Couples Counseling Therapists in Charleston, WV

Photo of Angel Hiles, MAEd, LPCC-S, LPC, Counselor
Angel Hiles
Counselor, MAEd, LPCC-S, LPC
Verified Verified
Charleston, WV 25304  (Online Only)
Through various methods, you'll gain insights into your relationship patterns, learn effective coping strategies, and develop the tools needed to create and sustain healthy relationships, happiness, and well-being.
I believe the foundation of a fulfilling life lies in our relationships- not just with others, but with ourselves. Attachment and complex trauma can manifest in various ways, often leading to anxiety, depression, and difficulties in forming healthy bonds. By understanding how our early life experiences shape our nervous system and present interactions, we can begin to unravel unhelpful patterns and build more meaningful connections.
Through various methods, you'll gain insights into your relationship patterns, learn effective coping strategies, and develop the tools needed to create and sustain healthy relationships, happiness, and well-being.
I believe the foundation of a fulfilling life lies in our relationships- not just with others, but with ourselves. Attachment and complex trauma can manifest in various ways, often leading to anxiety, depression, and difficulties in forming healthy bonds. By understanding how our early life experiences shape our nervous system and present interactions, we can begin to unravel unhelpful patterns and build more meaningful connections.
(304) 249-9644 View (304) 249-9644
Photo of Diane Briers Hendricks, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Diane Briers Hendricks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Charleston, WV 25301
Younger clients are often plagued with relationship issues, parenting problems.
I work predominantly with adults ages 21-81. About 20% of my practice consists of families or couples. Common themes for therapy are family conflict, romantic relationships or lack of, chronic illness, anxiety and depression.
Younger clients are often plagued with relationship issues, parenting problems.
I work predominantly with adults ages 21-81. About 20% of my practice consists of families or couples. Common themes for therapy are family conflict, romantic relationships or lack of, chronic illness, anxiety and depression.
(304) 301-5116 View (304) 301-5116
Photo of Kpcc Counseling - KPCC Counseling, LPC, LCSW, Counselor
KPCC Counseling
Counselor, LPC, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charleston, WV 25301
We see individuals, couples, and families.
KPCC Counseling - Voted #1 Counseling Center in West Virginia two years in a row. Convenient locations, free parking, flexible scheduling. KPCC Counseling has licensed counselors who are well trained in a number of different kinds of counseling. We match you and your goals with the counselor who will be the best fit for you. Our counselors are known for being positive, open, accepting, and available. Kathy Muscari- Andy Counts - Vanessa Landgrave- Sarah Stanley - Kerrie Harris - Paige Winfree - Jaime Richmond - Bessie Tadlock-Jimenez - Susan Armentrout - Pamela Blue- Brittany Powell- Hollie McClanahan.
We see individuals, couples, and families.
KPCC Counseling - Voted #1 Counseling Center in West Virginia two years in a row. Convenient locations, free parking, flexible scheduling. KPCC Counseling has licensed counselors who are well trained in a number of different kinds of counseling. We match you and your goals with the counselor who will be the best fit for you. Our counselors are known for being positive, open, accepting, and available. Kathy Muscari- Andy Counts - Vanessa Landgrave- Sarah Stanley - Kerrie Harris - Paige Winfree - Jaime Richmond - Bessie Tadlock-Jimenez - Susan Armentrout - Pamela Blue- Brittany Powell- Hollie McClanahan.
(304) 519-0960 View (304) 519-0960
Photo of Dr. Laurie C Covington, PsyD, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Dr. Laurie C Covington
Counselor, PsyD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Charleston, WV 25301
I have over 20 years experience treating adults, adolescents and children with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues including anxiety, depression, relationship, stress management, grief and loss, and women's issues.
Deciding to start therapy is not always easy. It takes courage, commitment and a desire to make a positive difference in your life. If you have decided you are ready to make lasting changes in your life then finding a therapist is your next step. How do you choose the right therapist for you? If you are looking for someone who will listen to you unconditionally, without judgment, who shows empathy regarding your situation, who is easy to talk with and provides a space where you can feel safe, then I might be the therapist for you.
I have over 20 years experience treating adults, adolescents and children with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues including anxiety, depression, relationship, stress management, grief and loss, and women's issues.
Deciding to start therapy is not always easy. It takes courage, commitment and a desire to make a positive difference in your life. If you have decided you are ready to make lasting changes in your life then finding a therapist is your next step. How do you choose the right therapist for you? If you are looking for someone who will listen to you unconditionally, without judgment, who shows empathy regarding your situation, who is easy to talk with and provides a space where you can feel safe, then I might be the therapist for you.
(304) 937-0533 View (304) 937-0533
Photo of Christina Hill, MA, LPC, ALPS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christina Hill
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ALPS
Verified Verified
Charleston, WV 25301
Peace of Mind Therapy & Wellness is an independent private practice in Charleston, WV. At my practice, I am dedicated to providing quality counseling services in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. I have over 12 plus years of experience in the Mental Health field working in multiple settings including hospital, community, educational, and private practice. I specialize in the treatment of children, adolescents, and families who are struggling with emotional, behavioral, and relationship issues. My therapy style is warm, interactive, and empowering. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion.
Peace of Mind Therapy & Wellness is an independent private practice in Charleston, WV. At my practice, I am dedicated to providing quality counseling services in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. I have over 12 plus years of experience in the Mental Health field working in multiple settings including hospital, community, educational, and private practice. I specialize in the treatment of children, adolescents, and families who are struggling with emotional, behavioral, and relationship issues. My therapy style is warm, interactive, and empowering. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion.
(304) 621-6220 View (304) 621-6220
Photo of Donna Murray, LPCC, Counselor
Donna Murray
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Charleston, WV 25301  (Online Only)
I value the client-counselor relationship and thus it is important to me that I provide my clients with a safe, caring and accepting environment.
Hello! My name is Donna Murray and I look forward to connecting with you. I’ve had the joy of working in the counseling field for over 25 years in multiple settings including: private practice, inpatient and outpatient, home-based, school-based and residential detox. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in the states of Ohio, West Virginia and North Carolina and have been offering counseling services since 1996. Currently, I also serve on the West Virginia Certification Board for Addiction & Prevention Professionals.
I value the client-counselor relationship and thus it is important to me that I provide my clients with a safe, caring and accepting environment.
Hello! My name is Donna Murray and I look forward to connecting with you. I’ve had the joy of working in the counseling field for over 25 years in multiple settings including: private practice, inpatient and outpatient, home-based, school-based and residential detox. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in the states of Ohio, West Virginia and North Carolina and have been offering counseling services since 1996. Currently, I also serve on the West Virginia Certification Board for Addiction & Prevention Professionals.
(304) 969-7467 View (304) 969-7467
Photo of Tina C Outlaw, BSW, MSW, LISW-CP, CP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tina C Outlaw
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BSW, MSW, LISW-CP, CP
Verified Verified
Charleston, WV 25301  (Online Only)
This helps clients work through issues with self-esteem, eating disorders, sexual abuse issues and confidence, overcome anxiety, learn healthy relationship dynamics, discipline and respect.
Looking for a different, more personal therapy experience, here it is ! I work collaboratively with you and your child/adolescent/family to develop a plan together on the second session, get a new skill each week, and see progress within 8 sessions. With 29 of years experience with children, adolescents and adults recovering from trauma, grief, emotional or behavioral challenges with educational or work-related issues in schools, group homes, rural health care clinics and military facilities. Sessions are online with a confidential platform to offer connivence and accessibility to any location in South Carolina.
This helps clients work through issues with self-esteem, eating disorders, sexual abuse issues and confidence, overcome anxiety, learn healthy relationship dynamics, discipline and respect.
Looking for a different, more personal therapy experience, here it is ! I work collaboratively with you and your child/adolescent/family to develop a plan together on the second session, get a new skill each week, and see progress within 8 sessions. With 29 of years experience with children, adolescents and adults recovering from trauma, grief, emotional or behavioral challenges with educational or work-related issues in schools, group homes, rural health care clinics and military facilities. Sessions are online with a confidential platform to offer connivence and accessibility to any location in South Carolina.
(843) 256-2277 View (843) 256-2277
Photo of Margot Groenfeldt, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Margot Groenfeldt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charleston, WV 25302
I view the therapeutic relationship as collaborative.
Welcome! My name is Margot Groenfeldt. I am an LCSW and owner and founder of Yellow Rose Counseling. I enjoy working with couples, individuals, and families and I believe that the path to greater happiness and improved mental health is best discovered by focusing on your relationships. Whether they take the form of romantic partnerships, friendships, or your relationship to yourself, I believe that exploring the relationships that define your life will lead to improved well-being, and I am excited to accompany you on this journey.
I view the therapeutic relationship as collaborative.
Welcome! My name is Margot Groenfeldt. I am an LCSW and owner and founder of Yellow Rose Counseling. I enjoy working with couples, individuals, and families and I believe that the path to greater happiness and improved mental health is best discovered by focusing on your relationships. Whether they take the form of romantic partnerships, friendships, or your relationship to yourself, I believe that exploring the relationships that define your life will lead to improved well-being, and I am excited to accompany you on this journey.
(412) 946-0820 View (412) 946-0820
Photo of William P Hall III, MA, Psychologist
William P Hall III
Psychologist, MA
Verified Verified
Charleston, WV 25305
I am Willian"Perry" Hall. As a licensed psychologist, I offer individuals, couples and families psychological evaluation and treatment for difficulties and/or disturbances of mood, behavior and thought. Whether one is experiencing problems with anger, depression, anxiety, relationships, school/work performance, substance abuse, or several other common issues, I follow an individualized evaluation with aggressive efforts to efficiently resolve one's distress in a personally meaningful way. Ongoing maintenance, personal growth/development and utilization of available resources are then encouraged to support your therapeutic progress and guard against relapse.
I am Willian"Perry" Hall. As a licensed psychologist, I offer individuals, couples and families psychological evaluation and treatment for difficulties and/or disturbances of mood, behavior and thought. Whether one is experiencing problems with anger, depression, anxiety, relationships, school/work performance, substance abuse, or several other common issues, I follow an individualized evaluation with aggressive efforts to efficiently resolve one's distress in a personally meaningful way. Ongoing maintenance, personal growth/development and utilization of available resources are then encouraged to support your therapeutic progress and guard against relapse.
(304) 553-0786 View (304) 553-0786
Photo of Emily Engelland Wilson - River Valley Associates, MA, Psychologist
River Valley Associates
Psychologist, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charleston, WV 25301  (Online Only)
I offer therapy to clients who struggle with depression, anxiety, relationship problems, parenting problems, and gender issues.
I started River Valley Associates in 2007. I enjoy helping my clients discover more productive and healthier ways of dealing with issues in their lives. I strive to help them increase their self-awareness and find a more authentic center, which creates confidence in making better choices in their lives. My approach is client-centered, and I utilize a variety of techniques from several models, including cognitive-behavioral, internal family systems (IFS), and solution-focused therapies.
I offer therapy to clients who struggle with depression, anxiety, relationship problems, parenting problems, and gender issues.
I started River Valley Associates in 2007. I enjoy helping my clients discover more productive and healthier ways of dealing with issues in their lives. I strive to help them increase their self-awareness and find a more authentic center, which creates confidence in making better choices in their lives. My approach is client-centered, and I utilize a variety of techniques from several models, including cognitive-behavioral, internal family systems (IFS), and solution-focused therapies.
(304) 397-5477 View (304) 397-5477
Photo of Kari Rusnak, MA, LPC, BC-TMH, CGT, CMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kari Rusnak
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, BC-TMH, CGT, CMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Charleston, WV 25303  (Online Only)
If you are feeling overwhelmed and stressed in your relationship and need some support I can help. As a Certified Gottman Therapist using Gottman Method Couples Counseling I can assess your relationship issues and develop a simple treatment plan using evidence based interventions. Gottman Method has over 30 years of research that shows it can not only predict divorce but also improve relationship satisfaction. I am licensed to practice in Colorado (LPC, 0015986), Mississippi (LPC1921), Utah (CMHC11628287-6004), and West Virginia (LPC11628287-6004).
If you are feeling overwhelmed and stressed in your relationship and need some support I can help. As a Certified Gottman Therapist using Gottman Method Couples Counseling I can assess your relationship issues and develop a simple treatment plan using evidence based interventions. Gottman Method has over 30 years of research that shows it can not only predict divorce but also improve relationship satisfaction. I am licensed to practice in Colorado (LPC, 0015986), Mississippi (LPC1921), Utah (CMHC11628287-6004), and West Virginia (LPC11628287-6004).
(304) 245-6998 View (304) 245-6998
Photo of Couples Counseling Center - Cheri Timko, MS, LPC, ALPS, CGT, Counselor
Couples Counseling Center - Cheri Timko
Counselor, MS, LPC, ALPS, CGT
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Charleston, WV 25314  (Online Only)
couplescounselingcenter.
You knew that marriage was going to be hard, but this is ridiculous! It’s not supposed to be THIS hard. There’s just too much bickering, irritability, and frustration. And when you fight—all bets are off and anything goes. It takes days to recover. You wanted a relationship that eased your burdens, not make life more complicated. You worry that you will stop liking each other. And you will lose the love. But deep down, you really want this to work. You want a closer, deeper relationship. There's hope: you don't have to live this way. You CAN have a great relationship. Now offering sex therapy.
couplescounselingcenter.
You knew that marriage was going to be hard, but this is ridiculous! It’s not supposed to be THIS hard. There’s just too much bickering, irritability, and frustration. And when you fight—all bets are off and anything goes. It takes days to recover. You wanted a relationship that eased your burdens, not make life more complicated. You worry that you will stop liking each other. And you will lose the love. But deep down, you really want this to work. You want a closer, deeper relationship. There's hope: you don't have to live this way. You CAN have a great relationship. Now offering sex therapy.
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Photo of Rhonda Henning, LPC, NCC, ALPS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rhonda Henning
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, ALPS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charleston, WV 25301
I’m confident I can help with symptoms of anxiety, depression, PTSD, substance use, relationship upsets, grief, or stress management.
I enjoy working with service members, veterans and families, women and men in recovery from addictive behaviors and helping adolescents navigate life. I offer a safe environment where you will feel comfortable and can openly share without fear of judgment. We, together, will identify problem areas, create treatment goals and Change Plans to reflect a healthy mind, body and spirit.
I’m confident I can help with symptoms of anxiety, depression, PTSD, substance use, relationship upsets, grief, or stress management.
I enjoy working with service members, veterans and families, women and men in recovery from addictive behaviors and helping adolescents navigate life. I offer a safe environment where you will feel comfortable and can openly share without fear of judgment. We, together, will identify problem areas, create treatment goals and Change Plans to reflect a healthy mind, body and spirit.
(304) 381-1464 View (304) 381-1464
Photo of Maddy Murphy, MA, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Maddy Murphy
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
Charleston, WV 25301
I consider the counseling relationship to be of utmost importance, and spend a lot of time getting to know my clients and making them comfortable.
I provide mental health care that is gender-affirming, trauma informed, and culturally sensitive. My primary clinical interests include anxiety, depression, gender and sexuality, relationship conflicts, family/parenting dynamics, and trauma. I see individuals (12 years and older) and families. I am currently working toward licensure.
I consider the counseling relationship to be of utmost importance, and spend a lot of time getting to know my clients and making them comfortable.
I provide mental health care that is gender-affirming, trauma informed, and culturally sensitive. My primary clinical interests include anxiety, depression, gender and sexuality, relationship conflicts, family/parenting dynamics, and trauma. I see individuals (12 years and older) and families. I am currently working toward licensure.
(304) 407-4281 View (304) 407-4281
Photo of Melba Natasha Sanchez-Dixon, MSW, LIMHP, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melba Natasha Sanchez-Dixon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LIMHP, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charleston, WV 25301  (Online Only)
Natasha is a community based therapist providing services to those seeking to improve their relationships with others, change or eliminate troubling behaviors and habits, improve their control over mood and anxiety, perform better at school or work, adjust to difficult life events/transitions, and those who simply wish to gain insight into their personal past in order to welcome a bright and more honest future. Natasha's orientation to counseling is relationship based (collaborative), flexible, respectful and confidential.
Natasha is a community based therapist providing services to those seeking to improve their relationships with others, change or eliminate troubling behaviors and habits, improve their control over mood and anxiety, perform better at school or work, adjust to difficult life events/transitions, and those who simply wish to gain insight into their personal past in order to welcome a bright and more honest future. Natasha's orientation to counseling is relationship based (collaborative), flexible, respectful and confidential.
(402) 307-6101 View (402) 307-6101
Photo of Linda Marie Goad - True Vine LLC, LPC, ALPS, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
True Vine LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ALPS, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charleston, WV 25302
If you are feeling alone or abandoned in your relationship, let me help you learn how to express those unmet needs in a helpful way.
As a Certified Emotionally Focused Therapist, let me help be your guide to build a stronger bond with your partner. Seeing couples heal and repair and become secure is a beautiful dance.
If you are feeling alone or abandoned in your relationship, let me help you learn how to express those unmet needs in a helpful way.
As a Certified Emotionally Focused Therapist, let me help be your guide to build a stronger bond with your partner. Seeing couples heal and repair and become secure is a beautiful dance.
(681) 201-1356 View (681) 201-1356
Photo of Teresa C Copley, MA, MS, Psychologist
Teresa C Copley
Psychologist, MA, MS
Verified Verified
Charleston, WV 25301
PeaceTree Center is a wonderful therapeutic environment. I am available for Psychological Evaluations and Individual, Couples or Family Therapy. I enjoy working with all ages. I do evaluations for ADHD, Autism, Learning Disorders, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder and more. I have late evening hours on Thursdays, if needed. Please contact me for your psychological needs!
PeaceTree Center is a wonderful therapeutic environment. I am available for Psychological Evaluations and Individual, Couples or Family Therapy. I enjoy working with all ages. I do evaluations for ADHD, Autism, Learning Disorders, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder and more. I have late evening hours on Thursdays, if needed. Please contact me for your psychological needs!
(304) 318-7274 View (304) 318-7274
Photo of Shuantia Barber, LCSW, LICSWCP, LCSWC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shuantia Barber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSWCP, LCSWC
Verified Verified
Charleston, WV 25302  (Online Only)
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, low, confused, stuck, or frustration with your relationship or the lack thereof I want to hear from you.
Now Accepting Weekend Appointments! Heartbreaks can feel unbearable. Wanting to be close with someone, but it doesn’t seem to work can feel devastating. You put forth every effort to love them, only to be met with disappointment as you watch them slowly walk away and abandon you. The worst part isn’t that they’ve broken your heart. It’s the feeling that you’ve broken your own heart… again. Do you feel anxious, depressed, stuck or lonely? Do you struggle with trusting people and/or concerned about their motives? Maybe you've never felt like you belong.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, low, confused, stuck, or frustration with your relationship or the lack thereof I want to hear from you.
Now Accepting Weekend Appointments! Heartbreaks can feel unbearable. Wanting to be close with someone, but it doesn’t seem to work can feel devastating. You put forth every effort to love them, only to be met with disappointment as you watch them slowly walk away and abandon you. The worst part isn’t that they’ve broken your heart. It’s the feeling that you’ve broken your own heart… again. Do you feel anxious, depressed, stuck or lonely? Do you struggle with trusting people and/or concerned about their motives? Maybe you've never felt like you belong.
(803) 373-5472 View (803) 373-5472
Photo of Angguna R. Rowe, M Ed, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Angguna R. Rowe
Licensed Professional Counselor, M Ed, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Charleston, WV 25314  (Online Only)
Whether you battle Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, or other mental health disorders that lead to self-doubt, procrastination, negative intrusive thoughts, various types of relationship issues, and indecisive career paths, I will meet you where you are in the therapy process; reach out for a free 15-minute consultation.
Hello, my name is Angguna Rowe. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor located in West Virginia. I work with individuals and couples on life transitions, challenges at work or school, grief, identity, and more. I particularly enjoy working with working professionals, college students, women, and men who struggle with infidelity, midlife crisis, and empty nesters. I help clients adjust to entering new stages in life and navigate life stressors that come with life transitions, whether dealing with work/school environment, changes in marital status, or any life expectations that lead to feelings of emptiness and unhappiness.
Whether you battle Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, or other mental health disorders that lead to self-doubt, procrastination, negative intrusive thoughts, various types of relationship issues, and indecisive career paths, I will meet you where you are in the therapy process; reach out for a free 15-minute consultation.
Hello, my name is Angguna Rowe. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor located in West Virginia. I work with individuals and couples on life transitions, challenges at work or school, grief, identity, and more. I particularly enjoy working with working professionals, college students, women, and men who struggle with infidelity, midlife crisis, and empty nesters. I help clients adjust to entering new stages in life and navigate life stressors that come with life transitions, whether dealing with work/school environment, changes in marital status, or any life expectations that lead to feelings of emptiness and unhappiness.
(304) 396-0302 View (304) 396-0302
Photo of Tiffany Phillips, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tiffany Phillips
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Charleston, WV 25302
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, an AAMFT Approved Supervisor Candidate, a Certified EMDR Therapist, a Certified Eating Disorder Specialist, and have advanced training in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy.
Restoring Hope Therapy Services is here to walk alongside you on your journey towards inner healing and meaningful connections. I am a compassionate therapist who offers personalized care rooted in evidence-based theories. My goal is to provide the support you need to embrace growth and create a fulfilling life. If this sounds like what you are looking for in a therapist, please reach to get started.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, an AAMFT Approved Supervisor Candidate, a Certified EMDR Therapist, a Certified Eating Disorder Specialist, and have advanced training in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy.
Restoring Hope Therapy Services is here to walk alongside you on your journey towards inner healing and meaningful connections. I am a compassionate therapist who offers personalized care rooted in evidence-based theories. My goal is to provide the support you need to embrace growth and create a fulfilling life. If this sounds like what you are looking for in a therapist, please reach to get started.
(615) 857-3755 View (615) 857-3755
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See more therapy options for Charleston

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.