Couples Counseling Therapists in North Loop, Minneapolis, MN

Photo of Janine Reimen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Janine Reimen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Loop, Minneapolis, MN 55401  (Online Only)
My work is informed by a wide variety of influences that include Jungian and relationship therapy (Imago), EMDR as well as cross cultural and spiritual studies.
A deep connection between therapist and client is key to forming the trust necessary to overcome challenges in one's life. These blocks keep us from realizing our potential and can manifest in a variety of ways, from depression and anxiety, to relationship issues and job dissatisfaction. My approach to therapy is to use self understanding and awareness as a mechanism for change. Treatments could include psychoanalytic and psychodynamic techniques to access unconscious material or a more problem focused, short term approach depending on the issues at hand. I also work with Trauma using EMDR.
My work is informed by a wide variety of influences that include Jungian and relationship therapy (Imago), EMDR as well as cross cultural and spiritual studies.
A deep connection between therapist and client is key to forming the trust necessary to overcome challenges in one's life. These blocks keep us from realizing our potential and can manifest in a variety of ways, from depression and anxiety, to relationship issues and job dissatisfaction. My approach to therapy is to use self understanding and awareness as a mechanism for change. Treatments could include psychoanalytic and psychodynamic techniques to access unconscious material or a more problem focused, short term approach depending on the issues at hand. I also work with Trauma using EMDR.
(952) 522-5328 View (952) 522-5328
Photo of Joe Molinari, LICSW, LCSW, CST, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joe Molinari
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW, CST
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
North Loop, Minneapolis, MN 55401
You're here because something about sex or your relationship has been a concern for months or maybe years. You wonder "will it always be this way? Is it possible to feel better?" It's lonely and overwhelming to feel disconnected from your sexuality and your partner. It can cause a rift in your social life, trickle into your work, and your general ability to relax. I'm here to help you discover, heal, and renew erotic pleasure.
You're here because something about sex or your relationship has been a concern for months or maybe years. You wonder "will it always be this way? Is it possible to feel better?" It's lonely and overwhelming to feel disconnected from your sexuality and your partner. It can cause a rift in your social life, trickle into your work, and your general ability to relax. I'm here to help you discover, heal, and renew erotic pleasure.
(612) 354-8103 View (612) 354-8103
Photo of Sara Elmekkawy, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Sara Elmekkawy
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
North Loop, Minneapolis, MN 55401  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I provide online psychotherapy to adults and couples. My main goal is to create an accepting and non-judgmental space where I meet you exactly where you're at. Your feelings and experiences are not only valid but also uniquely special. As someone who understands the significance of being a minority, I deeply value clients with diverse stories and backgrounds. Your story matters to me, and I'm here to listen, validate, and provide a safe space for you. I believe that our scars can lead us to discover the most beautiful parts of ourselves, and I am committed to helping you find your inner strength and beauty.
I provide online psychotherapy to adults and couples. My main goal is to create an accepting and non-judgmental space where I meet you exactly where you're at. Your feelings and experiences are not only valid but also uniquely special. As someone who understands the significance of being a minority, I deeply value clients with diverse stories and backgrounds. Your story matters to me, and I'm here to listen, validate, and provide a safe space for you. I believe that our scars can lead us to discover the most beautiful parts of ourselves, and I am committed to helping you find your inner strength and beauty.
(763) 363-3474 View (763) 363-3474
Photo of Teia Kopari, MSW, LGSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Teia Kopari
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LGSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
North Loop, Minneapolis, MN 55401
Waitlist for new clients
I enjoy working with individuals experiencing life adjustments, anxiety, depression, and trauma, couples struggling with communication, infidelity, disconnection in the relationship, sexual concerns, divorce or separation, and other life events. I have a special interest in working with women in areas of self-esteem, assertiveness, sexual wellbeing, perfectionism, and co-dependency.
I enjoy working with individuals experiencing life adjustments, anxiety, depression, and trauma, couples struggling with communication, infidelity, disconnection in the relationship, sexual concerns, divorce or separation, and other life events. I have a special interest in working with women in areas of self-esteem, assertiveness, sexual wellbeing, perfectionism, and co-dependency.
(763) 878-6473 View (763) 878-6473
Photo of Matthew F Ryan, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Matthew F Ryan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Loop, Minneapolis, MN 55401
My specialties are within systemic-based therapy models, solution-focused therapy, family and relationship counseling, adolescent and young adult issues, assessment and treatment of co-occurring disorders, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and positive psychology.
*Please email about availability* Therapy is not surgery; you don't go to sleep and wake up with all of your problems solved. The sweat and strain and heavy lifting are mostly yours. But with this, however, you can feel more satisfied with therapy when actively involved in the sessions. It is my role to work with your motivation & continue to foster this growth towards positive change. I operate from a person-centered approach, which emphasizes being genuine, providing unconditional positive regard, and empathic understanding in the efforts to foster our therapeutic connection to enhance this emotional & powerful relationship.
My specialties are within systemic-based therapy models, solution-focused therapy, family and relationship counseling, adolescent and young adult issues, assessment and treatment of co-occurring disorders, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and positive psychology.
*Please email about availability* Therapy is not surgery; you don't go to sleep and wake up with all of your problems solved. The sweat and strain and heavy lifting are mostly yours. But with this, however, you can feel more satisfied with therapy when actively involved in the sessions. It is my role to work with your motivation & continue to foster this growth towards positive change. I operate from a person-centered approach, which emphasizes being genuine, providing unconditional positive regard, and empathic understanding in the efforts to foster our therapeutic connection to enhance this emotional & powerful relationship.
(612) 260-6885 View (612) 260-6885
Photo of Lucy Erickson, MA, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lucy Erickson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Loop, Minneapolis, MN 55401
I believe that the therapeutic relationship is crucial.
It is my goal as your therapist to create a safe and supportive space for you to explore who you are and strive for change! Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, trauma, or self-esteem, I am here to support you. I like to help empower my clients to be able to process and express their emotions in a more effective and healthy manner, develop healthy relationships, process past experiences, and strengthen their sense of self.
I believe that the therapeutic relationship is crucial.
It is my goal as your therapist to create a safe and supportive space for you to explore who you are and strive for change! Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, trauma, or self-esteem, I am here to support you. I like to help empower my clients to be able to process and express their emotions in a more effective and healthy manner, develop healthy relationships, process past experiences, and strengthen their sense of self.
(651) 350-1206 View (651) 350-1206
Photo of Rebecca Enders, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Rebecca Enders
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
North Loop, Minneapolis, MN 55401
Waitlist for new clients
I work with individuals (age 16+) and couples, and my clinical areas of focus include anxiety, self-esteem issues, identity exploration, perfectionism, life transitions, relationship issues, and LGBTQ+ issues.
As a therapist I strive to build a strong therapeutic relationship with each client through empathy, acceptance, authenticity, and humor. My goals are for you to feel seen and understood, to provide space for processing emotions in a trauma-informed and culturally responsive way, and to join you in your journey to find congruence between your ideal and real self. I take an integrative approach to therapy, utilizing skills and techniques from a variety of modalities. Outside of work, I enjoy testing out new recipes, spoiling my dogs Sweetie & Honey, drinking iced chai, & planning my next trip with my wife.
I work with individuals (age 16+) and couples, and my clinical areas of focus include anxiety, self-esteem issues, identity exploration, perfectionism, life transitions, relationship issues, and LGBTQ+ issues.
As a therapist I strive to build a strong therapeutic relationship with each client through empathy, acceptance, authenticity, and humor. My goals are for you to feel seen and understood, to provide space for processing emotions in a trauma-informed and culturally responsive way, and to join you in your journey to find congruence between your ideal and real self. I take an integrative approach to therapy, utilizing skills and techniques from a variety of modalities. Outside of work, I enjoy testing out new recipes, spoiling my dogs Sweetie & Honey, drinking iced chai, & planning my next trip with my wife.
(763) 363-4027 View (763) 363-4027
Photo of Linda J Etim, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Linda J Etim
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
North Loop, Minneapolis, MN 55401
I provide individual therapy and couples therapy.
Hi! I'm Linda Etim and I specialize in working with women and men who are in toxic or abusive/predatory relationships. My unique approach is designed to help you detach from and avoid these toxic relationships. I also work with individuals who are suffering from anxiety, depression and other mental health issues. As well I work with those experiencing work related stress, racial injustice and everyday life stressors. All of the above issues can threaten your physical and emotional wellbeing. I prescribe techniques that will help you to manage your symptoms while at the same time achieving overall wellness.
I provide individual therapy and couples therapy.
Hi! I'm Linda Etim and I specialize in working with women and men who are in toxic or abusive/predatory relationships. My unique approach is designed to help you detach from and avoid these toxic relationships. I also work with individuals who are suffering from anxiety, depression and other mental health issues. As well I work with those experiencing work related stress, racial injustice and everyday life stressors. All of the above issues can threaten your physical and emotional wellbeing. I prescribe techniques that will help you to manage your symptoms while at the same time achieving overall wellness.
(763) 225-1317 View (763) 225-1317
Photo of Megan Runchey, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Megan Runchey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
North Loop, Minneapolis, MN 55401
I have experience working with teens, adults, & couples dealing with relationship issues, abuse, trauma/PTSD, chronic mental illness, life changes/stressors, anxiety, and depression.
Therapy can be a very intimidating process to begin. In my office I approach each person as an individual to create a safe and judgment free space for them to be who they are. We each have unique experiences that influence where we are in our journey through life. I have experience working with adults & teens to help them navigate and/or move forward from trauma, relationship issues, life transitions, anxiety, depression, and stressors that impact their quality of life. My goal will be to walk through the difficult or confusing paths you face and help you feel empowered to create the life you desire.
I have experience working with teens, adults, & couples dealing with relationship issues, abuse, trauma/PTSD, chronic mental illness, life changes/stressors, anxiety, and depression.
Therapy can be a very intimidating process to begin. In my office I approach each person as an individual to create a safe and judgment free space for them to be who they are. We each have unique experiences that influence where we are in our journey through life. I have experience working with adults & teens to help them navigate and/or move forward from trauma, relationship issues, life transitions, anxiety, depression, and stressors that impact their quality of life. My goal will be to walk through the difficult or confusing paths you face and help you feel empowered to create the life you desire.
(515) 882-4780 View (515) 882-4780
Photo of Emerge Therapy - Emerge Therapy, Psychologist
Emerge Therapy
Psychologist
Verified Verified
North Loop, Minneapolis, MN 55401
We have therapists who specialize in treating children, teens, adults, couples, and families.
The therapists at Emerge Therapy can help you understand and transform long-standing patterns that no longer serve you well. This includes being curious about early and current relationships, exploring unacceptable or difficult emotions, and increasing awareness of the relationship between mind and body. We have a holistic perspective on mental health and seek lasting change through in-depth and integrative work.
We have therapists who specialize in treating children, teens, adults, couples, and families.
The therapists at Emerge Therapy can help you understand and transform long-standing patterns that no longer serve you well. This includes being curious about early and current relationships, exploring unacceptable or difficult emotions, and increasing awareness of the relationship between mind and body. We have a holistic perspective on mental health and seek lasting change through in-depth and integrative work.
(612) 345-3864 View (612) 345-3864
Photo of Madison Massoth, MSW, LGSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Madison Massoth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LGSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Loop, Minneapolis, MN 55405
I love working with adults across the life span. I value the importance of empathy, connection, and understanding within the therapeutic relationship. I utilize a relational and strengths-based approach. I work to help clients develop skills to improve their ability to cope with and manage ongoing life stressors. I am an experienced clinician, LGBTQ+ affirming therapist, who has experience working with trauma, anger, sexuality, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, ADHD, effective communication, relationships, and attachment-based issues.
I love working with adults across the life span. I value the importance of empathy, connection, and understanding within the therapeutic relationship. I utilize a relational and strengths-based approach. I work to help clients develop skills to improve their ability to cope with and manage ongoing life stressors. I am an experienced clinician, LGBTQ+ affirming therapist, who has experience working with trauma, anger, sexuality, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, ADHD, effective communication, relationships, and attachment-based issues.
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Photo of Charles M Cutler - Charles Cutler, Ph.D., PhD, LP, Psychologist
Charles Cutler, Ph.D.
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Loop, Minneapolis, MN 55402
Everyone has the capacity to grow and create a more meaningful and fulfilling life. All that is required is a willingness to try and some perseverance. My goal to is create a personalized experience for you. I am passionate about my work, well trained and very experienced. Working together we can make sense of things, lessen the pain you feel, overcome stuck places and find your way forward. Whether you're suffering from anxiety, depression, loneliness, relationship issues or low self-confidence, we will address these issues and begin to find answers.
Everyone has the capacity to grow and create a more meaningful and fulfilling life. All that is required is a willingness to try and some perseverance. My goal to is create a personalized experience for you. I am passionate about my work, well trained and very experienced. Working together we can make sense of things, lessen the pain you feel, overcome stuck places and find your way forward. Whether you're suffering from anxiety, depression, loneliness, relationship issues or low self-confidence, we will address these issues and begin to find answers.
(858) 521-9382 View (858) 521-9382
Photo of Jessica Sawyer, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jessica Sawyer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
North Loop, Minneapolis, MN 55402
Waitlist for new clients
I have been a practicing psychotherapist for many years and have extensive experience in working with couples, families, adolescents and young adults in a variety of areas.
I believe you are the authority on your own life. Within you exists the potential to express your authentic self and to live a fulfilling life. However, there are times in our lives when we may experience stress, depression, anxiety, anger, or complacency. When this happens it can be difficult to manage our lives effectively and with peace of mind. This is when professional support can be helpful. Whatever concerns you are struggling with, I will collaborate with you to help you identify your goals and develop a treatment approach to empower you to realize them.
I have been a practicing psychotherapist for many years and have extensive experience in working with couples, families, adolescents and young adults in a variety of areas.
I believe you are the authority on your own life. Within you exists the potential to express your authentic self and to live a fulfilling life. However, there are times in our lives when we may experience stress, depression, anxiety, anger, or complacency. When this happens it can be difficult to manage our lives effectively and with peace of mind. This is when professional support can be helpful. Whatever concerns you are struggling with, I will collaborate with you to help you identify your goals and develop a treatment approach to empower you to realize them.
(612) 567-7954 View (612) 567-7954
Photo of Kimberly Carroll, MA, LPCC, LADC, Counselor
Kimberly Carroll
Counselor, MA, LPCC, LADC
Verified Verified
North Loop, Minneapolis, MN 55402
Some days you may not want to feel so weighted; your head to not race; your intimate partner to not be that passing ship; or so moved by compulsion. You may just need some safe space to figure it all out. This can be your sorting place. My goal is to help you better identify and understand your symptoms and improve overall coping. You are an individual, not a cookie cutter, so your treatment approach will be unique to your needs, and each person's journey is individual. Through goal setting, we can help you to develop decisions congruent with the life you want. I use CBT, ACT, mindfulness, & Gottman Method (completed Level 1 & 2).
Some days you may not want to feel so weighted; your head to not race; your intimate partner to not be that passing ship; or so moved by compulsion. You may just need some safe space to figure it all out. This can be your sorting place. My goal is to help you better identify and understand your symptoms and improve overall coping. You are an individual, not a cookie cutter, so your treatment approach will be unique to your needs, and each person's journey is individual. Through goal setting, we can help you to develop decisions congruent with the life you want. I use CBT, ACT, mindfulness, & Gottman Method (completed Level 1 & 2).
(218) 316-6246 View (218) 316-6246
Photo of Scott Guldseth, PhD, LP, Psychologist
Scott Guldseth
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
North Loop, Minneapolis, MN 55402
I provide psychotherapy to individuals, couples, and groups (based on need).
I know no one who is "accidentally" in counseling or therapy. Thus, this step and this choice is often quite difficult. I embrace building rapport with my clients in a way that allows us to engage in a collaboration of unique, innovative and effective techniques to overcome the challenges, problems and/or difficulties they are facing, whether in their social, personal, or business life. I take pride in listening to my clients and trying to provide them thoughtful tools they can use long after our sessions are complete.
I provide psychotherapy to individuals, couples, and groups (based on need).
I know no one who is "accidentally" in counseling or therapy. Thus, this step and this choice is often quite difficult. I embrace building rapport with my clients in a way that allows us to engage in a collaboration of unique, innovative and effective techniques to overcome the challenges, problems and/or difficulties they are facing, whether in their social, personal, or business life. I take pride in listening to my clients and trying to provide them thoughtful tools they can use long after our sessions are complete.
(651) 314-7574 View (651) 314-7574
Photo of Kerri Shear, MA, LP, PhD, Psychologist
Kerri Shear
Psychologist, MA, LP, PhD
Verified Verified
North Loop, Minneapolis, MN 55401  (Online Only)
I offer compassion, candor, and a real-world approach to partner with you to work through your issues and reach your goals.
Accepting new clients. I have over 25 years of experience in providing Personal Counseling and Therapy for individuals and couples, Career Counseling, and Executive Coaching. I see a wide range of clients, whether for ideas and inspiration or long-term work to address issues that seriously interfere with your life. With couples, I help you develop understanding of each other, get to the root of the issues, and develop tools to strengthen your relationship. My counseling philosophy is about helping you develop understanding and take action to feel fulfilled in life and minimize self-defeating habits that get in your way.
I offer compassion, candor, and a real-world approach to partner with you to work through your issues and reach your goals.
Accepting new clients. I have over 25 years of experience in providing Personal Counseling and Therapy for individuals and couples, Career Counseling, and Executive Coaching. I see a wide range of clients, whether for ideas and inspiration or long-term work to address issues that seriously interfere with your life. With couples, I help you develop understanding of each other, get to the root of the issues, and develop tools to strengthen your relationship. My counseling philosophy is about helping you develop understanding and take action to feel fulfilled in life and minimize self-defeating habits that get in your way.
(612) 223-7589 View (612) 223-7589
Photo of Manzar Imtiaz Lari - True Kismet Counseling, LLC, MA, LP, LICSW, Psychologist
True Kismet Counseling, LLC
Psychologist, MA, LP, LICSW
Verified Verified
North Loop, Minneapolis, MN 55402  (Online Only)
I typically see South Asian adults and couples, interracial couples, and LGBTQ adults from any culture in my private practice.
You may be at a point where you are feeling depressed because you feel alone and misunderstood. Changes in your life are overwhelming. Life and relationships are difficult to manage. You may be thinking that you “should” be stronger and not let things bother you so why do they? Your marriage has a lot of challenges and you and your spouse do not see eye to eye. You are an LGBTQ identified person and are feeling stuck. You are encountering roadblocks in your personal life and relationships. You want so much in life, but nothing seems to come together for you.
I typically see South Asian adults and couples, interracial couples, and LGBTQ adults from any culture in my private practice.
You may be at a point where you are feeling depressed because you feel alone and misunderstood. Changes in your life are overwhelming. Life and relationships are difficult to manage. You may be thinking that you “should” be stronger and not let things bother you so why do they? Your marriage has a lot of challenges and you and your spouse do not see eye to eye. You are an LGBTQ identified person and are feeling stuck. You are encountering roadblocks in your personal life and relationships. You want so much in life, but nothing seems to come together for you.
(954) 799-9628 View (954) 799-9628
Photo of Couples Therapy | Danielle Landa, LMFT, LADC, DARTT, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist
Couples Therapy | Danielle Landa
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LADC, DARTT, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Loop, Minneapolis, MN 55401
There is a more fulfilling way to be in relationship.
Do you feel misunderstood, frustrated, or lonely in your relationship? Are you walking on eggshells to avoid that same argument with your partner? Is the disconnect taking on a life of its own? Whether you've tried therapy before or are looking for the first time: Welcome. I combine a variety of therapy modalities to heal old attachment wounds and reduce the emotional reactivity that fuels conflict in relationships. I help you break old patterns and replace them with relational ones. I invite you into a brave space to be healed and inspired.
There is a more fulfilling way to be in relationship.
Do you feel misunderstood, frustrated, or lonely in your relationship? Are you walking on eggshells to avoid that same argument with your partner? Is the disconnect taking on a life of its own? Whether you've tried therapy before or are looking for the first time: Welcome. I combine a variety of therapy modalities to heal old attachment wounds and reduce the emotional reactivity that fuels conflict in relationships. I help you break old patterns and replace them with relational ones. I invite you into a brave space to be healed and inspired.
(612) 688-4067 View (612) 688-4067
Photo of Estefania Sedarski, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Estefania Sedarski
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Loop, Minneapolis, MN 55402
I work with individuals 12+ , couples, persons within the LGBTQIA+ community as well as ENM and Polyamorous systems.
I am a therapist for those who are looking to find their own place within this cosmos of existence. With all the cultural programming within this world it is difficult to find our own core truths and how to navigate within them towards our own version of a fulfilling life. I work with individuals and relationships looking to find and understand their own truths about themselves, their existence and how to navigate in a world that so often is not built for our own wellness. From highly sensitive persons, to artists, and Queer folx, immigrants and multiracial persons, I am here to help you find what is getting in the way of thriving.
I work with individuals 12+ , couples, persons within the LGBTQIA+ community as well as ENM and Polyamorous systems.
I am a therapist for those who are looking to find their own place within this cosmos of existence. With all the cultural programming within this world it is difficult to find our own core truths and how to navigate within them towards our own version of a fulfilling life. I work with individuals and relationships looking to find and understand their own truths about themselves, their existence and how to navigate in a world that so often is not built for our own wellness. From highly sensitive persons, to artists, and Queer folx, immigrants and multiracial persons, I am here to help you find what is getting in the way of thriving.
(651) 362-4587 View (651) 362-4587
Photo of Kyle Schwieters, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kyle Schwieters
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
North Loop, Minneapolis, MN 55402
Kyle is a LMFT who believes that the importance of building an authentic relationship with each client is the first step in moving towards progress, hope, and healing.
Kyle enjoys working with individuals, adolescents, couples, and families and joining them on their journey of healing and working together in developing understanding, confidence, and resilience. Kyle has experienced helping others in residential, in-home, and outpatient settings. He helps others achieve their personal goals through strength and evidenced-based systemic approaches. These approaches include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based therapies, Psychoeducation, and solution focused approaches.
Kyle is a LMFT who believes that the importance of building an authentic relationship with each client is the first step in moving towards progress, hope, and healing.
Kyle enjoys working with individuals, adolescents, couples, and families and joining them on their journey of healing and working together in developing understanding, confidence, and resilience. Kyle has experienced helping others in residential, in-home, and outpatient settings. He helps others achieve their personal goals through strength and evidenced-based systemic approaches. These approaches include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based therapies, Psychoeducation, and solution focused approaches.
(763) 247-4779 View (763) 247-4779
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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.