Couples Counseling Therapists in Suffolk, VA

Photo of Amanda Williams, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amanda Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Suffolk, VA 23434  (Online Only)
I focus on providing a genuine therapeutic relationship in a safe and non-judgement environment, while treating everyone with dignity and respect.
I have worked with diverse populations of individuals ranging from children, adolescents, adults, veterans, and couples. My specialty includes, but not limited to the treatment of depression, anxiety, trauma, dual diagnosis, grief, adjustment, addiction, and relational problems. My background includes clinical work, mental and behavioral health, case management, assessments, and training in the medical, educational, psychiatric, and therapeutic settings.
I focus on providing a genuine therapeutic relationship in a safe and non-judgement environment, while treating everyone with dignity and respect.
I have worked with diverse populations of individuals ranging from children, adolescents, adults, veterans, and couples. My specialty includes, but not limited to the treatment of depression, anxiety, trauma, dual diagnosis, grief, adjustment, addiction, and relational problems. My background includes clinical work, mental and behavioral health, case management, assessments, and training in the medical, educational, psychiatric, and therapeutic settings.
(757) 979-6453 View (757) 979-6453
Photo of Chiquita Merrill, LPC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Chiquita Merrill
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ACS
Verified Verified
Suffolk, VA 23434
Waitlist for new clients
I am here to help someone who wants help and wants to get better. These two goals are necessary to make the therapeutic relationship worthwhile. I'm not just here to help those who have been diagnosed with something like depression or anxiety or bipolar disorder. I have been privileged to also work with clients who have negative experiences as African Americans, negative experiences as women, negative experiences as part of the LGBTQ+ community, or negative experiences connected to exploring alternative spiritualities. If this is you, know that I explicitly hold space for you in my practice and offer a safe place.
I am here to help someone who wants help and wants to get better. These two goals are necessary to make the therapeutic relationship worthwhile. I'm not just here to help those who have been diagnosed with something like depression or anxiety or bipolar disorder. I have been privileged to also work with clients who have negative experiences as African Americans, negative experiences as women, negative experiences as part of the LGBTQ+ community, or negative experiences connected to exploring alternative spiritualities. If this is you, know that I explicitly hold space for you in my practice and offer a safe place.
(757) 809-2178 View (757) 809-2178
Photo of Marie Evans, MEd, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Marie Evans
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd, MSW
Verified Verified
Suffolk, VA 23434
Unlock Your True Potential and Embrace Self-Worth! Are you ready to rediscover your self-worth, end cycles of self-sabotage, and start living a life that aligns with your true potential? My mission is to help you break free from self-doubt, connect with your inner strength, and develop a loving, compassionate relationship with yourself. In our sessions, we’ll work together to: Reclaim your self-worth and find the confidence you deserve; identify and transform self-sabotaging behaviors; set achievable goals and celebrate your progress; and heal the inner child and nurture a sense of security within!
Unlock Your True Potential and Embrace Self-Worth! Are you ready to rediscover your self-worth, end cycles of self-sabotage, and start living a life that aligns with your true potential? My mission is to help you break free from self-doubt, connect with your inner strength, and develop a loving, compassionate relationship with yourself. In our sessions, we’ll work together to: Reclaim your self-worth and find the confidence you deserve; identify and transform self-sabotaging behaviors; set achievable goals and celebrate your progress; and heal the inner child and nurture a sense of security within!
(757) 974-8917 View (757) 974-8917
Photo of Corrie Williams, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Corrie Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Suffolk, VA 23435
I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, & motivation, self-esteem, and confidence.
As your therapist, I hold dear the opportunity to share your life story and personal growth with you. I will have high regard for you as a person. I will show up and provide the best possible service from my knowledge base and studies. I utilize a Person-Centered, Strengths Perspective, and Holistic approach to Solution-Focused therapy. I will always have compassion, empathy, and honesty as you are valuable and hold worth as an individual.
I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, & motivation, self-esteem, and confidence.
As your therapist, I hold dear the opportunity to share your life story and personal growth with you. I will have high regard for you as a person. I will show up and provide the best possible service from my knowledge base and studies. I utilize a Person-Centered, Strengths Perspective, and Holistic approach to Solution-Focused therapy. I will always have compassion, empathy, and honesty as you are valuable and hold worth as an individual.
(757) 780-1562 View (757) 780-1562
Photo of Patricia Ann Cody - Changing Lives Counseling Services, LLC, MSEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Changing Lives Counseling Services, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Suffolk, VA 23435
I have been counseling individuals, children, families, and couples for 25 years. I have experience treating depression, PTSD, anxiety, adolescent behavioral problems, domestic violence, sexual abuse, anger management issues. My clients regard me as someone who has not only helped them navigate through some of life's most difficult challenges but someone who advocates strongly for them and cares about them. Helping people improve their lives is my mission and my passion in life.
I have been counseling individuals, children, families, and couples for 25 years. I have experience treating depression, PTSD, anxiety, adolescent behavioral problems, domestic violence, sexual abuse, anger management issues. My clients regard me as someone who has not only helped them navigate through some of life's most difficult challenges but someone who advocates strongly for them and cares about them. Helping people improve their lives is my mission and my passion in life.
(757) 656-4053 View (757) 656-4053
Photo of Erin Gossage, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Erin Gossage
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Suffolk, VA 23434
I have experience working with children, adolescents, young adults, adults, couples, and families.
At Wishing Well Counseling Center, wellness isn't just a wish; it's a way of life. I am committed to assisting you on your journey to wellness, and offer a variety of treatment options to further your progress. I see therapy as a gift that only you can give yourself. When we work together towards your healing and wellness, I believe you will be able to overcome suffering, and begin to enjoy the life you were meant to have. I truly feel it is a privilege to do the work I love.
I have experience working with children, adolescents, young adults, adults, couples, and families.
At Wishing Well Counseling Center, wellness isn't just a wish; it's a way of life. I am committed to assisting you on your journey to wellness, and offer a variety of treatment options to further your progress. I see therapy as a gift that only you can give yourself. When we work together towards your healing and wellness, I believe you will be able to overcome suffering, and begin to enjoy the life you were meant to have. I truly feel it is a privilege to do the work I love.
(757) 793-2643 View (757) 793-2643
Photo of Layla Gray, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Layla Gray
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Suffolk, VA 23435  (Online Only)
I work with individuals between the ages of 15 and 60 who are dealing with stressful life situations (both personally and professional/educationally), relationship challenges, grief, and mood disorders.
My goal is to engage, educate, encourage, and empower those I work with. With more than 18 years of experience, I am creative in how I do this so that I can connect with each of my clients. I don't simply hear what my clients say. Instead, I strive to understand how they think, what they are feeling, and how they view relationships and the world in general. It is my belief that only once these points are understood that I can extend meaningful support that can illicit changes the client seeks.
I work with individuals between the ages of 15 and 60 who are dealing with stressful life situations (both personally and professional/educationally), relationship challenges, grief, and mood disorders.
My goal is to engage, educate, encourage, and empower those I work with. With more than 18 years of experience, I am creative in how I do this so that I can connect with each of my clients. I don't simply hear what my clients say. Instead, I strive to understand how they think, what they are feeling, and how they view relationships and the world in general. It is my belief that only once these points are understood that I can extend meaningful support that can illicit changes the client seeks.
(757) 571-8248 View (757) 571-8248
Photo of Ellasin Allen, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ellasin Allen
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Suffolk, VA 23435
Waitlist for new clients
I am experienced in working with couples, and individuals over 16 years of age who are facing mental health, personality, emotional, and behavioral disorders, and life challenges.
Grounded in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Person-Centered techniques to aid clients in obtaining their desired therapeutic goal. I have an eclectic approach to assisting my clients in developing a sense of personal wholeness by tailoring my therapeutic method to their individual needs. As a service member's wife for over 25 years, I understand the dynamics of Military Families and I have experience working with clients that fit this profile.
I am experienced in working with couples, and individuals over 16 years of age who are facing mental health, personality, emotional, and behavioral disorders, and life challenges.
Grounded in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Person-Centered techniques to aid clients in obtaining their desired therapeutic goal. I have an eclectic approach to assisting my clients in developing a sense of personal wholeness by tailoring my therapeutic method to their individual needs. As a service member's wife for over 25 years, I understand the dynamics of Military Families and I have experience working with clients that fit this profile.
(757) 260-3851 View (757) 260-3851
Photo of Nnita Reid, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nnita Reid
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Suffolk, VA 23435
I’m Nnita, a Licensed Professional Counselor. My passion is anchored in guiding my clients through the complexities of depression, anxiety, serious mental illness, relationship challenges, self-esteem issues, life transitions, grief, social skills development, and life skills.
I’m Nnita, a Licensed Professional Counselor. My passion is anchored in guiding my clients through the complexities of depression, anxiety, serious mental illness, relationship challenges, self-esteem issues, life transitions, grief, social skills development, and life skills.
(757) 239-3560 View (757) 239-3560
Photo of Kevin S Childs - Kevin Childs Counseling Services, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kevin Childs Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Suffolk, VA 23435  (Online Only)
I have developed a 3 step system for healing the wounds of a troubled relationship: 'Replenish Recalibrate and Relaunch", a process designed to provide and promote emotional safety; self-nurturing; and a pathway to feeling confident and secure in the freedom to live your best life.
I am a relationship counselor. I work with women and men whose relationships have become a source of major stress and confusion. Failed relationships hurt. They hurt because hopes get dashed and love has become something difficult to recognize. And so yes, troubled relationships can be painful. The sadness and confusion of heartache has its place, but it doesn't have to dominate. Instead, allow it to be a turning point. Use the moment to tend to yourself; to explore your goals and to create for yourself a more fulfilling future. This is a journey worth taking and I would be honored to be your guide.
I have developed a 3 step system for healing the wounds of a troubled relationship: 'Replenish Recalibrate and Relaunch", a process designed to provide and promote emotional safety; self-nurturing; and a pathway to feeling confident and secure in the freedom to live your best life.
I am a relationship counselor. I work with women and men whose relationships have become a source of major stress and confusion. Failed relationships hurt. They hurt because hopes get dashed and love has become something difficult to recognize. And so yes, troubled relationships can be painful. The sadness and confusion of heartache has its place, but it doesn't have to dominate. Instead, allow it to be a turning point. Use the moment to tend to yourself; to explore your goals and to create for yourself a more fulfilling future. This is a journey worth taking and I would be honored to be your guide.
(757) 550-3489 View (757) 550-3489
Photo of Angello Madison Sr., MSPC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Angello Madison Sr.
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSPC, LPC
Verified Verified
Suffolk, VA 23434
) I consider myself a 'general practitioner' able to treat client's with a variety of diagnosis and issues working with pre-adolescents, adolescents, adults and families to include couples work.
My ideal client is one who is In need of coping skills to deal with mostly depression and anxiety; two of the most common issues regardless of the diagnosis. I draw from both my own personal experiences and the numerous settings I've worked in.
) I consider myself a 'general practitioner' able to treat client's with a variety of diagnosis and issues working with pre-adolescents, adolescents, adults and families to include couples work.
My ideal client is one who is In need of coping skills to deal with mostly depression and anxiety; two of the most common issues regardless of the diagnosis. I draw from both my own personal experiences and the numerous settings I've worked in.
(757) 828-0186 View (757) 828-0186
Photo of Patricia Jones, PsyD, Psychologist
Patricia Jones
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Suffolk, VA 23435  (Online Only)
Out of Office 10/31/24-11/10/24, please email/leave message. Dr. Patricia Jones, Licensed Clinical Psychologist in Virginia, works with adults experiencing anxiety, depression, anger-management problems, grief & loss, relationship issues, and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. She assists individuals who experience difficulties with daily living. Dr. Jones assists clients with recognizing how their negative thoughts negatively impact their emotions & pattern of behaviors. Dr. Jones obtained a Doctor of Psychology degree in Clinical Psychology in 2010 from the American School of Professional Psychology at Argosy Univ., Arlington, VA.
Out of Office 10/31/24-11/10/24, please email/leave message. Dr. Patricia Jones, Licensed Clinical Psychologist in Virginia, works with adults experiencing anxiety, depression, anger-management problems, grief & loss, relationship issues, and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. She assists individuals who experience difficulties with daily living. Dr. Jones assists clients with recognizing how their negative thoughts negatively impact their emotions & pattern of behaviors. Dr. Jones obtained a Doctor of Psychology degree in Clinical Psychology in 2010 from the American School of Professional Psychology at Argosy Univ., Arlington, VA.
(757) 801-5337 View (757) 801-5337
Photo of Dr. Fred Scott - Black Excellence & Mental Health, PhD, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Black Excellence & Mental Health
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Suffolk, VA 23434  (Online Only)
He believes in the power of therapy to not only resolve existing issues but also to equip individuals and couples with the tools they need to navigate future challenges confidently and effectively.
Dr. Fred Scott is an accomplished Licensed Professional Counselor with years of experience in the mental health field. His expertise lies in utilizing solution-focused brief therapy, a unique approach that emphasizes client collaboration and prompt problem-solving. Dr. Scott offers a range of virtual therapy services, encompassing individual sessions for both new and existing patients. He also provides specialized virtual couples therapy, allowing couples to access professional support from the comfort of their own homes.
He believes in the power of therapy to not only resolve existing issues but also to equip individuals and couples with the tools they need to navigate future challenges confidently and effectively.
Dr. Fred Scott is an accomplished Licensed Professional Counselor with years of experience in the mental health field. His expertise lies in utilizing solution-focused brief therapy, a unique approach that emphasizes client collaboration and prompt problem-solving. Dr. Scott offers a range of virtual therapy services, encompassing individual sessions for both new and existing patients. He also provides specialized virtual couples therapy, allowing couples to access professional support from the comfort of their own homes.
(757) 909-5917 View (757) 909-5917
Photo of Anam Therapy Counseling Inc. Group Practice- Heather Whitney, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Anam Therapy Counseling Inc. Group Practice- Heather Whitney
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Suffolk, VA 23434
We specialize in child, adolescent, young adult, adult and couples treatment, and utilize an eclectic treatment approach to therapy that is directed by the individual needs of our clients.
Anam Therapy Counseling, Inc is a group practice that was formed as I expanded my business in response to the growing need in our field. Please note, we are a TeleMH practice (online). We have spent the past 26+ years helping clients to lead happier, healthier, and more fulfilling lives. Our goal is to provide a stress free, nonjudgmental environment where you can feel supported, comfortable, and free to express yourself. We have clinicians at our practice that are EMDR certified, Trauma focused, and work with DBT and CBT. We also run numerous groups including Parenting, DBT, Grief/Loss, Anxiety/ Depression and a Men's support group
We specialize in child, adolescent, young adult, adult and couples treatment, and utilize an eclectic treatment approach to therapy that is directed by the individual needs of our clients.
Anam Therapy Counseling, Inc is a group practice that was formed as I expanded my business in response to the growing need in our field. Please note, we are a TeleMH practice (online). We have spent the past 26+ years helping clients to lead happier, healthier, and more fulfilling lives. Our goal is to provide a stress free, nonjudgmental environment where you can feel supported, comfortable, and free to express yourself. We have clinicians at our practice that are EMDR certified, Trauma focused, and work with DBT and CBT. We also run numerous groups including Parenting, DBT, Grief/Loss, Anxiety/ Depression and a Men's support group
(434) 226-5893 View (434) 226-5893
Photo of Keshanda Garland, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Keshanda Garland
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Suffolk, VA 23435
My name is Keshanda Garland. Please feel free to call me Kesha. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. and a Virginia Native. I have over 15 years of experience working with clients who have mental health issues. I enjoy working with adults and adolescents, and my specialty lies in working with clients with anxiety disorders, panic attacks, depression, stress and relationship issues, and trauma-related disorders. I am dedicated to helping her client's foster growth and healing through a collaborative therapeutic relationship.
My name is Keshanda Garland. Please feel free to call me Kesha. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. and a Virginia Native. I have over 15 years of experience working with clients who have mental health issues. I enjoy working with adults and adolescents, and my specialty lies in working with clients with anxiety disorders, panic attacks, depression, stress and relationship issues, and trauma-related disorders. I am dedicated to helping her client's foster growth and healing through a collaborative therapeutic relationship.
(703) 420-1049 View (703) 420-1049
Photo of Shavaughn Gordon Meyer, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shavaughn Gordon Meyer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Suffolk, VA 23434  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with adults, teenagers, and couples.
First, let me say that I think it’s amazing you are in a space in your life where you’re willing to accept help. If you’re here, you might be struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, communication challenges, or concerns about setting boundaries in close relationships etc. You may feel overwhelmed by life’s challenges at this time and are looking to find some sense of peace. I’d like to assist you in reaching your goals to obtain peace and a more enjoyable life.
I specialize in working with adults, teenagers, and couples.
First, let me say that I think it’s amazing you are in a space in your life where you’re willing to accept help. If you’re here, you might be struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, communication challenges, or concerns about setting boundaries in close relationships etc. You may feel overwhelmed by life’s challenges at this time and are looking to find some sense of peace. I’d like to assist you in reaching your goals to obtain peace and a more enjoyable life.
View
Photo of Lynessa Sheppard Plotnick, LPC, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lynessa Sheppard Plotnick
Marriage & Family Therapist, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Suffolk, VA 23432
More about specialties: I work with children 18 months and up; specialize in working with children and adult children of alcoholics, patients with chronic pain, patients experiencing depression and or anxiety, patients with ADHD, couples and whole families.
I believe in the human spirit and our capacity to make positive changes in all aspects of our lives, even in the face of adversity. By exploring our thought patterns, we can better identify feelings that affect our actions on a daily basis. We can then make effective changes that improve the quality of our lives, decreasing stress, anxiety, and depression and providing us with a more peaceful and joyful life. I also believe in the benefit of human interaction with other loving creatures; you will meet my little Yorkie-Poo therapy partner, Mojo, when you come to visit me. He loves children and adults.
More about specialties: I work with children 18 months and up; specialize in working with children and adult children of alcoholics, patients with chronic pain, patients experiencing depression and or anxiety, patients with ADHD, couples and whole families.
I believe in the human spirit and our capacity to make positive changes in all aspects of our lives, even in the face of adversity. By exploring our thought patterns, we can better identify feelings that affect our actions on a daily basis. We can then make effective changes that improve the quality of our lives, decreasing stress, anxiety, and depression and providing us with a more peaceful and joyful life. I also believe in the benefit of human interaction with other loving creatures; you will meet my little Yorkie-Poo therapy partner, Mojo, when you come to visit me. He loves children and adults.
(757) 785-0838 View (757) 785-0838
Photo of Deborah A Barham, LMHC, LPC, CHT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Deborah A Barham
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC, LPC, CHT
Not Verified Not Verified
Suffolk, VA 23432
Seeking therapy can be 'anxiety provoking" and confusing. I am committed to helping clients feel comfortable and connected, providing a non-judgmental and user friendly approach. My work with clients is painless, effective and long lasting. My areas of expertise are sexual,emotional and physical abuse, anger problems, anxiety or fear, women's empowerment, men issues, substance abuse, relationship issues,domestic violence, grief and gay/lesbian issues.
Seeking therapy can be 'anxiety provoking" and confusing. I am committed to helping clients feel comfortable and connected, providing a non-judgmental and user friendly approach. My work with clients is painless, effective and long lasting. My areas of expertise are sexual,emotional and physical abuse, anger problems, anxiety or fear, women's empowerment, men issues, substance abuse, relationship issues,domestic violence, grief and gay/lesbian issues.
(954) 532-8868 View (954) 532-8868
Photo of Tamara Patrice Williams - Ta Mara's Promise, LLC, LPC, CSAC, MAC, LSATP, SAP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ta Mara's Promise, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CSAC, MAC, LSATP, SAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Suffolk, VA 23435  (Online Only)
We provide purposeful mental health and substance abuse treatment for adults, children, & couples.
Allow Me to Introduce Myself, My name Ta Mara P. Williams, Licensed Professional Counselor, Certified Substance Abuse Counselor, Entrepreneur, CEO/ Boss Lady, and Owner of Ta Mara’s Promise. I didn’t start my life with all of these titles. I had to work hard for each one of them. Through every challenge, every stumbling block, and every failure I learned to survive in"the struggle." Having a firsthand understanding that life is not always “rainbows and sunshine", but there are storms that can knock you to your knees. I believe It is my job as a therapist to help you see the light in the midst of your darkness.
We provide purposeful mental health and substance abuse treatment for adults, children, & couples.
Allow Me to Introduce Myself, My name Ta Mara P. Williams, Licensed Professional Counselor, Certified Substance Abuse Counselor, Entrepreneur, CEO/ Boss Lady, and Owner of Ta Mara’s Promise. I didn’t start my life with all of these titles. I had to work hard for each one of them. Through every challenge, every stumbling block, and every failure I learned to survive in"the struggle." Having a firsthand understanding that life is not always “rainbows and sunshine", but there are storms that can knock you to your knees. I believe It is my job as a therapist to help you see the light in the midst of your darkness.
(757) 331-6274 View (757) 331-6274
Photo of Michele Haynam, LPC, CSAC, CSOTP, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michele Haynam
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CSAC, CSOTP, NCC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Suffolk, VA 23435
Have you wanted to talk to "someone" about your relationship(s) or disappointment(s) with not being where you thought you would be at this stage of life? It's time to stop thinking and make the call to start the conversation that can change your life. Working collaboratively with the right counselor can support you in living your best life. I look forward to hearing from you! "The mind is everything. What you think you become." Buddha
Have you wanted to talk to "someone" about your relationship(s) or disappointment(s) with not being where you thought you would be at this stage of life? It's time to stop thinking and make the call to start the conversation that can change your life. Working collaboratively with the right counselor can support you in living your best life. I look forward to hearing from you! "The mind is everything. What you think you become." Buddha
(757) 500-5170 View (757) 500-5170
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.