Couples Counseling Therapists in Elizabeth, Charlotte, NC

Photo of Amelia Giller, MA, LCMHCA, NCC, Counselor
Amelia Giller
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
Elizabeth, Charlotte, NC 28204
Amelia is excited to partner with her clients to create a therapeutic relationship that creates lasting change.
Amelia is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate for Central Psych Charlotte in the state of North Carolina. She is a graduate of the Master of Arts of Christian Counseling Program at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary—Charlotte. She collaborates with adolescents(13+), young adults, and adult individuals in their journeys with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, identity development, life transitions, body dissatisfaction, self-esteem, relationship difficulties, and faith integration. She chose to pursue a career in counseling because she wants to give others a safe place to be heard and experience change.
Amelia is excited to partner with her clients to create a therapeutic relationship that creates lasting change.
Amelia is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate for Central Psych Charlotte in the state of North Carolina. She is a graduate of the Master of Arts of Christian Counseling Program at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary—Charlotte. She collaborates with adolescents(13+), young adults, and adult individuals in their journeys with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, identity development, life transitions, body dissatisfaction, self-esteem, relationship difficulties, and faith integration. She chose to pursue a career in counseling because she wants to give others a safe place to be heard and experience change.
(704) 270-2263 View (704) 270-2263
Photo of Karen Rogich, LCMHCA, MAC, MEd
Karen Rogich
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LCMHCA, MAC, MEd
Verified Verified
Elizabeth, Charlotte, NC 28204
Karen Rogich is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate practicing in the heart of Charlotte, NC. Karen’s therapeutic approach is grounded in psychodynamic/psychoanalytic therapy, which is insight-oriented. This model explores how our early life experiences relate to current life functioning and relationships to offer choices for change. In her practice, therapy is tailored to each individual. Karen utilizes an integrative model incorporating somatic work, trauma-informed therapy, EMDR, health and nutrition, to help clients make lasting changes for meaningful life. Karen enjoys working with adults and couples.
Karen Rogich is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate practicing in the heart of Charlotte, NC. Karen’s therapeutic approach is grounded in psychodynamic/psychoanalytic therapy, which is insight-oriented. This model explores how our early life experiences relate to current life functioning and relationships to offer choices for change. In her practice, therapy is tailored to each individual. Karen utilizes an integrative model incorporating somatic work, trauma-informed therapy, EMDR, health and nutrition, to help clients make lasting changes for meaningful life. Karen enjoys working with adults and couples.
(704) 666-8823 View (704) 666-8823
Photo of Nicole Renee French, PsyD, Psychologist
Nicole Renee French
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Elizabeth, Charlotte, NC 28204
Dr. French sees adults and couples, diverse in ethnicity, religious identification, social class, gender, and sexuality. She collaborates with men and women interested in cultivating curiosity about their experience of themselves (mind and body) and desiring deeper felt connections with others. Periods of transition (beginnings and endings) are prime opportunities to invest in your mind health. Dr. French is inspired by recent findings in interpersonal neuroscience which offer considerable hope and advanced understanding of our biological capacity for healing and transformation. These findings influence the way she lives and practices her profession.
Dr. French sees adults and couples, diverse in ethnicity, religious identification, social class, gender, and sexuality. She collaborates with men and women interested in cultivating curiosity about their experience of themselves (mind and body) and desiring deeper felt connections with others. Periods of transition (beginnings and endings) are prime opportunities to invest in your mind health. Dr. French is inspired by recent findings in interpersonal neuroscience which offer considerable hope and advanced understanding of our biological capacity for healing and transformation. These findings influence the way she lives and practices her profession.
(980) 217-6642 View (980) 217-6642
Photo of Jay Cobb, MACC, LMFT, LCMHC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jay Cobb
Marriage & Family Therapist, MACC, LMFT, LCMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Elizabeth, Charlotte, NC 28204
At Sanctuary Counseling Group, we believe in creating therapeutic relationships with our clients to promote the healing of heart, mind & soul. Life is not meant to be done in isolation. There are times when we meet challenges too difficult to face. Even if you are surrounded by family & friends, they do not necessarily know how to help. I have the experience & skills to assist as you navigate life's trials. Whether you are facing the wonders of new love, planning a marriage, facing the loss of an infant, combating addictions, or foundering to connect in a relationship, there is help. I offer you a safe place of respite and recovery.
At Sanctuary Counseling Group, we believe in creating therapeutic relationships with our clients to promote the healing of heart, mind & soul. Life is not meant to be done in isolation. There are times when we meet challenges too difficult to face. Even if you are surrounded by family & friends, they do not necessarily know how to help. I have the experience & skills to assist as you navigate life's trials. Whether you are facing the wonders of new love, planning a marriage, facing the loss of an infant, combating addictions, or foundering to connect in a relationship, there is help. I offer you a safe place of respite and recovery.
(704) 464-3947 View (704) 464-3947
Photo of Kelly Breen Boyce, PsyD, Psychologist
Kelly Breen Boyce
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Elizabeth, Charlotte, NC 28204
Boyce offers intensive couples session (1.
A candidate at the Psychoanalytic Center of the Carolinas in Chapel Hill, Dr. Boyce has a deep appreciation of the complexities of the mind as well as the impact of early experiences and relationships. Psychodynamic and psychoanalytic theories offer a comprehensive understanding of human nature. As opposed to other models that aim to solve a particular problem or target symptoms, psychoanalysis gets to the heart of the matter. Dr. Boyce provides therapy that addresses the whole person, helping the individual to develop inner capacities that can improve relationships as well as foster a richer, more meaningful life.
Boyce offers intensive couples session (1.
A candidate at the Psychoanalytic Center of the Carolinas in Chapel Hill, Dr. Boyce has a deep appreciation of the complexities of the mind as well as the impact of early experiences and relationships. Psychodynamic and psychoanalytic theories offer a comprehensive understanding of human nature. As opposed to other models that aim to solve a particular problem or target symptoms, psychoanalysis gets to the heart of the matter. Dr. Boyce provides therapy that addresses the whole person, helping the individual to develop inner capacities that can improve relationships as well as foster a richer, more meaningful life.
(704) 612-2373 View (704) 612-2373
Photo of Melanie Wester Marky, LCMHCA, MSEd, Counselor
Melanie Wester Marky
Counselor, LCMHCA, MSEd
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Elizabeth, Charlotte, NC 28204
Do you struggle in a relationship with a partner, family, or even yourself? Do you find it difficult to break repeating cycles in your personal life, or to move past trauma? Do you struggle to feel heard and validated by those you care about, or to set and hold boundaries with them? Maybe you’ve been hurt by infidelity or betrayal, or you just don’t feel emotionally or sexually connected to your partner anymore. No matter what got you here, you’ve already shown you have the strength to take control and to make things better. Let’s keep that positive momentum going! If it’s important to you, it’s important to me… and I can help.
Do you struggle in a relationship with a partner, family, or even yourself? Do you find it difficult to break repeating cycles in your personal life, or to move past trauma? Do you struggle to feel heard and validated by those you care about, or to set and hold boundaries with them? Maybe you’ve been hurt by infidelity or betrayal, or you just don’t feel emotionally or sexually connected to your partner anymore. No matter what got you here, you’ve already shown you have the strength to take control and to make things better. Let’s keep that positive momentum going! If it’s important to you, it’s important to me… and I can help.
(704) 753-8449 View (704) 753-8449
Photo of Tricia M Fisher, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tricia M Fisher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Elizabeth, Charlotte, NC 28204
I am interested in your story and feel privileged to provide a caring presence for adults and couples who are seeking liberation from patterns of thinking and behaving that have led to suffering. I believe all people have inherent strengths, and that our work together can lead to new ways of understanding that will result in a life lived more fully. Perhaps you are interested in pre-marital counseling, are ready to consider issues in your relationships, or address and treat anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress. If so, I would like to help you.
I am interested in your story and feel privileged to provide a caring presence for adults and couples who are seeking liberation from patterns of thinking and behaving that have led to suffering. I believe all people have inherent strengths, and that our work together can lead to new ways of understanding that will result in a life lived more fully. Perhaps you are interested in pre-marital counseling, are ready to consider issues in your relationships, or address and treat anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress. If so, I would like to help you.
(704) 508-9410 View (704) 508-9410
Photo of Lyle N. F. Williams, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lyle N. F. Williams
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Elizabeth, Charlotte, NC 28204  (Online Only)
As a licensed marriage and family therapist, I help clients heal from emotional and relationship concerns. I believe in the values of happiness, health, and purpose. If you or someone you care about is struggling with relationship conflict, depression, stress / anxiety, or anger; and you are ready for change to happen, I may be the right therapist for you.
As a licensed marriage and family therapist, I help clients heal from emotional and relationship concerns. I believe in the values of happiness, health, and purpose. If you or someone you care about is struggling with relationship conflict, depression, stress / anxiety, or anger; and you are ready for change to happen, I may be the right therapist for you.
(704) 459-8474 View (704) 459-8474
Photo of Sarah Currie, PhD, LCMHC, Counselor
Sarah Currie
Counselor, PhD, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Elizabeth, Charlotte, NC 28204
Hello and welcome. I’m Sarah, a therapist committed to guiding you through life’s challenges, be it grief, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, or life transitions. Your journey towards healing and self-discovery is a courageous step. You are ready to be curious about yourself, to cultivate self-awareness, and begin the fulfilling work of becoming more whole and healed. Together, we can unlock the freedom and new paths that await you on the other side of this process.
Hello and welcome. I’m Sarah, a therapist committed to guiding you through life’s challenges, be it grief, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, or life transitions. Your journey towards healing and self-discovery is a courageous step. You are ready to be curious about yourself, to cultivate self-awareness, and begin the fulfilling work of becoming more whole and healed. Together, we can unlock the freedom and new paths that await you on the other side of this process.
(704) 826-3285 View (704) 826-3285
Photo of Jocie Sweeney - SweeneyPsych, PhD, Psychologist
SweeneyPsych
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Elizabeth, Charlotte, NC 28204
Sweeney - My genuineness and humor assist in developing a strong therapeutic relationship.
We have found that one of the most difficult steps in therapy is scheduling and attending the first appointment. Our aim is to reward that courage by collaboratively working with clients towards reaching their goals. Our methods are individually tailored to each client based on their needs. Our therapists are trained as generalists and work wide array of issues ranging from stress management, chronic medical conditions, life transitions, and gender affirmations to more severe concerns such as trauma. We specialize in working with LGBTQ+ adults. We use the Informed Consent Model for gender-affirming surgery letters. Email us!
Sweeney - My genuineness and humor assist in developing a strong therapeutic relationship.
We have found that one of the most difficult steps in therapy is scheduling and attending the first appointment. Our aim is to reward that courage by collaboratively working with clients towards reaching their goals. Our methods are individually tailored to each client based on their needs. Our therapists are trained as generalists and work wide array of issues ranging from stress management, chronic medical conditions, life transitions, and gender affirmations to more severe concerns such as trauma. We specialize in working with LGBTQ+ adults. We use the Informed Consent Model for gender-affirming surgery letters. Email us!
(980) 734-3347 View (980) 734-3347
Photo of Ruthie Schultz, MA, LCMHC-A, LCAS-A, Counselor
Ruthie Schultz
Counselor, MA, LCMHC-A, LCAS-A
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Elizabeth, Charlotte, NC 28204  (Online Only)
The therapeutic relationship is at the foundation of any approach we choose, and I prioritize creating an environment in which there is mutual trust, safety, collaboration and empathy.
Therapy is a great way to foster connection, self-discovery and healing when life's challenges become overwhelming. Whether you're struggling with setting boundaries with others, balancing everyday stressors, or engaging in self-medicating behaviors- I am here to support. In my practice, I integrate a range of evidence-based approaches, utilizing techniques from dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), person-centered therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). My approach is collaborative, so based on your specific goals, we will decide together on the best approach for you to meet your needs.
The therapeutic relationship is at the foundation of any approach we choose, and I prioritize creating an environment in which there is mutual trust, safety, collaboration and empathy.
Therapy is a great way to foster connection, self-discovery and healing when life's challenges become overwhelming. Whether you're struggling with setting boundaries with others, balancing everyday stressors, or engaging in self-medicating behaviors- I am here to support. In my practice, I integrate a range of evidence-based approaches, utilizing techniques from dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), person-centered therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). My approach is collaborative, so based on your specific goals, we will decide together on the best approach for you to meet your needs.
(704) 703-8709 View (704) 703-8709
Photo of Heather Durham, LCMHC, Counselor
Heather Durham
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Elizabeth, Charlotte, NC 28204
My therapeutic approach is insight-oriented and integrates elements of psychoanalysis with narrative therapy and CBT to address the relationship between our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
When we find ourselves overwhelmed by the circumstances of life, it can be difficult to know where to turn. Many of us have endured experiences that leave us feeling misunderstood or defeated. The pain we experience can lead to an overall sense of disconnectedness from others and from our very selves. There is great power in sharing our stories within an environment of empathy and safety, where we can be curious together about how the past has impacted the present. To feel understood can be the first pathway to healing.
My therapeutic approach is insight-oriented and integrates elements of psychoanalysis with narrative therapy and CBT to address the relationship between our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
When we find ourselves overwhelmed by the circumstances of life, it can be difficult to know where to turn. Many of us have endured experiences that leave us feeling misunderstood or defeated. The pain we experience can lead to an overall sense of disconnectedness from others and from our very selves. There is great power in sharing our stories within an environment of empathy and safety, where we can be curious together about how the past has impacted the present. To feel understood can be the first pathway to healing.
(980) 319-1504 View (980) 319-1504
Photo of Kate Culligan, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kate Culligan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Elizabeth, Charlotte, NC 28204
Are you having relationship difficulties or feeling anxious or depressed? Perhaps you feel stuck and unhappy generally. Or maybe you are grieving a loss, a recent breakup, or a divorce. Over the years I have successfully worked with many individuals and couples to improve their relationships, sort out their feelings, and resolve their anxious and depressed moods. In the event of a breakup or divorce I am able to help you move through your grief and hurt, recover your sense of self, and rebuild your life. Having worked in several different healthcare settings, I will bring my extensive training and experience to our collaboration.
Are you having relationship difficulties or feeling anxious or depressed? Perhaps you feel stuck and unhappy generally. Or maybe you are grieving a loss, a recent breakup, or a divorce. Over the years I have successfully worked with many individuals and couples to improve their relationships, sort out their feelings, and resolve their anxious and depressed moods. In the event of a breakup or divorce I am able to help you move through your grief and hurt, recover your sense of self, and rebuild your life. Having worked in several different healthcare settings, I will bring my extensive training and experience to our collaboration.
(704) 207-0508 View (704) 207-0508
Photo of Jenna Wilson, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jenna Wilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Elizabeth, Charlotte, NC 28204
I frequently engage couples experiencing relationship difficulties, including intimacy issues, as well as, individuals suffering from depression, anxiety, or a loss in their lives.
Throughout our life's journey, we encounter a multitude of experiences. Some may contain extreme joy and happiness, while others can manifest feelings of doubt, sadness, anxiety or questioning if change or healing is possible in our current circumstances. During these difficult seasons we need the courage and perspective to explore challenging questions and the willingness to listen to the answers that emerge. My goal is to empower my clients and develop a rapport which promotes the confidence, skills and change agents needed to progress towards a direction that nourishes emotional and physical well-being.
I frequently engage couples experiencing relationship difficulties, including intimacy issues, as well as, individuals suffering from depression, anxiety, or a loss in their lives.
Throughout our life's journey, we encounter a multitude of experiences. Some may contain extreme joy and happiness, while others can manifest feelings of doubt, sadness, anxiety or questioning if change or healing is possible in our current circumstances. During these difficult seasons we need the courage and perspective to explore challenging questions and the willingness to listen to the answers that emerge. My goal is to empower my clients and develop a rapport which promotes the confidence, skills and change agents needed to progress towards a direction that nourishes emotional and physical well-being.
(704) 729-7588 View (704) 729-7588
Photo of Kathryn Sain, MA, Psychological Associate
Kathryn Sain
Psychological Associate, MA
Verified Verified
Elizabeth, Charlotte, NC 28204
I specialize in working with adults; seeing individuals and couples desiring deep understanding of long held patterns that have interfered in their well being and have sabotaged reaching their fullest potential, happiness and satisfaction in life.
Based on a holistic approach that encourages a healthy lifestyle for overall physical and psychological well being, I help my clients access and harness their intrinsic power to achieve and maintain the meaningful and fulfilling lives they desire. Through talk therapy, I guide clients towards self-reflection and the internal curiosity required to facilitate healing , problem solving and resilience during difficult times.
I specialize in working with adults; seeing individuals and couples desiring deep understanding of long held patterns that have interfered in their well being and have sabotaged reaching their fullest potential, happiness and satisfaction in life.
Based on a holistic approach that encourages a healthy lifestyle for overall physical and psychological well being, I help my clients access and harness their intrinsic power to achieve and maintain the meaningful and fulfilling lives they desire. Through talk therapy, I guide clients towards self-reflection and the internal curiosity required to facilitate healing , problem solving and resilience during difficult times.
(980) 368-4439 View (980) 368-4439
Photo of Diana Collins, MA, LCMHC-A, Counselor
Diana Collins
Counselor, MA, LCMHC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Elizabeth, Charlotte, NC 28204
We're all on a journey and I'm honored to help you make sense of it. I work with adults navigating the challenges of life and death, of being human. I see individuals for various issues and welcome you to contact me for an initial conversation. I enjoy working with couples, because relationships can be so challenging. I use assessments, the Gottman Method, and attachment theory to help build relationship satisfaction and intimacy. Some couples only need coaching, some need more. But we live in difficult times, and we all need someone we can talk to, someone who will walk beside us on this journey, offering comfort and support.
We're all on a journey and I'm honored to help you make sense of it. I work with adults navigating the challenges of life and death, of being human. I see individuals for various issues and welcome you to contact me for an initial conversation. I enjoy working with couples, because relationships can be so challenging. I use assessments, the Gottman Method, and attachment theory to help build relationship satisfaction and intimacy. Some couples only need coaching, some need more. But we live in difficult times, and we all need someone we can talk to, someone who will walk beside us on this journey, offering comfort and support.
(704) 389-2650 View (704) 389-2650
Photo of Kimberly D. Williams, MA, NCC, LCMHCA, Counselor
Kimberly D. Williams
Counselor, MA, NCC, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Elizabeth, Charlotte, NC 28204
For many of life’s issues, it is helpful to talk with someone within a nonjudgmental, safe environment. To be listened to and heard in a way that facilitates an understanding of what the underlying origin of the problem is in order to bring about healing. Kimberly uses the psychodynamic approach to counseling as a means to assist clients with understanding themselves more deeply. Serving adults, couples and adolescents, she collaborates with the client to address patterns and behaviors that disrupt wellbeing.
For many of life’s issues, it is helpful to talk with someone within a nonjudgmental, safe environment. To be listened to and heard in a way that facilitates an understanding of what the underlying origin of the problem is in order to bring about healing. Kimberly uses the psychodynamic approach to counseling as a means to assist clients with understanding themselves more deeply. Serving adults, couples and adolescents, she collaborates with the client to address patterns and behaviors that disrupt wellbeing.
(704) 327-0195 View (704) 327-0195
Photo of Jenny Barringer Burke, MSW, LCSWA
Jenny Barringer Burke
LCSW Associate, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Elizabeth, Charlotte, NC 28204
I have a wealth of experience working with those going through grief and loss, life difficulties including depression and anxiety, and specific issues such as divorce, parenthood, relationship struggles, ADHD, and teen issues such as bullying, low self-esteem/perfectionism, and friendship difficulties.
Are you going through a life change or transition and feel lost? Or maybe you just don't feel like yourself right now? Reaching out for help can be difficult and in my experience, no human being can navigate these seasons of life alone. I am passionate about working with preteens, teenagers, young adults, and adults who are going through significant life changes and/or feeling that they would like to cultivate a more evolved version of themselves.
I have a wealth of experience working with those going through grief and loss, life difficulties including depression and anxiety, and specific issues such as divorce, parenthood, relationship struggles, ADHD, and teen issues such as bullying, low self-esteem/perfectionism, and friendship difficulties.
Are you going through a life change or transition and feel lost? Or maybe you just don't feel like yourself right now? Reaching out for help can be difficult and in my experience, no human being can navigate these seasons of life alone. I am passionate about working with preteens, teenagers, young adults, and adults who are going through significant life changes and/or feeling that they would like to cultivate a more evolved version of themselves.
(980) 372-5995 View (980) 372-5995
Photo of Daphne Jane Timmons - Daphne Timmons, PhD, PhD, Psychologist
Daphne Timmons, PhD
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Elizabeth, Charlotte, NC 28204
I am a clinical psychologist providing counseling to couples, families, and adults. My services are offered to the greater Charlotte area and with telehealth in South Carolina. I provide treatment for depression, anxiety, stress, medical problems, attention and focus problems and grief and loss issues. I completed my doctorate at the University of South Carolina. I am passionate about my work with clients and enjoy learning and developing new skills and techniques to support them in managing the complexity of their daily lives.
I am a clinical psychologist providing counseling to couples, families, and adults. My services are offered to the greater Charlotte area and with telehealth in South Carolina. I provide treatment for depression, anxiety, stress, medical problems, attention and focus problems and grief and loss issues. I completed my doctorate at the University of South Carolina. I am passionate about my work with clients and enjoy learning and developing new skills and techniques to support them in managing the complexity of their daily lives.
(704) 761-4980 View (704) 761-4980
Photo of Nancy E Arnold, MA, LCMHC
Nancy E Arnold
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Elizabeth, Charlotte, NC 28204
I work with adult individuals/couples presenting with relationship issues describing symptoms of anxiety, anger, infidelity, depression, addiction, chronic illness/pain, grief, shame, low self-worth.
Do your relationships repeat the same frustrating cycles? Are you consistently feeling frustrated, angry or confused? Are you trying, to no avail, to be what you have always learned was "right" in relationships? What you believe about yourself and others influences the majority of your choices. Those feelings of hurt and frustration in relationships, often result in questions like "why?" and "what next?". I work with my clients to explore those feelings, attempting to uncover past and present patterns and beliefs influencing how you show up. Your work with me will move toward finding authenticity, truth and healing.
I work with adult individuals/couples presenting with relationship issues describing symptoms of anxiety, anger, infidelity, depression, addiction, chronic illness/pain, grief, shame, low self-worth.
Do your relationships repeat the same frustrating cycles? Are you consistently feeling frustrated, angry or confused? Are you trying, to no avail, to be what you have always learned was "right" in relationships? What you believe about yourself and others influences the majority of your choices. Those feelings of hurt and frustration in relationships, often result in questions like "why?" and "what next?". I work with my clients to explore those feelings, attempting to uncover past and present patterns and beliefs influencing how you show up. Your work with me will move toward finding authenticity, truth and healing.
(704) 750-0484 View (704) 750-0484
1

See more therapy options for Elizabeth, Charlotte

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.