Couples Counseling Therapists in Raleigh, NC

Photo of Rebecca Ozment, MAEd, LCMHC, LCAS, NCC, Counselor
Rebecca Ozment
Counselor, MAEd, LCMHC, LCAS, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27609  (Online Only)
Hey there! I'm Rebecca and I offer online sex therapy, individual, and couples/relationship counseling all across North Carolina! Have you ever felt completely lost and stuck, wishing it was easier to talk to your partner, wanting to understand yourself more, or feeling isolated and disconnected? If so, you're definitely not alone. In our work together, we will create a space where you can feel fully empowered to dive deep. Through meaningful questions and genuine curiosity, we’ll explore what makes you tick. I’ll be there, holding space and helping you develop skills while also challenging any inconsistencies that arise!
Hey there! I'm Rebecca and I offer online sex therapy, individual, and couples/relationship counseling all across North Carolina! Have you ever felt completely lost and stuck, wishing it was easier to talk to your partner, wanting to understand yourself more, or feeling isolated and disconnected? If so, you're definitely not alone. In our work together, we will create a space where you can feel fully empowered to dive deep. Through meaningful questions and genuine curiosity, we’ll explore what makes you tick. I’ll be there, holding space and helping you develop skills while also challenging any inconsistencies that arise!
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Photo of Brandie Wesley, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brandie Wesley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27601  (Online Only)
Brandie has been in the mental health field for 21 years in a variety of settings. Her experience ranges from working in a juvenile detention center, drug and alcohol rehabilitation centers, community mental health centers, psychiatric residential treatment facilities, and outpatient counseling centers. She has worked with major mental health, families, couples, as well as children and adolescents. Her primary focus in the past 8 years has been on children and adolescents (more specifically adolescents). She specializes in working with families, couples, and adolescents.
Brandie has been in the mental health field for 21 years in a variety of settings. Her experience ranges from working in a juvenile detention center, drug and alcohol rehabilitation centers, community mental health centers, psychiatric residential treatment facilities, and outpatient counseling centers. She has worked with major mental health, families, couples, as well as children and adolescents. Her primary focus in the past 8 years has been on children and adolescents (more specifically adolescents). She specializes in working with families, couples, and adolescents.
(984) 223-9936 View (984) 223-9936
Photo of Sarinia Bishop, MSW, LCSW, LCAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarinia Bishop
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615
I believe that the therapeutic relationship is a safe haven for you to explore, discover and heal the authentic you! After a long day of being what the world needs you to be, HERE together is where we unmask and uncover who you truly are -- HERE is where happiness lives. I have a passion for the therapeutic process by deconstructing learned behavior and patterns while bringing blind-spots into awareness so that motivated clients can make conscious changes and show up in the world, life and relationships joyfully engaged as your true self.
I believe that the therapeutic relationship is a safe haven for you to explore, discover and heal the authentic you! After a long day of being what the world needs you to be, HERE together is where we unmask and uncover who you truly are -- HERE is where happiness lives. I have a passion for the therapeutic process by deconstructing learned behavior and patterns while bringing blind-spots into awareness so that motivated clients can make conscious changes and show up in the world, life and relationships joyfully engaged as your true self.
(984) 400-5745 View (984) 400-5745
Photo of Heidi Soto Holgate, MSW, LCSW-A, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heidi Soto Holgate
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27609
We all find ourselves in need of community and connection, creating a therapeutic relationship is just one way you may choose to examine and face life's obstacles, sorrows, or opportunities for growth.
Hi there! I am Heidi and I’m grateful to have you here. I specialize in working with LGBTQIA+ people and youth. Although I also work with individuals, couples, & families. I see clients as young as 6 years old. My practice is deeply rooted in a commitment to social justice, anti-racism, and cultural humility. If you have experienced big life changes, are wanting affirming and inclusive care, or are seeking to work through life's challenges, you are not alone. I will prioritize creating an inclusive, relaxed, and casual environment for you to feel worthy and seen.
We all find ourselves in need of community and connection, creating a therapeutic relationship is just one way you may choose to examine and face life's obstacles, sorrows, or opportunities for growth.
Hi there! I am Heidi and I’m grateful to have you here. I specialize in working with LGBTQIA+ people and youth. Although I also work with individuals, couples, & families. I see clients as young as 6 years old. My practice is deeply rooted in a commitment to social justice, anti-racism, and cultural humility. If you have experienced big life changes, are wanting affirming and inclusive care, or are seeking to work through life's challenges, you are not alone. I will prioritize creating an inclusive, relaxed, and casual environment for you to feel worthy and seen.
(984) 204-6218 View (984) 204-6218
Photo of Anju Verma, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anju Verma
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27612
Depression, anxiety, grief and loss, PTSD, attention deficit disorder, relationship issues, stress management and coping skills, low self esteem, communication, couples counseling, parenting guidance and support, are just some of the areas I provide treatment in.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker /Therapist (LCSW) Board Certified in NC. I have over 20 years of experience in the fields of Mental Health and Substance Abuse. I provide Individual and Family Counseling and work with all populations such as children, adolescents and adults. My goal as a therapist is to create a supportive, non-judgmental environment in which my clients can explore their emotional needs, discuss behavioral issues and overcome barriers that limit their full potential. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy and strengths based approach in my work with individuals and families
Depression, anxiety, grief and loss, PTSD, attention deficit disorder, relationship issues, stress management and coping skills, low self esteem, communication, couples counseling, parenting guidance and support, are just some of the areas I provide treatment in.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker /Therapist (LCSW) Board Certified in NC. I have over 20 years of experience in the fields of Mental Health and Substance Abuse. I provide Individual and Family Counseling and work with all populations such as children, adolescents and adults. My goal as a therapist is to create a supportive, non-judgmental environment in which my clients can explore their emotional needs, discuss behavioral issues and overcome barriers that limit their full potential. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy and strengths based approach in my work with individuals and families
(919) 415-0299 View (919) 415-0299
Photo of Ashley Campbell, MS, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Ashley Campbell
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, LMFTA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615  (Online Only)
My specialty areas are: family conflict, identity issues, maternal mental health, racial and ethnic challenges, and relationship struggles.
Families that are experiencing challenges related to life transitions such as family blending, disagreements on how to handle certain matters, a member having a newly diagnosed mental health problem, and sibling fighting are all struggles that I can help guide you through. I also have experience with mothers dealing with transitioning to motherhood for the first, second, third or more time(s) experiencing mental and emotional changes. We will partner together in achieving goals such as learning healthy coping mechanisms during life transitions and reframing thought perspectives to help with behavioral and emotional growth.
My specialty areas are: family conflict, identity issues, maternal mental health, racial and ethnic challenges, and relationship struggles.
Families that are experiencing challenges related to life transitions such as family blending, disagreements on how to handle certain matters, a member having a newly diagnosed mental health problem, and sibling fighting are all struggles that I can help guide you through. I also have experience with mothers dealing with transitioning to motherhood for the first, second, third or more time(s) experiencing mental and emotional changes. We will partner together in achieving goals such as learning healthy coping mechanisms during life transitions and reframing thought perspectives to help with behavioral and emotional growth.
(919) 590-0095 View (919) 590-0095
Photo of Karim Nassar, MSW, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karim Nassar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27606  (Online Only)
You deserve to live your best, most authentic life. My practice focuses on helping members of the LGBTQIA+ community. I celebrate all sexual orientations, gender identities, and gender presentations, and believe that all relationship models between consenting adults are valid and beautiful. I believe that therapy can be a powerful tool in helping us find our path through the obstacles and challenges that life throws at us.
You deserve to live your best, most authentic life. My practice focuses on helping members of the LGBTQIA+ community. I celebrate all sexual orientations, gender identities, and gender presentations, and believe that all relationship models between consenting adults are valid and beautiful. I believe that therapy can be a powerful tool in helping us find our path through the obstacles and challenges that life throws at us.
(919) 443-6249 View (919) 443-6249
Photo of Colette Segalla, PhD, LCMHC
Colette Segalla
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, PhD, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27601
Waitlist for new clients
I provide individual and couples counseling for adults. As a couple's counselor, I work with couples to develop effective communication skills, improved emotional connection with one another, and healthy sexual intimacy. I enjoy working with adults on a wide variety of issues, including stress, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, codependency, grief, recovery from trauma, managing intense emotions, and obsessive thoughts or compulsive behaviors.
I provide individual and couples counseling for adults. As a couple's counselor, I work with couples to develop effective communication skills, improved emotional connection with one another, and healthy sexual intimacy. I enjoy working with adults on a wide variety of issues, including stress, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, codependency, grief, recovery from trauma, managing intense emotions, and obsessive thoughts or compulsive behaviors.
(919) 344-0590 View (919) 344-0590
Photo of George Edmond, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
George Edmond
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615
I utilize various evidence-based modalities (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Reality Therapy, Mindfulness-Based (MBCT) Trauma Focus Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), Marriage Counseling, Premarital Counseling, Couples Counseling and Christian Counseling).
I believe that every problem has a solution and that solution lies within the person that is experiencing the problem. Life is to be enjoyed and if you are not enjoying your life it could be because of distractions. It is those distractions that sometimes causes us to feel overwhelmed, unhappy, frustrated and sometimes empty. My goal as a therapist is to help you explore those distractions and become the best version of yourself.
I utilize various evidence-based modalities (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Reality Therapy, Mindfulness-Based (MBCT) Trauma Focus Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), Marriage Counseling, Premarital Counseling, Couples Counseling and Christian Counseling).
I believe that every problem has a solution and that solution lies within the person that is experiencing the problem. Life is to be enjoyed and if you are not enjoying your life it could be because of distractions. It is those distractions that sometimes causes us to feel overwhelmed, unhappy, frustrated and sometimes empty. My goal as a therapist is to help you explore those distractions and become the best version of yourself.
(919) 343-5573 x120109 View (919) 343-5573 x120109
Photo of Ryan M Graumann, LCMHCS, CCTP, NCC
Ryan M Graumann
LCMHCS, CCTP, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27609
My areas of focus and experience are trauma, attachment, relationship concerns, sex therapy, and intuitive eating.
My goal is to collaborate with clients through building resources and reaching meaningful insights while getting to know authentic Self. Everybody has the right to feel seen, heard, and validated in their experience(s). It is imperative to understand my clients and develop treatment goals from the context of intersectionality and social justice. I am supportive of all genders & sexual orientations, relationship structures, kinks, STI/STDs statuses, & more.
My areas of focus and experience are trauma, attachment, relationship concerns, sex therapy, and intuitive eating.
My goal is to collaborate with clients through building resources and reaching meaningful insights while getting to know authentic Self. Everybody has the right to feel seen, heard, and validated in their experience(s). It is imperative to understand my clients and develop treatment goals from the context of intersectionality and social justice. I am supportive of all genders & sexual orientations, relationship structures, kinks, STI/STDs statuses, & more.
(984) 249-2356 View (984) 249-2356
Photo of Katherine Broadway, MDiv, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katherine Broadway
Licensed Professional Counselor, MDiv, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27609
Are you feeling disappointed in a relationship, your job or perhaps your life in general? Do you feel bad about the choices you have made? I can help you use your inner strength and personal power to make changes needed to feel better and create a more fulfilling life. We will work with your feelings and thoughts to manage your anxiety, depression and loneliness.If you are feeling desperate and/or want to change your life, I can help you. My seminary background enables me to offer a faith based perspective to those from a multitude of spiritual backgrounds needing sensitivity to their values.
Are you feeling disappointed in a relationship, your job or perhaps your life in general? Do you feel bad about the choices you have made? I can help you use your inner strength and personal power to make changes needed to feel better and create a more fulfilling life. We will work with your feelings and thoughts to manage your anxiety, depression and loneliness.If you are feeling desperate and/or want to change your life, I can help you. My seminary background enables me to offer a faith based perspective to those from a multitude of spiritual backgrounds needing sensitivity to their values.
(919) 407-8112 View (919) 407-8112
Photo of Linda B Evans, MA, NCC, LPC, BCC, CSOTS
Linda B Evans
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC, BCC, CSOTS
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27603
Who can benefit from our services? Children, adolescents, adults, couples, parents and families, and corporate workplaces.
Are you feeling sad more days than not? Loosing interest in activities that used to be fun? Need to talk? LifeBridge is here to listen! With over thirteen years of experience working with individuals/families, I have helped children, adolescents and adults move from where they are to where they want to be. Working collaborative with my clients, I start where you are, use what you have and allow you to do what you can to develop a treatment plan to meet your individual needs. I utilize a person-centered, eclectic approach that includes cognitive behavior, solution focused, family systems therapies and motivational interviewing.
Who can benefit from our services? Children, adolescents, adults, couples, parents and families, and corporate workplaces.
Are you feeling sad more days than not? Loosing interest in activities that used to be fun? Need to talk? LifeBridge is here to listen! With over thirteen years of experience working with individuals/families, I have helped children, adolescents and adults move from where they are to where they want to be. Working collaborative with my clients, I start where you are, use what you have and allow you to do what you can to develop a treatment plan to meet your individual needs. I utilize a person-centered, eclectic approach that includes cognitive behavior, solution focused, family systems therapies and motivational interviewing.
(919) 887-9120 View (919) 887-9120
Photo of Tatenda Perry, LCSW, LCAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tatenda Perry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27617  (Online Only)
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck in your life? I’m Tatenda Perry, a licensed clinical social worker with over 10 years of experience in helping individuals navigate their mental health challenges and find a path to personal growth and well-being. My approach is warm, compassionate, and tailored to meet your unique needs. Together, we will work to understand your experiences, develop effective coping strategies, and achieve your personal goals. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, or relationship issues, I provide a safe and non-judgmental space where you can explore your mental health.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck in your life? I’m Tatenda Perry, a licensed clinical social worker with over 10 years of experience in helping individuals navigate their mental health challenges and find a path to personal growth and well-being. My approach is warm, compassionate, and tailored to meet your unique needs. Together, we will work to understand your experiences, develop effective coping strategies, and achieve your personal goals. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, or relationship issues, I provide a safe and non-judgmental space where you can explore your mental health.
(984) 267-1286 View (984) 267-1286
Photo of Eloise Schaerlaken, MSW, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Eloise Schaerlaken
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27612
I help those needing support coping with a recent breakup, who want to rebuild closeness within their romantic relationships, wanting to explore their past selves in order to feel more connected to who they & find what's "missing". I offer an open and inviting space where my clients can work through new and confusing feelings or cope with the resurfacing of older wounds. I work with individuals and couples struggling with relationship issues, attachment, intimacy, negative conflict cycles, parenting/co-parenting dynamics, parent-child relationships, communication, anxiety, stress and impacts of divorce and/or other life transition.
I help those needing support coping with a recent breakup, who want to rebuild closeness within their romantic relationships, wanting to explore their past selves in order to feel more connected to who they & find what's "missing". I offer an open and inviting space where my clients can work through new and confusing feelings or cope with the resurfacing of older wounds. I work with individuals and couples struggling with relationship issues, attachment, intimacy, negative conflict cycles, parenting/co-parenting dynamics, parent-child relationships, communication, anxiety, stress and impacts of divorce and/or other life transition.
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Photo of Alyssa Doberstein, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alyssa Doberstein
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27612
I specialize in working with couples and individuals around relationship concerns, intimacy, desire discrepancies/low desire, trauma, infidelity, anxiety, and sexual health & pleasure.
Finding a therapist that you connect with and feel understood by is an integral part of therapy. I help people work towards improved connection within themselves, their relationships, and their sexuality. At times we may struggle to communicate and connect with our partners, experience a lack of passion and romance, or have difficulty managing life struggles, distressing events, or conflict in our relationships. Therapy can be a chance to rediscover yourself, your relationships, and heal from painful life experiences while exploring new skills and resources to grow and develop increased relationship and life satisfaction.
I specialize in working with couples and individuals around relationship concerns, intimacy, desire discrepancies/low desire, trauma, infidelity, anxiety, and sexual health & pleasure.
Finding a therapist that you connect with and feel understood by is an integral part of therapy. I help people work towards improved connection within themselves, their relationships, and their sexuality. At times we may struggle to communicate and connect with our partners, experience a lack of passion and romance, or have difficulty managing life struggles, distressing events, or conflict in our relationships. Therapy can be a chance to rediscover yourself, your relationships, and heal from painful life experiences while exploring new skills and resources to grow and develop increased relationship and life satisfaction.
(984) 217-2820 View (984) 217-2820
Photo of Emily Baggett, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Emily Baggett
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27601
I treat ADHD/Neurodivergence, Anxiety, Mood Disorders, Grief & Loss, Maternal Mental Health, Attachment & Trauma Disorders, Relationship Counseling, Self-Discipline & Behavior Management, Social Anxiety, Stress Reduction & Management, and Time & Task Management.
The stories of our lives have a tremendous impact on who we are as people, and how we feel. As a narrative-based therapist, it is my privilege to be invited to witness your story and be part of the change that you are seeking. With training in marriage and family therapy comes a unique understanding of how relational experiences, how you grow up, communities, and society as a whole can impact how each person interacts with and understands the world around them. I operate from a neurodivergent affirming and trauma-informed style, and seek to offer a compassionate and understanding atmosphere while inviting you to challenge yourself.
I treat ADHD/Neurodivergence, Anxiety, Mood Disorders, Grief & Loss, Maternal Mental Health, Attachment & Trauma Disorders, Relationship Counseling, Self-Discipline & Behavior Management, Social Anxiety, Stress Reduction & Management, and Time & Task Management.
The stories of our lives have a tremendous impact on who we are as people, and how we feel. As a narrative-based therapist, it is my privilege to be invited to witness your story and be part of the change that you are seeking. With training in marriage and family therapy comes a unique understanding of how relational experiences, how you grow up, communities, and society as a whole can impact how each person interacts with and understands the world around them. I operate from a neurodivergent affirming and trauma-informed style, and seek to offer a compassionate and understanding atmosphere while inviting you to challenge yourself.
(984) 207-0931 View (984) 207-0931
Photo of Suzanne Bennett - Peace of Mind Solutions Counseling & Tutoring , MBA, MHA, LCMHC
Peace of Mind Solutions Counseling & Tutoring
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MBA, MHA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27619  (Online Only)
I particularly enjoy working with individuals who have faced adversity, struggle, and trauma, as well as couples, and those seeking enlightenment.
Hi ! My approach to therapy is based on individual needs, with an affinity for individuals struggling with Lifestyle issues, as well, as those navigating life’s many challenges. My own traumatic illness, at age 15, equipped me to persevere, in spite of insurmountable odds, including multiple near death experiences, and excruciating work, back to a “normal” life. I desire to help others struggling with their Relationships (with self, and others), and to become the best versions of themselves. I wholeheartedly believe in achieving one’s own potential, and in, “meeting” people where they are. I’d LOVE to help you, too. . . !
I particularly enjoy working with individuals who have faced adversity, struggle, and trauma, as well as couples, and those seeking enlightenment.
Hi ! My approach to therapy is based on individual needs, with an affinity for individuals struggling with Lifestyle issues, as well, as those navigating life’s many challenges. My own traumatic illness, at age 15, equipped me to persevere, in spite of insurmountable odds, including multiple near death experiences, and excruciating work, back to a “normal” life. I desire to help others struggling with their Relationships (with self, and others), and to become the best versions of themselves. I wholeheartedly believe in achieving one’s own potential, and in, “meeting” people where they are. I’d LOVE to help you, too. . . !
(984) 224-6294 View (984) 224-6294
Photo of Dr. Tauchiana Williams, DSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Tauchiana Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27676  (Online Only)
Through a collective approach, we seek to build a trusting relationship.
Some seasons in life can be very difficult and everyone can use some support coping at some point. It’s time for you to thrive and cultivate the life you desire by working through the depression, anxiety, and other relationship issues. With over 18 years of experience, I would like to help you live a happier and fulfilled life.
Through a collective approach, we seek to build a trusting relationship.
Some seasons in life can be very difficult and everyone can use some support coping at some point. It’s time for you to thrive and cultivate the life you desire by working through the depression, anxiety, and other relationship issues. With over 18 years of experience, I would like to help you live a happier and fulfilled life.
(984) 305-3804 View (984) 305-3804
Photo of Stephen R Hughes, MA, LCMHCS
Stephen R Hughes
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27617
Psychotherapy helps in managing your feelings, making better choices, and removing the obstacles to your goals. As a licensed psychotherapist I work with individuals, couples, and families from diverse cultural backgrounds dealing with emotional difficulties, relationship problems and various psychological conditions. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, and adjustment disorders. My goal is to help my clients define what they truly want, and then help them manage the obstacles that get in their way.
Psychotherapy helps in managing your feelings, making better choices, and removing the obstacles to your goals. As a licensed psychotherapist I work with individuals, couples, and families from diverse cultural backgrounds dealing with emotional difficulties, relationship problems and various psychological conditions. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, and adjustment disorders. My goal is to help my clients define what they truly want, and then help them manage the obstacles that get in their way.
(919) 343-0513 View (919) 343-0513
Photo of Linda Rueckert Kraft, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Linda Rueckert Kraft
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615
I provide psychotherapy to adult individuals and couples who are seeking support due to life's challenges. I specialize in mental health, addiction and family dynamics. I believe in creating an atmosphere of safety and non-judgement allowing you to achieve your goals.
I provide psychotherapy to adult individuals and couples who are seeking support due to life's challenges. I specialize in mental health, addiction and family dynamics. I believe in creating an atmosphere of safety and non-judgement allowing you to achieve your goals.
(919) 373-3867 View (919) 373-3867
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.