Couples Counseling Therapists in Worcester County, MA

Photo of Nicole Phillips, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nicole Phillips
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Northborough, MA 01532
Whether you are facing a situational challenge, struggling with a longstanding problem, or stuck in a place you can no longer bear; a therapeutic relationship can help change your life. There are many difficult things in life but getting support and guidance should not be one of them. I am an Independently Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years of success working with people to make their dreams a reality. I specialize in working with adults, couples and families to explore areas of their lives that are challenging. We work together to achieve growth, connection and happiness. Change can happen!
Whether you are facing a situational challenge, struggling with a longstanding problem, or stuck in a place you can no longer bear; a therapeutic relationship can help change your life. There are many difficult things in life but getting support and guidance should not be one of them. I am an Independently Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years of success working with people to make their dreams a reality. I specialize in working with adults, couples and families to explore areas of their lives that are challenging. We work together to achieve growth, connection and happiness. Change can happen!
(508) 286-7744 View (508) 286-7744
Photo of Anna Sawyer, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anna Sawyer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Holden, MA 01520
I have had experience supporting clients through life transitions, relationship challenges, major mental illness, complex trauma, anxiety and depression.
I enjoy working with individuals of all genders and identities, families and groups on accepting and overcoming obstacles to their fulfillment. My approach is process-oriented, warm, and empathetic, grounded in an attachment-focused perspective. I believe each client is the expert of their experience and the therapeutic relationship is a critical tool for healing and growth. I approach sessions from a place of compassion to increase clients' abilities to create this for themselves.
I have had experience supporting clients through life transitions, relationship challenges, major mental illness, complex trauma, anxiety and depression.
I enjoy working with individuals of all genders and identities, families and groups on accepting and overcoming obstacles to their fulfillment. My approach is process-oriented, warm, and empathetic, grounded in an attachment-focused perspective. I believe each client is the expert of their experience and the therapeutic relationship is a critical tool for healing and growth. I approach sessions from a place of compassion to increase clients' abilities to create this for themselves.
(508) 290-6487 View (508) 290-6487
Photo of Shelley Ashton-Briggs - Pathways To Wellness Associates, LLC, LICSW, LMHC, LPC, Counselor
Pathways To Wellness Associates, LLC
Counselor, LICSW, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Worcester, MA 01605
Our specialties and populations include but are not limited to depression, Anxiety, ADHD/ADD, Conduct Disorders, Affective Disorders, Trauma and PTSD, Parenting Issues, Stress Reduction, Anger Management, Adjustment Issues, and Child and Adolescent Development as well as adults, couples and marriage counseling.
Pathways To Wellness Associates, LLC assists high functioning individuals and families to recognize and achieve their full potential in a safe and supportive atmosphere. We provide the highest quality counseling services founded in theory and evidence based practices. Our licensed therapists specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Family Systems Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Attachment, Self-Regulation, and Competency (ARC) Framework and Child and Family Therapy.
Our specialties and populations include but are not limited to depression, Anxiety, ADHD/ADD, Conduct Disorders, Affective Disorders, Trauma and PTSD, Parenting Issues, Stress Reduction, Anger Management, Adjustment Issues, and Child and Adolescent Development as well as adults, couples and marriage counseling.
Pathways To Wellness Associates, LLC assists high functioning individuals and families to recognize and achieve their full potential in a safe and supportive atmosphere. We provide the highest quality counseling services founded in theory and evidence based practices. Our licensed therapists specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Family Systems Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Attachment, Self-Regulation, and Competency (ARC) Framework and Child and Family Therapy.
(508) 928-3787 View (508) 928-3787
Photo of Caroline Flowers Tomekowou, LMHC, PMH-C, Counselor
Caroline Flowers Tomekowou
Counselor, LMHC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Worcester, MA 01609  (Online Only)
As your therapist, my primary goal is what's best for YOU, based on YOUR goals, and Your needs. I work primarily with individuals and couples struggling with infertility, pregnancy loss, pregnancy, and post-partum complications. If you have been struggling to conceive, feeling anxious while pregnant, worried about your pending delivery/birth, had a difficult experience in the hospital or recovering from birth related injuries, or possibly looking to increase intimacy after a baby or a loss. I utilize different clinical approaches to support all clients on their path to wellness.
As your therapist, my primary goal is what's best for YOU, based on YOUR goals, and Your needs. I work primarily with individuals and couples struggling with infertility, pregnancy loss, pregnancy, and post-partum complications. If you have been struggling to conceive, feeling anxious while pregnant, worried about your pending delivery/birth, had a difficult experience in the hospital or recovering from birth related injuries, or possibly looking to increase intimacy after a baby or a loss. I utilize different clinical approaches to support all clients on their path to wellness.
(508) 503-6244 View (508) 503-6244
Photo of Amanda Brink, LMHC, Counselor
Amanda Brink
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Webster, MA 01570  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
By working collaboratively with my clients I provide a warm therapeutic relationship by being humble and straightforward.
Seeking therapy for the first time is one of the hardest things when so many of us are already overwhelmed with busy schedules and are unfamiliar with the process. We often ask ourselves do I have time for one more appointment? Our mental health is just as important to our physical counterpart to remain healthy!
By working collaboratively with my clients I provide a warm therapeutic relationship by being humble and straightforward.
Seeking therapy for the first time is one of the hardest things when so many of us are already overwhelmed with busy schedules and are unfamiliar with the process. We often ask ourselves do I have time for one more appointment? Our mental health is just as important to our physical counterpart to remain healthy!
(978) 354-7487 View (978) 354-7487
Photo of Cynthia R Horan, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cynthia R Horan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Boylston, MA 01583
I have over 20 years experience working with men and women in transition either due to divorce or remarriage; dealing with blended/step family situations. I have worked as a Guardian ad litem in the Probate Courts for over 20 years. I am trained in Divorce Mediation and have experience in helping divorcing couples create a workable and fair parenting plan. I also work with couples using the Imago technique I use a number of different modalities depending on the presenting problem. .. guided imagery, hypnotherapy, life coaching .My goal is to help you attain your goal.
I have over 20 years experience working with men and women in transition either due to divorce or remarriage; dealing with blended/step family situations. I have worked as a Guardian ad litem in the Probate Courts for over 20 years. I am trained in Divorce Mediation and have experience in helping divorcing couples create a workable and fair parenting plan. I also work with couples using the Imago technique I use a number of different modalities depending on the presenting problem. .. guided imagery, hypnotherapy, life coaching .My goal is to help you attain your goal.
(978) 631-1611 View (978) 631-1611
Photo of Tara Ammersen, LICSW, LCSW, CMIP, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tara Ammersen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW, CMIP, CCTP
Verified Verified
Worcester, MA 01602  (Online Only)
I have over 13 years experience in providing therapy services, working with individuals and couples from all walks of life.
Whatever the path may be that brought you here, I am ready to listen with an open mind. Whether you are struggling with discontentment in your life, relationships, transitioning careers, seeking balance, or looking to better manage everyday stress, I am here to guide you through the process. Collaboratively, we will work towards balance with your individualized goals as our priority. In today's world especially, meeting virtually via Telehealth can provide a safe, secure, and convenient method to meet the needs of your busy and demanding daily life.
I have over 13 years experience in providing therapy services, working with individuals and couples from all walks of life.
Whatever the path may be that brought you here, I am ready to listen with an open mind. Whether you are struggling with discontentment in your life, relationships, transitioning careers, seeking balance, or looking to better manage everyday stress, I am here to guide you through the process. Collaboratively, we will work towards balance with your individualized goals as our priority. In today's world especially, meeting virtually via Telehealth can provide a safe, secure, and convenient method to meet the needs of your busy and demanding daily life.
(508) 731-8805 View (508) 731-8805
Photo of Rowen Beaudoin-Colegrove, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rowen Beaudoin-Colegrove
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
West Boylston, MA 01583  (Online Only)
In my practice, I work with young children (0-12) teenagers, young adults, and adults, specializing in family systems and intimate partner work, especially with LGBTQ families.
I am a queer and transmasculine identified family therapist licensed in MA. I am most passionate about family systems work, having trained at the University of Massachusetts in marriage and family therapy. I support people best when approaching treatment through the lens of the systems they are a part of. I believe that people do not exist in a bubble. The interactions that we have with others influence the ways we move through the world. I work with people on understanding these interactions in unique ways to better serve their futures.
In my practice, I work with young children (0-12) teenagers, young adults, and adults, specializing in family systems and intimate partner work, especially with LGBTQ families.
I am a queer and transmasculine identified family therapist licensed in MA. I am most passionate about family systems work, having trained at the University of Massachusetts in marriage and family therapy. I support people best when approaching treatment through the lens of the systems they are a part of. I believe that people do not exist in a bubble. The interactions that we have with others influence the ways we move through the world. I work with people on understanding these interactions in unique ways to better serve their futures.
(508) 501-8979 View (508) 501-8979
Photo of Rachel Gaillard Smook, PsyD, Psychologist
Rachel Gaillard Smook
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Northborough, MA 01532  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with adolescents, students, adults, and couples and also specialize in pregnancy/fertility concerns, relationship issues, and sexuality.
I believe that coming to therapy when your life is not proceeding in the way you wish is a courageous and important step in building the life you want. Although it is sometimes difficult or frightening to make that first phone call, it's a strong sign of your belief in yourself and your desire to live fully and joyfully. I respect the decision to begin therapy and understand that it's sometimes a hard step that requires great courage. I firmly believe that however you're feeling now, there is a capacity for healing, change, and joy within you.
I enjoy working with adolescents, students, adults, and couples and also specialize in pregnancy/fertility concerns, relationship issues, and sexuality.
I believe that coming to therapy when your life is not proceeding in the way you wish is a courageous and important step in building the life you want. Although it is sometimes difficult or frightening to make that first phone call, it's a strong sign of your belief in yourself and your desire to live fully and joyfully. I respect the decision to begin therapy and understand that it's sometimes a hard step that requires great courage. I firmly believe that however you're feeling now, there is a capacity for healing, change, and joy within you.
(508) 925-0530 View (508) 925-0530
Photo of Nejla Sezer - Serene Skies Counseling, LMHC, Counselor
Nejla Sezer - Serene Skies Counseling
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Northborough, MA 01532
Welcome to my practice. The fact that you are here is a testament to your desire for a better future full of healing and growth. I am acutely aware of how difficult this first step can be, and I am here to support you on your journey. I firmly believe that establishing a strong therapeutic relationship is vital in helping my clients strive for the better. To that end, I always aim to provide a safe, open and non-judgemental atmosphere where my clients can comfortably explore the most intimate details of their lives.
Welcome to my practice. The fact that you are here is a testament to your desire for a better future full of healing and growth. I am acutely aware of how difficult this first step can be, and I am here to support you on your journey. I firmly believe that establishing a strong therapeutic relationship is vital in helping my clients strive for the better. To that end, I always aim to provide a safe, open and non-judgemental atmosphere where my clients can comfortably explore the most intimate details of their lives.
(508) 466-4606 View (508) 466-4606
Photo of Adam M Volungis, PhD, LMHC, Counselor
Adam M Volungis
Counselor, PhD, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Northborough, MA 01532
Not accepting new clients
***NOT ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS*** My overarching approach is Relationship-Based Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy. I find that integrating CBT with key therapeutic relationship factors such as validation, empathy, unconditional positive regard, and genuineness produce the best outcomes. When appropriate, I also utilize such approaches as mindfulness, acceptance, dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) skills, and Trauma-Focused CBT and Prolonged Exposure for trauma. My goal is to not only reduce the distress from your presenting problems but also improve your overall well-being and experience personal growth across many facets of life.
***NOT ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS*** My overarching approach is Relationship-Based Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy. I find that integrating CBT with key therapeutic relationship factors such as validation, empathy, unconditional positive regard, and genuineness produce the best outcomes. When appropriate, I also utilize such approaches as mindfulness, acceptance, dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) skills, and Trauma-Focused CBT and Prolonged Exposure for trauma. My goal is to not only reduce the distress from your presenting problems but also improve your overall well-being and experience personal growth across many facets of life.
(508) 348-7162 View (508) 348-7162
Photo of Donna O'Brien, PhD, MEd, LMHC, Counselor
Donna O'Brien
Counselor, PhD, MEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Barre, MA 01005  (Online Only)
Not currently accepting new clients. I have been a psychotherapist for over 25 years, working with men, women, adolescents, couples and groups. I view psychotherapy as a collaborative process between client and therapist. As a therapist I try to see the world through the eyes of my clients and accommodate the therapy to their particular needs. First we try to understand the problems that have brought the client into therapy, and we gradually put into practice ways to alleviate them. Unhappiness may take the form of depression, anxiety, panic, life change adjustment, recovery, guilt, grief, or relationship problems.
Not currently accepting new clients. I have been a psychotherapist for over 25 years, working with men, women, adolescents, couples and groups. I view psychotherapy as a collaborative process between client and therapist. As a therapist I try to see the world through the eyes of my clients and accommodate the therapy to their particular needs. First we try to understand the problems that have brought the client into therapy, and we gradually put into practice ways to alleviate them. Unhappiness may take the form of depression, anxiety, panic, life change adjustment, recovery, guilt, grief, or relationship problems.
(508) 213-5085 View (508) 213-5085
Photo of Couples Therapy And Family Transitions Megan Welsh, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Couples Therapy And Family Transitions Megan Welsh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Worcester, MA 01605  (Online Only)
My therapeutic approach is rooted in psychodynamic therapy, emphasizing the importance of the therapeutic relationship in healing.
Welcome! I'm Megan Welsh, a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) based in Massachusetts. With nearly 15 years of experience in the field and a passion for helping individuals and couples navigate life's challenges, I offer a warm and empathetic approach to therapy. Common issues I address include life/family transitions, relational conflict, anxiety, and depression. I have a passion for working with people with shifting family dynamics like adding a new baby, becoming a foster parent/adoption or martial challenges. My experience extends to working with college students and medical professionals.
My therapeutic approach is rooted in psychodynamic therapy, emphasizing the importance of the therapeutic relationship in healing.
Welcome! I'm Megan Welsh, a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) based in Massachusetts. With nearly 15 years of experience in the field and a passion for helping individuals and couples navigate life's challenges, I offer a warm and empathetic approach to therapy. Common issues I address include life/family transitions, relational conflict, anxiety, and depression. I have a passion for working with people with shifting family dynamics like adding a new baby, becoming a foster parent/adoption or martial challenges. My experience extends to working with college students and medical professionals.
(508) 841-9902 View (508) 841-9902
Photo of Amelia Hasbun, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Amelia Hasbun
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Worcester, MA 01609
I find great joy in collaborating with individuals, couples, and families who bring a sense of motivation, open-mindedness, and a deep drive to enrich their overall well-being. It's truly heartening to work with clients who proactively seek therapy, demonstrating a strong commitment to addressing diverse challenges and fostering personal growth within themselves and their relationships. Whether they're grappling with communication hurdles, navigating complexities of identity, or adapting to new environments due to relocation, I deeply appreciate their willingness to embark on this journey of exploration and growth together.
I find great joy in collaborating with individuals, couples, and families who bring a sense of motivation, open-mindedness, and a deep drive to enrich their overall well-being. It's truly heartening to work with clients who proactively seek therapy, demonstrating a strong commitment to addressing diverse challenges and fostering personal growth within themselves and their relationships. Whether they're grappling with communication hurdles, navigating complexities of identity, or adapting to new environments due to relocation, I deeply appreciate their willingness to embark on this journey of exploration and growth together.
(857) 971-8044 View (857) 971-8044
Photo of Vielka Guevara, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Vielka Guevara
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Upton, MA 01568  (Online Only)
Hi! My name is Vielka and I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Massachusetts (LMFT). I have been working in the mental health field since 2012. I have experience conducting individual and family therapy, in various settings: in-office, in the home, and online with clients presenting with a broad range and severity of clinical issues. However, I have the most experience working with Autism, depression, anxiety, a wide range of challenges within family relationship/blended families/parenting struggles, teen concerns, as well as personal growth, adjustment issues, and crisis.
Hi! My name is Vielka and I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Massachusetts (LMFT). I have been working in the mental health field since 2012. I have experience conducting individual and family therapy, in various settings: in-office, in the home, and online with clients presenting with a broad range and severity of clinical issues. However, I have the most experience working with Autism, depression, anxiety, a wide range of challenges within family relationship/blended families/parenting struggles, teen concerns, as well as personal growth, adjustment issues, and crisis.
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Photo of Tayo Akinmuyisan, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Tayo Akinmuyisan
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Shrewsbury, MA 01545
My identity as a Black man, combat veteran, military spouse, and immigrant enriches my clinical practice, allowing me to offer a distinctive and invaluable outlook in addressing challenges such as depression, anxiety, insomnia, and post-traumatic stress, among others.
I am an Army combat veteran with a strong interest in serving a diverse clientele experiencing mental health challenges throughout the lifespan. My approach to treatment is integrative, combining cognitive-behavioral, developmental, and systems perspectives.
My identity as a Black man, combat veteran, military spouse, and immigrant enriches my clinical practice, allowing me to offer a distinctive and invaluable outlook in addressing challenges such as depression, anxiety, insomnia, and post-traumatic stress, among others.
I am an Army combat veteran with a strong interest in serving a diverse clientele experiencing mental health challenges throughout the lifespan. My approach to treatment is integrative, combining cognitive-behavioral, developmental, and systems perspectives.
(508) 388-5866 View (508) 388-5866
Photo of Jenn Luke, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jenn Luke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Shrewsbury, MA 01545
Are you finding life hard to cope with and you need to work through your concerns in a safe and empathetic environment. I can provide that and more. My name is Jenn and I have been in the social work field for 28 years. I have experience working with children, adolescents, adults, couples, families and groups. I specialize in helping clients coping with stress, anxiety, depression, ADHD, relationship issues, parental challenges and grief. The ideal client is coming to therapy motivated to work through their concerns, hear a different perspective and develop strategies to overcome these challenges.
Are you finding life hard to cope with and you need to work through your concerns in a safe and empathetic environment. I can provide that and more. My name is Jenn and I have been in the social work field for 28 years. I have experience working with children, adolescents, adults, couples, families and groups. I specialize in helping clients coping with stress, anxiety, depression, ADHD, relationship issues, parental challenges and grief. The ideal client is coming to therapy motivated to work through their concerns, hear a different perspective and develop strategies to overcome these challenges.
(508) 625-7019 View (508) 625-7019
Photo of Vivian Sockol, EdD, Psychologist
Vivian Sockol
Psychologist, EdD
Verified Verified
Westborough, MA 01581
Vivian Sockol is a Licensed Psychologist (LP) with over 30 years of experience providing support for children, teens, adults couples, and families.Vivian completed her undergraduate degree in Special Education and Elementary Education at the State University of New York in Geneseo and received her Master’s degree and Doctorate degree in Counseling Psychology at Boston University. She completed her dissertation regarding student-athlete stress, researching how to improve this area within academic systems.
Vivian Sockol is a Licensed Psychologist (LP) with over 30 years of experience providing support for children, teens, adults couples, and families.Vivian completed her undergraduate degree in Special Education and Elementary Education at the State University of New York in Geneseo and received her Master’s degree and Doctorate degree in Counseling Psychology at Boston University. She completed her dissertation regarding student-athlete stress, researching how to improve this area within academic systems.
(508) 501-6316 View (508) 501-6316
Photo of Tamise Francois - Perseverance Clinical Services, LLC , LMHC, Counselor
Perseverance Clinical Services, LLC
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Worcester, MA 01605
" I am a dedicated and skilled Christian counselor with experience providing care for children, teenagers, and adults. I have experience treating individuals diagnosed with anxiety, trauma-related issues, depression, borderline personality, attention deficit disorder, oppositional defiant disorder, bipolar disorder, and adjustment disorders. I have experience providing individual and couples therapy. I recognize that my clients are able to make progress in treatment when they are open, ready, and able to commit to making changes in their lives. I am trained, experienced, and prepared to help my clients function better physically, emotionally, and spiritually."
" I am a dedicated and skilled Christian counselor with experience providing care for children, teenagers, and adults. I have experience treating individuals diagnosed with anxiety, trauma-related issues, depression, borderline personality, attention deficit disorder, oppositional defiant disorder, bipolar disorder, and adjustment disorders. I have experience providing individual and couples therapy. I recognize that my clients are able to make progress in treatment when they are open, ready, and able to commit to making changes in their lives. I am trained, experienced, and prepared to help my clients function better physically, emotionally, and spiritually."
(508) 507-8461 View (508) 507-8461
Photo of Cheryl Whitney - Cheryl Whitney, LMHC, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Cheryl Whitney, LMHC
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Millbury, MA 01527
Every day, we must fit into many different roles no matter who we are and these roles include employee, parent, child, student, partner, etc.
Do you ever feel like all you can do is throw your arms up in the air? Do you just want to feel like a whole person again? Whether it is work, school, finances, relationships, children or some other source of stress, an excellent way to get back on confident feet is to work with a skilled clinician such as myself. Therapy can help build coping skills to manage life challenges, gain skills to redirect misguided or distorted thoughts and process emotions in order to have a better understanding of personal needs and how to meet them.
Every day, we must fit into many different roles no matter who we are and these roles include employee, parent, child, student, partner, etc.
Do you ever feel like all you can do is throw your arms up in the air? Do you just want to feel like a whole person again? Whether it is work, school, finances, relationships, children or some other source of stress, an excellent way to get back on confident feet is to work with a skilled clinician such as myself. Therapy can help build coping skills to manage life challenges, gain skills to redirect misguided or distorted thoughts and process emotions in order to have a better understanding of personal needs and how to meet them.
(508) 413-3168 View (508) 413-3168
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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.