Couples Counseling Therapists in North Carolina

Photo of Reginald V Blackmon - Mind, Heart and Spirit, MDiv, MA, Coach, Marriag
Mind, Heart and Spirit
MDiv, MA, Coach, Marriag
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28202
My Mission: Change Troubled Relationship into Loving Relationships.
Tired of Walking on Egg Shells? Communication issues? Misunderstood, not heard? Tired of secrecy? Is trust or infidelity destroying the relationship? The power to make lasting changes comes from within. Better communications is key. Let me help restore love and respect into your relationship! Tired of the verbal & emotional abuse. Thinking about ending the relationship? Get real solutions from arguments! Don't use your pain as a reason not to change. Get life changing skills now! I also work with adolescents/ teens, helping them unleash their potential for Greatness! Your marriage / relationship does not have to end. Get Help Today
My Mission: Change Troubled Relationship into Loving Relationships.
Tired of Walking on Egg Shells? Communication issues? Misunderstood, not heard? Tired of secrecy? Is trust or infidelity destroying the relationship? The power to make lasting changes comes from within. Better communications is key. Let me help restore love and respect into your relationship! Tired of the verbal & emotional abuse. Thinking about ending the relationship? Get real solutions from arguments! Don't use your pain as a reason not to change. Get life changing skills now! I also work with adolescents/ teens, helping them unleash their potential for Greatness! Your marriage / relationship does not have to end. Get Help Today
(704) 837-4368 View (704) 837-4368
Photo of Sonyia Richardson - Another Level Counseling and Consultation, PhD, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Another Level Counseling and Consultation
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28269  (Online Only)
Individual, couples, and family sessions are available.
When dealing with life’s struggles, it helps to have someone to talk to who can help and heal. Whether it’s stress, anxiety, depression, or sudden loss, we can help release the pressure. Speak with a licensed therapist from the privacy and comfort of your own home or our office. You don't have to be alone as Another Level Counseling and Consultation is here for you. Most insurances will cover the cost of video and/or phone visits. Private pay and sliding scale is available.
Individual, couples, and family sessions are available.
When dealing with life’s struggles, it helps to have someone to talk to who can help and heal. Whether it’s stress, anxiety, depression, or sudden loss, we can help release the pressure. Speak with a licensed therapist from the privacy and comfort of your own home or our office. You don't have to be alone as Another Level Counseling and Consultation is here for you. Most insurances will cover the cost of video and/or phone visits. Private pay and sliding scale is available.
(704) 396-4208 View (704) 396-4208
Photo of David M Bradley, MA, MDiv, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
David M Bradley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MDiv, LMFT
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
I have a great deal of passion for working with couples, knowing this is the most important subsystem of the family and the place where people find their stuff trying to get worked out, like it or not.
It is my great privilege to sit with individuals, couples, and families everyday, helping them find the best of who they are to bring to the problems, struggles, and conflicts facing them. By listening well and asking good questions I am allowed privileged space by my clients to help them find their best solutions available to them. I get to see their courage as they use time and space in honorable ways to move forward in their lives. I am a licensed marriage and family Therapist as well as an ordained Presbyterian minister which gives two available lenses for clients.
I have a great deal of passion for working with couples, knowing this is the most important subsystem of the family and the place where people find their stuff trying to get worked out, like it or not.
It is my great privilege to sit with individuals, couples, and families everyday, helping them find the best of who they are to bring to the problems, struggles, and conflicts facing them. By listening well and asking good questions I am allowed privileged space by my clients to help them find their best solutions available to them. I get to see their courage as they use time and space in honorable ways to move forward in their lives. I am a licensed marriage and family Therapist as well as an ordained Presbyterian minister which gives two available lenses for clients.
(828) 372-0108 View (828) 372-0108
Photo of Rhonda Hardin Blackburn, MA, LCMHS, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rhonda Hardin Blackburn
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHS, NCC
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27403
I love what I do and enjoy helping couples, individuals, families, and teens make the connections and resolve needed to navigate a more meaningful life.
Navigating through difficult life experiences, relationships, or seeking personal growth can manifest stress, frustration, guilt, anxiety, anger, etc. My passion for supporting you provides an empowering and hopeful path to healing, growth and wellness. My intention is to help you recognize that you are enough, loved, heard, and worthy. It is a great privilege to walk alongside you as you make connections, gain clarity and acquire skills to promote growth. As a former educator, I also believe in providing psychoeducation to help you better understand the underlying reasons behind your conflicting experiences and thoughts.
I love what I do and enjoy helping couples, individuals, families, and teens make the connections and resolve needed to navigate a more meaningful life.
Navigating through difficult life experiences, relationships, or seeking personal growth can manifest stress, frustration, guilt, anxiety, anger, etc. My passion for supporting you provides an empowering and hopeful path to healing, growth and wellness. My intention is to help you recognize that you are enough, loved, heard, and worthy. It is a great privilege to walk alongside you as you make connections, gain clarity and acquire skills to promote growth. As a former educator, I also believe in providing psychoeducation to help you better understand the underlying reasons behind your conflicting experiences and thoughts.
(336) 864-9379 View (336) 864-9379
Photo of Lisa Lund - Lisa Lund, MFT, Certified Gottman Couple Therapist, MS, LMFT, CRC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lisa Lund, MFT, Certified Gottman Couple Therapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CRC
Verified Verified
Cary, NC 27511
In addition, we teach workshops for couples and workshops for therapists.
At A Couples Place we use evidence-based skills to help couples improve their communication. Our approach is based on what real couples in John Gottman's research were doing to keep their relationships strong versus couples who lost their way. We work with couples in all sorts of situations including couples who are in crisis, couples needing a tune-up and couples wanting to get off to a good start in pre-marital or pre-commitment counseling. Our focus for couples is repair if needed, building friendship, managing conflict, supporting individual goals and enhancing shared meaning. ALL couples are welcome.
In addition, we teach workshops for couples and workshops for therapists.
At A Couples Place we use evidence-based skills to help couples improve their communication. Our approach is based on what real couples in John Gottman's research were doing to keep their relationships strong versus couples who lost their way. We work with couples in all sorts of situations including couples who are in crisis, couples needing a tune-up and couples wanting to get off to a good start in pre-marital or pre-commitment counseling. Our focus for couples is repair if needed, building friendship, managing conflict, supporting individual goals and enhancing shared meaning. ALL couples are welcome.
(984) 217-8958 View (984) 217-8958
Photo of Bethany Dement, LCMHC
Bethany Dement
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Wake Forest, NC 27587
I specialize in working with children, teens, adults, families, and couples, including LGBTQ+ and ethically non-monogamous clients, using a strength-based approach with CBT and DBT.
Feeling lost, overwhelmed by anxiety, or struggling with depression, ADHD, or trauma? Are social interactions tough, behaviors out of control, or is sexual content affecting your child or relationship? If emotional pain, connection issues, or intimacy challenges are creating tension or anxiety, know you're not alone. I'm Beth, a mental health counselor and ASSECT certified sex therapist with nearly four years of experience. I hold a master’s in counseling from Capella University (2021) and specialize in these areas to support your journey.
I specialize in working with children, teens, adults, families, and couples, including LGBTQ+ and ethically non-monogamous clients, using a strength-based approach with CBT and DBT.
Feeling lost, overwhelmed by anxiety, or struggling with depression, ADHD, or trauma? Are social interactions tough, behaviors out of control, or is sexual content affecting your child or relationship? If emotional pain, connection issues, or intimacy challenges are creating tension or anxiety, know you're not alone. I'm Beth, a mental health counselor and ASSECT certified sex therapist with nearly four years of experience. I hold a master’s in counseling from Capella University (2021) and specialize in these areas to support your journey.
(919) 276-8537 View (919) 276-8537
Photo of Dorothy D Brooks, MA, LMFT, LCASA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dorothy D Brooks
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LCASA
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28277
My education is specific in dealing with martial issues, family and systemic change even within the individual. I have worked with an array of individuals, couples, and families of all backgrounds and know that we all have the same basic wisdoms and strategies to evoke change and growth as it applies to our life’s journey. I am knowledgeable and comfortable to walk with you through yours.
My education is specific in dealing with martial issues, family and systemic change even within the individual. I have worked with an array of individuals, couples, and families of all backgrounds and know that we all have the same basic wisdoms and strategies to evoke change and growth as it applies to our life’s journey. I am knowledgeable and comfortable to walk with you through yours.
(980) 946-6046 View (980) 946-6046
Photo of Tina Marie Cooke, LCMHC, LPC, LCADC, CRC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tina Marie Cooke
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, LPC, LCADC, CRC, ACS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28401
I provide individual and couples therapy.
Life can be challenging sometimes. When we have people, we trust to support us, we can learn and grow through those tough times. For you, I’ll strive to be that safe person, and my job is to guide and help you when you need it the most. My therapy style is based on creating genuine, caring connections with my clients. My goal is to help you gain a sense of empowerment and increased confidence in your ability to handle future life stressors. Ready to make an appointment? Although you can call the office, I have made appointment scheduling easy via my website.
I provide individual and couples therapy.
Life can be challenging sometimes. When we have people, we trust to support us, we can learn and grow through those tough times. For you, I’ll strive to be that safe person, and my job is to guide and help you when you need it the most. My therapy style is based on creating genuine, caring connections with my clients. My goal is to help you gain a sense of empowerment and increased confidence in your ability to handle future life stressors. Ready to make an appointment? Although you can call the office, I have made appointment scheduling easy via my website.
(910) 665-7466 View (910) 665-7466
Photo of Bill Stewart, MA, LCMHCA, NCC, Counselor
Bill Stewart
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
Matthews, NC 28105
I work with individual, couples, and families.
I firmly believe in two core tenets to therapy: no judgment and confidentiality. I strive to make you feel comfortable enough to share your challenging experiences and thoughts. I see a variety of clients with a focus on depression, anxiety, PTSD, moral injury, and gender dysphoria. I have a passion for working with the military community as I am a former paratrooper in the 82nd Airborne Division (AATW). Additionally, I have a passion for supporting marginalized and vulnerable communities to include the LGBTQ+ communities.
I work with individual, couples, and families.
I firmly believe in two core tenets to therapy: no judgment and confidentiality. I strive to make you feel comfortable enough to share your challenging experiences and thoughts. I see a variety of clients with a focus on depression, anxiety, PTSD, moral injury, and gender dysphoria. I have a passion for working with the military community as I am a former paratrooper in the 82nd Airborne Division (AATW). Additionally, I have a passion for supporting marginalized and vulnerable communities to include the LGBTQ+ communities.
(704) 850-9629 View (704) 850-9629
Photo of Carole Cullen, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Carole Cullen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Wake Forest, NC 27587
I believe that your relationship should do better than just survive.
I know that you want to have an amazing love story. In order to do that, you need to have a great connection with your partner. The problem is that years of ups and downs can take its toll on relationships and maybe your relationship just isn’t working, which often leaves you feeling frustrated and disconnected.
I believe that your relationship should do better than just survive.
I know that you want to have an amazing love story. In order to do that, you need to have a great connection with your partner. The problem is that years of ups and downs can take its toll on relationships and maybe your relationship just isn’t working, which often leaves you feeling frustrated and disconnected.
(984) 265-8347 View (984) 265-8347
Photo of Melissa Franz, MSW, LCSWA
Melissa Franz
LCSW Associate, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28277
I believe therapy is a partnership and I’d be honored to walk with you and watch you grow as you continue your journey.
I believe that every person has inherent worth and matters intensely. I am so grateful you found your way to this page. Life may feel overwhelming, scary, or even unlivable right now but I want to provide reassurance that this feeling can and will pass. In my clinical practice, I work with clients to create a holistic treatment plan and approach our work focusing on your strengths while making you feel heard and valued.
I believe therapy is a partnership and I’d be honored to walk with you and watch you grow as you continue your journey.
I believe that every person has inherent worth and matters intensely. I am so grateful you found your way to this page. Life may feel overwhelming, scary, or even unlivable right now but I want to provide reassurance that this feeling can and will pass. In my clinical practice, I work with clients to create a holistic treatment plan and approach our work focusing on your strengths while making you feel heard and valued.
(980) 375-5169 View (980) 375-5169
Photo of Janet Moore, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Janet Moore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
I believe the relationship between the therapist and client(s) play a significant role in this process.
In Person Therapy with office located in Wilmington, NC and Telahealth for North & South Carolina! Future Focused Therapeutic Solutions, PLLC offers a supportive space to share your thoughts, fears, triggers & set goals! You will learn skills to calm your mind, resolve conflicts and get through difficult times in a healthier way. Heal from trauma or grief and experience warmth, love, & compassion. Break dissatisfying & reactive patterns & avoid racing thoughts that lead to stress & anxiety. Focus on a healthier Future where you learn to understand how your mind works, your communication style & have a higher quality of life.
I believe the relationship between the therapist and client(s) play a significant role in this process.
In Person Therapy with office located in Wilmington, NC and Telahealth for North & South Carolina! Future Focused Therapeutic Solutions, PLLC offers a supportive space to share your thoughts, fears, triggers & set goals! You will learn skills to calm your mind, resolve conflicts and get through difficult times in a healthier way. Heal from trauma or grief and experience warmth, love, & compassion. Break dissatisfying & reactive patterns & avoid racing thoughts that lead to stress & anxiety. Focus on a healthier Future where you learn to understand how your mind works, your communication style & have a higher quality of life.
(910) 541-9968 View (910) 541-9968
Photo of Anne Olivar, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anne Olivar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
I enjoy working with students and people of all ages, as well as parents, couples, and families.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I believe in practical and person-centered therapy, meaning you are in charge of the process while I guide and support you. I specialize in using Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) to help manage big emotions and change unhelpful patterns. Dialectical work challenges us to understand seemingly opposing thoughts and feelings. In DBT, we focus on building skills in 4 areas: Mindfulness, Interpersonal Effectiveness, Emotional Regulation, and Distress Tolerance to help achieve our goals.
I enjoy working with students and people of all ages, as well as parents, couples, and families.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I believe in practical and person-centered therapy, meaning you are in charge of the process while I guide and support you. I specialize in using Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) to help manage big emotions and change unhelpful patterns. Dialectical work challenges us to understand seemingly opposing thoughts and feelings. In DBT, we focus on building skills in 4 areas: Mindfulness, Interpersonal Effectiveness, Emotional Regulation, and Distress Tolerance to help achieve our goals.
(919) 410-8512 View (919) 410-8512
Photo of Anna Cecere, LCMHCA
Anna Cecere
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
I offer services to adults, adolescents (14YO+), couples, and families. The following are some of the areas my services include: depression, anxiety, perfectionism, self-esteem, life transitions, identity formation, grief, relationships. I have a particular interest in working with current and former athletes, as well as individuals looking to incorporate movement in the healing process.
I offer services to adults, adolescents (14YO+), couples, and families. The following are some of the areas my services include: depression, anxiety, perfectionism, self-esteem, life transitions, identity formation, grief, relationships. I have a particular interest in working with current and former athletes, as well as individuals looking to incorporate movement in the healing process.
(984) 360-6986 View (984) 360-6986
Photo of Kelly Zander, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Kelly Zander
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fuquay Varina, NC 27526  (Online Only)
I can help you find new ways to experience your relationship, and to find that path toward healing.
It can be so painful to feel as if you are not truly seen or understood. You want to feel deep connection in your relationship, and you want to thrive in it as your authentic self, but conflict ends up unraveling all of that. Instead, you find yourself feeling disconnected, frustrated, confused, and alone. When arguments happen, it can be so difficult to put into words what is happening for you in the moment, and the disconnection feels overwhelming. Not only do you want to find healing and meaningful connection in your relationship, but you also want to come alive as a vital part in it.
I can help you find new ways to experience your relationship, and to find that path toward healing.
It can be so painful to feel as if you are not truly seen or understood. You want to feel deep connection in your relationship, and you want to thrive in it as your authentic self, but conflict ends up unraveling all of that. Instead, you find yourself feeling disconnected, frustrated, confused, and alone. When arguments happen, it can be so difficult to put into words what is happening for you in the moment, and the disconnection feels overwhelming. Not only do you want to find healing and meaningful connection in your relationship, but you also want to come alive as a vital part in it.
(919) 750-0282 View (919) 750-0282
Photo of Margaret Brice, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Margaret Brice
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28403
These skills are important for individuals as well as couples in day to day living.
I work primarily with individual adults and couples who are experiencing difficulties ranging from major mental illness to situational problems that are interferring with their daily living. My work with clients is designed to determine the most effective approach to assist them in reaching their goals in developing a healthy and satisfying life. I am experienced in working with individuals with mood disorders, anxiety disorders and substance abuse. In couple's therapy I address communication patterns that cause roadblocks to the couple's ability to build a healthy and close relationship.
These skills are important for individuals as well as couples in day to day living.
I work primarily with individual adults and couples who are experiencing difficulties ranging from major mental illness to situational problems that are interferring with their daily living. My work with clients is designed to determine the most effective approach to assist them in reaching their goals in developing a healthy and satisfying life. I am experienced in working with individuals with mood disorders, anxiety disorders and substance abuse. In couple's therapy I address communication patterns that cause roadblocks to the couple's ability to build a healthy and close relationship.
(910) 338-5813 View (910) 338-5813
Photo of Ervin Davis - Alliance Community Transition Group, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alliance Community Transition Group
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28202  (Online Only)
I particularly enjoy working with couples and those experiencing mood disorders.
Alliance Community Transition Group has both male and female therapists available who are still accepting new clients. However, EJ's caseload is full and he is not accepting new clients at this time.
I particularly enjoy working with couples and those experiencing mood disorders.
Alliance Community Transition Group has both male and female therapists available who are still accepting new clients. However, EJ's caseload is full and he is not accepting new clients at this time.
(704) 286-8135 View (704) 286-8135
Photo of Dynika Davis, MSW, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dynika Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27604
I also have experience with treating PTSD, relationship stressors, abuse, boundaries, and gender issues.
Starting therapy is the first step towards your healing journey, your success in this journey stems from the work that you put in to face your oppositions and challenges. Life’s path was never meant to be taken alone and many questions often come with the unknown and constant changes in society. You may ask yourself, will this be helpful, let’s take the first step to empowerment and emotional betterment so that you can become the best version of you. I have worked in the field of child welfare, Foster Care, and mental health for over fifteen years. I use a multisystemic modality and take a client-centered approach.
I also have experience with treating PTSD, relationship stressors, abuse, boundaries, and gender issues.
Starting therapy is the first step towards your healing journey, your success in this journey stems from the work that you put in to face your oppositions and challenges. Life’s path was never meant to be taken alone and many questions often come with the unknown and constant changes in society. You may ask yourself, will this be helpful, let’s take the first step to empowerment and emotional betterment so that you can become the best version of you. I have worked in the field of child welfare, Foster Care, and mental health for over fifteen years. I use a multisystemic modality and take a client-centered approach.
(704) 486-1748 View (704) 486-1748
Photo of Johanna E Bridges, MSc, LPC/NJ, LCMHC, NC
Johanna E Bridges
15618, MSc, LPC/NJ, LCMHC, NC
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27407  (Online Only)
My specialty areas include COVID Transitions, Individual and Couples Counseling (premarital and marital), Women's Issues across the life span, General Life Transitions (retirement, going to college, death of a spouse, individuals ages 21 to 100), Sexuality, Gender Identity, and Sexual Dysfunction.
Welcome All Counties and Cities of North Carolina and New Jersey! Allow me to help you move beyond your current struggles. As a Client Centered Counselor, I will meet you where you are and provide a safe place for you to move forward on your healing journey. Together, we will Connect the Bridges of your life to the roads that lead to options and decisions for a brighter future. My goal is to support you as you maneuver the rocky landscape of your life.
My specialty areas include COVID Transitions, Individual and Couples Counseling (premarital and marital), Women's Issues across the life span, General Life Transitions (retirement, going to college, death of a spouse, individuals ages 21 to 100), Sexuality, Gender Identity, and Sexual Dysfunction.
Welcome All Counties and Cities of North Carolina and New Jersey! Allow me to help you move beyond your current struggles. As a Client Centered Counselor, I will meet you where you are and provide a safe place for you to move forward on your healing journey. Together, we will Connect the Bridges of your life to the roads that lead to options and decisions for a brighter future. My goal is to support you as you maneuver the rocky landscape of your life.
(336) 360-5657 View (336) 360-5657
Photo of Anne Hancock, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Anne Hancock
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28211
Professional Affiliations Include: Life Member ICEEFT (International Center for Excellence in Emotionally Focused Therapy, Certified EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy) Couples Therapist and Supervisor, AAMFT Approved Supervisor, Former Board Member and Clinical Member (NCAMFT,) Clinical Member (CAMFT), Clinical Member (AAMFT).
At Wellness, we specialize in relationship issues and couples counseling. If you find it difficult to communicate with your partner or you are frustrated when s/he walks away, your relationship is likely in a negative cycle. All our therapists have experienced advanced training in working with couples and we would be happy to discuss what we do and how we can help. Week-to-week services are available in-office or online. 1-Day and 2 1/2-Day Intensives and Retreats are available in-office only.
Professional Affiliations Include: Life Member ICEEFT (International Center for Excellence in Emotionally Focused Therapy, Certified EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy) Couples Therapist and Supervisor, AAMFT Approved Supervisor, Former Board Member and Clinical Member (NCAMFT,) Clinical Member (CAMFT), Clinical Member (AAMFT).
At Wellness, we specialize in relationship issues and couples counseling. If you find it difficult to communicate with your partner or you are frustrated when s/he walks away, your relationship is likely in a negative cycle. All our therapists have experienced advanced training in working with couples and we would be happy to discuss what we do and how we can help. Week-to-week services are available in-office or online. 1-Day and 2 1/2-Day Intensives and Retreats are available in-office only.
(704) 319-5593 View (704) 319-5593
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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.