Couples Counseling Therapists in Multnomah Village, Portland, OR

Photo of Shannon Mong, PsyD, Psychologist
Shannon Mong
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Multnomah Village, Portland, OR 97219  (Online Only)
I appreciate you taking the time to learn about me & consider working together. My goal is you gain understanding and compassion, implement new strategies and skills, improve relationships with yourself and others, and emerge with greater confidence to journey through future life events. Licensed as a clinical psychologist since 2006, I'm grateful to have accompanied adults, teens, older adults, and couples through many life experiences & feelings - including anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship issues, parenting, aging, grief, trauma, substance use, and neurodivergence (attention deficit & autistic spectrum).
I appreciate you taking the time to learn about me & consider working together. My goal is you gain understanding and compassion, implement new strategies and skills, improve relationships with yourself and others, and emerge with greater confidence to journey through future life events. Licensed as a clinical psychologist since 2006, I'm grateful to have accompanied adults, teens, older adults, and couples through many life experiences & feelings - including anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship issues, parenting, aging, grief, trauma, substance use, and neurodivergence (attention deficit & autistic spectrum).
(503) 389-5292 View (503) 389-5292
Photo of Britania Latronica - Oregon Center for Assessment & Therapy Services, PhD, Psychologist
Oregon Center for Assessment & Therapy Services
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Multnomah Village, Portland, OR 97219
Welcome! I'm Dr. Britania Latronica, licensed psychologist and founder of The Oregon Center for Assessment and Therapy Services (OCATS), which specializes in psychological testing for individuals who are seeking to clarify diagnosis. We also provide individual psychotherapy, and couples work for those who want brief, solutions-focused treatment or skill building with a specific emphasis on serving neurodiverse individuals with ADHD and Autism.
Welcome! I'm Dr. Britania Latronica, licensed psychologist and founder of The Oregon Center for Assessment and Therapy Services (OCATS), which specializes in psychological testing for individuals who are seeking to clarify diagnosis. We also provide individual psychotherapy, and couples work for those who want brief, solutions-focused treatment or skill building with a specific emphasis on serving neurodiverse individuals with ADHD and Autism.
(503) 647-6348 View (503) 647-6348
Photo of C.J. Sanders, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
C.J. Sanders
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Multnomah Village, Portland, OR 97280  (Online Only)
Together you can forge a path forward and create a fulfilling and fun relationship!.
Our relationships are our most important asset. And when something feels off it can be excruciating. Through utilizing the latest research in the fields of attachment, neuroscience, and communication we can collaborate to get things back on track. You will learn some new skills in conflict management—even if you are conflict avoidant! And we will get some psychobiological hacks on board quickly which can result in fewer arguments and a greater sense of connection. Many busy couples today are craving a more fulfilling partnership truly sharing the mental and emotional load.
Together you can forge a path forward and create a fulfilling and fun relationship!.
Our relationships are our most important asset. And when something feels off it can be excruciating. Through utilizing the latest research in the fields of attachment, neuroscience, and communication we can collaborate to get things back on track. You will learn some new skills in conflict management—even if you are conflict avoidant! And we will get some psychobiological hacks on board quickly which can result in fewer arguments and a greater sense of connection. Many busy couples today are craving a more fulfilling partnership truly sharing the mental and emotional load.
(971) 252-7556 View (971) 252-7556
Photo of Mackenzie Phelps, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Mackenzie Phelps
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Multnomah Village, Portland, OR 97219
I would love to connect with you to see how we can partner together to support you in your mental health journey and through what life throws at us.
I am passionate about supporting individuals across the lifespan, including adolescents, teens, young adults, pre-marital couples, families, and LGBTQIA+ clients. I do not work with couples navigating separation or divorce at this time. My areas of practice include life transitions, stress and anxiety management, communication, self-esteem, empowerment, and the intersection of faith/spirituality with mental health.
I would love to connect with you to see how we can partner together to support you in your mental health journey and through what life throws at us.
I am passionate about supporting individuals across the lifespan, including adolescents, teens, young adults, pre-marital couples, families, and LGBTQIA+ clients. I do not work with couples navigating separation or divorce at this time. My areas of practice include life transitions, stress and anxiety management, communication, self-esteem, empowerment, and the intersection of faith/spirituality with mental health.
(971) 999-2763 View (971) 999-2763
Photo of Amy Newman, MA, CADC-R, QMHP-R, Pre-Licensed Professional
Amy Newman
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, CADC-R, QMHP-R
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Multnomah Village, Portland, OR 97219
These are difficult times, and I want to offer you a place to be your authentic self. This is counseling without judgement. If you need support with the many challenges life can bring, I would love to help you find more ease, joy, and acceptance. My clinical interests include addiction, family systems, relational issues, and trauma, among others. I am open to working with adult individuals, couples, and families. I have experience working in residential Substance Use Disorder treatment as well as working with their loved ones. I want to meet you where you're at, and help you connect with what matters most to you.
These are difficult times, and I want to offer you a place to be your authentic self. This is counseling without judgement. If you need support with the many challenges life can bring, I would love to help you find more ease, joy, and acceptance. My clinical interests include addiction, family systems, relational issues, and trauma, among others. I am open to working with adult individuals, couples, and families. I have experience working in residential Substance Use Disorder treatment as well as working with their loved ones. I want to meet you where you're at, and help you connect with what matters most to you.
(971) 265-6646 View (971) 265-6646
Photo of Carisa Battin - Skyline Therapy, MA, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Skyline Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Multnomah Village, Portland, OR 97219
I believe that our relationship with the natural world is an important part of wellness.
We all deserve to heal, to find meaning in our lives, and to have healthy, fulfilling relationships with ourselves, others, and the world around us. Clients I work with are often in therapy because they are overwhelmed by worry, stress, and sadness. I am honored to join my clients on their path to healing, as they bring courage, insight, and determination to our work together. While my clients may be children, teens, or adults, come from diverse backgrounds, and have different needs and goals, we all seek well-being and connection. I welcome clients of all gender identities, sexual orientations, backgrounds, beliefs, and cultures.
I believe that our relationship with the natural world is an important part of wellness.
We all deserve to heal, to find meaning in our lives, and to have healthy, fulfilling relationships with ourselves, others, and the world around us. Clients I work with are often in therapy because they are overwhelmed by worry, stress, and sadness. I am honored to join my clients on their path to healing, as they bring courage, insight, and determination to our work together. While my clients may be children, teens, or adults, come from diverse backgrounds, and have different needs and goals, we all seek well-being and connection. I welcome clients of all gender identities, sexual orientations, backgrounds, beliefs, and cultures.
(458) 202-2921 View (458) 202-2921
Photo of Julia G Chapman, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Julia G Chapman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Multnomah Village, Portland, OR 97280  (Online Only)
In my private practice I provide affirmative psychotherapy to adult individuals and couples of different cultures, genders and sexual identities.
I believe therapy has the power to transform people's lives and improve their relationships. My approach is collaborative and relational. In therapy, I work with clients to develop concrete goals and tools to increase confidence in themselves and in their relationships. I also assist clients in processing how past experiences may contribute to insecurities, unhelpful patterns in relationships, and professional dissatisfaction. Throughout the therapy process I help empower clients to change their life narratives by expressing and pursuing what they want in their lives.
In my private practice I provide affirmative psychotherapy to adult individuals and couples of different cultures, genders and sexual identities.
I believe therapy has the power to transform people's lives and improve their relationships. My approach is collaborative and relational. In therapy, I work with clients to develop concrete goals and tools to increase confidence in themselves and in their relationships. I also assist clients in processing how past experiences may contribute to insecurities, unhelpful patterns in relationships, and professional dissatisfaction. Throughout the therapy process I help empower clients to change their life narratives by expressing and pursuing what they want in their lives.
(503) 751-8460 View (503) 751-8460
Photo of Bart J. Walsh, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bart J. Walsh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Multnomah Village, Portland, OR 97219
In addition to direct clinical work with individuals, couples and families, Bart offers hypnotherapy training to qualified professionals.
My orientation to counseling, psychotherapy and hypnotherapy is essentially a strengths perspective with a solution focus. The strengths perspective acknowledges all the strengths, resources and instinctual imperatives within an individual that have helped the individual get to the present moment.The strengths perspective helps me scan for the resources needed to resolve or modfy the treatment concern.
In addition to direct clinical work with individuals, couples and families, Bart offers hypnotherapy training to qualified professionals.
My orientation to counseling, psychotherapy and hypnotherapy is essentially a strengths perspective with a solution focus. The strengths perspective acknowledges all the strengths, resources and instinctual imperatives within an individual that have helped the individual get to the present moment.The strengths perspective helps me scan for the resources needed to resolve or modfy the treatment concern.
(503) 388-9133 View (503) 388-9133
Photo of Alma Hadzidedic, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alma Hadzidedic
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Multnomah Village, Portland, OR 97219  (Online Only)
Your willingness to seek help is a courageous step towards healing & change. I believe in the transformative power of a therapeutic relationship and view it as our combined effort. I use LGBTQIA+ affirming, social justice-oriented, trauma-informed, and strengths-based approaches to foster a safe, consistent and curious environment that supports your wisdom while guiding your pursuit of valued and meaningful living. Our partnership will include my extensive education & advanced training working with individuals who have been adversely impacted by relational and attachment disruptions, abuse/neglect and complex traumatic experiences.
Your willingness to seek help is a courageous step towards healing & change. I believe in the transformative power of a therapeutic relationship and view it as our combined effort. I use LGBTQIA+ affirming, social justice-oriented, trauma-informed, and strengths-based approaches to foster a safe, consistent and curious environment that supports your wisdom while guiding your pursuit of valued and meaningful living. Our partnership will include my extensive education & advanced training working with individuals who have been adversely impacted by relational and attachment disruptions, abuse/neglect and complex traumatic experiences.
(503) 300-6261 View (503) 300-6261
Photo of Tom Kelley, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tom Kelley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Multnomah Village, Portland, OR 97219
I see individuals, couples and families who are seeking support for things they feel are not going well in their lives. From the Family Systems perspective, any number of issues can be looked at together. My work is centered around interpersonal relationships and how we interact with each other, our selves and our communities. Relationship dynamics are constantly in and out of balance. Managing these relationships is key in helping develop healthy ways of dealing with life issues. The work we do together should feel helpful and focused on your goals.
I see individuals, couples and families who are seeking support for things they feel are not going well in their lives. From the Family Systems perspective, any number of issues can be looked at together. My work is centered around interpersonal relationships and how we interact with each other, our selves and our communities. Relationship dynamics are constantly in and out of balance. Managing these relationships is key in helping develop healthy ways of dealing with life issues. The work we do together should feel helpful and focused on your goals.
(503) 406-4283 View (503) 406-4283
Photo of Dr. Kathleen R Gillis, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Kathleen R Gillis
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Multnomah Village, Portland, OR 97219
Areas of Expertise: divorce, aging, and medical issues; the process of dying and death; mindfulness and emotional regulation; relationship patterns; stress reduction; and spiritual or religious clarity.
Psychotherapy is a time devoted to you. With over 20 years of experience, I can provide support, perspective, and guidance; and help you recognize life’s joys and navigate through life’s struggles in a balanced, effective, and healthy way. I enjoy providing adult individual and couples therapy; as well as parenting plan mediation and serving as a divorce coach and child specialist in Collaborative Divorce cases.
Areas of Expertise: divorce, aging, and medical issues; the process of dying and death; mindfulness and emotional regulation; relationship patterns; stress reduction; and spiritual or religious clarity.
Psychotherapy is a time devoted to you. With over 20 years of experience, I can provide support, perspective, and guidance; and help you recognize life’s joys and navigate through life’s struggles in a balanced, effective, and healthy way. I enjoy providing adult individual and couples therapy; as well as parenting plan mediation and serving as a divorce coach and child specialist in Collaborative Divorce cases.
(503) 447-7816 View (503) 447-7816
Photo of Dr. John K Anderson, PhD, LCSW, LICSW, CADCIII, CGACI, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. John K Anderson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, LICSW, CADCIII, CGACI
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Multnomah Village, Portland, OR 97219
Let's talk. Let's keep it real and explore the barriers to your optimal health and happiness. We will start where you are and build from there. I have worked in mental health and addictions for many years and I believe that the therapeutic relationship that we build on mutual respect, trust and transparency will be the foundation of your treatment. We will work together to identify your challenges and strengths, and create a plan to support your thriving future.
Let's talk. Let's keep it real and explore the barriers to your optimal health and happiness. We will start where you are and build from there. I have worked in mental health and addictions for many years and I believe that the therapeutic relationship that we build on mutual respect, trust and transparency will be the foundation of your treatment. We will work together to identify your challenges and strengths, and create a plan to support your thriving future.
(971) 601-3007 View (971) 601-3007
Photo of Dr. Sara Aslan, PhD, MA, Psychologist
Dr. Sara Aslan
Psychologist, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
Multnomah Village, Portland, OR 97219
Waitlist for new clients
I’m Dr. Sara Aslan, PhD, I am a licensed Psychologist, I have been providing therapeutic services to individuals, couples, and families since 2010. I am currently providing virtual sessions to adults and adolescents residing in Oregon, Washington, and PSYPACT states; and in-person sessions in the Portland, Oregon area. I began working with Eating Disorders in 2010 and quickly realized that I was also seeing experiences of trauma interfere with my client’s healing processes. I knew learning to adequately treat trauma was something that was imperative to the overall wellbeing of my clients. I began providing trauma
I’m Dr. Sara Aslan, PhD, I am a licensed Psychologist, I have been providing therapeutic services to individuals, couples, and families since 2010. I am currently providing virtual sessions to adults and adolescents residing in Oregon, Washington, and PSYPACT states; and in-person sessions in the Portland, Oregon area. I began working with Eating Disorders in 2010 and quickly realized that I was also seeing experiences of trauma interfere with my client’s healing processes. I knew learning to adequately treat trauma was something that was imperative to the overall wellbeing of my clients. I began providing trauma
(971) 251-1514 View (971) 251-1514
Photo of Jessica Klein, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Klein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Multnomah Village, Portland, OR 97219
I treat couples who are having difficulty communicating, are in conflict, and need tools to re-connect.
Current In-Person Availability. I am an interactive therapist who will work to find unique tools and solutions for you. I specialize in couples therapy and adult individual therapy. I have advanced training in Emotionally Focused Therapy, an approach that helps couples increase closeness and heal through understanding each together, increasing empathy and interrupting destructive cycles. I also specialize in trauma and use EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing), somatic psychotherapy, polyvagal theory, and mindfulness tools to help clients stabilize their systems, process trauma and heal.
I treat couples who are having difficulty communicating, are in conflict, and need tools to re-connect.
Current In-Person Availability. I am an interactive therapist who will work to find unique tools and solutions for you. I specialize in couples therapy and adult individual therapy. I have advanced training in Emotionally Focused Therapy, an approach that helps couples increase closeness and heal through understanding each together, increasing empathy and interrupting destructive cycles. I also specialize in trauma and use EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing), somatic psychotherapy, polyvagal theory, and mindfulness tools to help clients stabilize their systems, process trauma and heal.
(971) 545-4944 View (971) 545-4944
Photo of Mella Kaufman - Child and Family Psychotherapy Office, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Child and Family Psychotherapy Office
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Multnomah Village, Portland, OR 97219  (Online Only)
I specialize in: Anxiety & Trauma and Relationship Issues.
It's not how many problems you have, it's how you resolve them. Can you identify conflicts in your relationship? Can you find ways to be closer? Reconnect with your partner. Deepen your intimacy using emotional intelligence.. You can feel truly seen and truly heard. I specialize in helping couples and individuals heal in a safe, compassionate space.
I specialize in: Anxiety & Trauma and Relationship Issues.
It's not how many problems you have, it's how you resolve them. Can you identify conflicts in your relationship? Can you find ways to be closer? Reconnect with your partner. Deepen your intimacy using emotional intelligence.. You can feel truly seen and truly heard. I specialize in helping couples and individuals heal in a safe, compassionate space.
(971) 274-5635 View (971) 274-5635
Photo of Natalia Vasquez, Pre-Licensed Professional
Natalia Vasquez
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Multnomah Village, Portland, OR 97219  (Online Only)
I integrate therapies such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with attachment work to help individuals and couples better understand themselves, their emotional bonds, and their relationship dynamics.
We all need a little extra support sometimes, and I'm here to offer a compassionate, non-judgmental space where you can process your experiences and find your path toward healing and growth. My approach is collaborative—I'll walk alongside you with care and dedication. Together, we'll explore ways to reduce symptoms, strengthen self-compassion, and deepen self-insight, helping you improve your relationship with yourself and others. Whether you're healing from past trauma, coping with life changes or grief, or working on relationship patterns, we'll move toward your personal goals at a pace that feels right for you.
I integrate therapies such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with attachment work to help individuals and couples better understand themselves, their emotional bonds, and their relationship dynamics.
We all need a little extra support sometimes, and I'm here to offer a compassionate, non-judgmental space where you can process your experiences and find your path toward healing and growth. My approach is collaborative—I'll walk alongside you with care and dedication. Together, we'll explore ways to reduce symptoms, strengthen self-compassion, and deepen self-insight, helping you improve your relationship with yourself and others. Whether you're healing from past trauma, coping with life changes or grief, or working on relationship patterns, we'll move toward your personal goals at a pace that feels right for you.
(971) 449-1275 View (971) 449-1275
Photo of Angie Tanyi - Angie Tanyi Counseling, LPC, MPH, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Angie Tanyi Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MPH, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Multnomah Village, Portland, OR 97219
It's important you feel that your therapist is a "good fit" as the therapeutic relationship depends on feeling safe.
Are you struggling to live the life you want? Do you keep finding yourself in the same place without knowing how to change? Current situations & events can trigger old pain & trauma which can be confusing & negatively impact relationships. They can also lead to creating misguided stories that you tell yourself & that keep you anxious or in fight/flight states. We sometimes need help untangling & making sense of our experiences &/or trauma in life in order to thrive. Through non-judgmental warmth, compassion & self-reflection, we re-wire old thoughts and behaviors and help you live a more authentic life.
It's important you feel that your therapist is a "good fit" as the therapeutic relationship depends on feeling safe.
Are you struggling to live the life you want? Do you keep finding yourself in the same place without knowing how to change? Current situations & events can trigger old pain & trauma which can be confusing & negatively impact relationships. They can also lead to creating misguided stories that you tell yourself & that keep you anxious or in fight/flight states. We sometimes need help untangling & making sense of our experiences &/or trauma in life in order to thrive. Through non-judgmental warmth, compassion & self-reflection, we re-wire old thoughts and behaviors and help you live a more authentic life.
(503) 676-6669 View (503) 676-6669
Photo of Sarah Richin, MSW, CSWA
Sarah Richin
Clinical Social Work Associate, MSW, CSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Multnomah Village, Portland, OR 97219
I welcome teens and adults ages 13 and older who may be struggling with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, trauma, relationship/marital and life transitions.
I believe life is full of many peaks and valleys. We are all climbing our own mountains, and it is important to have a support system to reach the summit. Whether it's a small hill or a large climb, I am here to help you gain tools to tackle these anxieties. I bring a client-centered approach to therapy and meet clients where they are at. I am very aware that everyone is coming into therapy with their own unique challenges, perspectives, experiences and values. I cherish these differences and will work with you to balance out the down and anxious feelings.
I welcome teens and adults ages 13 and older who may be struggling with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, trauma, relationship/marital and life transitions.
I believe life is full of many peaks and valleys. We are all climbing our own mountains, and it is important to have a support system to reach the summit. Whether it's a small hill or a large climb, I am here to help you gain tools to tackle these anxieties. I bring a client-centered approach to therapy and meet clients where they are at. I am very aware that everyone is coming into therapy with their own unique challenges, perspectives, experiences and values. I cherish these differences and will work with you to balance out the down and anxious feelings.
(503) 506-6623 View (503) 506-6623
Photo of Ally Simone, LMFT, T2066, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ally Simone
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, T2066
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Multnomah Village, Portland, OR 97219  (Online Only)
I work with adult individuals and relationships. Many of my clients are focused on healing from trauma, disrupting harmful patterns like people pleasing and codependency, and creating healthy relationships. I am committed to equity and inclusion, both personally and professionally and my goal is always that my clients feel seen and supported in all aspects of their identity. I am LGBTQIA+, and gender affirming, sex/kink positive and welcome all relationship configurations including CNM/Polyamory. I recognize and value all types of diversity including ethnicity, race, size, gender, sexual orientation, class, religion, and abilities.
I work with adult individuals and relationships. Many of my clients are focused on healing from trauma, disrupting harmful patterns like people pleasing and codependency, and creating healthy relationships. I am committed to equity and inclusion, both personally and professionally and my goal is always that my clients feel seen and supported in all aspects of their identity. I am LGBTQIA+, and gender affirming, sex/kink positive and welcome all relationship configurations including CNM/Polyamory. I recognize and value all types of diversity including ethnicity, race, size, gender, sexual orientation, class, religion, and abilities.
(503) 212-9970 View (503) 212-9970
Photo of Cassie Liu, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cassie Liu
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Multnomah Village, Portland, OR 97219  (Online Only)
Our work together will be collaborative and focused on your feelings of safety and trust in our relationship.
As a second-generation Chinese/Korean immigrant, I intimately understand the experience of being “othered.” It’s from this deeply personal place that I developed a passion to support individuals and couples with marginalized and intersecting identities. I am committed to supporting clients with processing and healing from challenging experiences, strengthening a sense of identity, and cultivating self-compassion.
Our work together will be collaborative and focused on your feelings of safety and trust in our relationship.
As a second-generation Chinese/Korean immigrant, I intimately understand the experience of being “othered.” It’s from this deeply personal place that I developed a passion to support individuals and couples with marginalized and intersecting identities. I am committed to supporting clients with processing and healing from challenging experiences, strengthening a sense of identity, and cultivating self-compassion.
(971) 251-2615 View (971) 251-2615
1

See more therapy options for Multnomah Village, Portland

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.