Couples Counseling Therapists in Bellevue, WA

Photo of Linh Johanna Truong, LMFT, RPT, MedFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Linh Johanna Truong
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, RPT, MedFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98006
I am specialized in supporting people cope with anxiety and depression that can occur in life transition, vocational or relationship stress, significant loss, having a new medical diagnosis, etc.
I am an Asian family therapist serving therapeutic needs of children, individuals, couples and families. I help clients gain awareness of their internal processes and the way they engage their loved ones and community meaningfully. People can integrate this self-understanding into their current life narratives, or in another word, 're-story' their life experiences. As we change the way we see ourselves, people and the world, we can choose to live differently and purposefully. When coming to my office, you will be invited to share your life stories, and I will listen as your editor.
I am specialized in supporting people cope with anxiety and depression that can occur in life transition, vocational or relationship stress, significant loss, having a new medical diagnosis, etc.
I am an Asian family therapist serving therapeutic needs of children, individuals, couples and families. I help clients gain awareness of their internal processes and the way they engage their loved ones and community meaningfully. People can integrate this self-understanding into their current life narratives, or in another word, 're-story' their life experiences. As we change the way we see ourselves, people and the world, we can choose to live differently and purposefully. When coming to my office, you will be invited to share your life stories, and I will listen as your editor.
(425) 321-5998 x800 View (425) 321-5998 x800
Photo of Chanel Ryssel, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chanel Ryssel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004  (Online Only)
I believe that healing begins with being heard. The therapeutic relationship allows me to witness and attune to your experiences with acceptance and positive regard. Together in practice, we can foster internal exploration that leads to supported change. My therapeutic approach is guided by a feminist, person-in-the-environment perspective. Real wellness is grounded by insight into one's personal story, and how the language, habits, and our personal reactions influence our well-being and internal state.
I believe that healing begins with being heard. The therapeutic relationship allows me to witness and attune to your experiences with acceptance and positive regard. Together in practice, we can foster internal exploration that leads to supported change. My therapeutic approach is guided by a feminist, person-in-the-environment perspective. Real wellness is grounded by insight into one's personal story, and how the language, habits, and our personal reactions influence our well-being and internal state.
(206) 483-1502 View (206) 483-1502
Photo of Nancy Bell, MC, NCC, LMHC, PLLC, Counselor
Nancy Bell
Counselor, MC, NCC, LMHC, PLLC
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004
I have been working with individuals and couples since 1978. I love what I do and I believe my clients know it. I also believe they feel the respect I have for them. I know it takes courage to ask for help, especially when feeling vulnerable. All of us, at some point, experience painful life circumstances or relationship difficulties--usually accompanied by symptoms of depression and/or anxiety. At times we know our lives are not what they could be, but in spite of all our best efforts we may feel stuck.
I have been working with individuals and couples since 1978. I love what I do and I believe my clients know it. I also believe they feel the respect I have for them. I know it takes courage to ask for help, especially when feeling vulnerable. All of us, at some point, experience painful life circumstances or relationship difficulties--usually accompanied by symptoms of depression and/or anxiety. At times we know our lives are not what they could be, but in spite of all our best efforts we may feel stuck.
(425) 453-1583 View (425) 453-1583
Photo of Brooklyn Silva - Traverse Therapy Services, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Traverse Therapy Services
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98005
My goal is to support you, your partner, or your family feel truly seen and heard while offering support and understanding.
We're accepting new clients! My name is Brooklyn Silva and as an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist, I believe therapy is a collaborative process to reach your mental health and personal goals. My practice is centered around creating a supportive space for teens, families, couples, and adults of all backgrounds where we work together towards meaningful change, relationships, and life. With a background in working in a long-term residential treatment center, I have experience in facilitating lasting change and helping individuals, families, and couples navigate complex emotional and relational challenges.
My goal is to support you, your partner, or your family feel truly seen and heard while offering support and understanding.
We're accepting new clients! My name is Brooklyn Silva and as an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist, I believe therapy is a collaborative process to reach your mental health and personal goals. My practice is centered around creating a supportive space for teens, families, couples, and adults of all backgrounds where we work together towards meaningful change, relationships, and life. With a background in working in a long-term residential treatment center, I have experience in facilitating lasting change and helping individuals, families, and couples navigate complex emotional and relational challenges.
(425) 504-7692 View (425) 504-7692
Photo of D Gregg Mohr, MA, LMHC, SUDP, Counselor
D Gregg Mohr
Counselor, MA, LMHC, SUDP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98005
If you struggle with anger, stress, and/or relationship conflict, I can help you understand what's going on and teach you effective, empowering, and expedient ways of growing stronger through your struggle. Remember, struggling is not the problem, struggling is a part of life, it's about learning to "struggle well." If you're tired of constantly struggling to understand; if the frustration is overwhelming; if your relationship, your job, or even your freedom is on the line, I can help.
If you struggle with anger, stress, and/or relationship conflict, I can help you understand what's going on and teach you effective, empowering, and expedient ways of growing stronger through your struggle. Remember, struggling is not the problem, struggling is a part of life, it's about learning to "struggle well." If you're tired of constantly struggling to understand; if the frustration is overwhelming; if your relationship, your job, or even your freedom is on the line, I can help.
(425) 381-2612 View (425) 381-2612
Photo of Felicia Molano, MS, LMHC, NCC, CST, Counselor
Felicia Molano
Counselor, MS, LMHC, NCC, CST
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98005  (Online Only)
I'd be honored for you to welcome me into your life to help you and your relationship.
Is sex a problem for you or your relationship? Are you tired of arguing about sex & avoiding intimacy? Has infidelity or sexual trauma hurt your ability to feel safe and connect? If you're tired of trying to fix things on your own, it's probably time to get support from a specialist. I help individuals & couples work though sexual struggles, heal from trauma, and rebuild intimacy. Together, we can create a plan to help you experience a deeper and fulfilling relationship. I build upon your strengths, while healing wounds that fuel suffering and keep us stuck. I'll walk alongside you as we work together on your goals set at your pace.
I'd be honored for you to welcome me into your life to help you and your relationship.
Is sex a problem for you or your relationship? Are you tired of arguing about sex & avoiding intimacy? Has infidelity or sexual trauma hurt your ability to feel safe and connect? If you're tired of trying to fix things on your own, it's probably time to get support from a specialist. I help individuals & couples work though sexual struggles, heal from trauma, and rebuild intimacy. Together, we can create a plan to help you experience a deeper and fulfilling relationship. I build upon your strengths, while healing wounds that fuel suffering and keep us stuck. I'll walk alongside you as we work together on your goals set at your pace.
(855) 941-5117 View (855) 941-5117
Photo of Sumi Garg, MA, LMFT, PMH-C, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sumi Garg
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, PMH-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004
I have specialized training in perinatal mental health and couples therapy.
Accepting New Clients. I work with clients during big emotional changes. Changes like starting a new family, the current pressures of teenage years, and adult professionals experiencing burn out. There can be major shifts in identity, responsibilities feel overwhelming, and the fear of making a mistake keeps my clients up at night. It is hard to communicate or even know what you need. I offer a safe space to sit with the difficult emotions from the change and create a healthy way forward.
I have specialized training in perinatal mental health and couples therapy.
Accepting New Clients. I work with clients during big emotional changes. Changes like starting a new family, the current pressures of teenage years, and adult professionals experiencing burn out. There can be major shifts in identity, responsibilities feel overwhelming, and the fear of making a mistake keeps my clients up at night. It is hard to communicate or even know what you need. I offer a safe space to sit with the difficult emotions from the change and create a healthy way forward.
(425) 517-1639 View (425) 517-1639
Photo of Kay Duncan, MSW, LICSW, ACC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kay Duncan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, ACC
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98005  (Online Only)
I work with individuals and couples dealing with posttraumatic stress, eating disorders, infidelity, anxiety, depression, grief, and challenging life transitions.
Perhaps you're here because you want things to be different in your life. Less stress, better relationships, better coping skills, or just to be happier. Therapy can be an important step in making your life more manageable, enjoyable and meaningful. My goal is to create a warm, relaxed, and accepting atmosphere where you can meet the challenges of an immediate crisis, or work on long-standing issues you'd like to change.
I work with individuals and couples dealing with posttraumatic stress, eating disorders, infidelity, anxiety, depression, grief, and challenging life transitions.
Perhaps you're here because you want things to be different in your life. Less stress, better relationships, better coping skills, or just to be happier. Therapy can be an important step in making your life more manageable, enjoyable and meaningful. My goal is to create a warm, relaxed, and accepting atmosphere where you can meet the challenges of an immediate crisis, or work on long-standing issues you'd like to change.
(425) 381-2320 View (425) 381-2320
Photo of Mouna El-Khadiri, PsyD, LMHC, Counselor
Mouna El-Khadiri
Counselor, PsyD, LMHC
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98007
Waitlist for new clients
I strive to create a therapeutic relationship that is based on trust, respect and empathy for you.
Do you feel stuck or unable to experience joy, or have a meaningful life. Maybe, you are experiencing sadness, loss or difficult life transitions. You are not alone and I am here to offer you hope that you can overcome these challenges. I am here to support you and help you feel safe and grounded as we explore your life experiences and challenges that are keeping you stuck. You will learn new healthy ways to cope with difficult emotions and life situations. When necessary, we will focus on childhood experiences and relationships that may still impact you and prevent you from having the life and connections you want.
I strive to create a therapeutic relationship that is based on trust, respect and empathy for you.
Do you feel stuck or unable to experience joy, or have a meaningful life. Maybe, you are experiencing sadness, loss or difficult life transitions. You are not alone and I am here to offer you hope that you can overcome these challenges. I am here to support you and help you feel safe and grounded as we explore your life experiences and challenges that are keeping you stuck. You will learn new healthy ways to cope with difficult emotions and life situations. When necessary, we will focus on childhood experiences and relationships that may still impact you and prevent you from having the life and connections you want.
(206) 593-2557 x5249 View (206) 593-2557 x5249
Photo of Richard Sirota Rational Treatment Services, LICSW, CDP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Richard Sirota Rational Treatment Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CDP
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98005  (Online Only)
Richard is a mental health and chemical dependency therapist who uses state of the art treatment modalities in a safe, non-judgmental, confidential environment. My highly effective treatment is designed for individuals with a variety of problems. I provide individual counseling and a variety of treatment groups. I use a cognitive behavioral approach (CBT) designed to empower you. I help individuals and couples change patterns that have been repeating for much of their lives. Everyone can change. To do so effectively, you need the right motivation combined with the tools and skills learned in a positive, non-critical environment.
Richard is a mental health and chemical dependency therapist who uses state of the art treatment modalities in a safe, non-judgmental, confidential environment. My highly effective treatment is designed for individuals with a variety of problems. I provide individual counseling and a variety of treatment groups. I use a cognitive behavioral approach (CBT) designed to empower you. I help individuals and couples change patterns that have been repeating for much of their lives. Everyone can change. To do so effectively, you need the right motivation combined with the tools and skills learned in a positive, non-critical environment.
(206) 922-4330 View (206) 922-4330
Photo of Lisa Emily Theofelis, LMHC, MEd, NBCT, Counselor
Lisa Emily Theofelis
Counselor, LMHC, MEd, NBCT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004
I currently have two little kiddos with a partner and two pups.
Offering hybrid IN- PERSON/ VIRTUAL. I work with clients experiencing, mood disorders, anxiety, disordered eating and depression. RO-DBT is a proven framework for addressing these challenges and more (eating disorders, obsessive compulsive disorder, perfectionism, self harm). In addition to RO-DBT, I work with adult couples using the Gottman Method. Other areas of work include, divorce, teen + adult grief/loss, and teen survivors of sexual assault. As a bi-racial counselor, I have a special lens of working with individuals from different cultural backgrounds. Also offering skills classes for teens with eating disorders.
I currently have two little kiddos with a partner and two pups.
Offering hybrid IN- PERSON/ VIRTUAL. I work with clients experiencing, mood disorders, anxiety, disordered eating and depression. RO-DBT is a proven framework for addressing these challenges and more (eating disorders, obsessive compulsive disorder, perfectionism, self harm). In addition to RO-DBT, I work with adult couples using the Gottman Method. Other areas of work include, divorce, teen + adult grief/loss, and teen survivors of sexual assault. As a bi-racial counselor, I have a special lens of working with individuals from different cultural backgrounds. Also offering skills classes for teens with eating disorders.
(206) 741-0740 View (206) 741-0740
Photo of Diana Melman, MS, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Diana Melman
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, LMFTA
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98006  (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients! Can you imagine a better way of connecting and living with yourself and those around you? Welcome to a sacred space of insight, together we embark on a journey of growth and change to meet your life goals. A space where your journey toward healing and growth is honored with profound empathy and support. If you are dealing with relationship issues, family dilemmas or infidelity trauma, I offer you a place of compassion for discovering empowerment, healing, and growth. I've worked with clients from a wide-variety of cultures and backgrounds in different life stages.
Accepting New Clients! Can you imagine a better way of connecting and living with yourself and those around you? Welcome to a sacred space of insight, together we embark on a journey of growth and change to meet your life goals. A space where your journey toward healing and growth is honored with profound empathy and support. If you are dealing with relationship issues, family dilemmas or infidelity trauma, I offer you a place of compassion for discovering empowerment, healing, and growth. I've worked with clients from a wide-variety of cultures and backgrounds in different life stages.
(206) 210-3465 View (206) 210-3465
Photo of Caitlin Elisabeth Pitchon, MA, LMHCA, Counselor
Caitlin Elisabeth Pitchon
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004
Everyone has a story to tell and I'm here to listen to yours, to provide a warm, nonjudgmental space to reflect on your experiences and create lasting positive change that matters most to you. Anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, and major life changes can often make us feel detached from ourselves and those around us. It is an absolute privilege for me to provide a space where you can feel supported and understood. I specialize in my work with adolescents and young adults, with extensive experience in this demographic. I also assist adults with anxiety and addiction and help couples improve communication.
Everyone has a story to tell and I'm here to listen to yours, to provide a warm, nonjudgmental space to reflect on your experiences and create lasting positive change that matters most to you. Anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, and major life changes can often make us feel detached from ourselves and those around us. It is an absolute privilege for me to provide a space where you can feel supported and understood. I specialize in my work with adolescents and young adults, with extensive experience in this demographic. I also assist adults with anxiety and addiction and help couples improve communication.
(425) 225-3567 View (425) 225-3567
Photo of Ali Friedman - Traverse Therapy Services, LSWAIC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Traverse Therapy Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98005
Traverse Therapy is currently open to new clients! My name is Alexandra. Taking the initiative to seek a therapist is an excellent way to support your mental health. We all experience times when we could use some extra care, whether it's dealing with social anxiety, relationship struggles, life transitions, or feeling stuck. My therapeutic interventions are rooted in strengths-based and trauma-informed care, and my goal is to empower my clients to lead fulfilling and meaningful lives by equipping them with the necessary skills and support to overcome their challenges.
Traverse Therapy is currently open to new clients! My name is Alexandra. Taking the initiative to seek a therapist is an excellent way to support your mental health. We all experience times when we could use some extra care, whether it's dealing with social anxiety, relationship struggles, life transitions, or feeling stuck. My therapeutic interventions are rooted in strengths-based and trauma-informed care, and my goal is to empower my clients to lead fulfilling and meaningful lives by equipping them with the necessary skills and support to overcome their challenges.
(425) 414-3747 View (425) 414-3747
Photo of Dr. Michelle Taylor, PsyD, LMHCA, CDP, Counselor
Dr. Michelle Taylor
Counselor, PsyD, LMHCA, CDP
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98005
Taylor values the therapeutic relationship and being a great resource for clients.
Dr. Taylor has significant experience working with individuals with addiction, trauma, infidelity, and chronic pain or illness impacting sexuality. She understands how one’s life can change in the blink of an eye, and how goals and values can shift when life does. It is during these times that individuals, couples, and/or families, can experience varying degrees of difficultly with the transition. How an individual responds is neither right nor wrong, because everyone has their own process and journey in life.
Taylor values the therapeutic relationship and being a great resource for clients.
Dr. Taylor has significant experience working with individuals with addiction, trauma, infidelity, and chronic pain or illness impacting sexuality. She understands how one’s life can change in the blink of an eye, and how goals and values can shift when life does. It is during these times that individuals, couples, and/or families, can experience varying degrees of difficultly with the transition. How an individual responds is neither right nor wrong, because everyone has their own process and journey in life.
(425) 470-5712 View (425) 470-5712
Photo of Renee Gilbert, PhD, Psychologist
Renee Gilbert
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98005
Additional services include: specialized treatment programs for couples, programs for people struggling with shyness and social anxiety, and personalized social-skills training programs for business and/or personal use.
I can best describe myself as a Competency-based, Cognitive-Behavioral, Family Systems therapist. Practically speaking, that means I have great respect for the challenges we all face in our lives and consider most so called "problem-behaviors" as logical adaptations to difficult situations that simply have outlived their usefulness. Therapy sessions strive to identify out dated problem solving strategies and replace them with newer more effective solutions. While I utilize a number of treatment techniques, I rely most heavily on Cognitive-Behavioral, Skills Training and Family Systems approaches.
Additional services include: specialized treatment programs for couples, programs for people struggling with shyness and social anxiety, and personalized social-skills training programs for business and/or personal use.
I can best describe myself as a Competency-based, Cognitive-Behavioral, Family Systems therapist. Practically speaking, that means I have great respect for the challenges we all face in our lives and consider most so called "problem-behaviors" as logical adaptations to difficult situations that simply have outlived their usefulness. Therapy sessions strive to identify out dated problem solving strategies and replace them with newer more effective solutions. While I utilize a number of treatment techniques, I rely most heavily on Cognitive-Behavioral, Skills Training and Family Systems approaches.
(425) 320-3777 View (425) 320-3777
Photo of Dr. Nuri Kahn, DBH, LMFT, MHP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Nuri Kahn
Marriage & Family Therapist, DBH, LMFT, MHP
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004  (Online Only)
Kahn provides psychotherapy and other behavioral health support to children, adolescents, and adults seeking treatment for a wide range of clinical issues including anxiety, depression, impulse control, phobias, chronic health concerns, functional limitations, end of life issues, trauma, adjustment and relationship challenges and behavioral challenges.
Dr. Kahn holds a doctoral degree in clinical behavioral health from Arizona State University. He also holds a master’s degree in clinical psychology and a bachelor’s degree with a concentration in psychology. He has received specialized training in individual, couples, and family systems therapy. He has also received additional training in health psychology, crisis intervention and trauma-based counseling.
Kahn provides psychotherapy and other behavioral health support to children, adolescents, and adults seeking treatment for a wide range of clinical issues including anxiety, depression, impulse control, phobias, chronic health concerns, functional limitations, end of life issues, trauma, adjustment and relationship challenges and behavioral challenges.
Dr. Kahn holds a doctoral degree in clinical behavioral health from Arizona State University. He also holds a master’s degree in clinical psychology and a bachelor’s degree with a concentration in psychology. He has received specialized training in individual, couples, and family systems therapy. He has also received additional training in health psychology, crisis intervention and trauma-based counseling.
(425) 470-6274 View (425) 470-6274
Photo of Natalie Sievert, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Natalie Sievert
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004  (Online Only)
If you need individual counseling, couples counseling, parent training, child behavioral therapy, or any other kind of help, please reach out.
I have extensive experience over 15 years providing treatment and counseling services to all ages and populations. I specialize in autism treatment/support, personality disorders, complex trauma, mood disorders, ADHD, and narcissism. I work with people of all ages and provide individual, family, and marriage/ couples counseling. My treatment method involves building a trusting relationship, being goal-oriented, and staying focused on what the client wants to improve in his or her life. I want the treatment experience to be real and positive for my clients. That is my ultimate goal.
If you need individual counseling, couples counseling, parent training, child behavioral therapy, or any other kind of help, please reach out.
I have extensive experience over 15 years providing treatment and counseling services to all ages and populations. I specialize in autism treatment/support, personality disorders, complex trauma, mood disorders, ADHD, and narcissism. I work with people of all ages and provide individual, family, and marriage/ couples counseling. My treatment method involves building a trusting relationship, being goal-oriented, and staying focused on what the client wants to improve in his or her life. I want the treatment experience to be real and positive for my clients. That is my ultimate goal.
(509) 295-9199 View (509) 295-9199
Photo of Susan M Burns, MA , LMHC, NCC, BC-TMH, CEAP, Counselor
Susan M Burns
Counselor, MA , LMHC, NCC, BC-TMH, CEAP
Not Verified Not Verified
Bellevue, WA 98005
I offer an integrated array of counseling services based on 40 years of work in human services, treating psychological, educational, and work issues. A trauma informed client centered approach to personal development informs my work. I focus on a healthy system of relationship dynamics, short and long term counseling with expertise in mind/body approaches as well as traditional therapy. I am certified as an employee assistance professional and am very capable with work related issues and have developed expertise in career development. I am also specialized in executive coaching and telehealth.
I offer an integrated array of counseling services based on 40 years of work in human services, treating psychological, educational, and work issues. A trauma informed client centered approach to personal development informs my work. I focus on a healthy system of relationship dynamics, short and long term counseling with expertise in mind/body approaches as well as traditional therapy. I am certified as an employee assistance professional and am very capable with work related issues and have developed expertise in career development. I am also specialized in executive coaching and telehealth.
(425) 399-5047 View (425) 399-5047
Photo of Jamie Hauglid, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jamie Hauglid
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98005  (Online Only)
I can help you feel safe and enjoy intimacy with your partner, while creating your own healthy and pleasurable relationship with sex based on your values.
Are you struggling with feelings of insecurity, trust issues, or having trouble connecting in your relationship? I help individuals and couples who want to be close and feel safe together to get vulnerable, honest, and learn to communicate. A deeper connection is possible, even if you are trying to recover from infidelity. You may feel lost without hope, and I will provide a supportive path forward with the tools you need to make meaning of past events, receive empathy, strengthen emotional intimacy, and build trust. We will work to alleviate trauma responses from betrayal, heal sexual intimacy, and create a healthier relationship.
I can help you feel safe and enjoy intimacy with your partner, while creating your own healthy and pleasurable relationship with sex based on your values.
Are you struggling with feelings of insecurity, trust issues, or having trouble connecting in your relationship? I help individuals and couples who want to be close and feel safe together to get vulnerable, honest, and learn to communicate. A deeper connection is possible, even if you are trying to recover from infidelity. You may feel lost without hope, and I will provide a supportive path forward with the tools you need to make meaning of past events, receive empathy, strengthen emotional intimacy, and build trust. We will work to alleviate trauma responses from betrayal, heal sexual intimacy, and create a healthier relationship.
(425) 584-2930 View (425) 584-2930
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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.