. David believes in a humanistic approach to therapy, which means that much of what you focus on in the therapy room is what you find to be personally affecting you. He has training in cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and Interpersonal Therapy, amongst others, which he uses to build a framework in order to help set goals, but ultimately the approach used will be based on what you vibe the most with.
(443) 296-5721 View (443) 296-5721
Photo of Sandy E. White, PsyD, Psychologist
Sandy E. White
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21209  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I want to help make this process as comfortable as possible for you, because I believe that the relationship you develop with your therapist is one of the most important factors leading to success in therapy.
If you are looking for a therapist, then you have identified that there may be some area in your life that you are not satisfied with. Maybe you are seeking a change in your relationships, in your career, or in how you feel? I believe that psychotherapy should be a safe and comfortable place for you to explore what changes you would like to engage in to lead a more satisfying and happy life. My role is to help you through that process in a collaborative way, by providing support, increasing your insight, and teaching you new skills.
I want to help make this process as comfortable as possible for you, because I believe that the relationship you develop with your therapist is one of the most important factors leading to success in therapy.
If you are looking for a therapist, then you have identified that there may be some area in your life that you are not satisfied with. Maybe you are seeking a change in your relationships, in your career, or in how you feel? I believe that psychotherapy should be a safe and comfortable place for you to explore what changes you would like to engage in to lead a more satisfying and happy life. My role is to help you through that process in a collaborative way, by providing support, increasing your insight, and teaching you new skills.
(410) 941-8779 View (410) 941-8779
Photo of Courtney Corcoran, LGPC, NCC, MS, Counselor
Courtney Corcoran
Counselor, LGPC, NCC, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21230  (Online Only)
I love working with both individuals & couples- mostly millennials & genZers, adults (18-60), teens (15+). My ideal client is curious to dig deep, wants to raise self-awareness, and is ready to sift through the pieces of life's puzzle together. I enjoy helping fellow artists/creatives, neurodivergent folks, & LGBTQIA+ folks. I specialize in issues related to low self-esteem, perfectionism, adulting, burnout, imposter syndrome, communication issues, relationships, boundary setting, gender identity and exploration, women's issues, chronic illness, invisible disabilities, ADHD and HSPs.
I love working with both individuals & couples- mostly millennials & genZers, adults (18-60), teens (15+). My ideal client is curious to dig deep, wants to raise self-awareness, and is ready to sift through the pieces of life's puzzle together. I enjoy helping fellow artists/creatives, neurodivergent folks, & LGBTQIA+ folks. I specialize in issues related to low self-esteem, perfectionism, adulting, burnout, imposter syndrome, communication issues, relationships, boundary setting, gender identity and exploration, women's issues, chronic illness, invisible disabilities, ADHD and HSPs.
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Photo of Kory Banks - Kory Banks, Ph.D., PhD, Counselor
Kory Banks, Ph.D.
Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21230  (Online Only)
I am licensed in Maryland as a Professional Counselor and have over 20-25 years of mental health experience in New York State and Maryland, respectively. Experience includes community mental health in Buffalo, New York, a licensed psychotherapist in the Maryland prison system, and experience as a full-time college professor. I counsel clients who struggle with depression, end-of-life issues, anxiety, and life changes. I see individuals, couples, and families. I’m a disabled veteran who honorably served as a noncommissioned officer in the US Coast Guard.
I am licensed in Maryland as a Professional Counselor and have over 20-25 years of mental health experience in New York State and Maryland, respectively. Experience includes community mental health in Buffalo, New York, a licensed psychotherapist in the Maryland prison system, and experience as a full-time college professor. I counsel clients who struggle with depression, end-of-life issues, anxiety, and life changes. I see individuals, couples, and families. I’m a disabled veteran who honorably served as a noncommissioned officer in the US Coast Guard.
(410) 390-0210 View (410) 390-0210
Photo of Dr. Elyssa Klann, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Elyssa Klann
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21224
I love working with individuals and couples/relationships around communication, identity exploration and affirmation, trauma, depression, stress, anxiety, and life transitions.
I believe that healing happens in relationships where we can truly be seen, understood, and valued for who we are. I will be a warm and compassionate presence for you as we work collaboratively to identify your needs, goals, and values. Then comes the challenging and liberating part: utilizing that knowledge and awareness to help you build the life you want. Based on your specific concerns, we can integrate a variety of practices like self-compassion, mindfulness, parts work, and cognitive/behavioral (e.g., ACT, CBT) therapies. I highly value collaboration and invite you to explore and share with me what works best for you.
I love working with individuals and couples/relationships around communication, identity exploration and affirmation, trauma, depression, stress, anxiety, and life transitions.
I believe that healing happens in relationships where we can truly be seen, understood, and valued for who we are. I will be a warm and compassionate presence for you as we work collaboratively to identify your needs, goals, and values. Then comes the challenging and liberating part: utilizing that knowledge and awareness to help you build the life you want. Based on your specific concerns, we can integrate a variety of practices like self-compassion, mindfulness, parts work, and cognitive/behavioral (e.g., ACT, CBT) therapies. I highly value collaboration and invite you to explore and share with me what works best for you.
(443) 222-0598 View (443) 222-0598
Photo of Tanisha Williams The Relationship Coach, LGPC, Counselor
Tanisha Williams The Relationship Coach
Counselor, LGPC
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21215
Hello, I am Tanisha Williams CEO of The Relationship Rehabilitation Center. I am. Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor. As a therapist I see many of us stuck in life only being held back by our past... past trauma, pain, and fears. Leaving us stuck in the cycles of our past. Reliving the same pain, failures, and experiences. Clients come in feeling confused as they can't escape these cycles and are plagued with depression, anxiety, trauma, and addiction. Some of the issues we face are inherited from generational trauma or biological. Even though we may feel hopeless there is hope.
Hello, I am Tanisha Williams CEO of The Relationship Rehabilitation Center. I am. Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor. As a therapist I see many of us stuck in life only being held back by our past... past trauma, pain, and fears. Leaving us stuck in the cycles of our past. Reliving the same pain, failures, and experiences. Clients come in feeling confused as they can't escape these cycles and are plagued with depression, anxiety, trauma, and addiction. Some of the issues we face are inherited from generational trauma or biological. Even though we may feel hopeless there is hope.
(410) 204-2567 View (410) 204-2567
Photo of John J Michalczyk, MA, MDiv, Counselor
John J Michalczyk
Counselor, MA, MDiv
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21210
"It is my goal as a therapist to provide a safe and supportive environment for others so they may achieve personal well-being and productive relationships on the mental, emotional, physical and spiritual levels. I believe that through the healing of psychological and emotional wounds, each person has the potential and freedom to maintain positive self-acceptance and self-definition. I rejoice in helping individuals, couples and families bring greater meaning and satisfaction to their lives."
"It is my goal as a therapist to provide a safe and supportive environment for others so they may achieve personal well-being and productive relationships on the mental, emotional, physical and spiritual levels. I believe that through the healing of psychological and emotional wounds, each person has the potential and freedom to maintain positive self-acceptance and self-definition. I rejoice in helping individuals, couples and families bring greater meaning and satisfaction to their lives."
(410) 415-1484 x115 View (410) 415-1484 x115
Photo of Mitchell Blum - Dr. Mitch-Lisa Marriage/Couple Workshop/Specialist, PsyD, MSW, Life, Coach
Dr. Mitch-Lisa Marriage/Couple Workshop/Specialist
PsyD, MSW, Life, Coach
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21202
Mitch PsyD & Lisa Relationship Coach (30 Years) are truly very Caring Professional's having a Male/Female Perspective on your Relationship.
Relationships in Crisis: We Have Several Private Couples/Marriage Workshops & Seminars, in order to Rapidly Accelerate Your Healing & Your Communication Process (Traditional 45 min. session (Simply Does Not Work). During these 2 to 4 weeks, we will see both of you Together & Individually, as well as Help each of you Learn the Art of Empathy, Sensitivity & Compassion. These Workshops/Seminars are Designed to be Informative & Powerful, in order to Accelerate Your Healing Process & Stop any further Damage from Occurring. Our Success RATE is 85% of Our Couples that have Successfully Completed Our Couples Workshops or Alcohol Treatment.
Mitch PsyD & Lisa Relationship Coach (30 Years) are truly very Caring Professional's having a Male/Female Perspective on your Relationship.
Relationships in Crisis: We Have Several Private Couples/Marriage Workshops & Seminars, in order to Rapidly Accelerate Your Healing & Your Communication Process (Traditional 45 min. session (Simply Does Not Work). During these 2 to 4 weeks, we will see both of you Together & Individually, as well as Help each of you Learn the Art of Empathy, Sensitivity & Compassion. These Workshops/Seminars are Designed to be Informative & Powerful, in order to Accelerate Your Healing Process & Stop any further Damage from Occurring. Our Success RATE is 85% of Our Couples that have Successfully Completed Our Couples Workshops or Alcohol Treatment.
(240) 202-3948 View (240) 202-3948
Photo of Courtney McCubbin, LPC, Counselor
Courtney McCubbin
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21201
I work with a variety of issues including low self-esteem, grief, complex trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, depression, and other issues, including relationship issues for couples and individuals.
Your past experiences do not define you! We can learn and grow through every experience--no matter how challenging or painful it might be. In the therapy room, I create a loving, safe space to truly explore your deepest inner workings, dreams, past hurts, desires, difficult feelings, and hopes for the future. I work with individuals, couples, and groups to help you become your best self and heal from experiences you may be struggling to overcome. Together we will build your capacity to be in relationship to yourself and others--to play, to grieve, to love, and to feel all your feelings.
I work with a variety of issues including low self-esteem, grief, complex trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, depression, and other issues, including relationship issues for couples and individuals.
Your past experiences do not define you! We can learn and grow through every experience--no matter how challenging or painful it might be. In the therapy room, I create a loving, safe space to truly explore your deepest inner workings, dreams, past hurts, desires, difficult feelings, and hopes for the future. I work with individuals, couples, and groups to help you become your best self and heal from experiences you may be struggling to overcome. Together we will build your capacity to be in relationship to yourself and others--to play, to grieve, to love, and to feel all your feelings.
(301) 215-3063 View (301) 215-3063
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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.