Couples Counseling Therapists in Northampton County, PA

Photo of Brianna Serrano, MSW , LSW, PMH-C
Brianna Serrano
MSW , LSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Bethlehem, PA 18018
With over a decade of experience in the medical and mental health field, I have supported numerous individuals, couples, and families through challenging times.
Hi! Whether you are trying therapy for the first time or it’s not your first rodeo, I’m here to help! I believe therapy should be customized for each person and their goals. With a passion for those struggling with life's transitions, I am dedicated to helping individuals become the best version of themselves. I utilize evidence-based therapeutic interventions, including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and trauma informed care as well as a variety of other therapeutic interventions.
With over a decade of experience in the medical and mental health field, I have supported numerous individuals, couples, and families through challenging times.
Hi! Whether you are trying therapy for the first time or it’s not your first rodeo, I’m here to help! I believe therapy should be customized for each person and their goals. With a passion for those struggling with life's transitions, I am dedicated to helping individuals become the best version of themselves. I utilize evidence-based therapeutic interventions, including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and trauma informed care as well as a variety of other therapeutic interventions.
(484) 314-3474 View (484) 314-3474
Photo of Dr. Adila Cosgrove - Anwari Counseling Services LLC, PhD, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Anwari Counseling Services LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethlehem, PA 18018
Hi there, we are glad to see you taking the first step towards finding a therapist. At Anwari Counseling Services we believe in the power of diversity to provide comprehensive and tailored mental health care. Our team of experienced therapists come from varied backgrounds and possesses a wide range of specialties, ensuring that we can meet the unique needs of every individual who walks through our doors. The diversity allows us to offer a broad spectrum of therapeutic approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Child and Adolescent, Family and Couples Counseling, Trauma Informed care and EMDR therapy.
Hi there, we are glad to see you taking the first step towards finding a therapist. At Anwari Counseling Services we believe in the power of diversity to provide comprehensive and tailored mental health care. Our team of experienced therapists come from varied backgrounds and possesses a wide range of specialties, ensuring that we can meet the unique needs of every individual who walks through our doors. The diversity allows us to offer a broad spectrum of therapeutic approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Child and Adolescent, Family and Couples Counseling, Trauma Informed care and EMDR therapy.
(610) 590-8315 View (610) 590-8315
Patience D Stevenson
Marriage & Family Therapist, DMin, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
Bethlehem, PA 18018
I work with couples who face issues of conflict, infidelity and trauma.
I have worked with individuals, couples and families for over 35 years. I partner with clients to assess their own strengths and help them find different ways to address their issues and challenges. I greatly respect individual differences and seek to provide a non-judgmental, caring and empowering environment for clients to grow and change. I work with issues of anxiety, depression, self-esteem, grief and spirituality. We all become stuck at different times in our lives. I will walk alongside you and help you find your own personal resources and other needed resources to heal, grow and change.
I work with couples who face issues of conflict, infidelity and trauma.
I have worked with individuals, couples and families for over 35 years. I partner with clients to assess their own strengths and help them find different ways to address their issues and challenges. I greatly respect individual differences and seek to provide a non-judgmental, caring and empowering environment for clients to grow and change. I work with issues of anxiety, depression, self-esteem, grief and spirituality. We all become stuck at different times in our lives. I will walk alongside you and help you find your own personal resources and other needed resources to heal, grow and change.
(610) 816-6361 View (610) 816-6361
Photo of Inner Resources Counseling, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Inner Resources Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bethlehem, PA 18018
The associates at Inner Resources are licensed professionals with a wide variety of experience and specialization, providing clients support and feedback around areas including: * Depression & Anxiety * Grief & Loss * Addiction & Recovery * Divorce * Parenting Skills * GLBTQ * Existential Issues * Stress Management * Anger Management * Relationship Issues * Self-confidence * Behavioral Issues * Trauma * Personal Growth.
Inner Resource Counseling is a group practice serving Bethlehem & the Lehigh Valley area. Our focus is on acting as therapeutic supports in assisting people in improving their lives by gaining personal insights about themselves and making healthier choices in problematic times, allowing for positive change to occur in life. If you are feeling stuck, frustrated or overwhelmed as a result of current life stressors or have been living with long-standing issues, clinicians can work with you to develop skills and raise your level of functioning and satisfaction with the use of multiple techniques, based on your individual needs.
The associates at Inner Resources are licensed professionals with a wide variety of experience and specialization, providing clients support and feedback around areas including: * Depression & Anxiety * Grief & Loss * Addiction & Recovery * Divorce * Parenting Skills * GLBTQ * Existential Issues * Stress Management * Anger Management * Relationship Issues * Self-confidence * Behavioral Issues * Trauma * Personal Growth.
Inner Resource Counseling is a group practice serving Bethlehem & the Lehigh Valley area. Our focus is on acting as therapeutic supports in assisting people in improving their lives by gaining personal insights about themselves and making healthier choices in problematic times, allowing for positive change to occur in life. If you are feeling stuck, frustrated or overwhelmed as a result of current life stressors or have been living with long-standing issues, clinicians can work with you to develop skills and raise your level of functioning and satisfaction with the use of multiple techniques, based on your individual needs.
(570) 221-6852 View (570) 221-6852
Photo of Damaris Vanderhall, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Damaris Vanderhall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Easton, PA 18045  (Online Only)
Depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship and communication issues, addiction (your own or a loved one’s) are just a few of the things I have focused on with clients throughout my career.
What sets me apart from other counselors is my ability to meet the client “where they are” Whether that is a client with a severe & persistent mental health disorder or a client that I only meet with for a few brief sessions to help them work through a “tough period” in their lives. I am certified in Dialectical Behavior Therapy which has been proven effective in changing thought process and/or behavior to get more out of life. Simply stated – life isn’t black OR white and we often miss the importance of approaching things from a “gray point of view”.
Depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship and communication issues, addiction (your own or a loved one’s) are just a few of the things I have focused on with clients throughout my career.
What sets me apart from other counselors is my ability to meet the client “where they are” Whether that is a client with a severe & persistent mental health disorder or a client that I only meet with for a few brief sessions to help them work through a “tough period” in their lives. I am certified in Dialectical Behavior Therapy which has been proven effective in changing thought process and/or behavior to get more out of life. Simply stated – life isn’t black OR white and we often miss the importance of approaching things from a “gray point of view”.
(610) 421-0562 View (610) 421-0562
Photo of Rachel Starmer - Rachel Starmer, Psychotherapy, MACC, LPC, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rachel Starmer, Psychotherapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MACC, LPC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Bethlehem, PA 18018  (Online Only)
Are you feeling stuck? Let me help you figure out what's not working and walk along side you as you explore new ways of thinking, doing, and being. My specialties are working through relationship issues, life transitions, trauma, and moral injury.
Are you feeling stuck? Let me help you figure out what's not working and walk along side you as you explore new ways of thinking, doing, and being. My specialties are working through relationship issues, life transitions, trauma, and moral injury.
(484) 207-5471 View (484) 207-5471
Photo of Stacie Searle, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stacie Searle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Bethlehem, PA 18018
Therapy is a place to explore and understand, a place to be heard and to use your voice, a place to recognize and embrace your worth, a place to learn that you are stronger than you think and more valuable than you ever thought. A place to just be. With a deep commitment to fostering positive change, I collaborate closely with clients to develop personalized treatment plans tailored to their unique needs and goals. Whether you are grappling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or relationship challenges, I will employ a strengths-based perspective to empower you in your journey toward healing and growth.
Therapy is a place to explore and understand, a place to be heard and to use your voice, a place to recognize and embrace your worth, a place to learn that you are stronger than you think and more valuable than you ever thought. A place to just be. With a deep commitment to fostering positive change, I collaborate closely with clients to develop personalized treatment plans tailored to their unique needs and goals. Whether you are grappling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or relationship challenges, I will employ a strengths-based perspective to empower you in your journey toward healing and growth.
(484) 749-9181 View (484) 749-9181
Photo of Nicole A Hayes, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nicole A Hayes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Easton, PA 18045  (Online Only)
Feeling comfortable is very important in the therapeutic relationship.
When experiencing life's many challenges it can be hard to stay motivated and hopeful. I can offer support, encouragement, and guidance while providing practical skills that meet your unique needs. In my practice, I view the client-therapist relationship as one that is collaborative and I utilize a strength-based and solution-focused approach. You will be provided a safe space for you to explore your thoughts and feelings free of judgment while we work together to achieve your goals. I strive for my clients to feel respected, heard, and validated during sessions.
Feeling comfortable is very important in the therapeutic relationship.
When experiencing life's many challenges it can be hard to stay motivated and hopeful. I can offer support, encouragement, and guidance while providing practical skills that meet your unique needs. In my practice, I view the client-therapist relationship as one that is collaborative and I utilize a strength-based and solution-focused approach. You will be provided a safe space for you to explore your thoughts and feelings free of judgment while we work together to achieve your goals. I strive for my clients to feel respected, heard, and validated during sessions.
(484) 255-4172 View (484) 255-4172
Photo of May Bassem Ambrogi - Mindful Transformations Counseling, May Ambrogi, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mindful Transformations Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, May Ambrogi, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bethlehem, PA 18018
MTC offers EMDR, Cognitive Processing Therapy for PTSD, Functional Family Therapy (for which the owner of MTC is an International trainer and consultant), Hypnotherapy, Gottman couples counseling, Imago Therapy, Triple P for parenting needs, ABA for ADHD, ASD and CBT.
Experiencing trauma (little and big T traumas) seems to be a part of everyone's life at some point. In my 20 years experience, I see that trauma and chronic stress often lead to, or exacerbate, feelings of depression, anxiety or being "stuck." Being specialty-trained, open-minded and client-needs driven, at MTC, we are able to adeptly challenge clients while also re-building their hope and sense of worthiness so that they may feel good and safe while moving past their comfort zones. (NOTE: Please see the website for my staff's bios. Currently accepting insurances & self-pay clients for my staff.)
MTC offers EMDR, Cognitive Processing Therapy for PTSD, Functional Family Therapy (for which the owner of MTC is an International trainer and consultant), Hypnotherapy, Gottman couples counseling, Imago Therapy, Triple P for parenting needs, ABA for ADHD, ASD and CBT.
Experiencing trauma (little and big T traumas) seems to be a part of everyone's life at some point. In my 20 years experience, I see that trauma and chronic stress often lead to, or exacerbate, feelings of depression, anxiety or being "stuck." Being specialty-trained, open-minded and client-needs driven, at MTC, we are able to adeptly challenge clients while also re-building their hope and sense of worthiness so that they may feel good and safe while moving past their comfort zones. (NOTE: Please see the website for my staff's bios. Currently accepting insurances & self-pay clients for my staff.)
(484) 702-6205 View (484) 702-6205
Photo of Marjorica Ducheine, MA, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Marjorica Ducheine
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Mount Bethel, PA 18343
Stress, Anxiety, Depression, Addictions, LGBT, Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Trauma and abuse, Grief, Eating disorders, Sleeping disorders, Parenting issues, Anger management, Bipolar disorder, Coaching, Compassion fatigue, ADHD, Abandonment, Adoption and Foster Care, Antisocial Personality, Attachment Issues, Blended Family Issues.
Great to meet you! I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, career difficulties, & depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Stress, Anxiety, Depression, Addictions, LGBT, Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Trauma and abuse, Grief, Eating disorders, Sleeping disorders, Parenting issues, Anger management, Bipolar disorder, Coaching, Compassion fatigue, ADHD, Abandonment, Adoption and Foster Care, Antisocial Personality, Attachment Issues, Blended Family Issues.
Great to meet you! I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, career difficulties, & depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
(570) 726-1290 View (570) 726-1290
Photo of April Gabriel-Ferretti - April Gabriel, M.S., LMFT- Couples, Family & Indv, MS, LMFT
April Gabriel, M.S., LMFT- Couples, Family & Indv
MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Nazareth, PA 18064  (Online Only)
The transition into parenthood can be exhausting! The amount of responsibility of caring for a new baby can feel overwhelming, isolating and even scary. You are not alone and with help you can heal. I’ll give you the tools and resources you need to begin healing and start living again! While I do work with couples and individuals, my true passion lies in working with parents! It is my great honor to join you while you begin a new chapter, start gaining hope and much deserved relief!
The transition into parenthood can be exhausting! The amount of responsibility of caring for a new baby can feel overwhelming, isolating and even scary. You are not alone and with help you can heal. I’ll give you the tools and resources you need to begin healing and start living again! While I do work with couples and individuals, my true passion lies in working with parents! It is my great honor to join you while you begin a new chapter, start gaining hope and much deserved relief!
(267) 362-4011 View (267) 362-4011
Photo of John Miller, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
John Miller
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Bethlehem, PA 18018
The approaches that I base my therapy on are: Cognitive Behavioral therapy, client-centered therapy, dialectal behavioral therapy, choice theory, focusing, and relationship skill building therapy.
I appreciate the courage it takes to seek help. As your therapist I will strive to have your therapeutic journey feel respectful, safe, and collaborative. I specialize in couples counseling and adolescent issues, however additional areas of skill include those struggling with loneliness, introversion, those seeking meaningful relationships, and with men’s issues. I collaborate best with clients that are motivated to work on making healthy changes in their lives.
The approaches that I base my therapy on are: Cognitive Behavioral therapy, client-centered therapy, dialectal behavioral therapy, choice theory, focusing, and relationship skill building therapy.
I appreciate the courage it takes to seek help. As your therapist I will strive to have your therapeutic journey feel respectful, safe, and collaborative. I specialize in couples counseling and adolescent issues, however additional areas of skill include those struggling with loneliness, introversion, those seeking meaningful relationships, and with men’s issues. I collaborate best with clients that are motivated to work on making healthy changes in their lives.
(272) 268-7641 View (272) 268-7641
Photo of Molli Zielinski, BS, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Molli Zielinski
Licensed Professional Counselor, BS, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Easton, PA 18042
I work with clients on many issues including depression, anxiety, couples issues and relationship counseling, PTSD, low self-esteem and personal relationship issues.
Have you been struggling with depressive or anxious thoughts, negative views of yourself or not knowing how to deal with life stressors? Sometimes the hardest step is to admit that you need guidance and direction, but getting help can be the first step to feeling better. I am here to provide a non judgmental, calm and productive environment to help move past that first step.
I work with clients on many issues including depression, anxiety, couples issues and relationship counseling, PTSD, low self-esteem and personal relationship issues.
Have you been struggling with depressive or anxious thoughts, negative views of yourself or not knowing how to deal with life stressors? Sometimes the hardest step is to admit that you need guidance and direction, but getting help can be the first step to feeling better. I am here to provide a non judgmental, calm and productive environment to help move past that first step.
(484) 469-9164 View (484) 469-9164
Photo of Janice Ugarriza, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Janice Ugarriza
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Bethlehem, PA 18017  (Online Only)
I am a bilingual (Spanish) Licensed Professional Counselor with over 15 years of experience in the mental health field. I have worked in various settings, including residential, inpatient, and partial hospitalization programs. I work with children, adolescents, and adults in individual, group, and family therapy. I am trauma-informed and specialize in anxiety, depression, mood disorders, addictions, ADHD, autism, relationship issues, and major life transitions. I completed my Master of Science and an Advanced Certificate in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy at the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine.
I am a bilingual (Spanish) Licensed Professional Counselor with over 15 years of experience in the mental health field. I have worked in various settings, including residential, inpatient, and partial hospitalization programs. I work with children, adolescents, and adults in individual, group, and family therapy. I am trauma-informed and specialize in anxiety, depression, mood disorders, addictions, ADHD, autism, relationship issues, and major life transitions. I completed my Master of Science and an Advanced Certificate in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy at the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine.
(484) 376-5127 View (484) 376-5127
Photo of Kayla Schubert-Wirth, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kayla Schubert-Wirth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bethlehem, PA 18018
I believe that any strong therapeutic relationship is built on collaboration, honesty, and the belief that change is possible.
I know how infuriating it can be to find a therapist you can connect with, as I have personally fired 6 out of 7 of my own therapists. It’s important to note that I’m not your “typical therapist” (I dye my hair bright colors, will curse with you during sessions, and actively compete in powerlifting).
I believe that any strong therapeutic relationship is built on collaboration, honesty, and the belief that change is possible.
I know how infuriating it can be to find a therapist you can connect with, as I have personally fired 6 out of 7 of my own therapists. It’s important to note that I’m not your “typical therapist” (I dye my hair bright colors, will curse with you during sessions, and actively compete in powerlifting).
(484) 930-1006 View (484) 930-1006
Photo of Melissa M Parsons, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Melissa M Parsons
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hellertown, PA 18055
I have 20 years experience with almost all disorders and severity levels. My strengths in practice are with domestic abuse victims and complex attachment trauma. I seek to free you of guilt, shame and emotional build up in the nervous system. Together we develop stability of self esteem and confidence. I have extensive experience with PTSD and healing symptoms of fear, dissociation and hypervigilance through EMDR and brainspotting. I also work with couples and families. Dreamwork may be used to uncover sub/unconscious messages. All age groups and issues welcome, we can get through this together!
I have 20 years experience with almost all disorders and severity levels. My strengths in practice are with domestic abuse victims and complex attachment trauma. I seek to free you of guilt, shame and emotional build up in the nervous system. Together we develop stability of self esteem and confidence. I have extensive experience with PTSD and healing symptoms of fear, dissociation and hypervigilance through EMDR and brainspotting. I also work with couples and families. Dreamwork may be used to uncover sub/unconscious messages. All age groups and issues welcome, we can get through this together!
(484) 218-4562 View (484) 218-4562
Photo of Carly Brown, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Carly Brown
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Bethlehem, PA 18017  (Online Only)
My areas of specialties include Family, Couples, Pregnancy, Prenatal, and Post-Partum clients.
Looking for help is not easy and takes a tremendous amount of strength. As your therapist, I believe this is a collaborative process. You are the expert on yourself and we can both learn together how to make you into the best version of yourself. Collaborating together, we will find the core issues and work to make long-lasting changes. I meet clients where they are in a non-judgemental way to promote success.
My areas of specialties include Family, Couples, Pregnancy, Prenatal, and Post-Partum clients.
Looking for help is not easy and takes a tremendous amount of strength. As your therapist, I believe this is a collaborative process. You are the expert on yourself and we can both learn together how to make you into the best version of yourself. Collaborating together, we will find the core issues and work to make long-lasting changes. I meet clients where they are in a non-judgemental way to promote success.
(484) 246-7801 View (484) 246-7801
Photo of Magehn Newell, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Magehn Newell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethlehem, PA 18018
I believe that the foundation of successful therapy lies in the relationship between therapist and client.
Life is a journey filled with both joyous moments and challenges. At times, we all need support to navigate the complexities of our experiences. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, abuse, family issues, or other concerns, know that help is available. My mission is to provide you with the guidance and tools you need to foster positive change and lead a fulfilling life in all aspects—physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.
I believe that the foundation of successful therapy lies in the relationship between therapist and client.
Life is a journey filled with both joyous moments and challenges. At times, we all need support to navigate the complexities of our experiences. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, abuse, family issues, or other concerns, know that help is available. My mission is to provide you with the guidance and tools you need to foster positive change and lead a fulfilling life in all aspects—physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.
(610) 795-9533 View (610) 795-9533
Photo of Adrienne Schultz, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Adrienne Schultz
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nazareth, PA 18064
I will strive to cultivate a genuine and mutually respectful relationship with you.
The decision to seek help in order to improve your life and make positive changes is often a very difficult one. As a licensed professional counselor with over 18 years of experience, I can help you address the issues that are impacting your happiness and facilitate the growth and change that you may be seeking. Some of these issues may include life transitions, depression, anxiety, family conflict, relationship problems, parenting struggles, and drug or alcohol use.
I will strive to cultivate a genuine and mutually respectful relationship with you.
The decision to seek help in order to improve your life and make positive changes is often a very difficult one. As a licensed professional counselor with over 18 years of experience, I can help you address the issues that are impacting your happiness and facilitate the growth and change that you may be seeking. Some of these issues may include life transitions, depression, anxiety, family conflict, relationship problems, parenting struggles, and drug or alcohol use.
(484) 801-0536 View (484) 801-0536
Photo of Megan Eckert, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Megan Eckert
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bethlehem, PA 18018
My goal is to partner with individuals in creating and achieving their goals regarding mental wellness and healthy relationships.
I have been in mental health practice for 14 years, specializing in working with families and individuals in order to develop healthier, more adaptive means of coping with stressors. I use a systemic approach to guide treatment, with an understanding that all individuals are best understood within the various contexts in which they have grown up and live currently. I am trained in Structural Family Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Informed Care (EMDR, TF-CBT, and Trauma Art Narrative Therapy), and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, among other techniques and interventions.
My goal is to partner with individuals in creating and achieving their goals regarding mental wellness and healthy relationships.
I have been in mental health practice for 14 years, specializing in working with families and individuals in order to develop healthier, more adaptive means of coping with stressors. I use a systemic approach to guide treatment, with an understanding that all individuals are best understood within the various contexts in which they have grown up and live currently. I am trained in Structural Family Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Informed Care (EMDR, TF-CBT, and Trauma Art Narrative Therapy), and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, among other techniques and interventions.
(484) 430-3895 View (484) 430-3895
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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.