Couples Counseling Therapists in Rockwall, TX

Photo of Lauryn Jackson, LPC-A, MEd, LPC Intern
Lauryn Jackson
LPC Intern, LPC-A, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockwall, TX 75087
My therapeutic approach centers around establishing a strong relationship built on trust and respect and utilizes techniques from Solution-Focused, Cognitive-Behavioral, Dialectical Behavioral and Narrative Therapy.
Hi, my name is Lauryn Jackson and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate supervised by Cary Scott, LPC-S. I have two questions for you. Are you looking to free your mind of thoughts that burden you day to day? AND Are you ready to start living the life you want to live? If your answer is yes then we need to talk! My goal is to empower you with the confidence to be the author of your story; to own your truth and to live joyfully in that truth. You have the power to determine whether this moment, past moments, or even future moments will be a chapter or merely a page in your book of life.
My therapeutic approach centers around establishing a strong relationship built on trust and respect and utilizes techniques from Solution-Focused, Cognitive-Behavioral, Dialectical Behavioral and Narrative Therapy.
Hi, my name is Lauryn Jackson and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate supervised by Cary Scott, LPC-S. I have two questions for you. Are you looking to free your mind of thoughts that burden you day to day? AND Are you ready to start living the life you want to live? If your answer is yes then we need to talk! My goal is to empower you with the confidence to be the author of your story; to own your truth and to live joyfully in that truth. You have the power to determine whether this moment, past moments, or even future moments will be a chapter or merely a page in your book of life.
(972) 845-4803 View (972) 845-4803
Photo of Andrew Simmons, LPC, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Andrew Simmons
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Rockwall, TX 75087
I believe there is no other relationship in life like that of a counseling relationship.
Andrew is now accepting clients! Realizing you could use help doesn’t make you broken, it makes you human. A person who can benefit from counseling realizes that if they could have fixed a problem on their own, they would have done it by now. They realize that they could benefit from having a professional listen and help them better tell and re-frame their story. This person believes that they are committed to make needed change to become the best version of themselves. A person who benefits from counseling is there because they want to be and they fully buy-in to the process. Start simply and simply start by reaching out now!
I believe there is no other relationship in life like that of a counseling relationship.
Andrew is now accepting clients! Realizing you could use help doesn’t make you broken, it makes you human. A person who can benefit from counseling realizes that if they could have fixed a problem on their own, they would have done it by now. They realize that they could benefit from having a professional listen and help them better tell and re-frame their story. This person believes that they are committed to make needed change to become the best version of themselves. A person who benefits from counseling is there because they want to be and they fully buy-in to the process. Start simply and simply start by reaching out now!
(469) 393-7036 View (469) 393-7036
Photo of Bridges West, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bridges West
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rockwall, TX 75032
My expertise spans coping with chronic illness, anxiety, depression, and relationship challenges.
Hi there—so nice to meet you! I'm Bridges, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Texas with extensive experience working with children, teens, and adults in a variety of environments. From working in a medical setting to parenting support, I am here to help support you through all of life's challenges. I prioritize the client-therapist relationship, viewing it as sacred. My holistic therapy approach celebrates your uniqueness, leveraging your strengths and resilience.
My expertise spans coping with chronic illness, anxiety, depression, and relationship challenges.
Hi there—so nice to meet you! I'm Bridges, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Texas with extensive experience working with children, teens, and adults in a variety of environments. From working in a medical setting to parenting support, I am here to help support you through all of life's challenges. I prioritize the client-therapist relationship, viewing it as sacred. My holistic therapy approach celebrates your uniqueness, leveraging your strengths and resilience.
(430) 245-5989 View (430) 245-5989
Photo of Jessica Marie Walker, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jessica Marie Walker
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Rockwall, TX 75087  (Online Only)
I believe that change occurs best in an authentic client, therapist relationship.
Do you struggle in your relationships with others? Having a hard time managing post divorce or in a co-parenting situation? Is your blended family difficult to be in sometimes? Let me help you with effective communication, anxiety and depression management, and creating that balance that we are all striving for in life. Our connections with others are important. Together we can focus on the best version of yourself that you can take forward in all areas of your life in order to benefit those connections.
I believe that change occurs best in an authentic client, therapist relationship.
Do you struggle in your relationships with others? Having a hard time managing post divorce or in a co-parenting situation? Is your blended family difficult to be in sometimes? Let me help you with effective communication, anxiety and depression management, and creating that balance that we are all striving for in life. Our connections with others are important. Together we can focus on the best version of yourself that you can take forward in all areas of your life in order to benefit those connections.
(972) 885-3623 View (972) 885-3623
Photo of Meagan Balbag, LPC-A
Meagan Balbag
LPC Associate, LPC-A
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rockwall, TX 75087
I have experience working with teenagers, adults, and couples.
I am now accepting new clients! I am passionate about helping others overcome their past and present challenges that may be causing conflict, tension, and other negative emotions in their daily lives. Often times, our thinking patterns can get in the way of us living out our fullest potential. I believe in partnering with clients to create a therapeutic environment characterized by trust, empathy, and accountability. I work collaboratively with clients to explore feelings, cognitions, develop healthy behaviors, maximize strengths, and establish life-enhancing goals to resolve issues.
I have experience working with teenagers, adults, and couples.
I am now accepting new clients! I am passionate about helping others overcome their past and present challenges that may be causing conflict, tension, and other negative emotions in their daily lives. Often times, our thinking patterns can get in the way of us living out our fullest potential. I believe in partnering with clients to create a therapeutic environment characterized by trust, empathy, and accountability. I work collaboratively with clients to explore feelings, cognitions, develop healthy behaviors, maximize strengths, and establish life-enhancing goals to resolve issues.
(469) 415-0998 View (469) 415-0998
Photo of Lauren Coats, BS, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lauren Coats
Licensed Professional Counselor, BS, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Rockwall, TX 75087
I also work with couples who want to work on conflict resolution, affair recovery, or communication.
NOW OFFERING VIRTUAL OR IN-PERSONS SESSIONS! Life and relationships can be difficult and painful. Sometimes you're left feeling "stuck." I offer counseling for those who want to improve their lives, alleviate anxiety or depression, & build positive relationships. I provide a warm space where we can discuss your situation and develop a plan that allows you to feel some relief from your current circumstances. I encourage clients by providing practical tools in the first session that can help with stress, depression, anxiety, & conflict. We will work together on a plan to help you in your everyday life. You will leave feeling relieved.
I also work with couples who want to work on conflict resolution, affair recovery, or communication.
NOW OFFERING VIRTUAL OR IN-PERSONS SESSIONS! Life and relationships can be difficult and painful. Sometimes you're left feeling "stuck." I offer counseling for those who want to improve their lives, alleviate anxiety or depression, & build positive relationships. I provide a warm space where we can discuss your situation and develop a plan that allows you to feel some relief from your current circumstances. I encourage clients by providing practical tools in the first session that can help with stress, depression, anxiety, & conflict. We will work together on a plan to help you in your everyday life. You will leave feeling relieved.
(972) 992-5957 View (972) 992-5957
Photo of Shelia Kirksey, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shelia Kirksey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
Rockwall, TX 75032  (Online Only)
I provide individual and couples therapy, as well as life coaching and clinical supervision.
Seeking therapy is rarely an easy task and I applaud your courage in making this brave choice. Navigating life's challenges can be overwhelming and leave you feeling alone or unsure of what's next. In our time together, we will not only address the root of your challenges yet also identify solutions that alleviate worry and enhance your confidence in successfully moving forward. I am here to support you in the next steps of your journey toward becoming the best version of you. My specialty areas include: Life Transitions, Fertility/Infertility Issues, Anxiety, Women's Issues, Sexuality, Sexual Trauma, and Stress Management.
I provide individual and couples therapy, as well as life coaching and clinical supervision.
Seeking therapy is rarely an easy task and I applaud your courage in making this brave choice. Navigating life's challenges can be overwhelming and leave you feeling alone or unsure of what's next. In our time together, we will not only address the root of your challenges yet also identify solutions that alleviate worry and enhance your confidence in successfully moving forward. I am here to support you in the next steps of your journey toward becoming the best version of you. My specialty areas include: Life Transitions, Fertility/Infertility Issues, Anxiety, Women's Issues, Sexuality, Sexual Trauma, and Stress Management.
(214) 393-5498 View (214) 393-5498
Photo of Greg Stewart - Becoming More Counseling, Coaching, & Consulting, PhD, MDiv, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Becoming More Counseling, Coaching, & Consulting
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MDiv, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockwall, TX 75032
and Supervision, and my dissertation was on The Relationship of Emotional Intelligence with Job Satisfaction and Organizational Leadership.
I live in Rockwall, TX. Clients who are struggling but wanting to not only heal, but also grow have the potential for being extremely powerful people. We have all gone through difficult times, experiencing anxiety, fear, depression, and hopelessness. However, if we have healed, we look back and see those times as hard, but some of the most powerful in our lives. Hearts can become strong, marriages can be healed and become euphoric, and our families can become strong, powerful, and beautiful. If you have a Christian background, I can help you become stronger in your faith. Executive Coaching available.
and Supervision, and my dissertation was on The Relationship of Emotional Intelligence with Job Satisfaction and Organizational Leadership.
I live in Rockwall, TX. Clients who are struggling but wanting to not only heal, but also grow have the potential for being extremely powerful people. We have all gone through difficult times, experiencing anxiety, fear, depression, and hopelessness. However, if we have healed, we look back and see those times as hard, but some of the most powerful in our lives. Hearts can become strong, marriages can be healed and become euphoric, and our families can become strong, powerful, and beautiful. If you have a Christian background, I can help you become stronger in your faith. Executive Coaching available.
(254) 505-3241 View (254) 505-3241
Photo of Pamela D. Vrana, MS, LPC-S, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Pamela D. Vrana
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rockwall, TX 75087
I have a passion for working with individuals, couples, and families in assisting them to find their true potential and "be the change they want to see." I can help couples and families that are feeling lost and confused by functioning as a guide, and together we can develop reference points towards resolving conflicts. I am a level three Gottman trained therapist.
I have a passion for working with individuals, couples, and families in assisting them to find their true potential and "be the change they want to see." I can help couples and families that are feeling lost and confused by functioning as a guide, and together we can develop reference points towards resolving conflicts. I am a level three Gottman trained therapist.
(469) 844-4573 View (469) 844-4573
Photo of Cary L Scott - Cary Scott Counseling, MA, CSC, LPC-S, Counselor
Cary Scott Counseling
Counselor, MA, CSC, LPC-S
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Rockwall, TX 75087
Are you searching for a therapist that is experienced, enthusiastic and committed to helping you through challenges with relationships, self-confidence, and anxiety? My focus is with individuals and couples that are struggling with communication, stress, and feeling worthy. Stop getting caught in the same frustrating loop over and over. Stop second guessing yourself. Start feeling better and enjoying life!
Are you searching for a therapist that is experienced, enthusiastic and committed to helping you through challenges with relationships, self-confidence, and anxiety? My focus is with individuals and couples that are struggling with communication, stress, and feeling worthy. Stop getting caught in the same frustrating loop over and over. Stop second guessing yourself. Start feeling better and enjoying life!
(972) 454-4286 x703 View (972) 454-4286 x703
Photo of Lauren Coats - Rockwall Counseling and Wellness, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rockwall Counseling and Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockwall, TX 75087
Our therapists are trained in working with children, adolescents, couples, and adults.
NOW OFFERING VIRTUAL AND IN-PERSON SESSIONS! I'm Lauren Coats, licensed professional counselor and owner of Rockwall Counseling and Wellness. We take pride in being a boutique practice. We see less clients so that we may spend more time preparing for each one. You can expect a high level of care and confidentiality when you see one of our expert therapists. Our office provides you with private parking behind our office on Ridge Road in the heart Rockwall.
Our therapists are trained in working with children, adolescents, couples, and adults.
NOW OFFERING VIRTUAL AND IN-PERSON SESSIONS! I'm Lauren Coats, licensed professional counselor and owner of Rockwall Counseling and Wellness. We take pride in being a boutique practice. We see less clients so that we may spend more time preparing for each one. You can expect a high level of care and confidentiality when you see one of our expert therapists. Our office provides you with private parking behind our office on Ridge Road in the heart Rockwall.
(214) 817-3593 View (214) 817-3593
Photo of Megan Garner, MEd, LPC
Megan Garner
MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockwall, TX 75032
My work guides clients through creating boundaries, identifying truths, and building appropriate personal and relationship strategies that are practical, easy to understand, and that you can go home and put into application.
Stressed? Struggling with people pleasing, enforcing boundaries, or need help sorting your thoughts? Is it time to make some changes in life? I work with clients that are experiencing relationship conflict, communication breakdown, recent divorce, grief/loss, burnout, and parenting challenges. Sometimes we have no idea what or why things are not seeming to click - everything just seems so difficult. Having a supportive, confidential, and fresh set of ears and eyes on your situation can help you gain clarity and the confidence you need to move forward.
My work guides clients through creating boundaries, identifying truths, and building appropriate personal and relationship strategies that are practical, easy to understand, and that you can go home and put into application.
Stressed? Struggling with people pleasing, enforcing boundaries, or need help sorting your thoughts? Is it time to make some changes in life? I work with clients that are experiencing relationship conflict, communication breakdown, recent divorce, grief/loss, burnout, and parenting challenges. Sometimes we have no idea what or why things are not seeming to click - everything just seems so difficult. Having a supportive, confidential, and fresh set of ears and eyes on your situation can help you gain clarity and the confidence you need to move forward.
(214) 974-4588 View (214) 974-4588
Photo of Gavi Wilkins, LMFT- S, Marriage & Family Therapist
Gavi Wilkins
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT- S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockwall, TX 75087  (Online Only)
I specialize in trauma and offer telehealth services in English and Spanish to adolescents, adults, couples and families.
Lo mas importante eres tu y tu bienestar. Terapia puede ayudar a sanar, lidiar, y resolver los traumas y problemas que surgen en la vida. No estas solo, yo te puedo ayudar. Empezamos donde te sientas comodo. Te apoyo en tu creecimiento a ser tu mejor version. Me especializo en el trauma y ofresco servicios en ingles y espanol a adolescents, adultos, parejas y familias atravez de servicos virtuales. Me encantaria conocerlo!
I specialize in trauma and offer telehealth services in English and Spanish to adolescents, adults, couples and families.
Lo mas importante eres tu y tu bienestar. Terapia puede ayudar a sanar, lidiar, y resolver los traumas y problemas que surgen en la vida. No estas solo, yo te puedo ayudar. Empezamos donde te sientas comodo. Te apoyo en tu creecimiento a ser tu mejor version. Me especializo en el trauma y ofresco servicios en ingles y espanol a adolescents, adultos, parejas y familias atravez de servicos virtuales. Me encantaria conocerlo!
(972) 433-5307 View (972) 433-5307
Photo of Taylor Alan Horton, MS
Taylor Alan Horton
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Rockwall, TX 75087
Relationships can be difficult. We long for meaningful connection, understanding, and support from our closest relationships. But sometimes, we find conflict and alienation instead. Perhaps an "Other" has taken your place in a relationship-pornography, a physical affair, an addiction. Maybe dysfunction has spread throughout your family, building high walls between you and your loved ones. Perhaps your greatest struggle is relating not to others...but to yourself. You become vaguely aware that something is wrong. Something foundational has cracked. Feeling lost, you wonder how life led you to this deeply uncomfortable place.
Relationships can be difficult. We long for meaningful connection, understanding, and support from our closest relationships. But sometimes, we find conflict and alienation instead. Perhaps an "Other" has taken your place in a relationship-pornography, a physical affair, an addiction. Maybe dysfunction has spread throughout your family, building high walls between you and your loved ones. Perhaps your greatest struggle is relating not to others...but to yourself. You become vaguely aware that something is wrong. Something foundational has cracked. Feeling lost, you wonder how life led you to this deeply uncomfortable place.
(469) 523-4687 View (469) 523-4687
Photo of Christy Maples, BS, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christy Maples
Licensed Professional Counselor, BS, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Rockwall, TX 75087
I believe in the power of the process and journey to finding your purpose in life. I believe in the power of a strong therapeutic relationship to foster the emotional growth of an individual and provide a life full of empowerment, peace, and happiness. I believe in the beauty of diversity and individualism and I would be honored to have the opportunity to walk beside you in your own journey of life.
I believe in the power of the process and journey to finding your purpose in life. I believe in the power of a strong therapeutic relationship to foster the emotional growth of an individual and provide a life full of empowerment, peace, and happiness. I believe in the beauty of diversity and individualism and I would be honored to have the opportunity to walk beside you in your own journey of life.
(214) 225-9493 x700 View (214) 225-9493 x700
Photo of Pare Underwood, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Pare Underwood
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Rockwall, TX 75087
Looking for a therapist that understands narcissistic abusive relationships, co-parenting, and blended families? I specialize in navigating through the communication and relationship dynamics that these types of unique situations experience. If you feel like the same fights continue to spin and never get resolved, I can equip you with the necessary tools to find relief. Identifying, speaking up, leaving, and recovering are all areas in which I can guide your next steps. Whether through remote or in-person sessions, I provide the ultimate confidential, private, and safe space to build your confidence and recover your best self.
Looking for a therapist that understands narcissistic abusive relationships, co-parenting, and blended families? I specialize in navigating through the communication and relationship dynamics that these types of unique situations experience. If you feel like the same fights continue to spin and never get resolved, I can equip you with the necessary tools to find relief. Identifying, speaking up, leaving, and recovering are all areas in which I can guide your next steps. Whether through remote or in-person sessions, I provide the ultimate confidential, private, and safe space to build your confidence and recover your best self.
(214) 997-6641 View (214) 997-6641
Photo of Kwahera Spears - Landry Therapy Group - Rockwall, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Landry Therapy Group - Rockwall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rockwall, TX 75032
Your dignity, self-worth, and self-determination are of the utmost importance; our mission is to forge a strong client/therapist relationship and work with you in reaching your goals.
*TAKING NEW CLIENTS* Our goal as therapists is to form a bond of trust and commitment with our clients. With the proper support and guidance in their lives, we believe people have an inherent ability to persevere through any struggle with which they are confronted. Jerianne specializes in working with adults, individuals, couples, families, depression self harm/suicidal ideation, and LGBTQ. We help clients cope with life's daily struggles and/or issues resulting from trauma and conflict and to cultivate a healthier style of living to ensure future well-being.
Your dignity, self-worth, and self-determination are of the utmost importance; our mission is to forge a strong client/therapist relationship and work with you in reaching your goals.
*TAKING NEW CLIENTS* Our goal as therapists is to form a bond of trust and commitment with our clients. With the proper support and guidance in their lives, we believe people have an inherent ability to persevere through any struggle with which they are confronted. Jerianne specializes in working with adults, individuals, couples, families, depression self harm/suicidal ideation, and LGBTQ. We help clients cope with life's daily struggles and/or issues resulting from trauma and conflict and to cultivate a healthier style of living to ensure future well-being.
(469) 423-8596 View (469) 423-8596
Photo of Katie Jung, MA, LPC Intern
Katie Jung
LPC Intern, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rockwall, TX 75087
Maintaining and nurturing marriages, relationships, family dynamics, and even a sense of community can often feel both challenging and overwhelming. I specialize in helping couples and individuals cultivate deeper connections, foster authentic love in their relationships, and feel genuinely known within their communities. For couples, my goal is to help you feel seen, known, and loved by each other, rekindling the feeling of being best friends. For individuals, I’m passionate about exploring relationship trauma, family of origin, attachment issues, dating challenges, and identifying those relationship cycles that hold you back.
Maintaining and nurturing marriages, relationships, family dynamics, and even a sense of community can often feel both challenging and overwhelming. I specialize in helping couples and individuals cultivate deeper connections, foster authentic love in their relationships, and feel genuinely known within their communities. For couples, my goal is to help you feel seen, known, and loved by each other, rekindling the feeling of being best friends. For individuals, I’m passionate about exploring relationship trauma, family of origin, attachment issues, dating challenges, and identifying those relationship cycles that hold you back.
(972) 435-6119 View (972) 435-6119
Photo of Connie M. Siciliano Avila, PhD, LP, LPC-S, Psychologist
Connie M. Siciliano Avila
Psychologist, PhD, LP, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Rockwall, TX 75087
My training includes: Trauma Model Therapy, Safe Zone Ally, EMDR, addiction treatment, telemental health, and parenting/family/couple relationship issues.
My focus is on trauma, addiction, and relationships. Do you want to get control of your life, emotions or lack of emotions, stop problem behaviors, improve self-esteem, improve relationships, cope, and stop harmful thoughts? I have extensive experience in clinical and nonclinical settings with issues, such as abuse, relationships, addictions, depression, anxiety, dissociation, PTSD, alcohol abuse, and bipolar disorders. Also, past client concerns included: personality disorders, grief, anger, divorce, parenting, codependency, GLBTQ, multicultural, spiritual, DID, and men/women issues. Call for a free consultation.
My training includes: Trauma Model Therapy, Safe Zone Ally, EMDR, addiction treatment, telemental health, and parenting/family/couple relationship issues.
My focus is on trauma, addiction, and relationships. Do you want to get control of your life, emotions or lack of emotions, stop problem behaviors, improve self-esteem, improve relationships, cope, and stop harmful thoughts? I have extensive experience in clinical and nonclinical settings with issues, such as abuse, relationships, addictions, depression, anxiety, dissociation, PTSD, alcohol abuse, and bipolar disorders. Also, past client concerns included: personality disorders, grief, anger, divorce, parenting, codependency, GLBTQ, multicultural, spiritual, DID, and men/women issues. Call for a free consultation.
(214) 830-9879 View (214) 830-9879
Photo of Kristen Fowler Velasquez, MS, LPC, PMH-C, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristen Fowler Velasquez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockwall, TX 75087
I have a background in various issues from substance abuse to domestic violence to codependency; however, I have a special passion for families, adults, and couples, including in the perinatal period, who wish to work on their relationships.
Do you struggle with your relationships with others? Find yourself not quite connecting with your spouse or child? I can help you overcome communication barriers, reconnect emotionally, and find solutions to conflict using Emotion Focused Therapy techniques. I am committed to helping you build strong and resilient relationships in all areas of your life. Another passion of mine is providing a safe space for perinatal women to address issues such as perinatal mood disorders, self-care, and the tough transition of pregnancy and motherhood.
I have a background in various issues from substance abuse to domestic violence to codependency; however, I have a special passion for families, adults, and couples, including in the perinatal period, who wish to work on their relationships.
Do you struggle with your relationships with others? Find yourself not quite connecting with your spouse or child? I can help you overcome communication barriers, reconnect emotionally, and find solutions to conflict using Emotion Focused Therapy techniques. I am committed to helping you build strong and resilient relationships in all areas of your life. Another passion of mine is providing a safe space for perinatal women to address issues such as perinatal mood disorders, self-care, and the tough transition of pregnancy and motherhood.
(972) 449-5694 View (972) 449-5694
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.