Couples Counseling Therapists in London, KY

Photo of Janice Grentz - Healing Journey of Recovery, MA, LPCC, NCC, CSAT
Healing Journey of Recovery
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC, NCC, CSAT
Verified Verified
London, KY 40741
I specialize in treating sex addicts and their partners in individual, couples and group counseling.
I am easy to talk to and enjoy getting to know each client personally as we work together to create an appropriate and effective treatment plan. I use a variety of approaches including cognitive therapy. I have a general practice and treat a variety of issues including grief, trauma, anxiety, depression, suicial thoughts, marriage, addiction, and codependency. I have a personal Christian world view but respect and accept the individual rights of each client to create their own value system.
I specialize in treating sex addicts and their partners in individual, couples and group counseling.
I am easy to talk to and enjoy getting to know each client personally as we work together to create an appropriate and effective treatment plan. I use a variety of approaches including cognitive therapy. I have a general practice and treat a variety of issues including grief, trauma, anxiety, depression, suicial thoughts, marriage, addiction, and codependency. I have a personal Christian world view but respect and accept the individual rights of each client to create their own value system.
(606) 314-0221 View (606) 314-0221
Photo of Ariel Siler - Family Options Developmental Planning, LLC, MA, LPCA
Family Options Developmental Planning, LLC
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCA
Verified Verified
London, KY 40741
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate. I have a Masters in Professional Counseling from University of the Cumberlands. I have worked with individuals, couples, and families with a variety of presenting concerns, and I value each of my clients. I have a passion to see lives changed. I desire to see others find hope, understanding, confidence, and peace.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate. I have a Masters in Professional Counseling from University of the Cumberlands. I have worked with individuals, couples, and families with a variety of presenting concerns, and I value each of my clients. I have a passion to see lives changed. I desire to see others find hope, understanding, confidence, and peace.
(606) 392-4113 View (606) 392-4113
Photo of William Aaron Stevens - New Frontiers: Clinical Counseling, MEd, LPCC
New Frontiers: Clinical Counseling
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MEd, LPCC
Verified Verified
London, KY 40744
I offer IN-HOME and ON-SITE counseling services in order to best meet individuals, couples and families where they are most comfortable, or where they are experiencing difficulties.
I offer professional counseling services for individuals, couples, and families to help them move beyond problems and find solutions for lasting change. I have over 14 years of hands on experience in the mental health field working with clients of all ages facing a vast array of life problems relating to: Substance abuse, Mental health, Couples and Families, Behavioral and Developmental, Career and Academic issues. If you or your family are experiencing problems and are seeking to be treated by a fully licensed and highly trained professional therapist contact me today for a free consultation.
I offer IN-HOME and ON-SITE counseling services in order to best meet individuals, couples and families where they are most comfortable, or where they are experiencing difficulties.
I offer professional counseling services for individuals, couples, and families to help them move beyond problems and find solutions for lasting change. I have over 14 years of hands on experience in the mental health field working with clients of all ages facing a vast array of life problems relating to: Substance abuse, Mental health, Couples and Families, Behavioral and Developmental, Career and Academic issues. If you or your family are experiencing problems and are seeking to be treated by a fully licensed and highly trained professional therapist contact me today for a free consultation.
(606) 263-1339 View (606) 263-1339
Photo of Jessica Lynn Baker, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jessica Lynn Baker
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
London, KY 40741  (Online Only)
I have experience with trauma, grief, relationship issues/family therapy, depression and anxiety.
First Session is Free! Hello everyone! A little about me. First I am honest, dedicated, friendly and empathetic. I enjoy helping others in any way that I can. I am here to provide a safe, comfortable, and supportive counseling environment. I want you to feel comfortable sharing your concerns/issues with me. I want to be open and share that I myself have used therapy as a coping mechanism. I lost my grandmother a few years ago and she raised me from birth. It was a difficult time in my life and I had a lot of trauma/grief/depression and anxiety. So I can relate. This is a judgement free zone and I am here to help you love yourself!
I have experience with trauma, grief, relationship issues/family therapy, depression and anxiety.
First Session is Free! Hello everyone! A little about me. First I am honest, dedicated, friendly and empathetic. I enjoy helping others in any way that I can. I am here to provide a safe, comfortable, and supportive counseling environment. I want you to feel comfortable sharing your concerns/issues with me. I want to be open and share that I myself have used therapy as a coping mechanism. I lost my grandmother a few years ago and she raised me from birth. It was a difficult time in my life and I had a lot of trauma/grief/depression and anxiety. So I can relate. This is a judgement free zone and I am here to help you love yourself!
(859) 800-2634 View (859) 800-2634
Photo of Scarlette Rebecca Jasper, MDiv, PCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Scarlette Rebecca Jasper
Pre-Licensed Professional, MDiv, PCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
London, KY 40741
As a pastoral counselor, I work with individuals, couples, and families to develop insight into their challenges. Sometimes we just need a judgement free and supportive environment to share our struggles. Stress, worry, and anxiety can weigh us down. Past life experiences can hinder us from being in a place of peace. My goal is to walk with and provide wholistic care to restore hope and help clients achieve a happy, fulfilling, and abundant life.
As a pastoral counselor, I work with individuals, couples, and families to develop insight into their challenges. Sometimes we just need a judgement free and supportive environment to share our struggles. Stress, worry, and anxiety can weigh us down. Past life experiences can hinder us from being in a place of peace. My goal is to walk with and provide wholistic care to restore hope and help clients achieve a happy, fulfilling, and abundant life.
(606) 206-8397 View (606) 206-8397
Photo of Dr. Jennifer Hayes, PhD, LMFT, RPT-S, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Jennifer Hayes
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, RPT-S
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
London, KY 40745  (Online Only)
Telehealth services only: I work with clients that are motivated for change. I work with adults, teens, and kids. Relationships can be very stressful and overwhelming as today we do not have a village to help us and many people lack supports. My goal is to help you either as an individual or as a family move into a place of healing. Together we can explore unresolved trauma, communication patterns, conflict, emotions, all of it within the safety of a therapeutic relationship.
Telehealth services only: I work with clients that are motivated for change. I work with adults, teens, and kids. Relationships can be very stressful and overwhelming as today we do not have a village to help us and many people lack supports. My goal is to help you either as an individual or as a family move into a place of healing. Together we can explore unresolved trauma, communication patterns, conflict, emotions, all of it within the safety of a therapeutic relationship.
(772) 247-3941 View (772) 247-3941
Photo of Anthony Leis - Bluegrass Counseling Solutions LLC., MSSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bluegrass Counseling Solutions LLC.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
London, KY 40741  (Online Only)
I'm Anthony Leis, and let me tell you that you can do this and you will look back on this decision at some point in the future and be so glad that you had the courage to follow through with starting therapy. I listen to what issues are keeping you from living the life you want to live and we will work together to address those problems. I feel passionate about working with individuals who are seeking to: improve their overall mental health, better manage anxiety, alleviate depression, navigate relationships, family stress and trauma. I strive to provide a relaxing calm space to build trust and provide hope that life can be better.
I'm Anthony Leis, and let me tell you that you can do this and you will look back on this decision at some point in the future and be so glad that you had the courage to follow through with starting therapy. I listen to what issues are keeping you from living the life you want to live and we will work together to address those problems. I feel passionate about working with individuals who are seeking to: improve their overall mental health, better manage anxiety, alleviate depression, navigate relationships, family stress and trauma. I strive to provide a relaxing calm space to build trust and provide hope that life can be better.
(606) 705-2857 View (606) 705-2857
Photo of Eliza Clontz
Eliza Clontz
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor
Verified Verified
London, KY 40741  (Online Only)
Are you affected by anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, and/or other stressful life areas that keeps you feeling stuck with no answers? Everyone is unique and everyone starts at a different place in therapy. Everyone deserves an individualized approach to care. I believe in meeting the person where they are at. If you have negative beliefs, past trauma, and addictions that keep you in a state of uncertainty then lets work to together to create a safe, supportive space for you to talk through areas that are keeping you stuck. I’ll be there to listen to you, guide you, challenge you, and support you along the way.
Are you affected by anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, and/or other stressful life areas that keeps you feeling stuck with no answers? Everyone is unique and everyone starts at a different place in therapy. Everyone deserves an individualized approach to care. I believe in meeting the person where they are at. If you have negative beliefs, past trauma, and addictions that keep you in a state of uncertainty then lets work to together to create a safe, supportive space for you to talk through areas that are keeping you stuck. I’ll be there to listen to you, guide you, challenge you, and support you along the way.
(502) 306-3558 View (502) 306-3558

Online Therapists

Photo of Annette Stringer - Annette L. Stringer, MS, LPCC, Counselor
Annette L. Stringer
Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
Wilmore, KY 40390
One of my children has Down Syndrome which gives me a unique perspective for families and couples that may include a special needs child.
I have been a therapist for over 10 years and am a retired School Counselor. I have a strong faith and am happy to incorporate this if requested or is your preference. I enjoy working with couples to gain a greater sense of connection and understanding. My work with individuals at all ages has been a strong focus and I especially love working young adults. I would welcome a call from you to discuss if you believe I can be of help to you or your family.
One of my children has Down Syndrome which gives me a unique perspective for families and couples that may include a special needs child.
I have been a therapist for over 10 years and am a retired School Counselor. I have a strong faith and am happy to incorporate this if requested or is your preference. I enjoy working with couples to gain a greater sense of connection and understanding. My work with individuals at all ages has been a strong focus and I especially love working young adults. I would welcome a call from you to discuss if you believe I can be of help to you or your family.
(859) 681-8679 View (859) 681-8679
Photo of Wally Hollis - LifeBridge Counseling, LLC (Wally Hollis), LPCC, MSc, DAACS, CFI, Licensed Professional Counselor
LifeBridge Counseling, LLC (Wally Hollis)
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC, MSc, DAACS, CFI
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40509
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor specializing in individual & relationship therapy; as well as trauma, grief, & sexuality and porn addiction counseling.
Everyone goes through difficult challenges in life. While you may have been able to cope with the challenges you’ve encountered, it’s always a good idea to seek extra support when you need it. In fact, when you realize you need a helping hand, you’re taking responsibility admirably by facing the challenges you encounter in life. Therapy will give you long - term benefits and the tools you need to overcome the difficulties you encounter.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor specializing in individual & relationship therapy; as well as trauma, grief, & sexuality and porn addiction counseling.
Everyone goes through difficult challenges in life. While you may have been able to cope with the challenges you’ve encountered, it’s always a good idea to seek extra support when you need it. In fact, when you realize you need a helping hand, you’re taking responsibility admirably by facing the challenges you encounter in life. Therapy will give you long - term benefits and the tools you need to overcome the difficulties you encounter.
(859) 309-5229 View (859) 309-5229
Photo of Daniel Melear, PhD, NCC, LPCC-S
Daniel Melear
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, PhD, NCC, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Somerset, KY 42503  (Online Only)
My counselor education includes a specialization in couple and marriage counseling, a dissertation study on relationship repair after infidelity and advanced studies in treating addictions of substance and behavior.
Feeling stuck, being anxious or depressed, struggling with conflict within and with others, breaking free from unwanted behaviors that are holding you back are issues that many of us have faced. With me, you have a place of respectful privacy and safety to talk about shame, guilt and feelings of powerlessness. It might be from an imbalanced relationship or it might be the incongruities between your values and your behaviors that are the source of discomfort and chaos in your life. Whatever it is, facing the challenges of change can be more hopeful with experienced professional support.
My counselor education includes a specialization in couple and marriage counseling, a dissertation study on relationship repair after infidelity and advanced studies in treating addictions of substance and behavior.
Feeling stuck, being anxious or depressed, struggling with conflict within and with others, breaking free from unwanted behaviors that are holding you back are issues that many of us have faced. With me, you have a place of respectful privacy and safety to talk about shame, guilt and feelings of powerlessness. It might be from an imbalanced relationship or it might be the incongruities between your values and your behaviors that are the source of discomfort and chaos in your life. Whatever it is, facing the challenges of change can be more hopeful with experienced professional support.
(606) 289-2404 View (606) 289-2404
Photo of David B Kent, LPCA, Counselor
David B Kent
Counselor, LPCA
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40508
If you are driven by a relentless inner-critic, paralyzed with anxiety, stuck on a project, in your job, or in a relationship, or if you just want to understand yourself better, let's talk.
You're the person who is most critical of you. You want to take a break, but you're afraid of what will happen if you do. When you're resting, you think you should be working more. When you get stuck on a project, you feel like a failure. You want to feel appreciated, but you can't accept people's compliments. You are wrecked by people's disappointment in you. You feel like you are an impostor at your job, with your friends, maybe your family, too. You're driven by a steady level of anxiety and fear of failure. You could really use some clarity, peace, and quiet.
If you are driven by a relentless inner-critic, paralyzed with anxiety, stuck on a project, in your job, or in a relationship, or if you just want to understand yourself better, let's talk.
You're the person who is most critical of you. You want to take a break, but you're afraid of what will happen if you do. When you're resting, you think you should be working more. When you get stuck on a project, you feel like a failure. You want to feel appreciated, but you can't accept people's compliments. You are wrecked by people's disappointment in you. You feel like you are an impostor at your job, with your friends, maybe your family, too. You're driven by a steady level of anxiety and fear of failure. You could really use some clarity, peace, and quiet.
(859) 535-8672 View (859) 535-8672
Photo of Dylan Ty Williams, MA, MFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Dylan Ty Williams
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, MFTA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frankfort, KY 40601
No matter the pain or disconnection you’re experiencing in your relationship, there is hope.
It can be incredibly painful to feel alone, even when your partner is right beside you. Marriage and relationships are among life’s greatest joys, but when things aren’t going well, the distance between you can feel insurmountable. Arguments, disconnection, and repetitive cycles can make it difficult to share yourself with the person you love. Through couples counseling, you and your partner can work together to build understanding and compassion for each other's experiences. It’s about moving beyond being two ships passing in the night, and instead, finding a way to truly connect. As you develop understanding,
No matter the pain or disconnection you’re experiencing in your relationship, there is hope.
It can be incredibly painful to feel alone, even when your partner is right beside you. Marriage and relationships are among life’s greatest joys, but when things aren’t going well, the distance between you can feel insurmountable. Arguments, disconnection, and repetitive cycles can make it difficult to share yourself with the person you love. Through couples counseling, you and your partner can work together to build understanding and compassion for each other's experiences. It’s about moving beyond being two ships passing in the night, and instead, finding a way to truly connect. As you develop understanding,
(502) 218-3910 View (502) 218-3910
Photo of Nathan Lloyd, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nathan Lloyd
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Richmond, KY 40475  (Online Only)
My experience and communication style is tailored toward working with adults, both individuals and couples.
Hello! My name is Nathan Lloyd, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over a decade of experience. I am based in Louisville, Kentucky and work with clients statewide via telemedicine. My goal as a therapist is to help others achieve their goals and live happier, more fulfilling lives. I look forward to working with you! I don't believe in a one-size-fits-all approach to therapy and will adjust my therapeutic approach based on your individual needs. I most frequently use person-centered therapy, motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and acceptance and commitment therapy.
My experience and communication style is tailored toward working with adults, both individuals and couples.
Hello! My name is Nathan Lloyd, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over a decade of experience. I am based in Louisville, Kentucky and work with clients statewide via telemedicine. My goal as a therapist is to help others achieve their goals and live happier, more fulfilling lives. I look forward to working with you! I don't believe in a one-size-fits-all approach to therapy and will adjust my therapeutic approach based on your individual needs. I most frequently use person-centered therapy, motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and acceptance and commitment therapy.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Ray Coates, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ray Coates
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Richmond, KY 40475  (Online Only)
I believe everyone should have a safe and healing place to work through life's difficulties in addressing stress, anxiety, depression, loneliness, and relationship issues.
Certain events in life can leave you feeling stuck, and in these instances I can help. I works with individuals, couples and families to help them get "unstuck" in work, life and love. I utilize insight gained from a family systems, solution-focused approach by customizing therapy to best suit you and your goals. I believe all people are capable of change and I look forward each day to helping you find the strength and the courage to take another step forward. I journey with people of all ages and all walks of life using a collaborative, non-judgmental, and engaged therapeutic approach.
I believe everyone should have a safe and healing place to work through life's difficulties in addressing stress, anxiety, depression, loneliness, and relationship issues.
Certain events in life can leave you feeling stuck, and in these instances I can help. I works with individuals, couples and families to help them get "unstuck" in work, life and love. I utilize insight gained from a family systems, solution-focused approach by customizing therapy to best suit you and your goals. I believe all people are capable of change and I look forward each day to helping you find the strength and the courage to take another step forward. I journey with people of all ages and all walks of life using a collaborative, non-judgmental, and engaged therapeutic approach.
(859) 697-0416 View (859) 697-0416
Photo of Megan Ashby, MEd, LPCC-S
Megan Ashby
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MEd, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Frankfort, KY 40601
I enjoy working with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families treating a variety of life's problems. I am committed to providing a safe, supportive, and judgment free environment for all of my clients. As a counselor I use a variety of techniques and work to increase my clients coping skills, communication skills, and ability to deal with life's full variety of problems. I work from and focus on evidenced based treatments to provide clients with the best treatment possible to sustain their long term mental health.
I enjoy working with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families treating a variety of life's problems. I am committed to providing a safe, supportive, and judgment free environment for all of my clients. As a counselor I use a variety of techniques and work to increase my clients coping skills, communication skills, and ability to deal with life's full variety of problems. I work from and focus on evidenced based treatments to provide clients with the best treatment possible to sustain their long term mental health.
(859) 353-4505 View (859) 353-4505
Photo of Jeff A Chapman, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jeff A Chapman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Georgetown, KY 40324
I have 8+ years of experience as a clinician, specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of Serious Mental Illnesses and experience working with individuals with anxiety, adjustment disorders, depression, relationship and trauma issues.
Sometimes life can seem to hit us all at once and we can feel overwhelmed and talking to a friend is just not cutting it. Therapy can provide a safe place to discuss what we are going through, help to develop new coping skills and to have someone help us process our thoughts and to guide us to making healthy decisions to bring our life back into balance. I will provide straightforward/non-judgmental guidance through whatever problem you want to work though.
I have 8+ years of experience as a clinician, specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of Serious Mental Illnesses and experience working with individuals with anxiety, adjustment disorders, depression, relationship and trauma issues.
Sometimes life can seem to hit us all at once and we can feel overwhelmed and talking to a friend is just not cutting it. Therapy can provide a safe place to discuss what we are going through, help to develop new coping skills and to have someone help us process our thoughts and to guide us to making healthy decisions to bring our life back into balance. I will provide straightforward/non-judgmental guidance through whatever problem you want to work though.
(502) 369-0249 View (502) 369-0249
Photo of Stephanie Fisher, LPCC
Stephanie Fisher
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lexington, KY 40509  (Online Only)
I’ve also completed Level 2 of Gottman training for my work with couples.
Making the decision to begin counseling can seem difficult and overwhelming. My goal is to provide a welcoming, nonjudgmental environment for us to explore things in your life that have been bothering you. I believe once you better understand yourself, it is easier to explore why you do the things you do and what to do to change this in order to live the life you want. In order to make therapy more accessible, I offer late afternoon and evening appointments.
I’ve also completed Level 2 of Gottman training for my work with couples.
Making the decision to begin counseling can seem difficult and overwhelming. My goal is to provide a welcoming, nonjudgmental environment for us to explore things in your life that have been bothering you. I believe once you better understand yourself, it is easier to explore why you do the things you do and what to do to change this in order to live the life you want. In order to make therapy more accessible, I offer late afternoon and evening appointments.
(859) 328-6547 View (859) 328-6547
Photo of Nina Be Werness-Sandot - MindBody Centering Therapy, LCMHCA, MA, MEd, C-IAYT, ERYT500, Counselor
MindBody Centering Therapy
Counselor, LCMHCA, MA, MEd, C-IAYT, ERYT500
Verified Verified
Georgetown, KY 40324
Nina Werness is a Licensed Counselor,(LCMHCA) and somatic therapist who offers anyone a positively focused experience to empower wellbeing from depression, stress and anxiety. My specialization in Trauma-based Counseling (MEd., NCC 87024) and Yoga Therapeutics (C-IAYT, E-RYT-500) offers a unique Centering Therapy that focuses on an individual's & couples' strengths to develop greater awareness & capacity to enjoy an empowered life of purpose & whole health as happiness. Each session you are given a personalized body-mind daily practice to grow your potential and to enrich your life purpose of deep inner peace.
Nina Werness is a Licensed Counselor,(LCMHCA) and somatic therapist who offers anyone a positively focused experience to empower wellbeing from depression, stress and anxiety. My specialization in Trauma-based Counseling (MEd., NCC 87024) and Yoga Therapeutics (C-IAYT, E-RYT-500) offers a unique Centering Therapy that focuses on an individual's & couples' strengths to develop greater awareness & capacity to enjoy an empowered life of purpose & whole health as happiness. Each session you are given a personalized body-mind daily practice to grow your potential and to enrich your life purpose of deep inner peace.
(919) 251-5439 View (919) 251-5439
Photo of Christin Kingery, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christin Kingery
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40504  (Online Only)
My Clinical Interests are trauma, anxiety, depression, self-worth, life transitions, stress, women's issues, men's issues, mood disorders, relationship and marital concerns, non-traditional relationships, and personality disorders.
I have experience working with individuals, couples, and families. I have worked in several agency settings and private practice settings which has given me the tools to provide therapy for a diverse range of clients. I strive to always find ways to enhance the therapy tools I have to better serve clients and meeting them where they are at in their journey. I am dedicated to providing high quality, modern mental and relational health care to help individuals, couples, children & adolescents, and creative professionals work through complicated relationships and difficult experiences.
My Clinical Interests are trauma, anxiety, depression, self-worth, life transitions, stress, women's issues, men's issues, mood disorders, relationship and marital concerns, non-traditional relationships, and personality disorders.
I have experience working with individuals, couples, and families. I have worked in several agency settings and private practice settings which has given me the tools to provide therapy for a diverse range of clients. I strive to always find ways to enhance the therapy tools I have to better serve clients and meeting them where they are at in their journey. I am dedicated to providing high quality, modern mental and relational health care to help individuals, couples, children & adolescents, and creative professionals work through complicated relationships and difficult experiences.
(859) 724-5904 View (859) 724-5904
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.