Couples Counseling Therapists in Brandon, FL

Photo of Dawn Elizabeth Lyle, LMHC, MA, BS, AA, Counselor
Dawn Elizabeth Lyle
Counselor, LMHC, MA, BS, AA
Verified Verified
Brandon, FL 33511
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. Life can be tough and recent life events, are no exception. Are you tired of trying? Feeling defeated? If you are tired of trying but still living with the same defeated patterns and results and are willing to work towards a better solution, I want to partner with you to make the needed changes for a more successful outcome.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. Life can be tough and recent life events, are no exception. Are you tired of trying? Feeling defeated? If you are tired of trying but still living with the same defeated patterns and results and are willing to work towards a better solution, I want to partner with you to make the needed changes for a more successful outcome.
(813) 343-4289 View (813) 343-4289
Photo of Jan Osgood, MA
Jan Osgood
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brandon, FL 33511
My therapeutic specialty area is with adults and teenagers that struggle with grief, anxiety, life transitions, parenting, relationships, and stress management. Additionally, I have a passion for working with couples to regain their emotional connection and strengthen their relationship.
My therapeutic specialty area is with adults and teenagers that struggle with grief, anxiety, life transitions, parenting, relationships, and stress management. Additionally, I have a passion for working with couples to regain their emotional connection and strengthen their relationship.
(813) 590-0102 View (813) 590-0102
Photo of Seher Jangda, LMHC, Counselor
Seher Jangda
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Brandon, FL 33511
She is available to work with children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples.
Seher Jangda is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Florida native. Seher enjoys working with people from all walks of life, however, she has specialized training and experience in helping trauma survivors as well as victims of domestic violence.
She is available to work with children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples.
Seher Jangda is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Florida native. Seher enjoys working with people from all walks of life, however, she has specialized training and experience in helping trauma survivors as well as victims of domestic violence.
(954) 504-9225 View (954) 504-9225
Photo of Hector Ventura, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hector Ventura
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brandon, FL 33511  (Online Only)
Given mental health stigma, empathy is key to building a therapeutic relationship.
Hi! I specialize in working with men. Specifically Hispanic males who struggle with depression, grief, trauma & imposter syndrome. I’m physically based in the Tampa Bay Area, I'm licensed in FL, TX, VA, UT & CT. As the son of Salvadorean immigrant parents, I’ve seen how stigma keeps men from seeking counseling. It's why I’m an advocate for mens mental health. As a therapist who's been in therapy, I also know what its like to deal with stigma. Its why I strive to have a down to earth conversation, oftentimes while drinking some "cafecito" (In English that means coffee, preferably cafe bustelo).
Given mental health stigma, empathy is key to building a therapeutic relationship.
Hi! I specialize in working with men. Specifically Hispanic males who struggle with depression, grief, trauma & imposter syndrome. I’m physically based in the Tampa Bay Area, I'm licensed in FL, TX, VA, UT & CT. As the son of Salvadorean immigrant parents, I’ve seen how stigma keeps men from seeking counseling. It's why I’m an advocate for mens mental health. As a therapist who's been in therapy, I also know what its like to deal with stigma. Its why I strive to have a down to earth conversation, oftentimes while drinking some "cafecito" (In English that means coffee, preferably cafe bustelo).
(727) 205-8014 View (727) 205-8014
Photo of Julie Marie Illari, Ed D, Pre-Licensed Professional
Julie Marie Illari
Pre-Licensed Professional, Ed D
Verified Verified
Brandon, FL 33510
Support with Anxiety, ADHD, ASD, Bipolar Disorder, Codependency, Depression, Gender Identity and Dysmorphia, Life Coaching, Personal Growth and Development, Military family transition and adjustment, Relationship Issues, Self Esteem, Spirituality, Stress Support to Caregivers Trauma and PTSD, Children and families facing challenges with/in the school setting.
Have you ever felt the need to speak with someone who understands, who has walked in your shoes, who has helped people who have faced similar challenges? Have you felt frustrated, hopeless or that others wouldn’t understand? Julie is a counseling intern who has a diverse life background that equips her to support many areas of need. As the spouse of a retired military member, she has firsthand experience with families and individuals that are facing trauma, transition, adjustment, separation, and loss. Having spent more than twenty years as an exceptional student (special) educator and school administrator Julie has provided extensi
Support with Anxiety, ADHD, ASD, Bipolar Disorder, Codependency, Depression, Gender Identity and Dysmorphia, Life Coaching, Personal Growth and Development, Military family transition and adjustment, Relationship Issues, Self Esteem, Spirituality, Stress Support to Caregivers Trauma and PTSD, Children and families facing challenges with/in the school setting.
Have you ever felt the need to speak with someone who understands, who has walked in your shoes, who has helped people who have faced similar challenges? Have you felt frustrated, hopeless or that others wouldn’t understand? Julie is a counseling intern who has a diverse life background that equips her to support many areas of need. As the spouse of a retired military member, she has firsthand experience with families and individuals that are facing trauma, transition, adjustment, separation, and loss. Having spent more than twenty years as an exceptional student (special) educator and school administrator Julie has provided extensi
(813) 710-4336 View (813) 710-4336
Photo of Daniela Venosa, PsyD, Psychologist
Daniela Venosa
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Brandon, FL 33511
My overall goal is to build a positive therapeutic relationship with my clients based on empathy and warmth, in a nonjudgmental environment. I provide individual psychotherapy and I also have experience with couples, family, and group therapy. Throughout my training, I had the opportunity to work with numerous clients from varying backgrounds, cultural experiences, and difficulties related to adjustment problems, depression, anxiety, relational problems, self-esteem, anger issues, trauma, bereavement, personality disorders, learning disabilities, and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder.
My overall goal is to build a positive therapeutic relationship with my clients based on empathy and warmth, in a nonjudgmental environment. I provide individual psychotherapy and I also have experience with couples, family, and group therapy. Throughout my training, I had the opportunity to work with numerous clients from varying backgrounds, cultural experiences, and difficulties related to adjustment problems, depression, anxiety, relational problems, self-esteem, anger issues, trauma, bereavement, personality disorders, learning disabilities, and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder.
(813) 433-0182 View (813) 433-0182
Photo of Joel Pick, RMHCI, MA, NCC
Joel Pick
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, RMHCI, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brandon, FL 33510
My many life experiences which include the loss of a spouse, raising four kids, chronic pain issues, and career changes provide a foundation of empathy and understanding.
Are you feeling overwhelmed or stuck in life? Often it is difficult to pinpoint what is wrong as it is common to experience seasons in our life when we wish our circumstances were just different. These times may result from challenges in our careers, broken relationships, death of a loved one, or unexpected changes. In our time together I will listen to your story and work together with you using evidence-based approaches, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Brainspotting to help you experience fulfillment.
My many life experiences which include the loss of a spouse, raising four kids, chronic pain issues, and career changes provide a foundation of empathy and understanding.
Are you feeling overwhelmed or stuck in life? Often it is difficult to pinpoint what is wrong as it is common to experience seasons in our life when we wish our circumstances were just different. These times may result from challenges in our careers, broken relationships, death of a loved one, or unexpected changes. In our time together I will listen to your story and work together with you using evidence-based approaches, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Brainspotting to help you experience fulfillment.
(813) 680-2750 View (813) 680-2750
Photo of Paul Kranz - Star Point Counseling Center, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Star Point Counseling Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Brandon, FL 33510
The Counseling Team specializes in working with individuals with depression, stress, anxiety, trauma, co-dependency issues, addiction, anger management, couples & marriage, families, teens, children, communication skills, fighting fairly, and and many other sources of stress that compromise the quality of a person's daily life experience.
We are compassionate, empathetic and we understand we all have struggles in life. We understand the courage you have in making this first step to seek counseling help from our highly experienced counseling team. We are here for you days, nights and weekends. We try to work around your schedule for your convenience. We have helped tens of thousands of clients since 2011. We offer in person & online counseling. We offer a sliding scale from $60 - $120. We are available day, evenings and weekends for your convenience. We accept most insurance including UBH, Aetna, & CIGNA. We also pride ourselves that we answer the phone. Call us.
The Counseling Team specializes in working with individuals with depression, stress, anxiety, trauma, co-dependency issues, addiction, anger management, couples & marriage, families, teens, children, communication skills, fighting fairly, and and many other sources of stress that compromise the quality of a person's daily life experience.
We are compassionate, empathetic and we understand we all have struggles in life. We understand the courage you have in making this first step to seek counseling help from our highly experienced counseling team. We are here for you days, nights and weekends. We try to work around your schedule for your convenience. We have helped tens of thousands of clients since 2011. We offer in person & online counseling. We offer a sliding scale from $60 - $120. We are available day, evenings and weekends for your convenience. We accept most insurance including UBH, Aetna, & CIGNA. We also pride ourselves that we answer the phone. Call us.
(813) 440-4257 View (813) 440-4257
Photo of Jermia M Smith, MA, LMHC-QS, Counselor
Jermia M Smith
Counselor, MA, LMHC-QS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Brandon, FL 33511
In therapy, we build a real relationship.
Life isn’t always easy. Sometimes, even the strongest people amongst us need a little bit of help to work through some of life’s more challenging problems. Whether you struggle with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, or any other issue, you should know that there is hope for a better tomorrow. You might be initially hesitant to seek out help and support for personal matters, but what if I told you that when you do you will feel confident that you are taking a courageous first step towards getting to a better place and being a better you.
In therapy, we build a real relationship.
Life isn’t always easy. Sometimes, even the strongest people amongst us need a little bit of help to work through some of life’s more challenging problems. Whether you struggle with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, or any other issue, you should know that there is hope for a better tomorrow. You might be initially hesitant to seek out help and support for personal matters, but what if I told you that when you do you will feel confident that you are taking a courageous first step towards getting to a better place and being a better you.
(813) 803-6498 View (813) 803-6498
Photo of Charity Reilly, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Charity Reilly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brandon, FL 33511  (Online Only)
I work with couples and individuals. I have experience in helping clients with depression, stress/anxiety, self worth/love/acceptance, relationship issues, family conflicts, parenting, vocational stress, among other daily life stressors. Most of my clients define their reasons for coming to therapy as simply wanting something more from life and relationships. They often have trouble getting past thoughts and emotions that prevent them from moving forward. We will work together to get to the core of your troubling thoughts, emotions and behaviors. This allows you to move forward to a more fulfilling life of purpose and direction.
I work with couples and individuals. I have experience in helping clients with depression, stress/anxiety, self worth/love/acceptance, relationship issues, family conflicts, parenting, vocational stress, among other daily life stressors. Most of my clients define their reasons for coming to therapy as simply wanting something more from life and relationships. They often have trouble getting past thoughts and emotions that prevent them from moving forward. We will work together to get to the core of your troubling thoughts, emotions and behaviors. This allows you to move forward to a more fulfilling life of purpose and direction.
(813) 722-1559 View (813) 722-1559
Photo of Kim J Roberts - Kim Roberts, EMDR + Accelerated Resolution Therapy, LCSW-QS, LIC:NY, VA FL, CA, CSTIP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kim Roberts, EMDR + Accelerated Resolution Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-QS, LIC:NY, VA FL, CA, CSTIP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brandon, FL 33511
With 7+ years of experience as a EMDR trauma and couples therapist, I specialize in helping clients navigate the complexities of trauma, empowering them to reclaim their inner strength, heal emotional wounds, and forge a path towards lasting resilience and growth.
Are questioning whether past traumas are holding you back from living your best life? Do you desire a healthier marriage/ relationship? Do you find yourself overwhelmed by anxiety or depression, and long for a sense of peace and balance in your mind & body? If you are ready to break free unhealthy patterns and heal from past traumas that keep you feeling trapped and unfulfilled, now might be the time to connect with a therapist. Together, we'll explore strategies to process past traumas and heal from relationship wounds, fostering trust and connection. Continue reading to find out how to book with me and begin your healing journey!
With 7+ years of experience as a EMDR trauma and couples therapist, I specialize in helping clients navigate the complexities of trauma, empowering them to reclaim their inner strength, heal emotional wounds, and forge a path towards lasting resilience and growth.
Are questioning whether past traumas are holding you back from living your best life? Do you desire a healthier marriage/ relationship? Do you find yourself overwhelmed by anxiety or depression, and long for a sense of peace and balance in your mind & body? If you are ready to break free unhealthy patterns and heal from past traumas that keep you feeling trapped and unfulfilled, now might be the time to connect with a therapist. Together, we'll explore strategies to process past traumas and heal from relationship wounds, fostering trust and connection. Continue reading to find out how to book with me and begin your healing journey!
(813) 540-8561 View (813) 540-8561
Photo of Tisheila Justice, LCSW, QS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tisheila Justice
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, QS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Brandon, FL 33511  (Online Only)
" You will learn to reconnect with your partner and become the parent you want to be, while breaking generational cycles.
Does it seem like you just can’t escape overthinking, shame, guilt, intrusive thoughts, and anxiety? You’ve tried everything, but you are feeling stuck. It is important to have a therapist that is able to understand your struggles and has additional training to help you heal. You want to improve your relationship with yourself and others. I am trained in EMDR, Hypnotherapy, Biofeedback, and specialize in maternal mental health and trauma. I am passionate about working with women, people struggling with infertility, adult adoption trauma, and perinatal/ maternal health issues.
" You will learn to reconnect with your partner and become the parent you want to be, while breaking generational cycles.
Does it seem like you just can’t escape overthinking, shame, guilt, intrusive thoughts, and anxiety? You’ve tried everything, but you are feeling stuck. It is important to have a therapist that is able to understand your struggles and has additional training to help you heal. You want to improve your relationship with yourself and others. I am trained in EMDR, Hypnotherapy, Biofeedback, and specialize in maternal mental health and trauma. I am passionate about working with women, people struggling with infertility, adult adoption trauma, and perinatal/ maternal health issues.
(813) 497-7947 View (813) 497-7947
Photo of Janice Turner, MA, LMHC, LS, Coach, Counselor
Janice Turner
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LS, Coach
Verified Verified
Brandon, FL 33511  (Online Only)
I utilize evidenced based interventions such as cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy and other therapies to help you rebuild your relationship.
Something has happened to your relationship with your partner. It doesn't feel the same - it feels distant and painful. You don't know what to do or how you got where you are. When you try to talk it turns into an argument, and you are at your wit's end. You often think about giving up. You've feel like you've tried everything...but really, you just want to feel close to your partner again.
I utilize evidenced based interventions such as cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy and other therapies to help you rebuild your relationship.
Something has happened to your relationship with your partner. It doesn't feel the same - it feels distant and painful. You don't know what to do or how you got where you are. When you try to talk it turns into an argument, and you are at your wit's end. You often think about giving up. You've feel like you've tried everything...but really, you just want to feel close to your partner again.
(813) 438-5672 View (813) 438-5672
Photo of Pamela Troutman - Troutman's Empowering Services, LMHC, CAP, Counselor
Troutman's Empowering Services
Counselor, LMHC, CAP
Verified Verified
Brandon, FL 33511
Pamela has been counseling over 28 years of working with people to find a way to re-kindle relationship with self or others, by dealing with unresolved issues. We all make mistakes it's how you bounce back, Adversity builds character. Troutman's Empowering Services was created through a vision to help people gain awareness and insight, "The answer is within". To be able to face life challenges that may block you mentally, spiritually, or emotionally.
Pamela has been counseling over 28 years of working with people to find a way to re-kindle relationship with self or others, by dealing with unresolved issues. We all make mistakes it's how you bounce back, Adversity builds character. Troutman's Empowering Services was created through a vision to help people gain awareness and insight, "The answer is within". To be able to face life challenges that may block you mentally, spiritually, or emotionally.
(813) 527-0396 View (813) 527-0396
Photo of Dr. Laura C Franco, PhD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Laura C Franco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Brandon, FL 33511
We are compassionate and straightforward and we believe therapy should be a collaborative relationship between the clinician and the client.
As the owner of Life Solutions Services, a practice dedicated to offering a comprehensive range of services—such as individual and couple's psychotherapy, medication management, and Discernment Counseling—I am proud to lead a team of skilled and experienced clinicians. I often tell new clients that it takes immense courage to reach out and begin their journey toward better mental health. By deciding to contact a therapist and schedule your first appointment, you are taking a significant step in regaining control over your life. I commend you for starting this journey and for taking the time to find a clinician you feel you can trust
We are compassionate and straightforward and we believe therapy should be a collaborative relationship between the clinician and the client.
As the owner of Life Solutions Services, a practice dedicated to offering a comprehensive range of services—such as individual and couple's psychotherapy, medication management, and Discernment Counseling—I am proud to lead a team of skilled and experienced clinicians. I often tell new clients that it takes immense courage to reach out and begin their journey toward better mental health. By deciding to contact a therapist and schedule your first appointment, you are taking a significant step in regaining control over your life. I commend you for starting this journey and for taking the time to find a clinician you feel you can trust
(954) 280-1966 View (954) 280-1966
Photo of Jessica Curran, BAT, MA, LMFT, MedFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jessica Curran
Marriage & Family Therapist, BAT, MA, LMFT, MedFT
Verified Verified
Brandon, FL 33511
Let’s work together to build a stronger, more fulfilling partnership.
Are you caught in a cycle of repeating the same patterns and getting the same results? If so, it’s time for a change. As a psychotherapist, I believe that shifting the way you think can transform your perceptions, leading to better reactions and responses to life’s challenges. I’m here to help you break free from unhelpful behaviors and guide you toward a more fulfilling and positive path.
Let’s work together to build a stronger, more fulfilling partnership.
Are you caught in a cycle of repeating the same patterns and getting the same results? If so, it’s time for a change. As a psychotherapist, I believe that shifting the way you think can transform your perceptions, leading to better reactions and responses to life’s challenges. I’m here to help you break free from unhelpful behaviors and guide you toward a more fulfilling and positive path.
(813) 214-6976 View (813) 214-6976
Photo of Ann E. Grimaldi- Brandon Counseling And Wellness, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ann E. Grimaldi- Brandon Counseling And Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brandon, FL 33511
I enjoy working with individuals and couples and helping them become the best version of themselves that they can be, in order to be happy.
I have been working with a variety of clients to include: individuals, couples, adolescents, children and families for over twenty-seven years. My experience is as diverse as my clients, I have had the opportunity to work, with couples on relationship issues, families, victims of violence, divorce, step-parenting and blended families, clients suffering from depression, anxiety and mood disorders. I have also worked with clients experiencing gender identity and LGBTQ issues. Additionally. I have worked with major life transitions such as, grief, trauma, and the care of aging / elderly parents.
I enjoy working with individuals and couples and helping them become the best version of themselves that they can be, in order to be happy.
I have been working with a variety of clients to include: individuals, couples, adolescents, children and families for over twenty-seven years. My experience is as diverse as my clients, I have had the opportunity to work, with couples on relationship issues, families, victims of violence, divorce, step-parenting and blended families, clients suffering from depression, anxiety and mood disorders. I have also worked with clients experiencing gender identity and LGBTQ issues. Additionally. I have worked with major life transitions such as, grief, trauma, and the care of aging / elderly parents.
(813) 328-7990 View (813) 328-7990
Photo of LaSandra L McGrew - The Empowerment Group, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
The Empowerment Group
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brandon, FL 33511
I specialize in helping families, couples, and individuals develop coping skills to manage the challenges that may prevent you from living a fulfilling life.
I work to support you as you embark on the journey toward restoration of balance and peace. Whether a couple facing marital challenges, a blended family seeking to come together, or an individual facing major life transition, I work with you to provide the needed support and encouragement to assist in reaching your desired goal. If you're feeling overwhelmed and unable to move beyond your situation, contact us at The Empowerment Group. Help is available.
I specialize in helping families, couples, and individuals develop coping skills to manage the challenges that may prevent you from living a fulfilling life.
I work to support you as you embark on the journey toward restoration of balance and peace. Whether a couple facing marital challenges, a blended family seeking to come together, or an individual facing major life transition, I work with you to provide the needed support and encouragement to assist in reaching your desired goal. If you're feeling overwhelmed and unable to move beyond your situation, contact us at The Empowerment Group. Help is available.
(813) 796-6746 View (813) 796-6746
Photo of Tiffany M Gerling, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Tiffany M Gerling
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Brandon, FL 33511
I provide therapeutic services to individuals, families, children, adolescents, couples and the elderly.
"What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us" Ralph Waldo Emerson. I'm here to help you find that strength within you.
I provide therapeutic services to individuals, families, children, adolescents, couples and the elderly.
"What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us" Ralph Waldo Emerson. I'm here to help you find that strength within you.
(813) 358-2514 View (813) 358-2514
Photo of Bill Glotzbach, LMHC, Counselor
Bill Glotzbach
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Brandon, FL 33511  (Online Only)
Your relationship is the most important one in your life, so let’s get started today.
Do you often wonder why your partner won’t talk with you…really talk with you? Sometimes they even become angry, verbally attack, or just withdraw when you try to explain things. It’s really important but they just don’t seem to understand. Maybe you have a “communication problem” or maybe they just don’t care about you anymore. Whatever is happening, this place is scary and confusing! How great would it be to end up feeling more connected to each other after resolving a problem or repairing a conflict?
Your relationship is the most important one in your life, so let’s get started today.
Do you often wonder why your partner won’t talk with you…really talk with you? Sometimes they even become angry, verbally attack, or just withdraw when you try to explain things. It’s really important but they just don’t seem to understand. Maybe you have a “communication problem” or maybe they just don’t care about you anymore. Whatever is happening, this place is scary and confusing! How great would it be to end up feeling more connected to each other after resolving a problem or repairing a conflict?
(813) 680-5650 View (813) 680-5650
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.