Couples Counseling Therapists in Bozeman, MT

Photo of Alana Vosen, MS, LCPC, Counselor
Alana Vosen
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Bozeman, MT 59718  (Online Only)
With incorporating, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) in helping individuals, couples, and families I help clients to live their best life and gain the confidence within themselves to do that.
I use Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) to help individuals identify their attachment needs and help the couple work together to form a more secure bond. With EFT, I will help the couple or individual strengthen their relationships through emotional bonding with their partner/friend/family member.
With incorporating, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) in helping individuals, couples, and families I help clients to live their best life and gain the confidence within themselves to do that.
I use Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) to help individuals identify their attachment needs and help the couple work together to form a more secure bond. With EFT, I will help the couple or individual strengthen their relationships through emotional bonding with their partner/friend/family member.
(406) 412-7005 View (406) 412-7005
Photo of Amanda Fahlstrom, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amanda Fahlstrom
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bozeman, MT 59718
As a clinical therapist, I have worked with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families.
Limited daytime openings available in October. Imagine a world where growing up was easy and adulting was just as simple? There would be no peer relationship struggles, everyone had great self-esteem, angelic behaviors abounded, and traumatic life events never occurred. Heck, even our work and home lives were a breeze, we all had uncomplicated relationships, and mental health concerns did not exist. Unfortunately, we do face hard things. Therapy is a way to get help, guidance, and relief as you walk through the daily challenges of life. Are you ready for change? I bet you are!
As a clinical therapist, I have worked with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families.
Limited daytime openings available in October. Imagine a world where growing up was easy and adulting was just as simple? There would be no peer relationship struggles, everyone had great self-esteem, angelic behaviors abounded, and traumatic life events never occurred. Heck, even our work and home lives were a breeze, we all had uncomplicated relationships, and mental health concerns did not exist. Unfortunately, we do face hard things. Therapy is a way to get help, guidance, and relief as you walk through the daily challenges of life. Are you ready for change? I bet you are!
(406) 296-5267 View (406) 296-5267
Photo of Jeanne Cooper, LCPC, Counselor
Jeanne Cooper
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bozeman, MT 59718
I work with individuals who have experienced trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, substance use disorders, ADHD, OCD, life transitions and other challenges that impede their ability to thrive. I take a strengths based approach that incorporates CBT, motivational interviewing, mindfulness, and EMDR. I see the therapeutic relationship as the foundation for self discovery and acceptance. Clients will leave my office with the skills needed to make changes in their lives along with feelings of empowerment.
I work with individuals who have experienced trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, substance use disorders, ADHD, OCD, life transitions and other challenges that impede their ability to thrive. I take a strengths based approach that incorporates CBT, motivational interviewing, mindfulness, and EMDR. I see the therapeutic relationship as the foundation for self discovery and acceptance. Clients will leave my office with the skills needed to make changes in their lives along with feelings of empowerment.
(406) 540-8486 View (406) 540-8486
Photo of Christy Mortimer, MS, LCPC, Counselor
Christy Mortimer
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bozeman, MT 59715
Starting the journey of healing or growth can be daunting and vulnerable. Asking for help on that journey is a courageous first step! Whether you are dealing with depression, anxiety, relationship concerns, grief, trauma, life stressors, or any challenges that come with being human, counseling can be an effective way to move through those challenges with self-awareness, intention, and compassion. I love working with couples and individuals who are ready to identify and interrupt the patterns that are keeping them stuck!
Starting the journey of healing or growth can be daunting and vulnerable. Asking for help on that journey is a courageous first step! Whether you are dealing with depression, anxiety, relationship concerns, grief, trauma, life stressors, or any challenges that come with being human, counseling can be an effective way to move through those challenges with self-awareness, intention, and compassion. I love working with couples and individuals who are ready to identify and interrupt the patterns that are keeping them stuck!
(406) 313-2710 View (406) 313-2710
Photo of Hal Stewart, LCPC, CSAT, CST, CPTT, Counselor
Hal Stewart
Counselor, LCPC, CSAT, CST, CPTT
Verified Verified
Bozeman, MT 59715  (Online Only)
As a Board-Certified Sex Therapist and Certified Sex Addiction Therapist in the State of Montana, I offer confidential Tele-health services to those struggling with porn/sex addiction, compulsive sexual behavior and infidelity. As a Certified Partner Trauma Therapist, I work with spouses & partners in their struggle to understand & heal from the hurtful and often traumatic impact of these behaviors. I also assist those wanting to improve their sex lives and those struggling with sexual issues such as mismatched sexual desire, ED, premature ejaculation or wanting to reintegrate sexual intimacy after healing from an affair.
As a Board-Certified Sex Therapist and Certified Sex Addiction Therapist in the State of Montana, I offer confidential Tele-health services to those struggling with porn/sex addiction, compulsive sexual behavior and infidelity. As a Certified Partner Trauma Therapist, I work with spouses & partners in their struggle to understand & heal from the hurtful and often traumatic impact of these behaviors. I also assist those wanting to improve their sex lives and those struggling with sexual issues such as mismatched sexual desire, ED, premature ejaculation or wanting to reintegrate sexual intimacy after healing from an affair.
(406) 318-6404 View (406) 318-6404
Photo of John J. Siefke, PhD, Psychologist
John J. Siefke
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Bozeman, MT 59718
Waitlist for new clients
As a psychologist, I offer psychotherapy to individuals experiencing a range of issues impacting their well-being, relationships, and functioning. I believe therapy ultimately involves a collaborative relationship between the therapist and client, which can provide healing, insight, and desired change. I endeavor to help my clients understand and work through 1) what has contributed to their distress, 2) what patterns of thinking, feeling, and relating (consciously or unconsciously) are maintaining their distress, 3) what barriers to change may be present, and 4) possible steps to take to bring change and relief.
As a psychologist, I offer psychotherapy to individuals experiencing a range of issues impacting their well-being, relationships, and functioning. I believe therapy ultimately involves a collaborative relationship between the therapist and client, which can provide healing, insight, and desired change. I endeavor to help my clients understand and work through 1) what has contributed to their distress, 2) what patterns of thinking, feeling, and relating (consciously or unconsciously) are maintaining their distress, 3) what barriers to change may be present, and 4) possible steps to take to bring change and relief.
(406) 540-6427 View (406) 540-6427
Photo of Courtney Markowitz, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Courtney Markowitz
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bozeman, MT 59718  (Online Only)
With the use to CBT, DBT, perspective taking and the therapeutic relationship I help my clients learn skills to manage and reduce symptoms they are struggling with.
Accepting new clients. I am a licensed marriage and family therapist who specializes in working with individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, and trauma that leads to difficulties with regulating emotions. I support clients who experience overwhelming anxiety that leads to behaviors like shutting down, self injurious behaviors and withdrawal from social situations. The clients I work with are willing to unpack childhood and the unconscious to increase self awareness and help them make sense of their current behaviors. I also work with couples who struggle with communication that leads to discontentment in their relationships.
With the use to CBT, DBT, perspective taking and the therapeutic relationship I help my clients learn skills to manage and reduce symptoms they are struggling with.
Accepting new clients. I am a licensed marriage and family therapist who specializes in working with individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, and trauma that leads to difficulties with regulating emotions. I support clients who experience overwhelming anxiety that leads to behaviors like shutting down, self injurious behaviors and withdrawal from social situations. The clients I work with are willing to unpack childhood and the unconscious to increase self awareness and help them make sense of their current behaviors. I also work with couples who struggle with communication that leads to discontentment in their relationships.
(406) 298-4051 View (406) 298-4051
Photo of Elizabeth Bentley-Varca, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Bentley-Varca
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bozeman, MT 59715
If you are struggling with suicidal ideation, please reach out to the Bozeman Help Center or text/call 988. I am currently accepting clients, especially couples! I have a deep passion for supporting individuals and couples navigating difficult times. My ideal client is someone who is feeling lost or stuck in their ability to make progress or changes in their life, and who is motivated to work on themself and their relationships with others. I have an eclectic background, having worked across the lifespan in a variety of areas, including hospitals, schools, and group practice.
If you are struggling with suicidal ideation, please reach out to the Bozeman Help Center or text/call 988. I am currently accepting clients, especially couples! I have a deep passion for supporting individuals and couples navigating difficult times. My ideal client is someone who is feeling lost or stuck in their ability to make progress or changes in their life, and who is motivated to work on themself and their relationships with others. I have an eclectic background, having worked across the lifespan in a variety of areas, including hospitals, schools, and group practice.
(406) 800-0571 View (406) 800-0571
Photo of Carly Cook, PCLC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Carly Cook
Pre-Licensed Professional, PCLC
Verified Verified
Bozeman, MT 59718
Some of my experience includes working with individuals who have experienced trauma, domestic violence, sexual assault/abuse, relationship difficulties, depression, anxiety, and managing difficult life transitions.
Accepting new clients. Counseling offers a space for deepening our connection to ourselves, exploring emotions, and healing or processing areas where we may feel stuck, overwhelmed, or closed off. I believe in the process of self-exploration to become more fulfilled, connected, and grounded versions of ourselves. I practice from a holistic, person-centered approach, which offers space for emotional exploration and processing in a warm, collaborative environment and a therapeutic relationship that is genuine, authentic, and compassionate. I am trained in EMDR and enjoy integrating mindfulness and somatic modalities into my practice.
Some of my experience includes working with individuals who have experienced trauma, domestic violence, sexual assault/abuse, relationship difficulties, depression, anxiety, and managing difficult life transitions.
Accepting new clients. Counseling offers a space for deepening our connection to ourselves, exploring emotions, and healing or processing areas where we may feel stuck, overwhelmed, or closed off. I believe in the process of self-exploration to become more fulfilled, connected, and grounded versions of ourselves. I practice from a holistic, person-centered approach, which offers space for emotional exploration and processing in a warm, collaborative environment and a therapeutic relationship that is genuine, authentic, and compassionate. I am trained in EMDR and enjoy integrating mindfulness and somatic modalities into my practice.
(406) 319-3835 View (406) 319-3835
Photo of Sabrina Clay Hanan, MA ABS, LCPC, NBC-HWC, IFS L1, Counselor
Sabrina Clay Hanan
Counselor, MA ABS, LCPC, NBC-HWC, IFS L1
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bozeman, MT 59718
I am an inclusive therapist and National Board Certified health and wellness coach with over 20 years of experience helping families, couples and individuals with their desire to improve their relationships with themselves and others.
Are you seeking a therapy experience that honors your unique way of experiencing the world with a therapist who understands the importance of a welcoming and safe relationship? Are you ready to reduce your anxiety, stress, fear and depression by collaborating with someone who will support you without judgement? Deciding to establish an alliance with a therapist is a brave thing to do and can help you find greater calm and sense of overall well being.
I am an inclusive therapist and National Board Certified health and wellness coach with over 20 years of experience helping families, couples and individuals with their desire to improve their relationships with themselves and others.
Are you seeking a therapy experience that honors your unique way of experiencing the world with a therapist who understands the importance of a welcoming and safe relationship? Are you ready to reduce your anxiety, stress, fear and depression by collaborating with someone who will support you without judgement? Deciding to establish an alliance with a therapist is a brave thing to do and can help you find greater calm and sense of overall well being.
(406) 380-3697 View (406) 380-3697
Photo of Molly Nelson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Molly Nelson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bozeman, MT 59715
I am a social worker who utilizes a collaborative, client centered approach when working with individuals and couples. My therapeutic background includes helping clients develop tools to manage their symptoms of anxiety, depression, mental health crises, relationship difficulties, and life transitions. I am passionate about helping clients enhance their interpersonal relationships through developing a non-judgmental awareness, and a deepened understanding of their behavioral patterns. I believe everyone contains unique strengths and skills to overcome life’s challenges.
I am a social worker who utilizes a collaborative, client centered approach when working with individuals and couples. My therapeutic background includes helping clients develop tools to manage their symptoms of anxiety, depression, mental health crises, relationship difficulties, and life transitions. I am passionate about helping clients enhance their interpersonal relationships through developing a non-judgmental awareness, and a deepened understanding of their behavioral patterns. I believe everyone contains unique strengths and skills to overcome life’s challenges.
(406) 350-7845 View (406) 350-7845
Photo of Lisa R. Featherstone - Featherstone Counseling Associates, PLLC, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Featherstone Counseling Associates, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bozeman, MT 59718  (Online Only)
Get answers to these questions + improve self awareness & enhance relationship skills.
NEW availability for online short term relationship counseling program called Real Dialogue/Dialogue Couples Therapy. Specializing in romantic/married partners, estranged adult children & their parents, adult siblings & colleagues/co-workers who find themselves mired in repetitive conflict without resolution. Learn how to resolve these issues with improved communication, better listening skills, and how to negotiate & compromise a resolution with respect. Gain a deeper understanding of yourself & each other and learn how to remain open & curious as your relationship continues to grow and evolve.
Get answers to these questions + improve self awareness & enhance relationship skills.
NEW availability for online short term relationship counseling program called Real Dialogue/Dialogue Couples Therapy. Specializing in romantic/married partners, estranged adult children & their parents, adult siblings & colleagues/co-workers who find themselves mired in repetitive conflict without resolution. Learn how to resolve these issues with improved communication, better listening skills, and how to negotiate & compromise a resolution with respect. Gain a deeper understanding of yourself & each other and learn how to remain open & curious as your relationship continues to grow and evolve.
(808) 518-2108 View (808) 518-2108
Photo of Sandy Bierle, MS, PCLC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Sandy Bierle
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, PCLC
Verified Verified
Bozeman, MT 59715
I offer counseling for individuals, families, couples, and adolescents using an emotion focused approach.
Hello! My name is Sandy and I am a pre-licensed counselor working in a private practice setting with a wide array of clients. I have specialized training with families, couples, and adolescents, yet I am passionate about working with anyone who is seeking support and transformation. Life's challenges come in all sorts of forms and I strive to provide a safe and judgement-free space to help you navigate them. I invest in my clients and work to support their healing by connecting to who they really are beneath the struggles so they can live happier and more connected lives. I believe we are all wired for connection and also to heal.
I offer counseling for individuals, families, couples, and adolescents using an emotion focused approach.
Hello! My name is Sandy and I am a pre-licensed counselor working in a private practice setting with a wide array of clients. I have specialized training with families, couples, and adolescents, yet I am passionate about working with anyone who is seeking support and transformation. Life's challenges come in all sorts of forms and I strive to provide a safe and judgement-free space to help you navigate them. I invest in my clients and work to support their healing by connecting to who they really are beneath the struggles so they can live happier and more connected lives. I believe we are all wired for connection and also to heal.
(406) 446-8837 View (406) 446-8837
Photo of Katie Regnier, MS, LCPC, Counselor
Katie Regnier
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Bozeman, MT 59715
Whether you are struggling with the anxieties associated with your everyday life, facing a life transition or encountering a life crisis; I believe counseling can be beneficial. I provide a safe and confidential space for clients to explore their personal challenges. I have worked with both individuals and couples. My work has included (but is not limited to) experience in anxiety, depression, infertility, life transitions, relationship issues, trauma and sexual assault/abuse. I am certified in the Mind Body Program for Infertility and have worked with many individuals and couples struggling with fertility.
Whether you are struggling with the anxieties associated with your everyday life, facing a life transition or encountering a life crisis; I believe counseling can be beneficial. I provide a safe and confidential space for clients to explore their personal challenges. I have worked with both individuals and couples. My work has included (but is not limited to) experience in anxiety, depression, infertility, life transitions, relationship issues, trauma and sexual assault/abuse. I am certified in the Mind Body Program for Infertility and have worked with many individuals and couples struggling with fertility.
(406) 285-2968 View (406) 285-2968
Photo of Evan Center - Center Counseling, PC, MS, MA, LCPC, LMFT, PCLC
Center Counseling, PC
MS, MA, LCPC, LMFT, PCLC
Verified Verified
Bozeman, MT 59715
While there are thousands of quality parenting, relationship, and self-help books, finding the strategies that actually make sense and work for you, your family, and your relationships is daunting to say the least.
Relationships are the center of our lives: Depression often leads to a deep sense of loneliness. Anxiety drives the people around us crazy. Stress impacts interactions with those we love. At Center Counseling, we think about people in the context of their relationships and we work to help our clients feel more whole within themselves and in their relationships. We work with Couples, Parents, Adults, College Students, Middle- & High-School students, and Families to build healthy skills and strengthen connections.
While there are thousands of quality parenting, relationship, and self-help books, finding the strategies that actually make sense and work for you, your family, and your relationships is daunting to say the least.
Relationships are the center of our lives: Depression often leads to a deep sense of loneliness. Anxiety drives the people around us crazy. Stress impacts interactions with those we love. At Center Counseling, we think about people in the context of their relationships and we work to help our clients feel more whole within themselves and in their relationships. We work with Couples, Parents, Adults, College Students, Middle- & High-School students, and Families to build healthy skills and strengthen connections.
(406) 510-1364 View (406) 510-1364
Photo of Jessica Stuart, MS, LCPC, SEP, Counselor
Jessica Stuart
Counselor, MS, LCPC, SEP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bozeman, MT 59718
I utilize a psychobiological approach (PACT) when working with couples.
My experience is in working with individuals and couples who struggle with issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma, loss, emotional regulation, and martial/ relationship distress. Increasing one's awareness of their present experience and motivations I believe is essential for change. I set out to create a non-judgmental environment that will promote growth and movement towards interacting intentionally in relationships. Emotional safety and security will be created in the therapy room and with all members to enhance effectiveness of therapeutic interventions. Please visit www.somatictherapymt.com for more information.
I utilize a psychobiological approach (PACT) when working with couples.
My experience is in working with individuals and couples who struggle with issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma, loss, emotional regulation, and martial/ relationship distress. Increasing one's awareness of their present experience and motivations I believe is essential for change. I set out to create a non-judgmental environment that will promote growth and movement towards interacting intentionally in relationships. Emotional safety and security will be created in the therapy room and with all members to enhance effectiveness of therapeutic interventions. Please visit www.somatictherapymt.com for more information.
(406) 708-4122 View (406) 708-4122
Photo of Shanti M. Pepper, PhD, RYT-500, Psychologist
Shanti M. Pepper
Psychologist, PhD, RYT-500
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bozeman, MT 59718
I am also trained in DBT, treatments for chronic pain & insomnia, and couples counseling.
I believe in people's ability to heal and grow after difficult experiences. However, it can be hard to know where to start, who to trust, or what might be helpful. Maybe you experience depression or anxiety, suffer from the consequences of trauma and chronic pain, or would like to repair and strengthen your romantic relationship. Regardless of your life’s journey and obstacles, treatment can help! As a psychologist with a holistic and integrative approach, I utilize evidence-based treatments (the gold standard), while also incorporating other helpful tools depending on your unique concerns.
I am also trained in DBT, treatments for chronic pain & insomnia, and couples counseling.
I believe in people's ability to heal and grow after difficult experiences. However, it can be hard to know where to start, who to trust, or what might be helpful. Maybe you experience depression or anxiety, suffer from the consequences of trauma and chronic pain, or would like to repair and strengthen your romantic relationship. Regardless of your life’s journey and obstacles, treatment can help! As a psychologist with a holistic and integrative approach, I utilize evidence-based treatments (the gold standard), while also incorporating other helpful tools depending on your unique concerns.
(406) 510-2323 View (406) 510-2323
Photo of Hannah Wilson, LCPC, CST, Counselor
Hannah Wilson
Counselor, LCPC, CST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bozeman, MT 59715
I hope to work with you to to create the relationship(s) you desire knowing that we have all have been impacted by trauma and/or everyday stressors.
I work with individuals and couples. Sexuality consists of delightful spectrums from identities, relational systems and genders. Seeking exploration and connection as we cultivate a pleasure focus to create the relationships that you find meaningful and fulfilling. This is your therapeutic experience and I work to make it fit you. Specializing in gender related topics, sexual dysfunction, and relationships and intimacy, this journey is with curiosity offer practical interventions to move you toward the connection you are seeking!
I hope to work with you to to create the relationship(s) you desire knowing that we have all have been impacted by trauma and/or everyday stressors.
I work with individuals and couples. Sexuality consists of delightful spectrums from identities, relational systems and genders. Seeking exploration and connection as we cultivate a pleasure focus to create the relationships that you find meaningful and fulfilling. This is your therapeutic experience and I work to make it fit you. Specializing in gender related topics, sexual dysfunction, and relationships and intimacy, this journey is with curiosity offer practical interventions to move you toward the connection you are seeking!
(406) 929-1324 View (406) 929-1324
Photo of Mallory Boich, MS, LCPC, Counselor
Mallory Boich
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bozeman, MT 59718
- now accepting new clients - Here's what I believe: the power of emotions is incredible. They shape our identities, influence how we interact with others and can be the underlying source of ongoing problems. While it may be easier to stay silent or to push our emotions deep down, this does not miraculously “fix” our problems, nor does it allow us to heal. My approach to counseling is to provide a safe environment that allows for emotional exploration and a place to help you better navigate life's challenges. Whether you are dealing with personal, family or relationship problems, you don’t have to face them alone.
- now accepting new clients - Here's what I believe: the power of emotions is incredible. They shape our identities, influence how we interact with others and can be the underlying source of ongoing problems. While it may be easier to stay silent or to push our emotions deep down, this does not miraculously “fix” our problems, nor does it allow us to heal. My approach to counseling is to provide a safe environment that allows for emotional exploration and a place to help you better navigate life's challenges. Whether you are dealing with personal, family or relationship problems, you don’t have to face them alone.
(406) 577-8229 View (406) 577-8229
Photo of Garrett Forsyth, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Garrett Forsyth
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bozeman, MT 59718
I have been trained using a systemic and culturally-attuned lens to help clients work on issues like anxiety, relationship conflict, depression, low self-esteem, sexuality, and trauma.
You may be struggling to find a deep connection with yourself and others and wondering why you act and think the way you do. I specialize in working with clients who are interested in engaging in self-reflection as a means to better understand themselves. I understand that clients are looking for some resolve from their distress, no matter how big or small the distress feels. I like to help clients find useful and accessible strategies to help move towards their treatment goals.
I have been trained using a systemic and culturally-attuned lens to help clients work on issues like anxiety, relationship conflict, depression, low self-esteem, sexuality, and trauma.
You may be struggling to find a deep connection with yourself and others and wondering why you act and think the way you do. I specialize in working with clients who are interested in engaging in self-reflection as a means to better understand themselves. I understand that clients are looking for some resolve from their distress, no matter how big or small the distress feels. I like to help clients find useful and accessible strategies to help move towards their treatment goals.
(406) 344-1890 View (406) 344-1890
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.