Couples Counseling Therapists in Hampton, VA
![Photo of Paula Tisdale, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f38db292-fc12-4300-b8da-65d667964b8f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hi, My Name is Paula, and I am a Trauma Informed Therapist with over 15 years of clinical experience working with individuals, couples, families and young adults impacted by adverse traumatic experiences and major life events. My approach is holistic, and I assist families and major stakeholders in gaining a better understanding of the benefit of therapy to garner their support and increase successful treatment outcomes. In 2009, I graduated from Liberty University in Lynchburg, Virginia, with a Master’s Degree in Professional Counseling.
Hi, My Name is Paula, and I am a Trauma Informed Therapist with over 15 years of clinical experience working with individuals, couples, families and young adults impacted by adverse traumatic experiences and major life events. My approach is holistic, and I assist families and major stakeholders in gaining a better understanding of the benefit of therapy to garner their support and increase successful treatment outcomes. In 2009, I graduated from Liberty University in Lynchburg, Virginia, with a Master’s Degree in Professional Counseling.
![Photo of Deborah Evans, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/854d72b0-337a-44d9-a146-7a7cbaaa77f5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Believing firmly in Cochran and Cochran's (2015) assertion that the therapeutic relationship between counselor and client is a potent force for change, I dedicate myself to guiding individuals through life's transitions with resilience and compassion. My specialized approach empowers clients to navigate challenging periods, fostering greater well-being through personalized support and collaboration. Together, we embark on a journey of self-discovery, ensuring no challenge is insurmountable.
Believing firmly in Cochran and Cochran's (2015) assertion that the therapeutic relationship between counselor and client is a potent force for change, I dedicate myself to guiding individuals through life's transitions with resilience and compassion. My specialized approach empowers clients to navigate challenging periods, fostering greater well-being through personalized support and collaboration. Together, we embark on a journey of self-discovery, ensuring no challenge is insurmountable.
![Photo of Marcus L Riggs, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f8016e59-ffef-45d2-b509-c7cc6c3df03b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Counseling is a very special relationship where trust is build through empathetic listening to gain a better understanding of any difficulty you are experiencing.
We all are constructionists as we attempt to build our lives. It is my desire to help my clients through any difficulties that are affecting your ability to live life with purpose. I incorporate an integrative approach to assist individuals in working through their current difficulties. My passion is to help you reach your goals and address your interrelated domains (mind, body, and soul) so that you can bring balance and inner peace back to your life. I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and families in an open and honest session where your concerns and difficulties guide the session towards solutions and healing.
Counseling is a very special relationship where trust is build through empathetic listening to gain a better understanding of any difficulty you are experiencing.
We all are constructionists as we attempt to build our lives. It is my desire to help my clients through any difficulties that are affecting your ability to live life with purpose. I incorporate an integrative approach to assist individuals in working through their current difficulties. My passion is to help you reach your goals and address your interrelated domains (mind, body, and soul) so that you can bring balance and inner peace back to your life. I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and families in an open and honest session where your concerns and difficulties guide the session towards solutions and healing.
![Photo of Jerome Anthony Ford - Marriage Family Works, LMFT, LPC, CADC, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/80eaacde-fc37-4a18-bfd8-1bfaca35b887/2/320x400.png)
Marriage Family Works
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hampton, VA 23669
I focus almost exclusively with helping married couples and families restore the joy and happiness they once experienced.
Hello, my name is Jerome Ford. Marriage can be challenging, complex and difficult to navigate. It is by far one of the most difficult relationships to maintain when you consider the words “Till death do us part”, that is so often cited when couples decide to get married. Marriage is unlike any other, in that no other relationship enters into such an arrangement. Such an arrangement requires an unwavering commitment and willingness to work hard to develop and maintain a healthy marriage. If you desire a better marriage, a better relationship with your children or your parents and are tired of arguing, there is hope.
I focus almost exclusively with helping married couples and families restore the joy and happiness they once experienced.
Hello, my name is Jerome Ford. Marriage can be challenging, complex and difficult to navigate. It is by far one of the most difficult relationships to maintain when you consider the words “Till death do us part”, that is so often cited when couples decide to get married. Marriage is unlike any other, in that no other relationship enters into such an arrangement. Such an arrangement requires an unwavering commitment and willingness to work hard to develop and maintain a healthy marriage. If you desire a better marriage, a better relationship with your children or your parents and are tired of arguing, there is hope.
![Photo of Harry Davis, LPC, LSATP, CSAC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44040313-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Harry Davis
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LSATP, CSAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hampton, VA 23666
I have over 20 years of experience working with children, teens, adults, couples and groups. I work with individuals with Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Addiction, Substance Abuse,Trauma, Self-Esteem, Bereavement, ADHD, Bipolar, Suicide Ideations and other mental health and addiction issues. I have extensive experience with individuals in and out of therapeutic communities, half-way houses, psychiatric hospitals, group homes and jails/brig.
I have over 20 years of experience working with children, teens, adults, couples and groups. I work with individuals with Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Addiction, Substance Abuse,Trauma, Self-Esteem, Bereavement, ADHD, Bipolar, Suicide Ideations and other mental health and addiction issues. I have extensive experience with individuals in and out of therapeutic communities, half-way houses, psychiatric hospitals, group homes and jails/brig.
![Photo of Sarah Espinosa, MA, MSW, SICSW](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9e834a64-6753-432e-8a3d-8661eb267369/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah Espinosa
Supervisee in Clinical Social Work, MA, MSW, SICSW
Verified Verified
Hampton, VA 23669 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My ideal client is someone who may be dealing with complex trauma, PTSD, or couples looking to work towards improving their relationship through enhanced communication. Barriers they may be facing include difficulties in managing emotions, relationship problems, or adapting to life transitions, requiring a compassionate space to process their experiences and a supportive guide to help them develop coping strategies. Goals would include healing from past traumas, discovering and building on their inherent strengths, fostering resilience, and pursuing personal growth. Ultimately, to find fulfillment and joy in themselves.
My ideal client is someone who may be dealing with complex trauma, PTSD, or couples looking to work towards improving their relationship through enhanced communication. Barriers they may be facing include difficulties in managing emotions, relationship problems, or adapting to life transitions, requiring a compassionate space to process their experiences and a supportive guide to help them develop coping strategies. Goals would include healing from past traumas, discovering and building on their inherent strengths, fostering resilience, and pursuing personal growth. Ultimately, to find fulfillment and joy in themselves.
![Photo of Shelly (Lena) Baker-Scott, LCSW, LSATP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5631a146-9ce4-47fa-aaf1-7d0f282f56f6/1/320x400.png)
Shelly (Lena) Baker-Scott
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LSATP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hampton, VA 23666 (Online Only)
My ideal client is someone who is open to the therapy experience and is ready to challenge themselves to actively work toward feeling better. Someone who recognizes that while changes in behavior, mood, thinking, relationships, employment, parenting, lifestyle etc. may test our ability to cope, as they can be difficult and painful, how we respond to these changes/challenges ultimately determines the outcome. Someone who is willing to engage in a symbiotic, collaborative therapeutic relationship to work on their self determined goals, whatever they may be.
My ideal client is someone who is open to the therapy experience and is ready to challenge themselves to actively work toward feeling better. Someone who recognizes that while changes in behavior, mood, thinking, relationships, employment, parenting, lifestyle etc. may test our ability to cope, as they can be difficult and painful, how we respond to these changes/challenges ultimately determines the outcome. Someone who is willing to engage in a symbiotic, collaborative therapeutic relationship to work on their self determined goals, whatever they may be.
![Photo of Lecia Thompson, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e5b96ff3-6fea-406a-930f-ac1802e5775a/2/320x400.jpeg)
From children, adolescents, individuals, families and couples; I provided a safe, judgement-free space in which you can be heard and feel supported.
Hello; Are you experiencing difficulties in your relationships, challenges controlling your emotions, fears of being abandoned or left alone, or low self esteem and self worth? I want to help you build skills to feel more confident managing these struggles, and to find peace and connection with yourself and others. As a dedicated counseling professional my aim is to assist in teaching empowerment, long-term coping strategies, self awareness and acceptance of one’s unique personality. People often decide to pursue therapy in order to work through something in their life that is bothering them.
From children, adolescents, individuals, families and couples; I provided a safe, judgement-free space in which you can be heard and feel supported.
Hello; Are you experiencing difficulties in your relationships, challenges controlling your emotions, fears of being abandoned or left alone, or low self esteem and self worth? I want to help you build skills to feel more confident managing these struggles, and to find peace and connection with yourself and others. As a dedicated counseling professional my aim is to assist in teaching empowerment, long-term coping strategies, self awareness and acceptance of one’s unique personality. People often decide to pursue therapy in order to work through something in their life that is bothering them.
![Photo of Leon Sankofa, PhD, LCSW, ABSDip, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/629df706-4fe7-4041-aff0-ca9e310cd628/2/320x400.jpeg)
Greetings! I'm Leon Sankofa, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Psychotherapist, and Hypnotherapist. My mission is to help you feel better and live a more fulfilling life. With a diverse range of therapeutic techniques at my disposal, I'm here to guide you on your journey towards emotional well-being. Are you currently wrestling with the weight of depression or anxiety? Struggling with internal conflicts or decision-making? Dealing with relationship issues or grief? Perhaps you simply wish to enhance your focus and overall quality of life. Whatever your goals may be, I'm dedicated to supporting you every step of the way.
Greetings! I'm Leon Sankofa, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Psychotherapist, and Hypnotherapist. My mission is to help you feel better and live a more fulfilling life. With a diverse range of therapeutic techniques at my disposal, I'm here to guide you on your journey towards emotional well-being. Are you currently wrestling with the weight of depression or anxiety? Struggling with internal conflicts or decision-making? Dealing with relationship issues or grief? Perhaps you simply wish to enhance your focus and overall quality of life. Whatever your goals may be, I'm dedicated to supporting you every step of the way.
![Photo of Yalonda Smith, MA, LPC, NCC, CCTP, DMin, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b8aa7c8c-6e9a-44c7-880b-a918b1d9bd46/1/320x400.jpeg)
Yalonda Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, CCTP, DMin
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hampton, VA 23669 (Online Only)
I offer care for individuals (adolescents, adults) and couples who are experiencing difficult life transitions, depression, anxiety, anger issues, relationship issues, self-harm, and various types of trauma.
I am extremely passionate about helping clients work through the rough and uncomfortable experiences of their lives. I believe every person comes to therapy with their own individual needs, and my role is to help facilitate their individual needs. Therefore, I adapt my interventions based on a comprehensive assessment of who you are and exactly what you need.
I offer care for individuals (adolescents, adults) and couples who are experiencing difficult life transitions, depression, anxiety, anger issues, relationship issues, self-harm, and various types of trauma.
I am extremely passionate about helping clients work through the rough and uncomfortable experiences of their lives. I believe every person comes to therapy with their own individual needs, and my role is to help facilitate their individual needs. Therefore, I adapt my interventions based on a comprehensive assessment of who you are and exactly what you need.
![Photo of S. Alex Bice, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/75942ce2-4d9b-4dba-b99b-7189db48b61a/1/320x400.jpeg)
I believe in the power of collaboration and the importance of building a strong therapeutic relationship.
I want to witness positive change and growth in your life. With extensive training and experience, I offer a warm, non-judgmental space where you can explore your inner world, overcome challenges, and discover the path to personal fulfillment. My approach to therapy is rooted in the belief that every person can overcome adversity. Therapy is a collaborative journey, where together we explore the complexities of your thoughts, emotions, and experiences. I recognize the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit, and I strive to create a safe and supportive environment for you to navigate your unique struggles.
I believe in the power of collaboration and the importance of building a strong therapeutic relationship.
I want to witness positive change and growth in your life. With extensive training and experience, I offer a warm, non-judgmental space where you can explore your inner world, overcome challenges, and discover the path to personal fulfillment. My approach to therapy is rooted in the belief that every person can overcome adversity. Therapy is a collaborative journey, where together we explore the complexities of your thoughts, emotions, and experiences. I recognize the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit, and I strive to create a safe and supportive environment for you to navigate your unique struggles.
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Clara Elizabeth Ewing
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC, CSAC
Verified Verified
Hampton, VA 23666
I am an EXPERIENCED THERAPIST. I use a HOLISTIC approach to mental health. Holistic refers to the complete individual, both physiological and psychological. My therapeutic approaches include WELLNESS-ORIENTED HOLISTIC, MIND-BODY-SPIRIT, REALITY-BASED, COGNITIVE-BEHAVIORAL, and HYPNOSIS. I provide INDIVIDUAL, FAMILY, MARITAL/COUPLES, and GROUP THERAPY. I work with children (ages 10 and up), adolescents, and adults. I take most insurances and many EAP's (employee assistance programs).
I am an EXPERIENCED THERAPIST. I use a HOLISTIC approach to mental health. Holistic refers to the complete individual, both physiological and psychological. My therapeutic approaches include WELLNESS-ORIENTED HOLISTIC, MIND-BODY-SPIRIT, REALITY-BASED, COGNITIVE-BEHAVIORAL, and HYPNOSIS. I provide INDIVIDUAL, FAMILY, MARITAL/COUPLES, and GROUP THERAPY. I work with children (ages 10 and up), adolescents, and adults. I take most insurances and many EAP's (employee assistance programs).
![Photo of Erica Elise Baker - Erica Baker & Associates Counseling Services, LLC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d518d7c7-3366-4cdb-af57-5f1a485261d1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Erica Baker & Associates Counseling Services, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hampton, VA 23669
We provide therapeutic techniques that are tailored to help individuals with daily life stressors, substance abuse, Depression, Trauma and PTSD therapy, and Couples Counseling.
Erica Baker & Associates Counseling Services, LLC is located downtown Hampton, VA. I am the owner and a Licensed Professional Counselor, with over 20 years’ experience in the human services field.
We provide therapeutic techniques that are tailored to help individuals with daily life stressors, substance abuse, Depression, Trauma and PTSD therapy, and Couples Counseling.
Erica Baker & Associates Counseling Services, LLC is located downtown Hampton, VA. I am the owner and a Licensed Professional Counselor, with over 20 years’ experience in the human services field.
![Photo of Toni Sankofa, PhD, MEd](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/336031d7-40eb-498e-9dbf-92282d546480/4/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, I am Dr. Toni! I have spent more than 20yrs+ as a Christian Counselor, Ordained Minister and Educator. Let me ask you a question: Have you tried your best to hide how bad it's gotten, but you're really exhausted? Maybe you want the support but stay away from family, friends, special events, etc; because of feeling withdrawn or being ridiculed. Are you ready to feel in control of your life, relationships, and career without settling? Dr. Toni helps women, men, teens, adolescents and married couples feel in control and enjoy their life again through Counseling and Coaching. Schedule an appointment today!
Hello, I am Dr. Toni! I have spent more than 20yrs+ as a Christian Counselor, Ordained Minister and Educator. Let me ask you a question: Have you tried your best to hide how bad it's gotten, but you're really exhausted? Maybe you want the support but stay away from family, friends, special events, etc; because of feeling withdrawn or being ridiculed. Are you ready to feel in control of your life, relationships, and career without settling? Dr. Toni helps women, men, teens, adolescents and married couples feel in control and enjoy their life again through Counseling and Coaching. Schedule an appointment today!
![Photo of Kasey Sokol, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a5b28f3f-09b3-4571-8876-4f8e9360ef37/2/320x400.jpeg)
I work with children ages 5+, adolescents, adults, as well as couples, and families.
I believe in the importance of a person’s story and meeting each person where they are in the present moment, while honoring experiences from the past. There are often events or themes within a person’s childhood that can lead them to experience difficulties later in their lives if left unresolved. These difficulties often appear in the form of unhealthy traits or toxic cycles within romantic relationships or friendships. Other times, there are negative thoughts such as “I should have known better” or “I always do something wrong” that constantly circle in a person’s mind.
I work with children ages 5+, adolescents, adults, as well as couples, and families.
I believe in the importance of a person’s story and meeting each person where they are in the present moment, while honoring experiences from the past. There are often events or themes within a person’s childhood that can lead them to experience difficulties later in their lives if left unresolved. These difficulties often appear in the form of unhealthy traits or toxic cycles within romantic relationships or friendships. Other times, there are negative thoughts such as “I should have known better” or “I always do something wrong” that constantly circle in a person’s mind.
![Photo of Trina Young - Genesis Counseling Center, PsyD, LCP, LMFT, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/492767e1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Genesis Counseling Center
Psychologist, PsyD, LCP, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hampton, VA 23666
Services include individual, couples, family, & group counseling.
Genesis serves clients in Virginia and other states. We have Virginia offices in Hampton, Yorktown, Williamsburg, Gloucester, Norfolk, and Chesapeake. Genesis provides professional services for healing and growth of the whole person. We offer comprehensive counseling, psychological services, and psychiatric medicine in an outpatient setting. Genesis can help you find new life and purpose in your marriage; experience freedom from fear, depression, addiction, past hurts, etc. See positive changes in your child's attitude and behavior; discover how to grow to your potential; and equip you to thrive in the challenges of life.
Services include individual, couples, family, & group counseling.
Genesis serves clients in Virginia and other states. We have Virginia offices in Hampton, Yorktown, Williamsburg, Gloucester, Norfolk, and Chesapeake. Genesis provides professional services for healing and growth of the whole person. We offer comprehensive counseling, psychological services, and psychiatric medicine in an outpatient setting. Genesis can help you find new life and purpose in your marriage; experience freedom from fear, depression, addiction, past hurts, etc. See positive changes in your child's attitude and behavior; discover how to grow to your potential; and equip you to thrive in the challenges of life.
![Photo of Stiphenee Flores Soto, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/876247ef-f12a-4d05-9227-f9a54654fd50/1/320x400.jpeg)
Stiphenee Flores Soto
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Hampton, VA 23666 (Online Only)
Stiphenee goal is to provide clients with a safe environment where they are able to express themselves with no fear of judgment. She believes that each person has a unique story, experiences, and personality. Through her experience, she has learned that it is important to take these things into consideration and meet my clients where they are. Stiphenee treats young adults struggling with Anxiety, Life Transitions, Peer Relationships, Relationship Issues, School Issues, Self Esteem, Stress, and Infidelity.
Stiphenee goal is to provide clients with a safe environment where they are able to express themselves with no fear of judgment. She believes that each person has a unique story, experiences, and personality. Through her experience, she has learned that it is important to take these things into consideration and meet my clients where they are. Stiphenee treats young adults struggling with Anxiety, Life Transitions, Peer Relationships, Relationship Issues, School Issues, Self Esteem, Stress, and Infidelity.
![Photo of Steven J Fields, LPC, NCC, CFT, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0e84771d-3988-4a7a-b736-b29e443e46ff/3/320x400.jpeg)
Steven J Fields
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CFT
Verified Verified
Hampton, VA 23666 (Online Only)
As we live, we write the stories of our lives. Sometimes the pen gets too heavy. Sometimes we don’t know where to start… or how to continue. And then there’s writer’s block, the faltering of the creative process somewhere in our hearts, our minds, our bodies producing dis-orders and dis-eases. Maybe you have lost a Loved one. Maybe you’re starting a new relationship. Maybe you want a new job. Maybe you just want change. I believe the remedy is in the beliefs/feelings, thoughts, and behaviors fueling the writer’s block or dis-ease, and I am a dis-ease specialist.
As we live, we write the stories of our lives. Sometimes the pen gets too heavy. Sometimes we don’t know where to start… or how to continue. And then there’s writer’s block, the faltering of the creative process somewhere in our hearts, our minds, our bodies producing dis-orders and dis-eases. Maybe you have lost a Loved one. Maybe you’re starting a new relationship. Maybe you want a new job. Maybe you just want change. I believe the remedy is in the beliefs/feelings, thoughts, and behaviors fueling the writer’s block or dis-ease, and I am a dis-ease specialist.
![Photo of Edica Gonzalez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e1f836b8-e2ab-4f3c-9480-73da873b8598/1/320x400.png)
My name is Edica Gonzalez, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. My approach is client-centered; together, we determine the best intervention to support this journey. I treat a variety of challenges, including anxiety, depression, trauma, grief/loss, anger, self-esteem, and familial/relationship issues. I currently work with active duty military personnel, adults, and adolescents 16+. I am comfortable with treating clients with PTSD, complex trauma, relational issues, depression, anxiety, phobias, domestic violence/sexual assault survivors, anger, and self-esteem issues.
My name is Edica Gonzalez, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. My approach is client-centered; together, we determine the best intervention to support this journey. I treat a variety of challenges, including anxiety, depression, trauma, grief/loss, anger, self-esteem, and familial/relationship issues. I currently work with active duty military personnel, adults, and adolescents 16+. I am comfortable with treating clients with PTSD, complex trauma, relational issues, depression, anxiety, phobias, domestic violence/sexual assault survivors, anger, and self-esteem issues.
![Photo of Monica Hart Weems, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8b6816d6-177f-4c88-a1d2-ed0d744492ea/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello! My name is Monica and I am a licensed professional counselor in the state of Virginia. I have over 10 years of experience in the mental health profession. I have worked in a variety of settings to include, residential, outpatient, career, and addictions counseling. Although I have experience working with a wide variety of clients with a broad spectrum of clinical issues I have the most experience working with women who struggle with depression, anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), family/relationship concerns, life transitions, and substance abuse issues.
Hello! My name is Monica and I am a licensed professional counselor in the state of Virginia. I have over 10 years of experience in the mental health profession. I have worked in a variety of settings to include, residential, outpatient, career, and addictions counseling. Although I have experience working with a wide variety of clients with a broad spectrum of clinical issues I have the most experience working with women who struggle with depression, anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), family/relationship concerns, life transitions, and substance abuse issues.
See more therapy options for Hampton
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.