Couples Counseling Therapists in Sparta, NJ

Photo of Charlie McNeil, DMin, EdS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Charlie McNeil
Marriage & Family Therapist, DMin, EdS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sparta, NJ 07871
In couples counseling, I help clients hear and understand each other in new ways and create the space they need to heal and thrive, both as individuals and as partners in a relationship.
Hurting? Feeling stuck or struggling? Stressed? Anxious ... or depressed? I can help. My more than four decades of successful experience can assist to ease your pain, smooth your transitions, and identify and fill the empty places in your life. A Clinical Fellow in the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT), I offer compassionate attention, so you will feel fully listened to, heard, understood, and accepted, creating a context where you can focus on your healing, wellness, and personal growth. Medication management services are available through our Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner for clients ages 13 and up.
In couples counseling, I help clients hear and understand each other in new ways and create the space they need to heal and thrive, both as individuals and as partners in a relationship.
Hurting? Feeling stuck or struggling? Stressed? Anxious ... or depressed? I can help. My more than four decades of successful experience can assist to ease your pain, smooth your transitions, and identify and fill the empty places in your life. A Clinical Fellow in the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT), I offer compassionate attention, so you will feel fully listened to, heard, understood, and accepted, creating a context where you can focus on your healing, wellness, and personal growth. Medication management services are available through our Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner for clients ages 13 and up.
(201) 870-4139 View (201) 870-4139
Photo of Kelly M Singer, MA, LPC, LCADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kelly M Singer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sparta, NJ 07871
experience working with people who suffer from depression, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma & substance abuse.
Accepting New Patients! Are you feeling like you are running on auto pilot? Battling through your days waiting for the other shoe to drop? Are you stress out and tired but your mind still races? If you answered yes to any of these you may need to get yourself re aligned so you can feel your best. Living with anxiety, depression, past trauma, and dysfunctional relationships can be exhausting. It may be time to sort through all that and get on the right path… a New Path.
experience working with people who suffer from depression, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma & substance abuse.
Accepting New Patients! Are you feeling like you are running on auto pilot? Battling through your days waiting for the other shoe to drop? Are you stress out and tired but your mind still races? If you answered yes to any of these you may need to get yourself re aligned so you can feel your best. Living with anxiety, depression, past trauma, and dysfunctional relationships can be exhausting. It may be time to sort through all that and get on the right path… a New Path.
(201) 308-6332 View (201) 308-6332
Photo of Sarah Stefanescu, MA, LAC, NCC, Counselor
Sarah Stefanescu
Counselor, MA, LAC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sparta, NJ 07871
I am eager to help individuals of all ages and backgrounds. I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults in individual, couples, and family therapy settings. Since everyone is unique, I know that each client who sits on my couch (or my virtual screen) will need something different and will have different goals for therapy, and my flexible therapeutic approach lends way for that. Above all else, I am passionate about providing my clients with a listening ear and a safe atmosphere to explore who they are and who they want to be.
I am eager to help individuals of all ages and backgrounds. I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults in individual, couples, and family therapy settings. Since everyone is unique, I know that each client who sits on my couch (or my virtual screen) will need something different and will have different goals for therapy, and my flexible therapeutic approach lends way for that. Above all else, I am passionate about providing my clients with a listening ear and a safe atmosphere to explore who they are and who they want to be.
(973) 559-2390 View (973) 559-2390
Photo of Melissa Pirnos - Lakeside Counseling Associates, LLC
Lakeside Counseling Associates, LLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sparta, NJ 07871
Lakeside Counseling Associates is a multi-specialty group private practice, offering behavioral health services to adults, children and adolescents. We provide individual counseling, couples counseling, family therapy and group therapy in a calm and relaxing outpatient setting. In addition to office visits, we offer teletherapy services as an option. Our diverse team of mental health professionals are dedicated to providing the highest quality of care, personalized for each individual's needs. All of our therapists are experienced licensed professionals with a wide range of specialties and qualifications.
Lakeside Counseling Associates is a multi-specialty group private practice, offering behavioral health services to adults, children and adolescents. We provide individual counseling, couples counseling, family therapy and group therapy in a calm and relaxing outpatient setting. In addition to office visits, we offer teletherapy services as an option. Our diverse team of mental health professionals are dedicated to providing the highest quality of care, personalized for each individual's needs. All of our therapists are experienced licensed professionals with a wide range of specialties and qualifications.
(862) 701-4614 View (862) 701-4614
Photo of Gail Roffe, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gail Roffe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sparta, NJ 07871  (Online Only)
Since entering the field of Social Work over 30 years ago, I have had the pleasure of working with individuals and couples through both the private and public sectors who are experiencing work or school stress, interpersonal or relationship issues, grief and loss, life transitions, mood disorders, ADHD, caregiver stress and trauma related challenges.
I am a strengths-based clinician providing a compassionate and non-judgmental culture of care for the treatment of anxiety and depression often associated with the challenges of daily life. My practice is based on the fundamental belief that all individuals deserve to feel respected, accepted and "heard." As such, my clinical approach to therapy is client centered and starts with building a trusting relationship so that we may work together to help you attain the quality of life that you desire. To move forward in the direction we want to go takes only one small manageable step to get started. Therapy will then move at your own pace
Since entering the field of Social Work over 30 years ago, I have had the pleasure of working with individuals and couples through both the private and public sectors who are experiencing work or school stress, interpersonal or relationship issues, grief and loss, life transitions, mood disorders, ADHD, caregiver stress and trauma related challenges.
I am a strengths-based clinician providing a compassionate and non-judgmental culture of care for the treatment of anxiety and depression often associated with the challenges of daily life. My practice is based on the fundamental belief that all individuals deserve to feel respected, accepted and "heard." As such, my clinical approach to therapy is client centered and starts with building a trusting relationship so that we may work together to help you attain the quality of life that you desire. To move forward in the direction we want to go takes only one small manageable step to get started. Therapy will then move at your own pace
(973) 446-8659 View (973) 446-8659
Photo of Janine Maris - Sage Psychotherapy Services, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sage Psychotherapy Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sparta, NJ 07871
Sage Psychotherapy is a small private practice therapy group in Sparta NJ, made up of 10 experienced therapists who provide a wide range of services for adults, children, couples, and families. With our varying cultures, backgrounds, and experiences we are sure to have someone who is the right fit for you. We take a holistic and relaxed approach to therapy, aiming to create a safe and supportive environment for our clients to explore their mental and emotional well-being. Our on-site therapy dog, Sasha, will make you feel right at home. Please give us a call to schedule; evenings, weekends, and virtual options are available.
Sage Psychotherapy is a small private practice therapy group in Sparta NJ, made up of 10 experienced therapists who provide a wide range of services for adults, children, couples, and families. With our varying cultures, backgrounds, and experiences we are sure to have someone who is the right fit for you. We take a holistic and relaxed approach to therapy, aiming to create a safe and supportive environment for our clients to explore their mental and emotional well-being. Our on-site therapy dog, Sasha, will make you feel right at home. Please give us a call to schedule; evenings, weekends, and virtual options are available.
(973) 784-1068 View (973) 784-1068
Photo of Dr. Jennifer Mahfouz, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Jennifer Mahfouz
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Sparta, NJ 07871  (Online Only)
Our mental and physical health are undeniably intertwined, and it is impossible to focus on one without acknowledging and understanding the other. My specialty is working with individuals on appreciating the relationship between their mind, body, and environment, identifying what may be contributing to their struggles, and locating potential areas to intervene. I am passionate about working with those who have experienced life changing injuries, disabilities, or medical conditions that impact daily life in any way. You may feel overwhelmed and even hopeless, but if you are open to giving therapy a chance, I am here to support you.
Our mental and physical health are undeniably intertwined, and it is impossible to focus on one without acknowledging and understanding the other. My specialty is working with individuals on appreciating the relationship between their mind, body, and environment, identifying what may be contributing to their struggles, and locating potential areas to intervene. I am passionate about working with those who have experienced life changing injuries, disabilities, or medical conditions that impact daily life in any way. You may feel overwhelmed and even hopeless, but if you are open to giving therapy a chance, I am here to support you.
(973) 319-8580 View (973) 319-8580
Photo of Edward Blevins, MEd, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Edward Blevins
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Sparta, NJ 07871
I help children in conflict, struggling couples, unhappy families, and adults who are motivated to change. Call me for a free phone consultation or to set up an appointment. Anger, anxiety, depression, grief, parenting concerns, marital discord, bullying and harassment, behavioral disorders, substance abuse, school or job avoidance, and issues specific to children and adults with developmental disabilities are all problems we can work on successfully together . I have 25 years of school experience working with children, backed by twelve years of clinical experience in Sussex County assisting children and adults in improving their lives.
I help children in conflict, struggling couples, unhappy families, and adults who are motivated to change. Call me for a free phone consultation or to set up an appointment. Anger, anxiety, depression, grief, parenting concerns, marital discord, bullying and harassment, behavioral disorders, substance abuse, school or job avoidance, and issues specific to children and adults with developmental disabilities are all problems we can work on successfully together . I have 25 years of school experience working with children, backed by twelve years of clinical experience in Sussex County assisting children and adults in improving their lives.
(908) 669-4976 View (908) 669-4976
Marvin B Chartoff
Psychologist, EdD
Verified Verified
Sparta, NJ 07871
I work with individuals, couples, families, parents, teens and children and offer flexible hours, day and evening.
As a dedicated, caring, experienced psychologist, I successfully treated children, adolescents, families and adults, using a cognitive-behavioral approach, for over 25 years. I am an in-network for most insurance companies (Aetna, United, Cigna, Blue-Cross, Magellan, Value Options, Medicare and others). Through therapy, I have helped patients make positive changes, overcome their psychological difficulties, improve family and marital relationships, and improve child and teen adjustment. I was the director of a large psychological practice, was on the professional staff of Hackettstown Hospital, and was a school psychologist.
I work with individuals, couples, families, parents, teens and children and offer flexible hours, day and evening.
As a dedicated, caring, experienced psychologist, I successfully treated children, adolescents, families and adults, using a cognitive-behavioral approach, for over 25 years. I am an in-network for most insurance companies (Aetna, United, Cigna, Blue-Cross, Magellan, Value Options, Medicare and others). Through therapy, I have helped patients make positive changes, overcome their psychological difficulties, improve family and marital relationships, and improve child and teen adjustment. I was the director of a large psychological practice, was on the professional staff of Hackettstown Hospital, and was a school psychologist.
(862) 290-3978 View (862) 290-3978
Photo of Beth Answorth - Beth Answorth MSW, LCSW, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Beth Answorth MSW, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Sparta, NJ 07871
My focus of treatment includes individuals, couples, parents and family work for teens, adults and older adults.
We are currently living in a challenging time. The unprecedented demands of living through the COVID-19 pandemic; "shelter-in-place," social isolation, altered work & education via ZOOM, financial hardship, and more, has left many people experiencing new emotional struggles. The experience of loss due to sickness and death of loved ones, friends, or coworkers, has also created a sense of "emotional overload" for many. Talking to a compassionate professional can help you get through this difficult period. I am available to help you navigate these uncharted waters, as you seek to "land" on solid ground.
My focus of treatment includes individuals, couples, parents and family work for teens, adults and older adults.
We are currently living in a challenging time. The unprecedented demands of living through the COVID-19 pandemic; "shelter-in-place," social isolation, altered work & education via ZOOM, financial hardship, and more, has left many people experiencing new emotional struggles. The experience of loss due to sickness and death of loved ones, friends, or coworkers, has also created a sense of "emotional overload" for many. Talking to a compassionate professional can help you get through this difficult period. I am available to help you navigate these uncharted waters, as you seek to "land" on solid ground.
(973) 988-2671 View (973) 988-2671
Photo of Monica Camarate, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Monica Camarate
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Sparta, NJ 07871
I have extensive experience working with families, individuals and couples.
Relationships are the building blocks and the greatest sources of happiness and fulfillment in people’s lives. Occasionally, they may become troubled due to daily stressors and personal issues, which brings feelings of frustration, disappointment, sadness, despair, loneliness. It may be difficult to resolve the conflict on your own. Therapy is a relationship between a trained professional and individuals in which feelings, patterns of behavior and communication, previous experiences, goals, etc. may be discussed and experimented with in a safe and structured environment. Within this new relationship, individuals can explore alternatives and make the changes they believe will improve their lives.
I have extensive experience working with families, individuals and couples.
Relationships are the building blocks and the greatest sources of happiness and fulfillment in people’s lives. Occasionally, they may become troubled due to daily stressors and personal issues, which brings feelings of frustration, disappointment, sadness, despair, loneliness. It may be difficult to resolve the conflict on your own. Therapy is a relationship between a trained professional and individuals in which feelings, patterns of behavior and communication, previous experiences, goals, etc. may be discussed and experimented with in a safe and structured environment. Within this new relationship, individuals can explore alternatives and make the changes they believe will improve their lives.
(973) 241-5317 View (973) 241-5317
Hillary Greene
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sparta, NJ 07871
My name is Hillary Greene. I have 30 plus years in the psychotherapy field. I am a skilled and experienced clinician treating many problems but specializing in depression and mood disorders, anxiety, stress related issues, ptsd, and relationship related problems in couples, friendships, the workplace, and the family.I work with grief and loss, not only thru a loved one dying but also many types of emotional losses which are sometimes even more difficult. I do a lot of work helping individuals to work thru family of origin issues so they can become "unstuck", and move on with their lives.
My name is Hillary Greene. I have 30 plus years in the psychotherapy field. I am a skilled and experienced clinician treating many problems but specializing in depression and mood disorders, anxiety, stress related issues, ptsd, and relationship related problems in couples, friendships, the workplace, and the family.I work with grief and loss, not only thru a loved one dying but also many types of emotional losses which are sometimes even more difficult. I do a lot of work helping individuals to work thru family of origin issues so they can become "unstuck", and move on with their lives.
(973) 850-5321 View (973) 850-5321
Photo of David Russell Pisani, LSW, RN, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
David Russell Pisani
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, RN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sparta, NJ 07871
I have experience working with: Couples and individuals, substance abuse issues, OCD, Trauma, as well as severe and persistent mental illnesses.
My name is David Pisani and I am a Licensed Social Worker and Registered Nurse in New Jersey with over 15 years of experience in the mental health field. I am passionate about mental health recovery and empowering clients to achieve their goals. I offer general individual therapy services to adults, men's group therapy, and couples therapy. I use various modalities including CBT and TF CBT for those with trauma issues and employ these strategies tailored to the client's needs. I believe in a trusting therapeutic relationship as the bedrock for client recovery and strive to create a safe and nurturing environment to work in.
I have experience working with: Couples and individuals, substance abuse issues, OCD, Trauma, as well as severe and persistent mental illnesses.
My name is David Pisani and I am a Licensed Social Worker and Registered Nurse in New Jersey with over 15 years of experience in the mental health field. I am passionate about mental health recovery and empowering clients to achieve their goals. I offer general individual therapy services to adults, men's group therapy, and couples therapy. I use various modalities including CBT and TF CBT for those with trauma issues and employ these strategies tailored to the client's needs. I believe in a trusting therapeutic relationship as the bedrock for client recovery and strive to create a safe and nurturing environment to work in.
(973) 381-2402 View (973) 381-2402
Photo of Mary Helen B Kellam, MA, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mary Helen B Kellam
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Sparta, NJ 07871
I have over 20 years experience working in the field of counseling. I am also a Divorce Mediator. I serve adolescents and adults. I am a certified EMDR therapist and specialize in serving those who have experienced trauma. Other issues that I can assist you with includes: emotional difficulties (including but not limited to anxiety and depression), relationship problems, issues related to grief and loss, life transition issues. When life presents us with challenges such as these, it can help to know that you are not alone. I consider it a privilege to help you through your journey, whatever path you are on!
I have over 20 years experience working in the field of counseling. I am also a Divorce Mediator. I serve adolescents and adults. I am a certified EMDR therapist and specialize in serving those who have experienced trauma. Other issues that I can assist you with includes: emotional difficulties (including but not limited to anxiety and depression), relationship problems, issues related to grief and loss, life transition issues. When life presents us with challenges such as these, it can help to know that you are not alone. I consider it a privilege to help you through your journey, whatever path you are on!
(201) 374-7726 View (201) 374-7726
Photo of Eric S. Herschman, PsyD, Psychologist
Eric S. Herschman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Sparta, NJ 07871
I work with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families on a variety of psychological issues.
If you are struggling with issues related to feeling overwhelmed and stressed with life, work, family and/or your relationships, you need to talk with a professional. Working with an objective and professionally trained psychologist will empower you to move forward and be more productive, less stressed and happier. Sometimes, people feel alone and think that others will not understand their struggles. People often show improvements by having someone they can trust and who will be able to see their perspective without judgement. I understand the human experience and help people make changes to improve their quality of life. Call now.
I work with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families on a variety of psychological issues.
If you are struggling with issues related to feeling overwhelmed and stressed with life, work, family and/or your relationships, you need to talk with a professional. Working with an objective and professionally trained psychologist will empower you to move forward and be more productive, less stressed and happier. Sometimes, people feel alone and think that others will not understand their struggles. People often show improvements by having someone they can trust and who will be able to see their perspective without judgement. I understand the human experience and help people make changes to improve their quality of life. Call now.
(862) 212-3495 View (862) 212-3495
Photo of Dabeyri Torres-Estevez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dabeyri Torres-Estevez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sparta, NJ 07871  (Online Only)
In life we are confronted with many stressors, and challenges that can lead us to feeling overwhelmed, dissatisfied, down, or anxious. Emotions can be hard to manage. That is why I am a firm believer anyone can benefit from therapy! Whether you’re coping with a recent issue, or you’ve been struggling for some time, I’ll work with you to meet your specific needs. I view therapy as a collaborative process that is unique to each person. You should feel safe, heard, and understood in the therapeutic relationship. This allows for you to develop a better understanding of yourself, explore better ways of healing, and learn new skills.
In life we are confronted with many stressors, and challenges that can lead us to feeling overwhelmed, dissatisfied, down, or anxious. Emotions can be hard to manage. That is why I am a firm believer anyone can benefit from therapy! Whether you’re coping with a recent issue, or you’ve been struggling for some time, I’ll work with you to meet your specific needs. I view therapy as a collaborative process that is unique to each person. You should feel safe, heard, and understood in the therapeutic relationship. This allows for you to develop a better understanding of yourself, explore better ways of healing, and learn new skills.
(973) 604-2149 View (973) 604-2149
Photo of Dr. Jessica Platt Gina Adone - Tree House Therapy Services, LLC, PhD, Psychologist
Tree House Therapy Services, LLC
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Sparta, NJ 07871
Tree House Therapy consists of clinical psychologists Dr. Jessica Platt Ph.D and Dr. Gina Adone Psy.D. Tree House believes that whether you are an individual child or adult, parent or grandparent, partner or spouse, you are or will be part of a larger family system. The branches of our family tree are often a source of support and joy, and can also bring stress to our lives. Tree House is here to meet the needs of all branches of the family tree, to strengthen them so that they bend, rather than break with the winds of life.
Tree House Therapy consists of clinical psychologists Dr. Jessica Platt Ph.D and Dr. Gina Adone Psy.D. Tree House believes that whether you are an individual child or adult, parent or grandparent, partner or spouse, you are or will be part of a larger family system. The branches of our family tree are often a source of support and joy, and can also bring stress to our lives. Tree House is here to meet the needs of all branches of the family tree, to strengthen them so that they bend, rather than break with the winds of life.
(973) 968-6043 View (973) 968-6043
Photo of Paul DePinto, LPC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Paul DePinto
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ACS
Verified Verified
Sparta, NJ 07871
I help adults and children overcome difficulties with Depression, Anxiety, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, School Underachievement, Relationship Problems, Substance Abuse and a Variety of Other Life Difficulties. I custom tailor my interpersonal style and therapeutic strategies to match a client's age, personality and motivation for change. This individualized approach creates an environment in which the client feels deeply understood and valued. The spirit of trust and collaboration that results is one of the keys to motivating those I serve and improving their treatment outcome.
I help adults and children overcome difficulties with Depression, Anxiety, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, School Underachievement, Relationship Problems, Substance Abuse and a Variety of Other Life Difficulties. I custom tailor my interpersonal style and therapeutic strategies to match a client's age, personality and motivation for change. This individualized approach creates an environment in which the client feels deeply understood and valued. The spirit of trust and collaboration that results is one of the keys to motivating those I serve and improving their treatment outcome.
(201) 509-4742 View (201) 509-4742
Photo of Mark Littman, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mark Littman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sparta, NJ 07871
"Could a greater miracle take place than for us to look through each other's eyes for an instant?" Henry David Thoreau. These healing words are the foundation of my philosophy. if you are having serious communication (and other) issues in your relationship with your partner that you've been unable to resolve....if your teenager, who has always been so good, is becoming unmanageable...if you are suffering with profound grief that doesn't heal over having lost a loved one or a beloved pet, then please consider speaking to someone who can help. I have over 25 years experience working with these and other issues.
"Could a greater miracle take place than for us to look through each other's eyes for an instant?" Henry David Thoreau. These healing words are the foundation of my philosophy. if you are having serious communication (and other) issues in your relationship with your partner that you've been unable to resolve....if your teenager, who has always been so good, is becoming unmanageable...if you are suffering with profound grief that doesn't heal over having lost a loved one or a beloved pet, then please consider speaking to someone who can help. I have over 25 years experience working with these and other issues.
(973) 632-6617 View (973) 632-6617
Photo of Theresa M. Pedernera, MSW, LCSW, LCADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Theresa M. Pedernera
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
Sparta, NJ 07871
I have experience working with individuals from late teens through adulthood, couples and families.
If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, substance abuse or life challenges and you have reached a crossroad in your life, where you may feel troubled or unclear, therapy can be the place to help you reassess and refocus. My primary goal is to provide a safe, empathetic and warm environment to encourage personal exploration and growth. I assist clients to find relief from life's challenges so they can give themselves the life they truly deserve.
I have experience working with individuals from late teens through adulthood, couples and families.
If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, substance abuse or life challenges and you have reached a crossroad in your life, where you may feel troubled or unclear, therapy can be the place to help you reassess and refocus. My primary goal is to provide a safe, empathetic and warm environment to encourage personal exploration and growth. I assist clients to find relief from life's challenges so they can give themselves the life they truly deserve.
(973) 756-3116 View (973) 756-3116
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.