Couples Counseling Therapists in Old Naples, Naples, FL

Photo of Brandon Wise Masters, MA, MSEd, EMDR, Pre-Licensed Professional
Brandon Wise Masters
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MSEd, EMDR
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Old Naples, Naples, FL 34102
I provide both individual and couples counseling.
Do you want to step into your power and live a life that truly fulfills you? Whether you're experiencing anxiety, trauma, depression, or want to work on your relationships, I'm here to support you holistically. I use evidence-based treatments to promote empowerment, confidence, and growth. Sometimes we carry things around with us longer than we need to, and I'm here to help you put down that weight. You are not defined by your past or your struggles - you deserve to enjoy your present and look forward to your future. There is always another chapter that's yet to be written. You are welcome here.
I provide both individual and couples counseling.
Do you want to step into your power and live a life that truly fulfills you? Whether you're experiencing anxiety, trauma, depression, or want to work on your relationships, I'm here to support you holistically. I use evidence-based treatments to promote empowerment, confidence, and growth. Sometimes we carry things around with us longer than we need to, and I'm here to help you put down that weight. You are not defined by your past or your struggles - you deserve to enjoy your present and look forward to your future. There is always another chapter that's yet to be written. You are welcome here.
(239) 653-8784 View (239) 653-8784
Photo of Barbie Lopez, LMHC, Counselor
Barbie Lopez
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Old Naples, Naples, FL 34102
Barbie Lopez has over 10 years of experience providing therapy in Outpatient, Inpatient, and Intensive Outpatient settings with clients seeking help for various presenting issues. She works with various psychotherapy modalities for the overall wellness of her clients including but not limited to depression, anxiety, social anxiety, trauma, emotional wellbeing, self-esteem issues, life changes, relationship issues, interpersonal skills, bipolar disorder, and substance abuse disorder. Ms. Lopez is fluent in English and Spanish, and able to provide services in both languages.
Barbie Lopez has over 10 years of experience providing therapy in Outpatient, Inpatient, and Intensive Outpatient settings with clients seeking help for various presenting issues. She works with various psychotherapy modalities for the overall wellness of her clients including but not limited to depression, anxiety, social anxiety, trauma, emotional wellbeing, self-esteem issues, life changes, relationship issues, interpersonal skills, bipolar disorder, and substance abuse disorder. Ms. Lopez is fluent in English and Spanish, and able to provide services in both languages.
(239) 360-3985 View (239) 360-3985
Photo of Kathleen Rodriguez, LMHC, QS, Counselor
Kathleen Rodriguez
Counselor, LMHC, QS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Old Naples, Naples, FL 34120  (Online Only)
I also provide family counseling and couples counseling.
My practice focuses on the well being of my clients. I provide mental health services for children to adults. My passion is to serve families in the community in need of mental health counseling. I am experience in child play therapy, family therapy, marriage/ couples counseling, adolescent,, individual and substance abuse counseling. I provide treatment for anxiety, depression, grief and behavioral therapy. I am fluent in English and Spanish. I look forward to serving you.
I also provide family counseling and couples counseling.
My practice focuses on the well being of my clients. I provide mental health services for children to adults. My passion is to serve families in the community in need of mental health counseling. I am experience in child play therapy, family therapy, marriage/ couples counseling, adolescent,, individual and substance abuse counseling. I provide treatment for anxiety, depression, grief and behavioral therapy. I am fluent in English and Spanish. I look forward to serving you.
(239) 256-7604 View (239) 256-7604
Photo of Robin Fatovic, PsyD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Robin Fatovic
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
Old Naples, Naples, FL 34102
Additionally, she has experience conducting psychological assessments for children, adolescents, and adults in various capacities, including psychological testing for diagnostic clarification and treatment guidance, ADHD, intelligence and academic achievement, cognitive concerns, couples’ personality compatibility, and clearance for bariatric surgery.
Dr. Fatovic completed her clinical internship at the Bruce W. Carter VA Medical Center in Miami, Florida. Her work there included providing mental health services to the veteran population in a variety of settings. This work included individual therapy and group therapy, comprehensive psychological and neuropsychological assessments, pre-surgical clearance assessments, bedside therapy for physical rehabilitation, psychosocial and substance abuse rehabilitation, outreach with law enforcement, and interdisciplinary work with the Miami-Dade courts to advocate for justice-involved veterans.
Additionally, she has experience conducting psychological assessments for children, adolescents, and adults in various capacities, including psychological testing for diagnostic clarification and treatment guidance, ADHD, intelligence and academic achievement, cognitive concerns, couples’ personality compatibility, and clearance for bariatric surgery.
Dr. Fatovic completed her clinical internship at the Bruce W. Carter VA Medical Center in Miami, Florida. Her work there included providing mental health services to the veteran population in a variety of settings. This work included individual therapy and group therapy, comprehensive psychological and neuropsychological assessments, pre-surgical clearance assessments, bedside therapy for physical rehabilitation, psychosocial and substance abuse rehabilitation, outreach with law enforcement, and interdisciplinary work with the Miami-Dade courts to advocate for justice-involved veterans.
(239) 522-8083 View (239) 522-8083
Photo of Michael J O'Brien - Dr. Mike, MA , MEd, LMHC
Dr. Mike
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MA , MEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
Old Naples, Naples, FL 34102  (Online Only)
Dr. Mike, I'm a noted mental health, behavior, relationship, family health expert >> Board member of the largest psychotherapy practitioner organization in SW FL >> 20 years as a University Professor, former Full-Time Professor in the Social & Behavioral Science Department, Oakton College >> Former DePaul University professor >> Doctoral program in Sociology provided me with a specialization in human behavior & change >> Former Type I research center researcher trained by internationally known behavior change expert www.researchgate.net/profile/Betty-Morrow >>
Dr. Mike, I'm a noted mental health, behavior, relationship, family health expert >> Board member of the largest psychotherapy practitioner organization in SW FL >> 20 years as a University Professor, former Full-Time Professor in the Social & Behavioral Science Department, Oakton College >> Former DePaul University professor >> Doctoral program in Sociology provided me with a specialization in human behavior & change >> Former Type I research center researcher trained by internationally known behavior change expert www.researchgate.net/profile/Betty-Morrow >>
(239) 208-0953 View (239) 208-0953
Photo of Eve Scharf, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Eve Scharf
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Old Naples, Naples, FL 34102
If you are looking for a seasoned therapist, I am here to help. The client-therapist relationship is key to your healing. I have worked in the field of psychotherapy since 1992 with training from New York University. I specialize in couples therapy, marriage counseling, family therapy and individual counseling. Therapy is experienced in a relaxed and trusted setting. I look forward to working with you.
If you are looking for a seasoned therapist, I am here to help. The client-therapist relationship is key to your healing. I have worked in the field of psychotherapy since 1992 with training from New York University. I specialize in couples therapy, marriage counseling, family therapy and individual counseling. Therapy is experienced in a relaxed and trusted setting. I look forward to working with you.
(239) 230-4372 View (239) 230-4372
Photo of Catherine Nolan Boniello, LCSW, CASAC, CPC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Catherine Nolan Boniello
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CASAC, CPC
Verified Verified
Old Naples, Naples, FL 34102
Are you struggling with unrelenting stress, sadness or fear? Are you trying to cope with the pain and anguish of watching someone you love abuse alcohol or other drugs? Perhaps you are a parent in need of help for your teen and at a loss with how to help them. I have almost 30 years of experience as a professional working with children, adolescents, adults and families both individually and in groups. Life's challenges can become overwhelming at times. Whether it is a life transition, a toxic relationship, a traumatic event or some other challenge that life has handed you, I believe there is no pain too great to be lessened.
Are you struggling with unrelenting stress, sadness or fear? Are you trying to cope with the pain and anguish of watching someone you love abuse alcohol or other drugs? Perhaps you are a parent in need of help for your teen and at a loss with how to help them. I have almost 30 years of experience as a professional working with children, adolescents, adults and families both individually and in groups. Life's challenges can become overwhelming at times. Whether it is a life transition, a toxic relationship, a traumatic event or some other challenge that life has handed you, I believe there is no pain too great to be lessened.
(239) 326-0263 View (239) 326-0263
Photo of Carol Cirabisi, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Carol Cirabisi
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Old Naples, Naples, FL 34102
Whether you are seeking individual or couples counseling, I can help you navigate through the stuck places.
We all want to feel connected, right? To feel we belong and are seen, understood, valued and accepted for who we are. Often, how we protect ourselves from our own fears and vulnerabilities keeps us from allowing others to really know who we are. We hide our tender hearts and limit our true selves, for fear of being hurt. However, in doing so, we live "small;" our lives and our relationships can become diminished, unsatisfying, and hopeless. Wouldn't you rather live in truth, shining your brightest light?
Whether you are seeking individual or couples counseling, I can help you navigate through the stuck places.
We all want to feel connected, right? To feel we belong and are seen, understood, valued and accepted for who we are. Often, how we protect ourselves from our own fears and vulnerabilities keeps us from allowing others to really know who we are. We hide our tender hearts and limit our true selves, for fear of being hurt. However, in doing so, we live "small;" our lives and our relationships can become diminished, unsatisfying, and hopeless. Wouldn't you rather live in truth, shining your brightest light?
(239) 471-4469 View (239) 471-4469
Photo of Shielagh Shusta Hochberg, PhD, Psychologist
Shielagh Shusta Hochberg
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Old Naples, Naples, FL 34102
We'll work on your issues, be they new opportunities, or health, separation or grief & any crossroads you face with career, relationship or family decisions.
I’m Dr. Shielagh Hochberg, clinical psychologist in Naples, Florida. With a PhD in clinical psychology, I'm licensed in Florida & New York. With many years of experience treating anxiety, trauma, stress & grief, I can help you learn to take better care of yourself. Since the pandemic, many have lost a sense of direction. Our lives have changed. Some are ready for change, others fight change fiercely. As we age health and related decisions may become priorities. Whatever challenges you face, a skilled clinician can help you get through it. As a Jewish therapist practicing Buddhist meditation, I bring a unique perspective to the work.
We'll work on your issues, be they new opportunities, or health, separation or grief & any crossroads you face with career, relationship or family decisions.
I’m Dr. Shielagh Hochberg, clinical psychologist in Naples, Florida. With a PhD in clinical psychology, I'm licensed in Florida & New York. With many years of experience treating anxiety, trauma, stress & grief, I can help you learn to take better care of yourself. Since the pandemic, many have lost a sense of direction. Our lives have changed. Some are ready for change, others fight change fiercely. As we age health and related decisions may become priorities. Whatever challenges you face, a skilled clinician can help you get through it. As a Jewish therapist practicing Buddhist meditation, I bring a unique perspective to the work.
(239) 320-4905 View (239) 320-4905
Photo of Carol Cirabisi - Conscious Choices, Marriage & Family Therapist
Conscious Choices
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Old Naples, Naples, FL 34102
We are dedicated to providing Relationship Counseling, Individual Psychotherapy and other Supportive Services to help you become who you were born to be, so that you can create the relationships you desire and live the life you deserve.
We are dedicated to providing Relationship Counseling, Individual Psychotherapy and other Supportive Services to help you become who you were born to be, so that you can create the relationships you desire and live the life you deserve.
(239) 674-0776 View (239) 674-0776
Photo of Caroline Edgeton-Martin, MSEd, Pre-Licensed Professional
Caroline Edgeton-Martin
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSEd
Verified Verified
Old Naples, Naples, FL 34102
I completed my BA in English and Journalism from Wake Forest University and my M.S.Ed. in Mental Health Counseling at the University of Pennsylvania. My studies were multiculturally informed and focused on serving LGBTQIA+ individuals, providing mental health care to underserved communities, and relationship/intimacy counseling. I am currently a resident in counseling working towards LPC licensure in the state of Virginia. My aim is to create a brave space for you to feel safe being vulnerable without judgment. I provide a culturally responsive, trauma-informed, and strengths-based approach.
I completed my BA in English and Journalism from Wake Forest University and my M.S.Ed. in Mental Health Counseling at the University of Pennsylvania. My studies were multiculturally informed and focused on serving LGBTQIA+ individuals, providing mental health care to underserved communities, and relationship/intimacy counseling. I am currently a resident in counseling working towards LPC licensure in the state of Virginia. My aim is to create a brave space for you to feel safe being vulnerable without judgment. I provide a culturally responsive, trauma-informed, and strengths-based approach.
(571) 554-5640 View (571) 554-5640
Photo of Jenesis Vasquez, MS, RMHCI, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jenesis Vasquez
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, RMHCI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Old Naples, Naples, FL 34110
I specialize in treating children, adolescents, and adults struggling with anxiety, ADHD, depression, self-esteem, trauma, behavioral problems, relationship conflict, and life transitions.
Hello, My name is Jenesis Vasquez and I can't wait to work with you! I am currently accepting new clients. I am fluent in both English and Spanish. I believe that the bravest thing someone can do is begin to understand their own story. I want to help you start the new chapter of your life, whether it’s finding solutions, finding peace, or experiencing yourself in different ways! Whether you are a concerned parent for your child, an individual, or couple struggling with feeling like no one understands you, I am here to help. My sessions are a setting where you can feel free to discuss anything that you need to without judgement.
I specialize in treating children, adolescents, and adults struggling with anxiety, ADHD, depression, self-esteem, trauma, behavioral problems, relationship conflict, and life transitions.
Hello, My name is Jenesis Vasquez and I can't wait to work with you! I am currently accepting new clients. I am fluent in both English and Spanish. I believe that the bravest thing someone can do is begin to understand their own story. I want to help you start the new chapter of your life, whether it’s finding solutions, finding peace, or experiencing yourself in different ways! Whether you are a concerned parent for your child, an individual, or couple struggling with feeling like no one understands you, I am here to help. My sessions are a setting where you can feel free to discuss anything that you need to without judgement.
(239) 230-0332 View (239) 230-0332
Photo of Marci Wise - Wise Counseling, Inc, LMHC, LCSW, EMDRIA
Wise Counseling, Inc
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, LCSW, EMDRIA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Old Naples, Naples, FL 34102
We provide both individual and couples counseling, offering tangible tools and techniques to improve communication, diffuse defensiveness, and heal childhood wounds.
Do you feel as if something is keeping you from living your ideal life? Whether you're battling anxiety, unfulfilling relationships, or the lasting effects of trauma, our staff of qualified counselors can offer you the tools to take back control of your life. We will help you rediscover your true self, move past obstacles, and start living your best life today. There is always hope when you know where to look for solutions. We see people as people - and problems as problems. You are not defined by your current struggles. We use evidence-based treatments and promote a sense of empowerment.
We provide both individual and couples counseling, offering tangible tools and techniques to improve communication, diffuse defensiveness, and heal childhood wounds.
Do you feel as if something is keeping you from living your ideal life? Whether you're battling anxiety, unfulfilling relationships, or the lasting effects of trauma, our staff of qualified counselors can offer you the tools to take back control of your life. We will help you rediscover your true self, move past obstacles, and start living your best life today. There is always hope when you know where to look for solutions. We see people as people - and problems as problems. You are not defined by your current struggles. We use evidence-based treatments and promote a sense of empowerment.
(239) 893-7797 View (239) 893-7797
Photo of Lisa Jorgensen, MS, LPCC, AMFT
Lisa Jorgensen
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, LPCC, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Old Naples, Naples, FL 34102
I think of therapy as a collaborative and hopeful endeavor, and I am dedicated to providing a non-judgmental, supportive, safe and empathetic environment for you as you embark on your healing journey. I believe that you are the expert on yourself and that I am here to walk with you and hold space for you as you navigate this path. From addressing everyday stressors to helping manage the difficult – and sometimes debilitating – symptoms of mental health disorders, I work to create a therapeutic relationship that can promote healing and functionality. My practice is inclusive, multicultural, feminist and LGBTQ+ affirming.
I think of therapy as a collaborative and hopeful endeavor, and I am dedicated to providing a non-judgmental, supportive, safe and empathetic environment for you as you embark on your healing journey. I believe that you are the expert on yourself and that I am here to walk with you and hold space for you as you navigate this path. From addressing everyday stressors to helping manage the difficult – and sometimes debilitating – symptoms of mental health disorders, I work to create a therapeutic relationship that can promote healing and functionality. My practice is inclusive, multicultural, feminist and LGBTQ+ affirming.
(657) 210-2331 View (657) 210-2331
Photo of Virginia Inglese, LCSW, MA, RDN, EMDR, CEDS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Virginia Inglese
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MA, RDN, EMDR, CEDS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Old Naples, Naples, FL 34102
Are you struggling with an eating disorder, low self-esteem, relationship issues, or self harming behaviors? Have you suffered from trauma and abuse, or have lost touch of your own needs and feelings? I use an integrative approach that emphasizes emotional and physical healing and addresses the underlying core issues that continue to sabotage the recovery process. My treatment approach helps you let go of negative beliefs, self destructive patterns, and learn to develop positive relationships and healthy coping skills. We build on your strengths and focus is on recovery and self care to find your true inner self.
Are you struggling with an eating disorder, low self-esteem, relationship issues, or self harming behaviors? Have you suffered from trauma and abuse, or have lost touch of your own needs and feelings? I use an integrative approach that emphasizes emotional and physical healing and addresses the underlying core issues that continue to sabotage the recovery process. My treatment approach helps you let go of negative beliefs, self destructive patterns, and learn to develop positive relationships and healthy coping skills. We build on your strengths and focus is on recovery and self care to find your true inner self.
(703) 634-9922 View (703) 634-9922
Photo of Margo Friedman, LPC, LADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Margo Friedman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LADC
Verified Verified
Old Naples, Naples, FL 34102  (Online Only)
Also, I have a lot of experience with counseling college students and young adults to help them explore relationship issues, academic/work stressors and other life transitions.
Everyone has battles to fight and hurdles to overcome at some point in their lives. I specialize in supporting patients and their loved ones as they navigate complex illnesses such as chronic Lyme Disease and tick borne illnesses. It is important to me that my patients feel they can safely express their emotions and receive supportive feedback in a nonjudgmental manner. I would like to help you develop life-long coping strategies and achieve a better quality of life.
Also, I have a lot of experience with counseling college students and young adults to help them explore relationship issues, academic/work stressors and other life transitions.
Everyone has battles to fight and hurdles to overcome at some point in their lives. I specialize in supporting patients and their loved ones as they navigate complex illnesses such as chronic Lyme Disease and tick borne illnesses. It is important to me that my patients feel they can safely express their emotions and receive supportive feedback in a nonjudgmental manner. I would like to help you develop life-long coping strategies and achieve a better quality of life.
(203) 580-6497 View (203) 580-6497
Photo of Marci Wise, MA, LMHC, Author, EMDR, Counselor
Marci Wise
Counselor, MA, LMHC, Author, EMDR
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Old Naples, Naples, FL 34102
I provide both individual and couples counseling, offering tangible tools and techniques to improve communication, diffuse defensiveness, and heal childhood wounds.
Do you feel as if something is keeping you from living your ideal life? I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Author, seeing clients in the Fort Myers/Naples area, who specializes in personal empowerment. Whether you're battling anxiety, unfulfilling relationships, or the lasting effects of trauma, I can offer you the tools to take back control of your life. While our challenges can be difficult, our problems do not define us. I will help you rediscover your true self, move past obstacles, and start living your best life today. There is always hope when you know where to look for solutions.
I provide both individual and couples counseling, offering tangible tools and techniques to improve communication, diffuse defensiveness, and heal childhood wounds.
Do you feel as if something is keeping you from living your ideal life? I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Author, seeing clients in the Fort Myers/Naples area, who specializes in personal empowerment. Whether you're battling anxiety, unfulfilling relationships, or the lasting effects of trauma, I can offer you the tools to take back control of your life. While our challenges can be difficult, our problems do not define us. I will help you rediscover your true self, move past obstacles, and start living your best life today. There is always hope when you know where to look for solutions.
(239) 558-1482 View (239) 558-1482
Photo of Sarah E. Sears, MS, LCMHC, Counselor
Sarah E. Sears
Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Old Naples, Naples, FL 34102  (Online Only)
A strong sense of curiosity and compassion guides Sarah's work. Her experience with individuals and couples spans many areas, including ADHD, anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, traumatic brain injuries (TBI), life transitions, and grief. She primarily works with adults, professionals, and couples tailoring her approach to suit the unique needs of each individual.
A strong sense of curiosity and compassion guides Sarah's work. Her experience with individuals and couples spans many areas, including ADHD, anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, traumatic brain injuries (TBI), life transitions, and grief. She primarily works with adults, professionals, and couples tailoring her approach to suit the unique needs of each individual.
(802) 348-2315 View (802) 348-2315
Photo of Maggie Nash - Maggie Nash Therapy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maggie Nash Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Old Naples, Naples, FL 34102
Whether you have difficulty accepting self, have marital or partner problems, parental discord, anxiety about work or retirement , you will find in therapy rewarding dividends for life.
After “curing” most of Washington DC except Congress, I moved to Fort Myers, Florida. With 24 years of private practice experience I still love this work. I’m an author and provide tv interviews upon request. Humor is an essential part of my life and my practice. Humor is an integral part of grieving, healing, recovery and problem-solving. I, therefore incorporate it into my treatment. There are a myriad of issues for which you may be seeking help. Frequently they involve problematic relationships, or relationships with ourselves. To self most of us are unforgiving and punishing. This is common and treatable.
Whether you have difficulty accepting self, have marital or partner problems, parental discord, anxiety about work or retirement , you will find in therapy rewarding dividends for life.
After “curing” most of Washington DC except Congress, I moved to Fort Myers, Florida. With 24 years of private practice experience I still love this work. I’m an author and provide tv interviews upon request. Humor is an essential part of my life and my practice. Humor is an integral part of grieving, healing, recovery and problem-solving. I, therefore incorporate it into my treatment. There are a myriad of issues for which you may be seeking help. Frequently they involve problematic relationships, or relationships with ourselves. To self most of us are unforgiving and punishing. This is common and treatable.
(202) 552-0730 View (202) 552-0730
Photo of Mary Ann Whalen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Ann Whalen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Old Naples, Naples, FL 34102
I work with adults as individuals and in couples and families.
The stories we construct about life often get in the way of feeling fully alive. We create them to make sense of the randomness of our experiences with the goal of feeling more secure. Unfortunately, they can limit us; our self knowledge, the development of our connections with others and experiencing success. Looking for patterns in language and behavior helps to uncover the underlying stories that contribute to unhappiness and stress. Knowing that we are all trying our best to find our way through life helps us to work as a team to move forward.
I work with adults as individuals and in couples and families.
The stories we construct about life often get in the way of feeling fully alive. We create them to make sense of the randomness of our experiences with the goal of feeling more secure. Unfortunately, they can limit us; our self knowledge, the development of our connections with others and experiencing success. Looking for patterns in language and behavior helps to uncover the underlying stories that contribute to unhappiness and stress. Knowing that we are all trying our best to find our way through life helps us to work as a team to move forward.
(707) 236-8794 View (707) 236-8794
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See more therapy options for Old Naples, Naples

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.