Couples Counseling Therapists in Montana

Photo of Kanbi Knippling, MS, PCLC, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kanbi Knippling
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, PCLC, NCC
Verified Verified
Missoula, MT 59804
Waitlist for new clients
Hello! I am so glad you are here, and I am grateful for the opportunity to work with you. I welcome individuals and couples of all identities, ages, abilities, and body sizes across the lifespan. I particularly enjoy working with those in the older childhood (8 years and above) to late adulthood stages of life. I am employed at Julie Ballew, LCPC, LLC as a license-eligible counselor (PCLC). Julie Ballew, PhD, LCPC is my licensed supervisor who oversees all of my clinical work. Insurance billing, if any, is done under her name and license.
Hello! I am so glad you are here, and I am grateful for the opportunity to work with you. I welcome individuals and couples of all identities, ages, abilities, and body sizes across the lifespan. I particularly enjoy working with those in the older childhood (8 years and above) to late adulthood stages of life. I am employed at Julie Ballew, LCPC, LLC as a license-eligible counselor (PCLC). Julie Ballew, PhD, LCPC is my licensed supervisor who oversees all of my clinical work. Insurance billing, if any, is done under her name and license.
(406) 909-4235 View (406) 909-4235
Photo of Ronald F Bridges, MA, MACE, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ronald F Bridges
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MACE, LMFT
Verified Verified
Kalispell, MT 59901
Specialties include: Marital/ Couples Anxiety| Anger management |Depression/Phobias |Substance Abuse| Spiritual conflicts| Grief Loss| Addictions| Panic disorders| Family relational issues| Guilt Self Image/self esteem| Divorce recovery| Unresolved conflict| Communication trauma recovery| Borderline Personality|Young adult/Youth Counseling; Parenting skills.
Counseling is a very personal and private choice. It is my commitment to invest a part of my life, my training and my experience into your world in order to help you clarify, organize and understand your concerns as you navigate through the difficulties, obstacles or fears toward meaningful solutions. Whether you are an individual, couple or family seeking help,I will be committed to connect with you and together we will seek to discover solutions, results or healing, regardless of the situation or circumstance.
Specialties include: Marital/ Couples Anxiety| Anger management |Depression/Phobias |Substance Abuse| Spiritual conflicts| Grief Loss| Addictions| Panic disorders| Family relational issues| Guilt Self Image/self esteem| Divorce recovery| Unresolved conflict| Communication trauma recovery| Borderline Personality|Young adult/Youth Counseling; Parenting skills.
Counseling is a very personal and private choice. It is my commitment to invest a part of my life, my training and my experience into your world in order to help you clarify, organize and understand your concerns as you navigate through the difficulties, obstacles or fears toward meaningful solutions. Whether you are an individual, couple or family seeking help,I will be committed to connect with you and together we will seek to discover solutions, results or healing, regardless of the situation or circumstance.
(406) 800-0496 View (406) 800-0496
Photo of Ali van Raaphorst, MA, PCLC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Ali van Raaphorst
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, PCLC
Verified Verified
Bozeman, MT 59718
I would be honored to partner with you as you being this rewarding journey of the counseling process.
We all face challenges that can leave us feeling disconnected to ourselves and others. Perhaps you feel hopeless, unloveable, or stuck in an area of your life. You have tried your best to get through it on your own, but something is not working. We often fear that if we acknowledge our pain, grief, and longings that they will completely overwhelm us. But they don't have to. We were not made to go through these experiences alone. I believe that growth, wholeness, and freedom from past wounds are possible for you. Together we will explore what you have been through, who you are today, and who you want to become.
I would be honored to partner with you as you being this rewarding journey of the counseling process.
We all face challenges that can leave us feeling disconnected to ourselves and others. Perhaps you feel hopeless, unloveable, or stuck in an area of your life. You have tried your best to get through it on your own, but something is not working. We often fear that if we acknowledge our pain, grief, and longings that they will completely overwhelm us. But they don't have to. We were not made to go through these experiences alone. I believe that growth, wholeness, and freedom from past wounds are possible for you. Together we will explore what you have been through, who you are today, and who you want to become.
(406) 780-7464 View (406) 780-7464
Photo of Gina Temple, MS Ed, CRC , LCPC, Counselor
Gina Temple
Counselor, MS Ed, CRC , LCPC
Verified Verified
Bozeman, MT 59718
*Taking new clients*Offering Telehealth. I have 30 years of experience in the field of counseling. I enjoy working with adolescents, adults, couples, and families who are seeking compassionate support with anxiety, depression or a challenging transition or experience. I create a space to foster positive growth and strengthen overall quality of life through personal awareness. I believe that each individual has unique gifts and strengths within them, and when given the support and guidance through the counseling process, great progress can be made. My approach is Eclectic in nature, as I use techniques from all schools of therapy.
*Taking new clients*Offering Telehealth. I have 30 years of experience in the field of counseling. I enjoy working with adolescents, adults, couples, and families who are seeking compassionate support with anxiety, depression or a challenging transition or experience. I create a space to foster positive growth and strengthen overall quality of life through personal awareness. I believe that each individual has unique gifts and strengths within them, and when given the support and guidance through the counseling process, great progress can be made. My approach is Eclectic in nature, as I use techniques from all schools of therapy.
(207) 994-8568 View (207) 994-8568
Photo of Miri'ikai Walter, LCPC, LAC, NPC-T, EMDRPT-, ADHD-CC, Counselor
Miri'ikai Walter
Counselor, LCPC, LAC, NPC-T, EMDRPT-, ADHD-CC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Helena, MT 59601
I also work with couples struggling with maritial & family issues, & addiction & families of addicted people.
Yáʼátʼééh! If you are viewing this page you are probably struggling with something emotionally 'heavy', or seeking guidance through a challenging life experience? I offer several years of experience working ‎in clinical mental health counseling, addictions, and clinical settings as a Clinical Director. I practice from an integrative holistic approach which addresses the mind, body, and spiritual approach to healing, I am also an apprenticed Native American Healer & I incorporate my traditional ‎knowledge with evidence-based approaches, compassion & often humor! As I believe in leaving people better off for having known me.
I also work with couples struggling with maritial & family issues, & addiction & families of addicted people.
Yáʼátʼééh! If you are viewing this page you are probably struggling with something emotionally 'heavy', or seeking guidance through a challenging life experience? I offer several years of experience working ‎in clinical mental health counseling, addictions, and clinical settings as a Clinical Director. I practice from an integrative holistic approach which addresses the mind, body, and spiritual approach to healing, I am also an apprenticed Native American Healer & I incorporate my traditional ‎knowledge with evidence-based approaches, compassion & often humor! As I believe in leaving people better off for having known me.
(406) 643-4598 View (406) 643-4598
Photo of Mark Knox, PhD, DMin, LMFT, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mark Knox
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, DMin, LMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
Livingston, MT 59047
My dissertation and specialization is on integrating powerful and effective trauma therapy and relationship therapy for traumatized couples.
I am dedicated to providing help for the hurting, in a safe and compassionate environment. We all have times when we could use a little help, but change is possible and can lead to a great life. I combine evidence-based, cutting-edge therapies intended to bring healing to the brain. These include LENs Neurofeedback, EMDR (I am an approved consultant), and Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy. As a 25-year military veteran, I have a solid understanding of issues experienced by military and veteran clients and their families, and a deep desire to provide veterans and first-responders with help.
My dissertation and specialization is on integrating powerful and effective trauma therapy and relationship therapy for traumatized couples.
I am dedicated to providing help for the hurting, in a safe and compassionate environment. We all have times when we could use a little help, but change is possible and can lead to a great life. I combine evidence-based, cutting-edge therapies intended to bring healing to the brain. These include LENs Neurofeedback, EMDR (I am an approved consultant), and Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy. As a 25-year military veteran, I have a solid understanding of issues experienced by military and veteran clients and their families, and a deep desire to provide veterans and first-responders with help.
(406) 412-6766 View (406) 412-6766
Photo of Kevin John Watson, LCPC, Counselor
Kevin John Watson
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Helena, MT 59601
If you suffer from depression, anxiety, trauma, poor impulse control, social difficulties, poor communication skills or relationship difficulties please understand that there are effective ways to overcome these issues.
If you suffer from depression, anxiety, trauma, poor impulse control, social difficulties, poor communication skills or relationship difficulties please understand that there are effective ways to overcome these issues.
(406) 430-3447 View (406) 430-3447
Photo of Katrina O'Neil, LCSW, LMFT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katrina O'Neil
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
Missoula, MT 59802
Individuals, couples, and families initiate counseling with me for a variety of reasons.
Are you overwhelmed and looking for answers, but just don't know where to begin? Every individual has a story; so do families and communities. As we compile these accounts, we realize that the fragments form a collage; not the entire picture, but pieces which symbolize the possibility for a whole. Therapy can be a safe space for exploring and integrating the past in an effort to become more present. You are the expert in your own life experiences and I can be your partner in honoring that narrative.
Individuals, couples, and families initiate counseling with me for a variety of reasons.
Are you overwhelmed and looking for answers, but just don't know where to begin? Every individual has a story; so do families and communities. As we compile these accounts, we realize that the fragments form a collage; not the entire picture, but pieces which symbolize the possibility for a whole. Therapy can be a safe space for exploring and integrating the past in an effort to become more present. You are the expert in your own life experiences and I can be your partner in honoring that narrative.
(406) 564-1513 View (406) 564-1513
Photo of Greg Windham, MS, LCPC, Counselor
Greg Windham
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Kalispell, MT 59901
Waitlist for new clients
I enjoy working with couples and families on improving and developing effective relationships.
My approach with my clients is based on a pragmatic intuitive approach, customized to individual needs. My goal is to assist my clients in finding and tailoring tools to aid them in becoming the best person they can be on a daily basis. I strive to help individuals develop the strength to overcome interpersonal challenges, relational difficulties, and life crises. I believe that strong marriages and supportive families are vital to the ability to recover from personal crises and regain hope which can promote life-long change.
I enjoy working with couples and families on improving and developing effective relationships.
My approach with my clients is based on a pragmatic intuitive approach, customized to individual needs. My goal is to assist my clients in finding and tailoring tools to aid them in becoming the best person they can be on a daily basis. I strive to help individuals develop the strength to overcome interpersonal challenges, relational difficulties, and life crises. I believe that strong marriages and supportive families are vital to the ability to recover from personal crises and regain hope which can promote life-long change.
(406) 235-1658 View (406) 235-1658
Photo of Erin Adams-Griffin, LCSW, LAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erin Adams-Griffin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LAC
Verified Verified
Whitefish, MT 59937
Waitlist for new clients
I've worked with kids/teens, adults, couples and families.
You already have, and can unlock, everything you need to live a fulfilling and purposeful life. My philosophy is that the person/people sitting across from me come with primary expertise, experience and wisdom. Each one is a specialist in their own self and their own life, and comes with inherent worth, value and dignity. My priority is to be fully present and aware in order to build trusting relationships, deeply understand, reflect each person's insights/solutions, and offer hope in other possibilities. It's an honor to be a partner and consultant in the process of uncovering hidden resources.
I've worked with kids/teens, adults, couples and families.
You already have, and can unlock, everything you need to live a fulfilling and purposeful life. My philosophy is that the person/people sitting across from me come with primary expertise, experience and wisdom. Each one is a specialist in their own self and their own life, and comes with inherent worth, value and dignity. My priority is to be fully present and aware in order to build trusting relationships, deeply understand, reflect each person's insights/solutions, and offer hope in other possibilities. It's an honor to be a partner and consultant in the process of uncovering hidden resources.
(406) 943-0336 View (406) 943-0336
Photo of Kris Loomis, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kris Loomis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Livingston, MT 59047
I work with all types of adult clients and have specific training to support those with anxiety, depression, relationship concerns, and trauma.
Hello! Showing up for yourself by considering and advocating for your wellbeing is no small feat! It’s also an indicator of self-awareness, resilience, and perseverance which can be amazing places to start any journey. I am happy to be a resource and support on your path! It is possible to build a strong foundation of internal wellness and healing from which we can thrive, not just survive!
I work with all types of adult clients and have specific training to support those with anxiety, depression, relationship concerns, and trauma.
Hello! Showing up for yourself by considering and advocating for your wellbeing is no small feat! It’s also an indicator of self-awareness, resilience, and perseverance which can be amazing places to start any journey. I am happy to be a resource and support on your path! It is possible to build a strong foundation of internal wellness and healing from which we can thrive, not just survive!
(406) 296-5499 View (406) 296-5499
Photo of Matthew Luvisi, MSW, LCSW, SEP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Matthew Luvisi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, SEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bozeman, MT 59718
Feel free to reach out to me with questions of your own, as I believe the therapeutic relationship is a collaborative one.
I am passionate about working with individuals who are suffering in a variety of ways--past trauma, addiction, life circumstances changing, adults who are struggling to find their place in the world, and ready to stop repeating the same old patterns which bring them back to the same old place. Being human is traumatic enough in and of itself. Pile on some childhood trauma, life circumstances changing beyond your control, and day-to-day stress, and you might find yourself struggling. I'm here to help you stop the pain from turning into suffering.
Feel free to reach out to me with questions of your own, as I believe the therapeutic relationship is a collaborative one.
I am passionate about working with individuals who are suffering in a variety of ways--past trauma, addiction, life circumstances changing, adults who are struggling to find their place in the world, and ready to stop repeating the same old patterns which bring them back to the same old place. Being human is traumatic enough in and of itself. Pile on some childhood trauma, life circumstances changing beyond your control, and day-to-day stress, and you might find yourself struggling. I'm here to help you stop the pain from turning into suffering.
(406) 296-4809 View (406) 296-4809
Photo of Breanna Lawyer - Woven + True Counseling by Breanna Lawyer, MS, PCLC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Woven + True Counseling by Breanna Lawyer
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, PCLC
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59102
My approach centers on the transformative power of a strong therapeutic relationship.
With a deep commitment to mental health and a passion for transforming lives, I am a dedicated therapist with eight years of experience in the mental health field helping individuals navigate life's challenges and unlock their true potential. I believe in the power of every individual's unique story, uncovering inner truths, and embracing authenticity. My mission is to create a safe, nurturing space where you can explore your past, understand your present, and shape your future.
My approach centers on the transformative power of a strong therapeutic relationship.
With a deep commitment to mental health and a passion for transforming lives, I am a dedicated therapist with eight years of experience in the mental health field helping individuals navigate life's challenges and unlock their true potential. I believe in the power of every individual's unique story, uncovering inner truths, and embracing authenticity. My mission is to create a safe, nurturing space where you can explore your past, understand your present, and shape your future.
(406) 660-3485 View (406) 660-3485
Photo of Adam Chiappone, MSW, LCSW, LAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Adam Chiappone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LAC
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59102
Therapy is tailored to the specific needs of the client as they evolve in a collaborative relationship.
We are living through a time of great anxiety and uncertainty. I am here to offer you a safe and supportive space where you can explore patterns that may be preventing you from moving forward in your relationships, work, and life. I utilize a variety of techniques to help free you from the self-defeating behavior patterns that keep you stuck. The goal of our working together is to reduce your distress, give you tools to solve problems in a healthy way, and heal the wounds of the past so that you can live a happier, more fulfilling life.
Therapy is tailored to the specific needs of the client as they evolve in a collaborative relationship.
We are living through a time of great anxiety and uncertainty. I am here to offer you a safe and supportive space where you can explore patterns that may be preventing you from moving forward in your relationships, work, and life. I utilize a variety of techniques to help free you from the self-defeating behavior patterns that keep you stuck. The goal of our working together is to reduce your distress, give you tools to solve problems in a healthy way, and heal the wounds of the past so that you can live a happier, more fulfilling life.
(406) 606-4062 View (406) 606-4062
Photo of Jeff Valentine, LCPC, PC, Counselor
Jeff Valentine
Counselor, LCPC, PC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Missoula, MT 59808
I specialize in therapy for depression, anxiety, couples and family counseling, parenting support, grief counseling, work and career issues, stress management, addiction recovery, and conflict resolution.
I believe that life is not so much about the good or bad breaks we get compared to others, but rather our responses to the challenges that virtually everyone faces. These responses add up to the story of our lives. My approach is to help individuals, couples and families to respond to life's challenges in ways that promote health and provide for one's story to move forward in a hopeful and productive way. Depression, anxiety, relational problems and/or trauma are as common as breathing and the good news is that there is hope for everyone.
I specialize in therapy for depression, anxiety, couples and family counseling, parenting support, grief counseling, work and career issues, stress management, addiction recovery, and conflict resolution.
I believe that life is not so much about the good or bad breaks we get compared to others, but rather our responses to the challenges that virtually everyone faces. These responses add up to the story of our lives. My approach is to help individuals, couples and families to respond to life's challenges in ways that promote health and provide for one's story to move forward in a hopeful and productive way. Depression, anxiety, relational problems and/or trauma are as common as breathing and the good news is that there is hope for everyone.
(406) 848-0514 View (406) 848-0514
Photo of Kelly Krings-Lunder, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelly Krings-Lunder
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59101
I am committed to meeting YOUR needs! It is an incredibly brave thing to admit when we are experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, are vulnerable, stuck, or just want someone to listen. When you work with Bridges, you are in a safe space where you will not be judged! Children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families are all welcome at Bridges. I offer therapies to suit every need, and I enjoy working with people who are ready for change. Bridges offers HIPAA compliant Telemedicine, therefore serving ALL MT communities. The physical office is located in Billings. Let’s get you from where you are to where you want to be!
I am committed to meeting YOUR needs! It is an incredibly brave thing to admit when we are experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, are vulnerable, stuck, or just want someone to listen. When you work with Bridges, you are in a safe space where you will not be judged! Children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families are all welcome at Bridges. I offer therapies to suit every need, and I enjoy working with people who are ready for change. Bridges offers HIPAA compliant Telemedicine, therefore serving ALL MT communities. The physical office is located in Billings. Let’s get you from where you are to where you want to be!
(406) 953-0458 View (406) 953-0458
Photo of Shaunda R Wenger - Sensible Therapy and Wellness - Shaunda Wenger, LCPC, LMFT, Counselor
Sensible Therapy and Wellness - Shaunda Wenger
Counselor, LCPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Kalispell, MT 59901
I will meet you where you are at and assist you in exploring choices in your journey to become your best self or more connected with your partner(s) or family.
Let me support you individually (your child/ teen), with your partner(s), or as a family as you heal and grow. Life presents us with ongoing challenges; relationships, careers, families, raising children, medical issues, trauma, grief. These can add up to emotional stressors with behavioral reactions making it difficult to function as people in our various relationships and settings. When we become unaware of our emotional state and ignore self-care, emotionally, physically, spiritually, we may become stuck and are unable to function at a level that is our best selves. I will meet you, your child, or your family where you're at.
I will meet you where you are at and assist you in exploring choices in your journey to become your best self or more connected with your partner(s) or family.
Let me support you individually (your child/ teen), with your partner(s), or as a family as you heal and grow. Life presents us with ongoing challenges; relationships, careers, families, raising children, medical issues, trauma, grief. These can add up to emotional stressors with behavioral reactions making it difficult to function as people in our various relationships and settings. When we become unaware of our emotional state and ignore self-care, emotionally, physically, spiritually, we may become stuck and are unable to function at a level that is our best selves. I will meet you, your child, or your family where you're at.
(406) 643-4313 View (406) 643-4313
Photo of James Hyman, MA, LCPC
James Hyman
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Kalispell, MT 59901
Whether you are seeking to keep your relationship strong or realize it needs mending, I am here to support you.
These challenging times are an excellent time to focus within, on family, and couples work. My role as a therapist is strongly influenced by my experience as a husband and father. My approach is practical, sincere, strength-based and gentle, but challenging. With 18+ years experience, I provide therapy for adults, couples, teens and families. I excel in work with mood disorders, relationships, and trauma resiliency. I believe therapy includes both psychological and spiritual wholeness, which I strive to support in those from all walks of life.
Whether you are seeking to keep your relationship strong or realize it needs mending, I am here to support you.
These challenging times are an excellent time to focus within, on family, and couples work. My role as a therapist is strongly influenced by my experience as a husband and father. My approach is practical, sincere, strength-based and gentle, but challenging. With 18+ years experience, I provide therapy for adults, couples, teens and families. I excel in work with mood disorders, relationships, and trauma resiliency. I believe therapy includes both psychological and spiritual wholeness, which I strive to support in those from all walks of life.
(406) 296-4679 View (406) 296-4679
Photo of Terry A Spring LCPC, LCPC, EMDR, Superv, Counselor
Terry A Spring LCPC
Counselor, LCPC, EMDR, Superv
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59102
When unresolved it can also lead to addiction, anger, suicide ideation, self harming behaviors and relationship issues.
I thoroughly enjoy working with individuals that are interested in seeking help in change and understanding, especially if it relates to trauma. I have 12 years experience in law enforcement which has allotted me first hand experience in numerous traumatic incidents, and personal insight. With that being said, I find it incredibly rewarding and meaningful to offer education, coping skills, and EMDR treatment. I believe it is very common for anyone to become 'stuck' in life and need a little therapeutic push in the right direction.
When unresolved it can also lead to addiction, anger, suicide ideation, self harming behaviors and relationship issues.
I thoroughly enjoy working with individuals that are interested in seeking help in change and understanding, especially if it relates to trauma. I have 12 years experience in law enforcement which has allotted me first hand experience in numerous traumatic incidents, and personal insight. With that being said, I find it incredibly rewarding and meaningful to offer education, coping skills, and EMDR treatment. I believe it is very common for anyone to become 'stuck' in life and need a little therapeutic push in the right direction.
(406) 412-6681 View (406) 412-6681
Photo of Maureen Eloise Cordial, LMFT, LCPC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Maureen Eloise Cordial
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCPC
Verified Verified
Missoula, MT 59801
Discover how therapy can enlighten your outlook on life and aid in the discovery of your best self. It is my goal is to create a safe and open environment for couples, individuals, families, and athletes to explore and conquer the many challenges life often brings. Some of the common issues I work with clients on include relationship challenges, trauma, couples and marital counseling, performance enhancement for athletes, life transitions (e.g. marriage, new baby, retirement, empty nest), self-empowerment, and increasing confidence. You do not need to walk this journey alone.
Discover how therapy can enlighten your outlook on life and aid in the discovery of your best self. It is my goal is to create a safe and open environment for couples, individuals, families, and athletes to explore and conquer the many challenges life often brings. Some of the common issues I work with clients on include relationship challenges, trauma, couples and marital counseling, performance enhancement for athletes, life transitions (e.g. marriage, new baby, retirement, empty nest), self-empowerment, and increasing confidence. You do not need to walk this journey alone.
(406) 299-9129 View (406) 299-9129
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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.