Couples Counseling Therapists in Pikesville, MD

Photo of Miesha Lynette Rice - Whole Family Healing Group, LLC, MSW, LCSW-C, VAS-II, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Whole Family Healing Group, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C, VAS-II
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pikesville, MD 21208
We are passionate about the work that we do, and are blessed to have been trained in areas of trauma, substance use, adolescent behavioral issues, working with victims of crime, high profile and celebrity clientele, marital/ relationship issues, trauma, anxiety, depression, and more.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a MD State Board Approved Supervisor, as well as founder of Whole Family Healing Group; We are a healing place for the whole family. My team and I have experience with providing trauma focused psychotherapy to individuals, families and couples. Our goal is to bring wholeness back to the person, as well as the family system, and guide you all on your healing journey.
We are passionate about the work that we do, and are blessed to have been trained in areas of trauma, substance use, adolescent behavioral issues, working with victims of crime, high profile and celebrity clientele, marital/ relationship issues, trauma, anxiety, depression, and more.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a MD State Board Approved Supervisor, as well as founder of Whole Family Healing Group; We are a healing place for the whole family. My team and I have experience with providing trauma focused psychotherapy to individuals, families and couples. Our goal is to bring wholeness back to the person, as well as the family system, and guide you all on your healing journey.
(410) 844-4332 View (410) 844-4332
Photo of Ovadia Golfeiz - Ocd And Anxiety Treatment, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ovadia Golfeiz - Ocd And Anxiety Treatment
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pikesville, MD 21208
I can help with harm and violent OCD, contamination OCD, Just right/perfectionism OCD, relationship OCD, religious/scrupulosity OCD, symmetry OCD, sexual orientation OCD, existential OCD, sensimotor OCD, pedophilia OCD, suicidal OCD, or health anxiety.
Anxiety disorders are the most common mental illness in the United States. Anxiety can be significantly disabling and negatively impact our mood and quality of life. It's not uncommon for someone with an anxiety disorder to also suffer from depression. You are tired of experiencing symptoms of anxiety including intrusive, racing, and ruminative thoughts that seemingly don’t stop, feeling on constant edge, and worrying all the time. You may also feel anxiety present itself as uncomfortable sensations in your body. You, however, have already made the most courageous step which is to look for a solution.
I can help with harm and violent OCD, contamination OCD, Just right/perfectionism OCD, relationship OCD, religious/scrupulosity OCD, symmetry OCD, sexual orientation OCD, existential OCD, sensimotor OCD, pedophilia OCD, suicidal OCD, or health anxiety.
Anxiety disorders are the most common mental illness in the United States. Anxiety can be significantly disabling and negatively impact our mood and quality of life. It's not uncommon for someone with an anxiety disorder to also suffer from depression. You are tired of experiencing symptoms of anxiety including intrusive, racing, and ruminative thoughts that seemingly don’t stop, feeling on constant edge, and worrying all the time. You may also feel anxiety present itself as uncomfortable sensations in your body. You, however, have already made the most courageous step which is to look for a solution.
(443) 733-6068 View (443) 733-6068
Photo of Dr. Cassandra Clarke-Williams, PhD, LCPC, NCC
Dr. Cassandra Clarke-Williams
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, PhD, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pikesville, MD 21208  (Online Only)
Studies have shown that the relationship between a mother and her teen daughter affects her daughter’s self-esteem, self-worth, and future relationships, including their relationship.
My mission has been to empower and educate teen girls and women. As a teen, I wished that I had someone to empower me. My family was old school, which meant that they used a lot of tactics that weren’t uplifting to me as a teenager. My self-esteem was really low as a result. I know today that my family didn’t know any better. They were parenting the way that they were parented. In my 20-plus years of working with mothers and teens, I see the same parenting mistakes taking place today, much similar to how I was raised. Parenting has so much to do with who we are as individuals. We can’t give our daughters what we don’t have.
Studies have shown that the relationship between a mother and her teen daughter affects her daughter’s self-esteem, self-worth, and future relationships, including their relationship.
My mission has been to empower and educate teen girls and women. As a teen, I wished that I had someone to empower me. My family was old school, which meant that they used a lot of tactics that weren’t uplifting to me as a teenager. My self-esteem was really low as a result. I know today that my family didn’t know any better. They were parenting the way that they were parented. In my 20-plus years of working with mothers and teens, I see the same parenting mistakes taking place today, much similar to how I was raised. Parenting has so much to do with who we are as individuals. We can’t give our daughters what we don’t have.
(443) 917-3771 View (443) 917-3771
Photo of Juanita E Jackson, LCPC
Juanita E Jackson
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Pikesville, MD 21208
I use a cognitive-behavioral approach, working with individuals, couples and families in identifying the root of dysfunctional behavior and working to identify the necessary changes needed to lead and live a fruitful life.
My mission is to develop and nurture a therapeutic relationship that enables individuals, couples and families to navigate through challenges to reach their full potential and live their best lives. I believe that everyone deserves fulfillment and have it within them to not only explore the possibilities, but to also make it happen. I also believe in helping athletes learn and understand the importance of mental strength to enhance performance through personal growth and finding fulfillment in their experiences. Through discovery, acceptance and nurturing, we can get there together.
I use a cognitive-behavioral approach, working with individuals, couples and families in identifying the root of dysfunctional behavior and working to identify the necessary changes needed to lead and live a fruitful life.
My mission is to develop and nurture a therapeutic relationship that enables individuals, couples and families to navigate through challenges to reach their full potential and live their best lives. I believe that everyone deserves fulfillment and have it within them to not only explore the possibilities, but to also make it happen. I also believe in helping athletes learn and understand the importance of mental strength to enhance performance through personal growth and finding fulfillment in their experiences. Through discovery, acceptance and nurturing, we can get there together.
(443) 501-2951 View (443) 501-2951
Photo of Brian Taltoan, LCPC
Brian Taltoan
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Pikesville, MD 21208
Our counseling service was developed to serve the needs of those who desire professional therapy outside traditional appointment hours and settings. We meet these needs by offering appointments late evenings, Saturday, teletherapy, and home visits.  Currently we provide Individual, Family, & Couples Therapy.
Our counseling service was developed to serve the needs of those who desire professional therapy outside traditional appointment hours and settings. We meet these needs by offering appointments late evenings, Saturday, teletherapy, and home visits.  Currently we provide Individual, Family, & Couples Therapy.
(443) 227-4901 View (443) 227-4901
Photo of Tara H Simpson, PsyD, Psychologist
Tara H Simpson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pikesville, MD 21208
I believe that the therapeutic relationship is a collaboration and I am an engaging, candid, and empathetic participant. Therapy is a framework in which you can address and resolve current distress by promoting self-awareness and generating useful strategies for positive change. In addition, therapy helps you to identify and modify self-defeating attitudes, thoughts, and beliefs, as well as ineffective behavior patterns. I provide psychotherapy for adults dealing with depression, anxiety, grief/loss, low self-esteem, and relationship issues. My specific areas of expertise is providing counseling for issues surrounding, and unique to, infertility and assisted reproduction.
I believe that the therapeutic relationship is a collaboration and I am an engaging, candid, and empathetic participant. Therapy is a framework in which you can address and resolve current distress by promoting self-awareness and generating useful strategies for positive change. In addition, therapy helps you to identify and modify self-defeating attitudes, thoughts, and beliefs, as well as ineffective behavior patterns. I provide psychotherapy for adults dealing with depression, anxiety, grief/loss, low self-esteem, and relationship issues. My specific areas of expertise is providing counseling for issues surrounding, and unique to, infertility and assisted reproduction.
(410) 657-8755 View (410) 657-8755
Photo of Karmeshia Rice, LCPC, NCC
Karmeshia Rice
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Pikesville, MD 21208
I utilize best practice methods to provide clinical interventions and seek to build a working relationship to help each person I contact reach their best potential. I have experience working with Depression, Bipolar, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, difficulties with stressors and major life adjustments. I strive to provide you with support, encouragement towards positive goal attainment, and guidance through each step along the way
I utilize best practice methods to provide clinical interventions and seek to build a working relationship to help each person I contact reach their best potential. I have experience working with Depression, Bipolar, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, difficulties with stressors and major life adjustments. I strive to provide you with support, encouragement towards positive goal attainment, and guidance through each step along the way
(443) 526-7111 View (443) 526-7111
Photo of Gary Green - Maryland Couples and Relationship Counseling, MSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maryland Couples and Relationship Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Pikesville, MD 21208
I invite you to contact me today for a free telephone consultation to learn about how I can help you transform your relationship towards a happier, brighter and more promising future.
Unhappy with your marriage or other significant relationship? Are you tired of the struggles and lack of connection? I can help! I specialize in marriage, family, and relationship counseling because I believe that positive, nurturing, and supportive relationships are essential to living a happy, emotionally-fulfilling life. My practice centers on helping relationships heal and thrive, with an eye towards restoring the harmonious balance and intimate closeness we desire and need. I have over 15 years experience working with couples and families, employing the most clinically proven methods for achieving success with clilents of all backgrounds.
I invite you to contact me today for a free telephone consultation to learn about how I can help you transform your relationship towards a happier, brighter and more promising future.
Unhappy with your marriage or other significant relationship? Are you tired of the struggles and lack of connection? I can help! I specialize in marriage, family, and relationship counseling because I believe that positive, nurturing, and supportive relationships are essential to living a happy, emotionally-fulfilling life. My practice centers on helping relationships heal and thrive, with an eye towards restoring the harmonious balance and intimate closeness we desire and need. I have over 15 years experience working with couples and families, employing the most clinically proven methods for achieving success with clilents of all backgrounds.
(443) 502-0951 View (443) 502-0951
Photo of Angana Cash- Ocd And Anxiety Specialist, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Angana Cash- Ocd And Anxiety Specialist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pikesville, MD 21208
I can help with harm and violent OCD, contamination OCD, Just right/perfectionism OCD, relationship OCD, religious/scrupulosity OCD, symmetry OCD, sexual orientation OCD, existential OCD, sensorimotor OCD, pedophilia OCD, suicidal OCD, or health OCD.
Anxiety disorders are the most common mental illness in the United States. Anxiety can be significantly disabling and negatively impact our mood and quality of life. It's not uncommon for someone with an anxiety disorder to also suffer from depression. You are tired of experiencing symptoms of anxiety including intrusive, racing, and ruminative thoughts that seemingly don’t stop, feeling on constant edge, and worrying all the time. You may also feel anxiety present itself as uncomfortable sensations in your body. You, however, have already made the most courageous step which is to look for a solution.
I can help with harm and violent OCD, contamination OCD, Just right/perfectionism OCD, relationship OCD, religious/scrupulosity OCD, symmetry OCD, sexual orientation OCD, existential OCD, sensorimotor OCD, pedophilia OCD, suicidal OCD, or health OCD.
Anxiety disorders are the most common mental illness in the United States. Anxiety can be significantly disabling and negatively impact our mood and quality of life. It's not uncommon for someone with an anxiety disorder to also suffer from depression. You are tired of experiencing symptoms of anxiety including intrusive, racing, and ruminative thoughts that seemingly don’t stop, feeling on constant edge, and worrying all the time. You may also feel anxiety present itself as uncomfortable sensations in your body. You, however, have already made the most courageous step which is to look for a solution.
(443) 390-7598 View (443) 390-7598
Photo of Levi Breuer - PsychCare Psychological Services LLC, PsyD, Psychologist
PsychCare Psychological Services LLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pikesville, MD 21208
Effective 9/29/24 - We have immediate openings and we are in-network with several insurance companies... At PsychCare, our staff has successfully helped many individuals and couples resolve a wide variety of personal concerns both through psychotherapy and psychological and educational evaluations. The staff at PsychCare in Baltimore, MD, brings decades of experience in specialized areas of treatment and assessment, such as couples counseling, alcohol abuse treatment, and psychological evaluations and forensic psychological services.
Effective 9/29/24 - We have immediate openings and we are in-network with several insurance companies... At PsychCare, our staff has successfully helped many individuals and couples resolve a wide variety of personal concerns both through psychotherapy and psychological and educational evaluations. The staff at PsychCare in Baltimore, MD, brings decades of experience in specialized areas of treatment and assessment, such as couples counseling, alcohol abuse treatment, and psychological evaluations and forensic psychological services.
(410) 505-8244 View (410) 505-8244
Photo of Samuel Katz, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Samuel Katz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Pikesville, MD 21208
Now accepting new clients... Are you experiencing negative emotions, intrusive thoughts, difficulty managing your mood, or struggling with building or maintaining meaningful relationships? Then my friend you have taken the first step on your journey of internal reflection and growth. Therapy can be a wonderful safe haven which provides the freedom to explore your thoughts and emotions. I work with individuals and couples to achieve their goals and provide much needed support to create lasting change to your life.
Now accepting new clients... Are you experiencing negative emotions, intrusive thoughts, difficulty managing your mood, or struggling with building or maintaining meaningful relationships? Then my friend you have taken the first step on your journey of internal reflection and growth. Therapy can be a wonderful safe haven which provides the freedom to explore your thoughts and emotions. I work with individuals and couples to achieve their goals and provide much needed support to create lasting change to your life.
(443) 671-1534 View (443) 671-1534
Photo of Wendy Mejia - Grow and Thrive Services, LLC, LCPC
Grow and Thrive Services, LLC
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Pikesville, MD 21208  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with teens and older clients and have worked with client who are experiencing, anxiety, adhd, autism, grief, sexual identity issues, couples' issues, etc.
My name is Wendy Harding and I have been a school Psychologist for 12 years working with children from birth through high school. In the past four years I have been working towards transitioning to a full-time therapist to help adolescents and adults work through challenges.
I enjoy working with teens and older clients and have worked with client who are experiencing, anxiety, adhd, autism, grief, sexual identity issues, couples' issues, etc.
My name is Wendy Harding and I have been a school Psychologist for 12 years working with children from birth through high school. In the past four years I have been working towards transitioning to a full-time therapist to help adolescents and adults work through challenges.
(443) 238-0848 View (443) 238-0848
Photo of Lisa K. Schkloven - Lisa K. Schkloven, LCSW-C, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa K. Schkloven, LCSW-C
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pikesville, MD 21208
I have an eclectic style of practice in working with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families.
At any stage of life, it is possible to change your perceptions and actions and head in a new direction. My goal is to foster an interactive therapeutic experience, providing support and practical feedback to effectively address personal life challenges. I offer a personalized approach tailored to your needs. With compassion and understanding, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns and negative perceptions that are holding you back while we build on your strengths to help you attain the personal growth you are committed to accomplishing. I Iook forward to working with you in achieving your goals and experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
I have an eclectic style of practice in working with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families.
At any stage of life, it is possible to change your perceptions and actions and head in a new direction. My goal is to foster an interactive therapeutic experience, providing support and practical feedback to effectively address personal life challenges. I offer a personalized approach tailored to your needs. With compassion and understanding, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns and negative perceptions that are holding you back while we build on your strengths to help you attain the personal growth you are committed to accomplishing. I Iook forward to working with you in achieving your goals and experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
(410) 324-7121 View (410) 324-7121
Photo of Lacresha Reid White, LCSWC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lacresha Reid White
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pikesville, MD 21208
My ideal client is survivor of childhood trauma is motivated to create a fulfilling, empowered life for themselves. This shows their commitment by showing up, being engaged during sessions, and doing the necessary homework between sessions. This client understands that healing from trauma and rebuilding trust is a process that involves working through attachment issues and developing a securely attached therapeutic relationship with their therapist.
My ideal client is survivor of childhood trauma is motivated to create a fulfilling, empowered life for themselves. This shows their commitment by showing up, being engaged during sessions, and doing the necessary homework between sessions. This client understands that healing from trauma and rebuilding trust is a process that involves working through attachment issues and developing a securely attached therapeutic relationship with their therapist.
(443) 203-9709 View (443) 203-9709
Photo of Lillian Soloweszyk - Ascent Therapy Services, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ascent Therapy Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pikesville, MD 21208  (Online Only)
Any Individual struggling to control worries that control their life, panic attacks that disrupt their lives, or other disorders that impact their life. Additionally anyone adjusting to life in a new country. Couples and families struggling with lack of communication and connection.
Any Individual struggling to control worries that control their life, panic attacks that disrupt their lives, or other disorders that impact their life. Additionally anyone adjusting to life in a new country. Couples and families struggling with lack of communication and connection.
(443) 665-0940 View (443) 665-0940
Photo of Brittney Renise Robinson, LGPC
Brittney Renise Robinson
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LGPC
Verified Verified
Pikesville, MD 21208
“My goal as a mental health professional is to cultivate a therapeutic alliance that enables individuals , children, couples, and families to live a well-rounded and healthy life. No trial is too small or too big; everyone deserves a nonjudgmental and caring person who can give them the tools to effectively work through life’s challenges.”
“My goal as a mental health professional is to cultivate a therapeutic alliance that enables individuals , children, couples, and families to live a well-rounded and healthy life. No trial is too small or too big; everyone deserves a nonjudgmental and caring person who can give them the tools to effectively work through life’s challenges.”
(410) 618-1753 View (410) 618-1753
Photo of David Michael Toplin - Tree of Life Counseling, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tree of Life Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Not Verified Not Verified
Pikesville, MD 21208
Our team of experienced male and female therapists provide counseling to children, adolescents, couples and families of all ages. Many of our clients are struggling with anxiety, depression, serious relationship conflict, a trauma disorder or a child's behavior problem and often find it difficult coping day to day. The therapeutic process is liberating once begun, indeed it is life-transforming. Trust that you will emerge stronger and more self-aware now able to reclaim that special, essential "You", that you always knew was there but couldn't quite seem to get in touch with. Start your therapy journey today!
Our team of experienced male and female therapists provide counseling to children, adolescents, couples and families of all ages. Many of our clients are struggling with anxiety, depression, serious relationship conflict, a trauma disorder or a child's behavior problem and often find it difficult coping day to day. The therapeutic process is liberating once begun, indeed it is life-transforming. Trust that you will emerge stronger and more self-aware now able to reclaim that special, essential "You", that you always knew was there but couldn't quite seem to get in touch with. Start your therapy journey today!
(410) 343-7146 View (410) 343-7146
Photo of Bennett Heitt, MA, MS, Psychological Associate
Bennett Heitt
Psychological Associate, MA, MS
Verified Verified
Pikesville, MD 21208
I recognize the importance of the therapeutic relationship, the uniqueness of a client’s experiences and unconscious influences, as well as the impact that thoughts, feelings, and behaviors have on each other.
Have your loved ones recommended that you talk to someone, or told you to get your act together? Are feelings of sadness and anxiety impacting your ability to function? Are old emotional wounds stopping you from enjoying life? Do you find yourself engaging in unhealthy habits to cope with stress? Does getting through each day feel like an uphill battle? Do you feel completely alone or misunderstood by those around you? If you related to any of these questions then you are in the right place. My name is Bennett Heitt, and I am a Registered Psychology Associate practicing under Dr. Frank Wolkenberg's supervision (License No. 03685).
I recognize the importance of the therapeutic relationship, the uniqueness of a client’s experiences and unconscious influences, as well as the impact that thoughts, feelings, and behaviors have on each other.
Have your loved ones recommended that you talk to someone, or told you to get your act together? Are feelings of sadness and anxiety impacting your ability to function? Are old emotional wounds stopping you from enjoying life? Do you find yourself engaging in unhealthy habits to cope with stress? Does getting through each day feel like an uphill battle? Do you feel completely alone or misunderstood by those around you? If you related to any of these questions then you are in the right place. My name is Bennett Heitt, and I am a Registered Psychology Associate practicing under Dr. Frank Wolkenberg's supervision (License No. 03685).
(443) 672-4877 View (443) 672-4877
Photo of Wendy Berman, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Wendy Berman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Pikesville, MD 21208
Specialties include depression, anxiety, eating disorders, DID, and complicated relationship challenges.
Have you experienced a past or current trauma? Are you feeling isolated, loss of interest in activities you once found enjoyable, anxiety, mistrust, or depressed mood? Are you participating in self destructive behaviors? If so, these are all normal symptoms of trauma, and you are in the right place. Trauma is the experience of witnessing or being involved in an event that feels life threatening. It can be anything from physical, emotional, or sexual abuse to divorce, financial setbacks, medical diagnoses or car accidents.
Specialties include depression, anxiety, eating disorders, DID, and complicated relationship challenges.
Have you experienced a past or current trauma? Are you feeling isolated, loss of interest in activities you once found enjoyable, anxiety, mistrust, or depressed mood? Are you participating in self destructive behaviors? If so, these are all normal symptoms of trauma, and you are in the right place. Trauma is the experience of witnessing or being involved in an event that feels life threatening. It can be anything from physical, emotional, or sexual abuse to divorce, financial setbacks, medical diagnoses or car accidents.
(410) 216-0942 View (410) 216-0942
Photo of Eileen A Epstein, PhD, LCSW, LMFT, LCSW-C, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Eileen A Epstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, LMFT, LCSW-C, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pikesville, MD 21208  (Online Only)
Since training in Psychoanalysis and Family Systems Therapy, I have evolved as an expert in the cutting-edge theories and practice of Attachment, Affective Neuroscience, and Mindfulness-based therapy for adults and couples.
For over 35 years I've been privileged doing what I love: being a therapist to couples & individuals with the courage & determination to make formidable personal changes. I use sensible theories & effective skills to be the right therapist for YOU also - the one you experience as attuned, respectful & responsive to your needs & knowledgeable in how to attend to them. Together we'll work towards YOUR personal goals. Progressing ahead, you'll find relief from initially difficult emotions & life situations, you'll experience transformative resilience in new ways of dealing with yourself & others; & new ways of operating in the world.
Since training in Psychoanalysis and Family Systems Therapy, I have evolved as an expert in the cutting-edge theories and practice of Attachment, Affective Neuroscience, and Mindfulness-based therapy for adults and couples.
For over 35 years I've been privileged doing what I love: being a therapist to couples & individuals with the courage & determination to make formidable personal changes. I use sensible theories & effective skills to be the right therapist for YOU also - the one you experience as attuned, respectful & responsive to your needs & knowledgeable in how to attend to them. Together we'll work towards YOUR personal goals. Progressing ahead, you'll find relief from initially difficult emotions & life situations, you'll experience transformative resilience in new ways of dealing with yourself & others; & new ways of operating in the world.
(443) 863-6205 View (443) 863-6205
1
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.