Couples Counseling Therapists in Fort Lauderdale, FL

Photo of Sigal Levy, PhD, Psychologist
Sigal Levy
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312  (Online Only)
As human beings, we all face life challenges that can lead to dissatisfaction, depression, anxiety, grief, traumatic experiences, relationship issues, eating disorders, addiction, and a feeling of being "stuck" or like "life is passing by and I don't know where I belong." My passion is to help individuals unleash their own strengths, build or regain hope, and discover their inner potential to achieve their defined road of success. I am versatile in my therapeutic approaches, working collaboratively with individuals to assess and determine the best fit for their unique needs while utilizing an integral strength-based approach.
As human beings, we all face life challenges that can lead to dissatisfaction, depression, anxiety, grief, traumatic experiences, relationship issues, eating disorders, addiction, and a feeling of being "stuck" or like "life is passing by and I don't know where I belong." My passion is to help individuals unleash their own strengths, build or regain hope, and discover their inner potential to achieve their defined road of success. I am versatile in my therapeutic approaches, working collaboratively with individuals to assess and determine the best fit for their unique needs while utilizing an integral strength-based approach.
(754) 444-1950 View (754) 444-1950
Photo of Ben Lifland, LCSW, LMFT, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ben Lifland
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMFT, CCTP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33334
I help individuals (including adolescents, teens, and adults), couples, and families break through suffering.
Do you feel misunderstood? Have you been yearning to live your best life? I can help you in navigating your concerns and challenges so that you can conquer doubt, manage conflict, and strengthen relationships. I have been working with clients experiencing mental health/substance use problems for the past twenty years. My approaches rely on evidence-based practices, including: EMDR, motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral, trauma-focused CBT, DBT, mindfulness, and others. Sessions offer clients a safe, comfortable place to express their voice, process pain and distress, experience relief, and create transformation.
I help individuals (including adolescents, teens, and adults), couples, and families break through suffering.
Do you feel misunderstood? Have you been yearning to live your best life? I can help you in navigating your concerns and challenges so that you can conquer doubt, manage conflict, and strengthen relationships. I have been working with clients experiencing mental health/substance use problems for the past twenty years. My approaches rely on evidence-based practices, including: EMDR, motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral, trauma-focused CBT, DBT, mindfulness, and others. Sessions offer clients a safe, comfortable place to express their voice, process pain and distress, experience relief, and create transformation.
(305) 306-8731 View (305) 306-8731
Pamela Morgan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304
I specialize in somatic psychotherapy, an experimental holistic approach encompassing mind, body and spirit. My approach is fundamentally experience-based knowledge that attends to an ever-deepening awareness of the interconnections within the self and others. With this knowledge comes the authentic self and more intimate relationships. I utilize a variety of techniques including movements, body postures, eye exercises, energy and breath work and releasing the emotions are the path to looking at different chronic behavior patterns, relationship issues and decisions which allows for profound life changes.
I specialize in somatic psychotherapy, an experimental holistic approach encompassing mind, body and spirit. My approach is fundamentally experience-based knowledge that attends to an ever-deepening awareness of the interconnections within the self and others. With this knowledge comes the authentic self and more intimate relationships. I utilize a variety of techniques including movements, body postures, eye exercises, energy and breath work and releasing the emotions are the path to looking at different chronic behavior patterns, relationship issues and decisions which allows for profound life changes.
(954) 399-7339 View (954) 399-7339
Photo of Aeron DeGroat, MA, LMHC, MCAP, Counselor
Aeron DeGroat
Counselor, MA, LMHC, MCAP
Verified Verified
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304
I am passionate about women's issues, body image, developing a healthy relationship with food, and promoting overall self-care and self-love.
My ideal client may present with a variety of issues, but ultimately they are motivated to seek change and implement strategies discussed in therapy while in-between sessions. They strive to be open and vulnerable in sessions and are looking to be an active and collaborative part of their therapeutic journey. I believe that we are all experts on our own experience, and a client who is willing to provide feedback on what is working and what isn't can assist in helping them tailor the therapy experience to their individual needs.
I am passionate about women's issues, body image, developing a healthy relationship with food, and promoting overall self-care and self-love.
My ideal client may present with a variety of issues, but ultimately they are motivated to seek change and implement strategies discussed in therapy while in-between sessions. They strive to be open and vulnerable in sessions and are looking to be an active and collaborative part of their therapeutic journey. I believe that we are all experts on our own experience, and a client who is willing to provide feedback on what is working and what isn't can assist in helping them tailor the therapy experience to their individual needs.
(954) 737-5692 View (954) 737-5692
Photo of Nicole Friedman, MSW
Nicole Friedman
Registered Clinical Social Worker Intern, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33306
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, life transitions, or relationship challenges? I’m Nicole Friedman, a Registered Clinical Social Worker Intern, and I’m here to help. I provide a warm, supportive space where you can feel comfortable, heard, and truly valued. With experience working with children, families, and individuals, I specialize in helping clients navigate anxiety, depression, struggles stemming from neurodivergence, grief, trauma, and more. Together, we’ll focus on your strengths, empowering you to grow, heal, and develop the tools you need for a more fulfilling life. Let’s work together to help you thrive.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, life transitions, or relationship challenges? I’m Nicole Friedman, a Registered Clinical Social Worker Intern, and I’m here to help. I provide a warm, supportive space where you can feel comfortable, heard, and truly valued. With experience working with children, families, and individuals, I specialize in helping clients navigate anxiety, depression, struggles stemming from neurodivergence, grief, trauma, and more. Together, we’ll focus on your strengths, empowering you to grow, heal, and develop the tools you need for a more fulfilling life. Let’s work together to help you thrive.
(954) 342-0982 View (954) 342-0982
Photo of Carol Mirones, LCSW-QS, LMFT-QS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carol Mirones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-QS, LMFT-QS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33306
I believe the most powerful agent for change is the relationship between the client and the therapist.
I work with people who have gone through the same things I've gone through - divorce, remarriage, blended family & parenting struggles, grief & loss due to death and suicide, and loving & care taking of someone with a severe mental illness and/or chronic illness. Let's face it, finding a therapist is hard. You're feeling overwhelmed already and now you've got a list of people with letters after their names and little pictures. You look at the picture and wonder if that person is someone you can talk to. I've been there & it stinks! You deserve to have someone listen, someone to connect to, someone who understands your struggles.
I believe the most powerful agent for change is the relationship between the client and the therapist.
I work with people who have gone through the same things I've gone through - divorce, remarriage, blended family & parenting struggles, grief & loss due to death and suicide, and loving & care taking of someone with a severe mental illness and/or chronic illness. Let's face it, finding a therapist is hard. You're feeling overwhelmed already and now you've got a list of people with letters after their names and little pictures. You look at the picture and wonder if that person is someone you can talk to. I've been there & it stinks! You deserve to have someone listen, someone to connect to, someone who understands your struggles.
(954) 342-0982 View (954) 342-0982
Photo of Shelley Buchanan, LMHC
Shelley Buchanan
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316  (Online Only)
As a therapist, my specialization lies in guiding individuals through the complexities of their emotions and relationship dynamics.
Are you facing challenges such as managing aggression, resolving conflicts or adjusting to significant life changes. Do you want to foster a more harmonious relationship, build mutual understanding, and rediscover the joy in your connections. Do you desire a supportive space to explore your needs as an indIvidual or a couple while strengthening the bonds in your relationships?
As a therapist, my specialization lies in guiding individuals through the complexities of their emotions and relationship dynamics.
Are you facing challenges such as managing aggression, resolving conflicts or adjusting to significant life changes. Do you want to foster a more harmonious relationship, build mutual understanding, and rediscover the joy in your connections. Do you desire a supportive space to explore your needs as an indIvidual or a couple while strengthening the bonds in your relationships?
(954) 800-6559 View (954) 800-6559
Photo of Alana Nelson-Patnaude, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alana Nelson-Patnaude
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33308  (Online Only)
Are you seeking happiness, contentment, improved relationships, more effective communication, more control over your emotions, more satisfaction & success in life, & a feeling of being accepted, respected, & loved? Then you've come to the right place. I work with individuals, couples. & families to dramatically improve coping skills, which they can then utilize to become their best selves, meet their goals, develop, build, and nurture important relationships, create successes, and bring into existence the lives they've only dreamed of having. (Reach me quickly, send a TEXT 24/7.) (Don't forget to ask about my current specials)
Are you seeking happiness, contentment, improved relationships, more effective communication, more control over your emotions, more satisfaction & success in life, & a feeling of being accepted, respected, & loved? Then you've come to the right place. I work with individuals, couples. & families to dramatically improve coping skills, which they can then utilize to become their best selves, meet their goals, develop, build, and nurture important relationships, create successes, and bring into existence the lives they've only dreamed of having. (Reach me quickly, send a TEXT 24/7.) (Don't forget to ask about my current specials)
(954) 592-4886 View (954) 592-4886
Photo of Patrick Anglade Casthely - A Journey To Well-Being LLC, PhD, LMHC, MCAP, Counselor
A Journey To Well-Being LLC
Counselor, PhD, LMHC, MCAP
Verified Verified
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
I am a licensed psychotherapist with a doctorates in philosophy, who specializes in treating individuals experiencing a wide-range of difficulties. My passionate, friendly and patient approach is aimed at developing a individualized therapeutic relationship, with my clients that will inspire courage to navigate life's challenges. With an understanding and appreciation for the uniqueness of each individual, I recognize that no single approach is right for everyone and strive to integrate various therapeutic orientations and interventions.
I am a licensed psychotherapist with a doctorates in philosophy, who specializes in treating individuals experiencing a wide-range of difficulties. My passionate, friendly and patient approach is aimed at developing a individualized therapeutic relationship, with my clients that will inspire courage to navigate life's challenges. With an understanding and appreciation for the uniqueness of each individual, I recognize that no single approach is right for everyone and strive to integrate various therapeutic orientations and interventions.
(321) 306-0254 View (321) 306-0254
Photo of Kelly Ghweinem - Velvet Psychotherapy Collective , LCSW, CST, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Velvet Psychotherapy Collective
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CST
Verified Verified
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312  (Online Only)
We place the most value on the therapeutic relationship, developing a unique rapport with each of my clients.
Our goal at the collective is to provide a safe and intimate space for you to explore your inner world, bringing you closer to living your most authentic life. Each clinician brings their authentic self to each session allowing for an individualized, collaborative approach to treatment with a core belief that you are the expert in your own life. It is our belief that the most important part of therapy is the relationship between therapist and client. Licensed in NY, NJ, FL & SC
We place the most value on the therapeutic relationship, developing a unique rapport with each of my clients.
Our goal at the collective is to provide a safe and intimate space for you to explore your inner world, bringing you closer to living your most authentic life. Each clinician brings their authentic self to each session allowing for an individualized, collaborative approach to treatment with a core belief that you are the expert in your own life. It is our belief that the most important part of therapy is the relationship between therapist and client. Licensed in NY, NJ, FL & SC
(754) 249-2013 View (754) 249-2013
Photo of Dr. Karen Shatz, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Karen Shatz
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33308
Together, we'll uncover strengths and reshape your narrative, whether addressing identity struggles, relationship challenges, or personal growth.
Hello, I'm Dr. Karen Shatz, I am committed to guiding individuals through the intricate interplay of societal influences on personal narratives. With expertise in identity exploration, relationship dynamics, and self-empowerment, my approach aims to provide a warm, collaborative space for you to challenge and reshape limiting beliefs. I'm here to empower you to navigate life's complexities authentically. Ready to embark on a transformative journey? Contact me for support in deconstructing societal influences and shaping your unique narrative.
Together, we'll uncover strengths and reshape your narrative, whether addressing identity struggles, relationship challenges, or personal growth.
Hello, I'm Dr. Karen Shatz, I am committed to guiding individuals through the intricate interplay of societal influences on personal narratives. With expertise in identity exploration, relationship dynamics, and self-empowerment, my approach aims to provide a warm, collaborative space for you to challenge and reshape limiting beliefs. I'm here to empower you to navigate life's complexities authentically. Ready to embark on a transformative journey? Contact me for support in deconstructing societal influences and shaping your unique narrative.
(954) 932-7493 View (954) 932-7493
Photo of Courtnie Vargas-Rodriguez, LMFT, QS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Courtnie Vargas-Rodriguez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, QS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33334
I firmly believe in the power of therapeutic intervention to guide individuals, couples, and families towards healthier, more fulfilling lives. I understand the pain involved in dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, and couples’ relationships. My goal is to create a safe, judgement-free, and collaborative environment that gives you the freedom to express yourself and establish goals. My ultimate goal is to be a catalyst for transformation and healing, fostering stronger, more harmonious relationships and for individuals to find the support and understanding they need to lead happier and healthier lives.
I firmly believe in the power of therapeutic intervention to guide individuals, couples, and families towards healthier, more fulfilling lives. I understand the pain involved in dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, and couples’ relationships. My goal is to create a safe, judgement-free, and collaborative environment that gives you the freedom to express yourself and establish goals. My ultimate goal is to be a catalyst for transformation and healing, fostering stronger, more harmonious relationships and for individuals to find the support and understanding they need to lead happier and healthier lives.
(954) 710-5450 View (954) 710-5450
Photo of Kate Campbell - Bayview Therapy, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Bayview Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33308
Our team of expert clinicians provide counseling, psychological evaluations, and psychiatric medication for children, teens, adults, couples, parents, and families.
Whether you want to feel happier, more fulfilled in your relationships, experience greater work/life balance, successfully navigate life transitions such as having your first baby, parenting a teenager, or launching your children out of the nest, our team of expert counselors can help! We help children, teens, adults, couples, and families across their lifespan so that no matter what life throws your way, you can overcome it. We are skilled at helping people overcome challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, grief/loss, addiction, anger, divorce, parenting struggles, relationship/family discord, and life transitions.
Our team of expert clinicians provide counseling, psychological evaluations, and psychiatric medication for children, teens, adults, couples, parents, and families.
Whether you want to feel happier, more fulfilled in your relationships, experience greater work/life balance, successfully navigate life transitions such as having your first baby, parenting a teenager, or launching your children out of the nest, our team of expert counselors can help! We help children, teens, adults, couples, and families across their lifespan so that no matter what life throws your way, you can overcome it. We are skilled at helping people overcome challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, grief/loss, addiction, anger, divorce, parenting struggles, relationship/family discord, and life transitions.
(954) 280-8086 View (954) 280-8086
Photo of Jesse Mozeko, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jesse Mozeko
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33308  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with couples of all kinds, as well as adolescents and adults struggling with life transitions, depresssion, anxiety, substance use, and other more specialized concerns.
My ideal therapy client is someone who is seeking support to navigate personal challenges and improve their overall well-being. This client would most likely be in a stage where they are able to recognize a difficulty or problem that has begun to affect their life in a less than positive way, and is motivated to take the steps necessary to live in a way that is optimal for them. I accept Cigna and Aetna through the Headway platform, and Cigna, Humana, Medicare, and United Healthcare/Optum through Grow Therapy. Feel free to reach out with any questions and I'm happy assist you in staying in-network with your health insurance.
I enjoy working with couples of all kinds, as well as adolescents and adults struggling with life transitions, depresssion, anxiety, substance use, and other more specialized concerns.
My ideal therapy client is someone who is seeking support to navigate personal challenges and improve their overall well-being. This client would most likely be in a stage where they are able to recognize a difficulty or problem that has begun to affect their life in a less than positive way, and is motivated to take the steps necessary to live in a way that is optimal for them. I accept Cigna and Aetna through the Headway platform, and Cigna, Humana, Medicare, and United Healthcare/Optum through Grow Therapy. Feel free to reach out with any questions and I'm happy assist you in staying in-network with your health insurance.
(954) 758-5156 View (954) 758-5156
Photo of Brandon Kennedy - From Under the Rug, MSW, RCSWi
From Under the Rug
Registered Clinical Social Worker Intern, MSW, RCSWi
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33311  (Online Only)
When we begin to engage with each other, this is the time where we learn more about each other and start to lay the foundations of our therapeutic relationship and establish goals and support structure milestones.
LGBT, Relationships/Marriage, Sex, Kink/Fetish, Career Goals, Anxiety/Depression, HIV... Sometimes it can be so easy to sweep things under the rug and deal with it later. The problem is often we have so much going on that we forget to address things that we say we will. This therapeutic practice strongly believes that every person, every situation, and the surrounding circumstances are all unique. Your situation may sound like or seem similar to someone else’s but YOU are the factor that makes yours different, and that’s what the main focus will be; how you can be empowered to explore with me and take solutions into your world.
When we begin to engage with each other, this is the time where we learn more about each other and start to lay the foundations of our therapeutic relationship and establish goals and support structure milestones.
LGBT, Relationships/Marriage, Sex, Kink/Fetish, Career Goals, Anxiety/Depression, HIV... Sometimes it can be so easy to sweep things under the rug and deal with it later. The problem is often we have so much going on that we forget to address things that we say we will. This therapeutic practice strongly believes that every person, every situation, and the surrounding circumstances are all unique. Your situation may sound like or seem similar to someone else’s but YOU are the factor that makes yours different, and that’s what the main focus will be; how you can be empowered to explore with me and take solutions into your world.
(754) 203-4484 View (754) 203-4484
Photo of Tali Yuz Berliner, PsyD, Psychologist
Tali Yuz Berliner
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33306
I also treat those struggling with depression and anxiety as well as with life transitions, grief, and relationship difficulties.
Deciding to meet with a therapist takes courage. As you begin the potentially daunting process, it is important to find a therapist you can connect with as the therapeutic relationship can be the catalyst for change. In therapy, I will help you recognize and build on your own strengths. I will treat you with the respect and dignity that you are worthy of and will tailor my approach to suit your needs. I will help you break dysfunctional patterns that keep you from experiencing happiness and together we will balance this difficult dialogue with perspective and humor.
I also treat those struggling with depression and anxiety as well as with life transitions, grief, and relationship difficulties.
Deciding to meet with a therapist takes courage. As you begin the potentially daunting process, it is important to find a therapist you can connect with as the therapeutic relationship can be the catalyst for change. In therapy, I will help you recognize and build on your own strengths. I will treat you with the respect and dignity that you are worthy of and will tailor my approach to suit your needs. I will help you break dysfunctional patterns that keep you from experiencing happiness and together we will balance this difficult dialogue with perspective and humor.
(754) 600-8232 x3 View (754) 600-8232 x3
Photo of Margie Mader, LMFT, CHT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Margie Mader
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CHT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33309
With over 24 years experience in helping couples, I can help you both overcome what is creating that wedge between you - from trauma and infidelity to fears, anger, and trust issues.
It's so hard to be you isn't it? Being in a relationship and not feeling heard. Your needs not getting met. You're questioning if you should stay or leave. You've tried communicating in every way you can think of or not communicating and letting things "slide", but nothing changes. The frustration and resentment just builds. Before you make the decision to leave or decide to just sweep it under the rug and continue to be in pain, let me work with both of you.
With over 24 years experience in helping couples, I can help you both overcome what is creating that wedge between you - from trauma and infidelity to fears, anger, and trust issues.
It's so hard to be you isn't it? Being in a relationship and not feeling heard. Your needs not getting met. You're questioning if you should stay or leave. You've tried communicating in every way you can think of or not communicating and letting things "slide", but nothing changes. The frustration and resentment just builds. Before you make the decision to leave or decide to just sweep it under the rug and continue to be in pain, let me work with both of you.
(954) 871-2003 View (954) 871-2003
Photo of Tara Yombor, LMHC, LPC, Counselor
Tara Yombor
Counselor, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312
I strive to guide individuals, couples, & families out of their painful times to see the light in their lives.
My goal for private practice is to support others to find peace and wholeness within their lives and relationships. Throughout my time working as a therapist, I have assisted clients with transforming their lives from desperation and overwhelming anxiety to a life filled with hope and serenity. I have watched families who were broken by addiction who grew to live a chaotic-free life with the tools to navigate their communication and let go of codependent behaviors. I have had the pleasure of coaching couples on the verge of divorce to grow together and build a stronger relationship.
I strive to guide individuals, couples, & families out of their painful times to see the light in their lives.
My goal for private practice is to support others to find peace and wholeness within their lives and relationships. Throughout my time working as a therapist, I have assisted clients with transforming their lives from desperation and overwhelming anxiety to a life filled with hope and serenity. I have watched families who were broken by addiction who grew to live a chaotic-free life with the tools to navigate their communication and let go of codependent behaviors. I have had the pleasure of coaching couples on the verge of divorce to grow together and build a stronger relationship.
(561) 462-5237 View (561) 462-5237
Photo of Judy Gunn, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Judy Gunn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33309
Knowing and validating who we are and that someone has our back in relationship, no matter what, is what we need.
As human beings, we are hard-wired to be securely connected in relationship. We are happier and even live longer lives. At the same time, we are hard-wired to protect ourselves which can create a lot of conflict in relationship with others and with our authenticate self.
Knowing and validating who we are and that someone has our back in relationship, no matter what, is what we need.
As human beings, we are hard-wired to be securely connected in relationship. We are happier and even live longer lives. At the same time, we are hard-wired to protect ourselves which can create a lot of conflict in relationship with others and with our authenticate self.
(248) 327-0071 View (248) 327-0071
Photo of Christina Cummings, LMHC , CMHC, Counselor
Christina Cummings
Counselor, LMHC , CMHC
Verified Verified
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304
Specializing in anxiety/depression, PTSD, substance abuse, general life stressors, mindfulness, & family/ relationship counseling, I offer a safe space to process, explore, and freely express yourself.
It is important that my clients have issues that I am qualified to treat. An ideal client would be willing to explore, understand, and work through their psychological and emotional challenges. Their needs consist of a nonjudgmental space where they feel seen, heard, and understood, allowing them to express themselves freely and practical tools and coping strategies to manage symptoms of anxiety, depression, or stress and to navigate challenging emotions or situations.
Specializing in anxiety/depression, PTSD, substance abuse, general life stressors, mindfulness, & family/ relationship counseling, I offer a safe space to process, explore, and freely express yourself.
It is important that my clients have issues that I am qualified to treat. An ideal client would be willing to explore, understand, and work through their psychological and emotional challenges. Their needs consist of a nonjudgmental space where they feel seen, heard, and understood, allowing them to express themselves freely and practical tools and coping strategies to manage symptoms of anxiety, depression, or stress and to navigate challenging emotions or situations.
(754) 254-7004 View (754) 254-7004
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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.