Couples Counseling Therapists in East Moriches, NY

Photo of Michelle Mulligan, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Mulligan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East Moriches, NY 11940
I have extensive training and education in the fields of addiction, eating disorders and relationship issues.
The first step towards change begins with seeking support outside yourself. It is a daunting and frightening choice for many. The relief from sharing whatever you are struggling with can bring tremendous and sometimes immediate relief. It is the first bridge towards change. Being at peace with yourself is an important part of healing and growth. I am a dedicated and conscientious professional and will respond promptly to anyone who seeks help.
I have extensive training and education in the fields of addiction, eating disorders and relationship issues.
The first step towards change begins with seeking support outside yourself. It is a daunting and frightening choice for many. The relief from sharing whatever you are struggling with can bring tremendous and sometimes immediate relief. It is the first bridge towards change. Being at peace with yourself is an important part of healing and growth. I am a dedicated and conscientious professional and will respond promptly to anyone who seeks help.
(516) 826-4317 View (516) 826-4317
Photo of Priscilla Karpin, LMFT, CSTIP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Priscilla Karpin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSTIP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
East Moriches, NY 11940
I am a psychotherapist that utilizes a systemic and humanistic approach when working with my clients. My areas of expertise include relationship issues, sex therapy, mood and anxiety disorders, depression, perinatal and women's health, and major life transitions. I work with individuals and couples; both monogamous and non-monogamous.
I am a psychotherapist that utilizes a systemic and humanistic approach when working with my clients. My areas of expertise include relationship issues, sex therapy, mood and anxiety disorders, depression, perinatal and women's health, and major life transitions. I work with individuals and couples; both monogamous and non-monogamous.
(631) 237-8358 View (631) 237-8358
Photo of Kathleen F. Malsky, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kathleen F. Malsky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
East Moriches, NY 11940
Therapy for 18 and above only; no exceptions. As a compassionate, caring individual & trained Social Worker/ Therapist; I can offer a safe place for you to voice your life struggles. Whether you are struggling with daily life stressors, anxiety, relationship issues, grief &/or just need someone to listen and validate your feelings; we can work together (on a consistent basis) to help promote better mental well being. Email at the address available to give necessary information (issues, insurance) & discuss the possibility of our working as a team to reduce whatever stressors you may be having.
Therapy for 18 and above only; no exceptions. As a compassionate, caring individual & trained Social Worker/ Therapist; I can offer a safe place for you to voice your life struggles. Whether you are struggling with daily life stressors, anxiety, relationship issues, grief &/or just need someone to listen and validate your feelings; we can work together (on a consistent basis) to help promote better mental well being. Email at the address available to give necessary information (issues, insurance) & discuss the possibility of our working as a team to reduce whatever stressors you may be having.
(631) 540-1189 View (631) 540-1189
Photo of Nella Hahn, LCSW-R, R, Pa, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nella Hahn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, R, Pa
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East Moriches, NY 11940
My clients are individuals, couples, and adolescents.
I am an experienced and compassionate therapist who helps many individuals feel better about life. I work with people who are not reaching their potential- either professionally or personally. My goal is to provide you with a professional, yet personal atmosphere where you will experience comfort and safety working toward healing and restoration. As an experienced therapist, I guide individuals toward success in different areas of their lives. If you feel you are not reaching your full potential, but are motivated to do so, I will help you achieve your goal.
My clients are individuals, couples, and adolescents.
I am an experienced and compassionate therapist who helps many individuals feel better about life. I work with people who are not reaching their potential- either professionally or personally. My goal is to provide you with a professional, yet personal atmosphere where you will experience comfort and safety working toward healing and restoration. As an experienced therapist, I guide individuals toward success in different areas of their lives. If you feel you are not reaching your full potential, but are motivated to do so, I will help you achieve your goal.
(646) 386-2310 View (646) 386-2310
Photo of David Diaz, MS, LMHC
David Diaz
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
East Moriches, NY 11940
David's specialties are working on family relationships, couples work, sexuality and gender, sex therapy, and people struggling with significant amount of negative feelings.
David incorporates knowledge and techniques from various therapeutic modalities, and he can conduct therapy sessions in English and Spanish. He is passionate in listening to a client’s story on who they were, and what story they would like to have today and tomorrow. He has vast experience working with people who are challenged by depression and/or anxiety and people who have a history of self-harm and suicidal ideation. David has experience and enjoys working with clients in overcoming sexual abuse/intimate partner violence, intergenerational and racial trauma within the Queer and LGBTQIA+ communities.
David's specialties are working on family relationships, couples work, sexuality and gender, sex therapy, and people struggling with significant amount of negative feelings.
David incorporates knowledge and techniques from various therapeutic modalities, and he can conduct therapy sessions in English and Spanish. He is passionate in listening to a client’s story on who they were, and what story they would like to have today and tomorrow. He has vast experience working with people who are challenged by depression and/or anxiety and people who have a history of self-harm and suicidal ideation. David has experience and enjoys working with clients in overcoming sexual abuse/intimate partner violence, intergenerational and racial trauma within the Queer and LGBTQIA+ communities.
(929) 325-0190 View (929) 325-0190
Photo of Tanya Byrnes, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tanya Byrnes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
East Moriches, NY 11940  (Online Only)
You deserve to live a life that leaves you excited to wake up every morning. If you are feeling hopeless, frustrated, stressed or anxious I would love to help you out. Most of my clients see me to help navigate through feelings of anxiety, depression, stress and struggles to communicate their thoughts and feelings effectively. I believe that therapy is more about the journey and not just the destination and I would like to help be a part of the journey of finding your best self.
You deserve to live a life that leaves you excited to wake up every morning. If you are feeling hopeless, frustrated, stressed or anxious I would love to help you out. Most of my clients see me to help navigate through feelings of anxiety, depression, stress and struggles to communicate their thoughts and feelings effectively. I believe that therapy is more about the journey and not just the destination and I would like to help be a part of the journey of finding your best self.
(631) 538-4023 View (631) 538-4023
Photo of Paul Alexander Klincewicz, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Paul Alexander Klincewicz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
East Moriches, NY 11940
Paul is a seasoned therapist with 35 years of experience in the behavioral health field with a specialization in grief and loss. Having worked in private practice for over 25 years, he is practical and compassionate as he guides you to navigate solutions and insights. Paul has extensive experience working with anxiety, depression, lack of direction, relational issues, illness and life transitions. Paul has dedicated his life to helping others improve their lives and considers it to be a privilege to be invited into his client’s inner lives and to accompany them on their journey through healing, change and self-empowerment.
Paul is a seasoned therapist with 35 years of experience in the behavioral health field with a specialization in grief and loss. Having worked in private practice for over 25 years, he is practical and compassionate as he guides you to navigate solutions and insights. Paul has extensive experience working with anxiety, depression, lack of direction, relational issues, illness and life transitions. Paul has dedicated his life to helping others improve their lives and considers it to be a privilege to be invited into his client’s inner lives and to accompany them on their journey through healing, change and self-empowerment.
(631) 336-9990 View (631) 336-9990

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Mary Alyce Rogers - New Hope Rising Therapy and Wellness Center, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
New Hope Rising Therapy and Wellness Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Westhampton Beach, NY 11978
At New Hope Rising Therapy and Wellness Center, our compassionate, experienced licensed therapists offer an integrative and evidenced based approach to psychotherapy for adults, teens, children, couples and families. Through a therapeutic process, our therapists work together with you to help you discover how to nurture the physical, emotional, psychological, and spiritual aspects of your wellbeing. We view therapy as a collaborative experience where the therapist and client work as a team to decide together what the goals will be and what actions to take.
At New Hope Rising Therapy and Wellness Center, our compassionate, experienced licensed therapists offer an integrative and evidenced based approach to psychotherapy for adults, teens, children, couples and families. Through a therapeutic process, our therapists work together with you to help you discover how to nurture the physical, emotional, psychological, and spiritual aspects of your wellbeing. We view therapy as a collaborative experience where the therapist and client work as a team to decide together what the goals will be and what actions to take.
(631) 336-9990 View (631) 336-9990
Photo of Mary Ann Fleischman, MSW, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Ann Fleischman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Riverhead, NY 11901
Individuals, Couples, and Families.
Individual, family and/or couple EMDR Therapy is highly lasting and effective. Do you have anxiety or depression, a phobic fear, block of any kind, overwhelming emotional pain, trauma, your relationships not working well for you and/or are you dealing with chronic illness? Feel stuck in repeating patterns of not great behaviors? Maybe you can't pinpoint exactly what is off, you just know you're not living your potential. EMDR Therapy help you drop your bad baggage and live your best life. Save yourself further Emotional Turmoil. Be free, feel better. EMDR Therapy is your best choice for your transformation!
Individuals, Couples, and Families.
Individual, family and/or couple EMDR Therapy is highly lasting and effective. Do you have anxiety or depression, a phobic fear, block of any kind, overwhelming emotional pain, trauma, your relationships not working well for you and/or are you dealing with chronic illness? Feel stuck in repeating patterns of not great behaviors? Maybe you can't pinpoint exactly what is off, you just know you're not living your potential. EMDR Therapy help you drop your bad baggage and live your best life. Save yourself further Emotional Turmoil. Be free, feel better. EMDR Therapy is your best choice for your transformation!
(631) 987-0360 View (631) 987-0360
Photo of Dr. Michelle D. Raysor, EdD, LMHC, CRC, CASAC, Counselor
Dr. Michelle D. Raysor
Counselor, EdD, LMHC, CRC, CASAC
Verified Verified
Shirley, NY 11967
I specialize in individual mental health counseling with adults and also treat children, couples and families.
One of the hardest things for many individuals is to make the decision to seek therapy. As a Licensed Mental Heath Counselor/Therapist it is a privilege to be afforded the opportunity to be a part of someone's process as he or she starts to break free from some of the limitations imposed on them by their own past, or the pain of their early relationships and experiences, to find their way, uncover their goals, and start to reveal who they really are. it is honestly one of the most rewarding reasons I am committed to the process of change produced through therapy.
I specialize in individual mental health counseling with adults and also treat children, couples and families.
One of the hardest things for many individuals is to make the decision to seek therapy. As a Licensed Mental Heath Counselor/Therapist it is a privilege to be afforded the opportunity to be a part of someone's process as he or she starts to break free from some of the limitations imposed on them by their own past, or the pain of their early relationships and experiences, to find their way, uncover their goals, and start to reveal who they really are. it is honestly one of the most rewarding reasons I am committed to the process of change produced through therapy.
(631) 496-4123 View (631) 496-4123
Photo of Prof. Demi Kostouros, LMHC, RBT, Lcoach, Couples, ADHD, Counselor
Prof. Demi Kostouros
Counselor, LMHC, RBT, Lcoach, Couples, ADHD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Quogue, NY 11959
Come alone or with your partner.
Struggling in your relationship? Whether you're dealing with the aftermath of infidelity, facing communication, trust and intimacy issues, feeling like your partner doesn't understand you, or dealing with a divorce, we' re here! What sets us apart is our structured approach. We'll start with weekly sessions, then transition to biweekly, and eventually monthly meetings. Plus, after your "graduation", we'll have two check-ins per year to ensure those healthy habits stick. In between sessions, we'll assign tasks to work on your relationship, and you'll have access to us outside of appointments for advice and support.
Come alone or with your partner.
Struggling in your relationship? Whether you're dealing with the aftermath of infidelity, facing communication, trust and intimacy issues, feeling like your partner doesn't understand you, or dealing with a divorce, we' re here! What sets us apart is our structured approach. We'll start with weekly sessions, then transition to biweekly, and eventually monthly meetings. Plus, after your "graduation", we'll have two check-ins per year to ensure those healthy habits stick. In between sessions, we'll assign tasks to work on your relationship, and you'll have access to us outside of appointments for advice and support.
(929) 280-7729 View (929) 280-7729
Photo of Mike DiForti, LMHC
Mike DiForti
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Westhampton Beach, NY 11978
Mike's clinical style is collaborative and utilizes evidence-based approaches and alternative interventions to provide individual, couples and bereavement counseling to meet your unique needs.
With over 12 years of experience working with adolescents, adults and couples, Mike focuses on a person’s strengths with compassion, empathy, and above all hearing the person as an individual. His area of focus includes those struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD/trauma, obsessive compulsive disorders (OCD), relationship and family conflict, bereavement, personal growth, stress reduction and managing life transitions. Additionally, Mike has developed a special niche over the years in working with couples, young adults and middle aged adults navigating life transitions that take many forms and the LGBTQ+ community.
Mike's clinical style is collaborative and utilizes evidence-based approaches and alternative interventions to provide individual, couples and bereavement counseling to meet your unique needs.
With over 12 years of experience working with adolescents, adults and couples, Mike focuses on a person’s strengths with compassion, empathy, and above all hearing the person as an individual. His area of focus includes those struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD/trauma, obsessive compulsive disorders (OCD), relationship and family conflict, bereavement, personal growth, stress reduction and managing life transitions. Additionally, Mike has developed a special niche over the years in working with couples, young adults and middle aged adults navigating life transitions that take many forms and the LGBTQ+ community.
(631) 336-9990 View (631) 336-9990
Photo of Joshua Barnes, LP-MHC, M-CASAC, MPS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Joshua Barnes
Pre-Licensed Professional, LP-MHC, M-CASAC, MPS
Verified Verified
Center Moriches, NY 11934  (Online Only)
I offer a professional, respectful, client centered environment to help my clients understand and resolve their problems, discover their strengths, and to accentuate positive behaviors and relationships. I have experience working with individuals, couples, and families; helping them to deal with life stressors and transitions. My work emphasizes crisis management through individual counseling, group therapy, and medication management. Specifically, my work includes working with individual with mental health diagnosis such as anxiety, depression or bi-polar. I have also served to counsel troubled marriages, substance use and abuse.
I offer a professional, respectful, client centered environment to help my clients understand and resolve their problems, discover their strengths, and to accentuate positive behaviors and relationships. I have experience working with individuals, couples, and families; helping them to deal with life stressors and transitions. My work emphasizes crisis management through individual counseling, group therapy, and medication management. Specifically, my work includes working with individual with mental health diagnosis such as anxiety, depression or bi-polar. I have also served to counsel troubled marriages, substance use and abuse.
(718) 650-2572 View (718) 650-2572
Photo of Andrea Goodman, LCSW, MA,  MEd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andrea Goodman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MA, MEd
Verified Verified
Quogue, NY 11959
I work with neurodiverse couples as well as parents.
I am passionate about assisting neurodiverse clients on their own journeys to a more fulfilled life. Together we work towards understanding an ASD or ADHD diagnosis and how this may influence life experiences at all stages of life. Maybe you are struggling with self-acceptance or a healthy sense of self? I believe everyone has the possibility for change and to thrive. We will work on integrating all areas of your life, setting realistic goals and personal growth. What are the patterns of thinking and behavior that may be keeping you “stuck?” We will use your strengths to help navigate life’s transitions & obstacles.
I work with neurodiverse couples as well as parents.
I am passionate about assisting neurodiverse clients on their own journeys to a more fulfilled life. Together we work towards understanding an ASD or ADHD diagnosis and how this may influence life experiences at all stages of life. Maybe you are struggling with self-acceptance or a healthy sense of self? I believe everyone has the possibility for change and to thrive. We will work on integrating all areas of your life, setting realistic goals and personal growth. What are the patterns of thinking and behavior that may be keeping you “stuck?” We will use your strengths to help navigate life’s transitions & obstacles.
View
Photo of Anne Petraro, LMHC, Counselor
Anne Petraro
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Riverhead, NY 11901
(depression) I provide a safe space where couples can come together and communicate honestly and stay solution focused.
My clients want to work with me to achieve their goals and resolve any conflict they are experiencing in their life. I enjoy working with clients experiencing depression and anxiety, OCD, addictive behaviors, eating disorders (specialize), difficult life experiences, trauma, ASD, medically compromised family issues, chronic mental health issues. I truly enjoy helping my clients with grief and loss so that they can move on from grief while holding onto their loved ones/or things. I like family involvement or family work because I look at barriers as a family of origin issue and a family goal, not just the “identified patient”.
(depression) I provide a safe space where couples can come together and communicate honestly and stay solution focused.
My clients want to work with me to achieve their goals and resolve any conflict they are experiencing in their life. I enjoy working with clients experiencing depression and anxiety, OCD, addictive behaviors, eating disorders (specialize), difficult life experiences, trauma, ASD, medically compromised family issues, chronic mental health issues. I truly enjoy helping my clients with grief and loss so that they can move on from grief while holding onto their loved ones/or things. I like family involvement or family work because I look at barriers as a family of origin issue and a family goal, not just the “identified patient”.
(516) 980-4977 View (516) 980-4977
Photo of Erena DiGonis - Erena DiGonis, LCSW, PLLC, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erena DiGonis, LCSW, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brookhaven, NY 11719  (Online Only)
Welcome to our group psychotherapy practice! We are a team of dedicated licensed therapists specializing in anxiety, stress-related issues, and trauma for teenagers and adults. We provide virtual therapy for individual, couples, or family sessions. Our therapists have extensive training and experience with trauma modalities such as EMDR, Brainspotting, Psychedelic Integration therapy, Somatic Experiencing, Mindfulness, Nutrition, Coaching, and Neuroscience. Our style is warm and highly interactive. Additionally, we are proud to offer bilingual therapists fluent in Spanish and Russian. We offer Case Consultation for therapists.
Welcome to our group psychotherapy practice! We are a team of dedicated licensed therapists specializing in anxiety, stress-related issues, and trauma for teenagers and adults. We provide virtual therapy for individual, couples, or family sessions. Our therapists have extensive training and experience with trauma modalities such as EMDR, Brainspotting, Psychedelic Integration therapy, Somatic Experiencing, Mindfulness, Nutrition, Coaching, and Neuroscience. Our style is warm and highly interactive. Additionally, we are proud to offer bilingual therapists fluent in Spanish and Russian. We offer Case Consultation for therapists.
(934) 200-2705 View (934) 200-2705
Photo of Michelle Drapkin - Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) Center, PhD, ABPP, Psychologist
Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) Center
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Riverhead, NY 11901
You are here and getting ready to make a change. You're struggling and you need an EXPERT to help you. We are expert Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) clinicians who have over 100 years of combined clinical and research experience. We see individuals, couples & families and use only evidence-based practices. We will leverage a combination of clinical assessment and interview to develop the most effective treatment plan for you to meet your goals and reduce your suffering. We approach treatment in a respectful, collaborative fashion. Check out Dr. Drapkin's new self-help book! "We work together on what matters to you."
You are here and getting ready to make a change. You're struggling and you need an EXPERT to help you. We are expert Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) clinicians who have over 100 years of combined clinical and research experience. We see individuals, couples & families and use only evidence-based practices. We will leverage a combination of clinical assessment and interview to develop the most effective treatment plan for you to meet your goals and reduce your suffering. We approach treatment in a respectful, collaborative fashion. Check out Dr. Drapkin's new self-help book! "We work together on what matters to you."
(732) 217-7770 View (732) 217-7770
Photo of Devin Dreitlein, LMHC, Counselor
Devin Dreitlein
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Manorville, NY 11949  (Online Only)
I have experience providing therapeutic treatment in a variety of settings working with: adults, children, adolescents, couples, and families.
You deserve a safe, non-judgmental space where you have the chance to develop strategies and build confidence in navigating life’s challenges. As a therapist, I am passionate about empowering you to be dedicated to your personal transformations, while holding space for you to thrive as your true, authentic self.
I have experience providing therapeutic treatment in a variety of settings working with: adults, children, adolescents, couples, and families.
You deserve a safe, non-judgmental space where you have the chance to develop strategies and build confidence in navigating life’s challenges. As a therapist, I am passionate about empowering you to be dedicated to your personal transformations, while holding space for you to thrive as your true, authentic self.
(631) 202-0962 View (631) 202-0962
Photo of Sandra Mitchell, LMHC, Counselor
Sandra Mitchell
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Riverhead, NY 11901
The counseling relationship should be built on trust and support. During treatment your progress and success is my first priority. I am a results driven counselor who promotes growth and change in my patients. Progress and success is dependent on your commitment and dedication to improvement. I take a clinical approach to your treatment but I also include the concept of mindfulness. Prior to becoming a Clinical Mental Health Counselor I helped others through my practice as a coach for over 10 years. I will help you become a more productive, successful, and overall happier individual.
The counseling relationship should be built on trust and support. During treatment your progress and success is my first priority. I am a results driven counselor who promotes growth and change in my patients. Progress and success is dependent on your commitment and dedication to improvement. I take a clinical approach to your treatment but I also include the concept of mindfulness. Prior to becoming a Clinical Mental Health Counselor I helped others through my practice as a coach for over 10 years. I will help you become a more productive, successful, and overall happier individual.
(631) 706-4348 View (631) 706-4348
Photo of Jill Abramson, LCSW, CASAC, CSAT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jill Abramson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CASAC, CSAT
Verified Verified
Westhampton Beach, NY 11978  (Online Only)
Certified Imago Relationship Therapy, Encounter Centered Couples Therapy, EMDR Certified , Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Attachment Based Therapy, Addiction Specialist; CASAC since 1991.
With over 25 years of experience, my specialty areas include couples therapy, infidelity, partners of sex addicts, substance abuse and recovery, sex addiction, individual therapy for anxiety, depression, EMDR trauma resolution DWI assessments, loss, bereavement and life coaching through difficult situations. I am extensively trained in a number of relationship therapy modalities and trauma resolution with the ability to use a wide range of therapy interventions to help you.
Certified Imago Relationship Therapy, Encounter Centered Couples Therapy, EMDR Certified , Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Attachment Based Therapy, Addiction Specialist; CASAC since 1991.
With over 25 years of experience, my specialty areas include couples therapy, infidelity, partners of sex addicts, substance abuse and recovery, sex addiction, individual therapy for anxiety, depression, EMDR trauma resolution DWI assessments, loss, bereavement and life coaching through difficult situations. I am extensively trained in a number of relationship therapy modalities and trauma resolution with the ability to use a wide range of therapy interventions to help you.
(917) 983-1360 View (917) 983-1360

See more therapy options for East Moriches

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.