Couples Counseling Therapists in Uptown, Chicago, IL

Photo of Luke Clohisy, LCSW, AM, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Luke Clohisy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, AM
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Uptown, Chicago, IL 60640
Relationships are the heart of all meaningful change. Whether you are coming to therapy because you feel lost, demoralized, or moved to deepen your self-understanding, feeling authentically understood and appreciated in your relationships is crucial to healing. In my practice, I strive to create an accepting atmosphere in which you feel comfortable speaking freely about the concerns in your life. Together, we can understand how the relationship we build in our work is both a microcosm of your present, as well as a vehicle for surprise, change, and growth.
Relationships are the heart of all meaningful change. Whether you are coming to therapy because you feel lost, demoralized, or moved to deepen your self-understanding, feeling authentically understood and appreciated in your relationships is crucial to healing. In my practice, I strive to create an accepting atmosphere in which you feel comfortable speaking freely about the concerns in your life. Together, we can understand how the relationship we build in our work is both a microcosm of your present, as well as a vehicle for surprise, change, and growth.
(872) 250-4133 View (872) 250-4133
Photo of Lyrra Isanberg, ALMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Lyrra Isanberg
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, ALMFT
Verified Verified
Uptown, Chicago, IL 60640  (Online Only)
My specialties include couples therapy, sex therapy, and therapy with individuals and couples who identify as Black and/or multiracial.
I believe that problems are best understood in the context of relationships - with loved ones, with intimate partners, and with oneself. Perhaps you are noticing room for improvement in one or in multiple relationships, or perhaps you have a strong desire for increased understanding of yourself and others. It takes a great deal of insight and strength to even begin this journey towards greater harmony. My hope as a clinician is to help foster within you a sense of renewed curiosity, compassion, and hope as you undertake this journey.
My specialties include couples therapy, sex therapy, and therapy with individuals and couples who identify as Black and/or multiracial.
I believe that problems are best understood in the context of relationships - with loved ones, with intimate partners, and with oneself. Perhaps you are noticing room for improvement in one or in multiple relationships, or perhaps you have a strong desire for increased understanding of yourself and others. It takes a great deal of insight and strength to even begin this journey towards greater harmony. My hope as a clinician is to help foster within you a sense of renewed curiosity, compassion, and hope as you undertake this journey.
(847) 558-1969 View (847) 558-1969
Photo of Jenna Greig, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jenna Greig
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Uptown, Chicago, IL 60640
In addition to individual therapy, I am passionate about working with family systems and couples.
It is essential that you feel a connection with whichever therapist you choose to work with. One of my core goals for therapy is to create a collaborative, safe, non-judgmental, and empowering environment for my clients. You are the expert of your own story, I am here in support of your process of change, healing, and self-exploration. I strive to help each person develop the awareness and skills to live their most fulfilling & authentic life. ​I specialize working with symptoms of anxiety, depression, body image concerns, disordered eating, life transitions, grief & loss, relational difficulties, and sexuality & gender exploration.
In addition to individual therapy, I am passionate about working with family systems and couples.
It is essential that you feel a connection with whichever therapist you choose to work with. One of my core goals for therapy is to create a collaborative, safe, non-judgmental, and empowering environment for my clients. You are the expert of your own story, I am here in support of your process of change, healing, and self-exploration. I strive to help each person develop the awareness and skills to live their most fulfilling & authentic life. ​I specialize working with symptoms of anxiety, depression, body image concerns, disordered eating, life transitions, grief & loss, relational difficulties, and sexuality & gender exploration.
(773) 825-9114 View (773) 825-9114
Photo of Fern Pinkston - Bespoke Healing, PsyD, Psychologist
Bespoke Healing
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Uptown, Chicago, IL 60640
We offer individual therapy, couples/relationship therapy, as well as group experiences to create community around stories.
Therapy is a space for big feelings, hard conversations, and laughing at ourselves when we can. We like to form connections with folks that feel supportive, brave, and most of all, REAL. At Bespoke Healing, we know therapy is going well when we see folks begin to step out in new ways and take risks to develop deeper bonds. We find it fruitful to explore how past traumas show up in current relationships, and our therapists are active in session as part of our relational style. We also help folks befriend their bodies as an important resource.
We offer individual therapy, couples/relationship therapy, as well as group experiences to create community around stories.
Therapy is a space for big feelings, hard conversations, and laughing at ourselves when we can. We like to form connections with folks that feel supportive, brave, and most of all, REAL. At Bespoke Healing, we know therapy is going well when we see folks begin to step out in new ways and take risks to develop deeper bonds. We find it fruitful to explore how past traumas show up in current relationships, and our therapists are active in session as part of our relational style. We also help folks befriend their bodies as an important resource.
(773) 902-0512 View (773) 902-0512
Photo of Dr. Jonah Waseberg, PhD, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Jonah Waseberg
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
Uptown, Chicago, IL 60613
Currently sessions are conducted virtually- Dr. Waseberg is a psychotherapist and professor of counseling psychology. He helps individuals and couples struggling with relationships, trauma, depression, anxiety, PTSD, eating disorders, grief, alcohol/drugs, abandonment, anger, OCD, social anxiety, phobia, bipolar/borderline and other psychological issues. He digs deep into the roots of your underlying issues in a safe non-judgmental space with empathy. He has rich experience providing counseling in private practice settings as well as Inpatient Residential Treatment, Partial Hospitalization-PHP, and Intensive Outpatient-IOP settings.
Currently sessions are conducted virtually- Dr. Waseberg is a psychotherapist and professor of counseling psychology. He helps individuals and couples struggling with relationships, trauma, depression, anxiety, PTSD, eating disorders, grief, alcohol/drugs, abandonment, anger, OCD, social anxiety, phobia, bipolar/borderline and other psychological issues. He digs deep into the roots of your underlying issues in a safe non-judgmental space with empathy. He has rich experience providing counseling in private practice settings as well as Inpatient Residential Treatment, Partial Hospitalization-PHP, and Intensive Outpatient-IOP settings.
(773) 974-6274 View (773) 974-6274
Photo of Jeff Levy, LCSW, CTRS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jeff Levy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CTRS
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Uptown, Chicago, IL 60640
Waitlist for new clients
And while what we talk about in therapy is important, our evolving relationship is equally important.
We often seek therapy because ways we’ve learned to navigate the world aren’t working the way they used to or the way we’d like them to. Sometimes these strategies cause us pain and sometimes they cause pain to others. Our work involves uncovering strategies we’ve learned to survive in the world and understanding where they come from. Once we understand their origin and function, we can develop awareness of when they arise in the present and make choices to navigate differently.
And while what we talk about in therapy is important, our evolving relationship is equally important.
We often seek therapy because ways we’ve learned to navigate the world aren’t working the way they used to or the way we’d like them to. Sometimes these strategies cause us pain and sometimes they cause pain to others. Our work involves uncovering strategies we’ve learned to survive in the world and understanding where they come from. Once we understand their origin and function, we can develop awareness of when they arise in the present and make choices to navigate differently.
(773) 717-2962 View (773) 717-2962
Photo of Andie Baumgartner - Rowan Tree Counseling, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Rowan Tree Counseling
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Uptown, Chicago, IL 60640
Our clients present with a variety of concerns including depression, anxiety, disordered eating, body image concerns, OCD, relationship challenges, and navigating life transitions .
Life is full of “shoulds.” Family, friends, and society often have a very clear idea of the path we’re supposed to be on, but we believe that peace and empowerment lie in finding your own path- worrying less about the expectations of others and more about what you want your life to look like. Taking an alternative path or changing route along the way is difficult. Therapy can help as you strive to be true to yourself on the journey. We offer a space where individuals learn to utilize their personal strengths to live their most meaningful lives, develop fulfilling relationships, and find true liberation.
Our clients present with a variety of concerns including depression, anxiety, disordered eating, body image concerns, OCD, relationship challenges, and navigating life transitions .
Life is full of “shoulds.” Family, friends, and society often have a very clear idea of the path we’re supposed to be on, but we believe that peace and empowerment lie in finding your own path- worrying less about the expectations of others and more about what you want your life to look like. Taking an alternative path or changing route along the way is difficult. Therapy can help as you strive to be true to yourself on the journey. We offer a space where individuals learn to utilize their personal strengths to live their most meaningful lives, develop fulfilling relationships, and find true liberation.
(872) 205-3335 View (872) 205-3335
Photo of Franzie Marie Giordani, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Franzie Marie Giordani
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Uptown, Chicago, IL 60613  (Online Only)
EMDR, Dialectical, Trauma-Focused Cognitive , and Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapies, along with Trans-personal Psychology to help Individual Adults and Couples surviving Crisis, PTSD, Anxiety, Borderline Personality Disorder, Depression, Co-Dependency, Fears of Abandonment, Bi-Polar Disorder, Anger, and Child Abuse.
"The world breaks everyone and afterwards many are strong in the broken places" (Earnest Hemingway). That's why there is nothing I enjoy more than helping people reconnect with their internal power to grow from, cope with, and transform wounds that tend to separate us from our own highest good. Although this life and physical body are temporary, at our core we have a connection to an unlimited Source of power, wisdom,health, and healing.
EMDR, Dialectical, Trauma-Focused Cognitive , and Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapies, along with Trans-personal Psychology to help Individual Adults and Couples surviving Crisis, PTSD, Anxiety, Borderline Personality Disorder, Depression, Co-Dependency, Fears of Abandonment, Bi-Polar Disorder, Anger, and Child Abuse.
"The world breaks everyone and afterwards many are strong in the broken places" (Earnest Hemingway). That's why there is nothing I enjoy more than helping people reconnect with their internal power to grow from, cope with, and transform wounds that tend to separate us from our own highest good. Although this life and physical body are temporary, at our core we have a connection to an unlimited Source of power, wisdom,health, and healing.
(708) 816-5388 View (708) 816-5388
Photo of Madison Schieber, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Madison Schieber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Uptown, Chicago, IL 60640
I make sure your concerns are heard, your strengths are celebrated, and your journey to wellness is guided with compassion and expertise. I believe that by understanding and empathizing with my clients I can create a strong therapeutic relationship that promotes growth & transformation. I understand that everyone has their own unique story and I am committed to listening with compassion and without judgment. With a compassionate and collaborative approach I strive to help my clients overcome their challenges, feel more empowered, and achieve their goals. I believe in using evidence-based methods such as CBT, DBT and mindfulness.
I make sure your concerns are heard, your strengths are celebrated, and your journey to wellness is guided with compassion and expertise. I believe that by understanding and empathizing with my clients I can create a strong therapeutic relationship that promotes growth & transformation. I understand that everyone has their own unique story and I am committed to listening with compassion and without judgment. With a compassionate and collaborative approach I strive to help my clients overcome their challenges, feel more empowered, and achieve their goals. I believe in using evidence-based methods such as CBT, DBT and mindfulness.
(872) 246-8322 View (872) 246-8322
Photo of Lauren Mosley, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lauren Mosley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Uptown, Chicago, IL 60640
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I earned a Masters of Social Work from University of Illinois Chicago Jane Addams College of Social Work and has a BA in sociology from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. My clinical skill set includes: cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness practice, relational-cultural therapy, solution focused therapy, and trauma focused therapy. I view presenting problems in a multifaceted manner, allowing me to develop a positive therapeutic relationship and understanding with my clients.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I earned a Masters of Social Work from University of Illinois Chicago Jane Addams College of Social Work and has a BA in sociology from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. My clinical skill set includes: cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness practice, relational-cultural therapy, solution focused therapy, and trauma focused therapy. I view presenting problems in a multifaceted manner, allowing me to develop a positive therapeutic relationship and understanding with my clients.
(773) 232-4710 View (773) 232-4710
Photo of Allison Schentrup, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Allison Schentrup
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Uptown, Chicago, IL 60640  (Online Only)
I want to help you live purpose led, pleasure-full life. I work with individuals and couples on all manner of relationships. In my couples work, I help partners rediscover intimate connection, learn more effective and compassionate ways of communicating, and rebuild trust. Often, I work with couples on co-parenting, life transitions, and mismatched desire. With individuals I support all of your relationships, whether you’re wanting to find love, deepen friendships, or understand your family. I also help individuals with managing anxiety, spiritual/religious trauma, and healing body image.
I want to help you live purpose led, pleasure-full life. I work with individuals and couples on all manner of relationships. In my couples work, I help partners rediscover intimate connection, learn more effective and compassionate ways of communicating, and rebuild trust. Often, I work with couples on co-parenting, life transitions, and mismatched desire. With individuals I support all of your relationships, whether you’re wanting to find love, deepen friendships, or understand your family. I also help individuals with managing anxiety, spiritual/religious trauma, and healing body image.
(872) 666-9986 View (872) 666-9986
Photo of Ann M Bergart, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ann M Bergart
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Uptown, Chicago, IL 60640  (Online Only)
It's a privilege to assist individuals and couples who want to make their lives better. I love my work, even more than when I received my initial social work degree. Returning to school later to get my doctorate and teach, I always maintained a private practice. In a nutshell, my philosophy is that I partner with my clients to figure out what they can do to improve their relationships and sense of well-being. Though I have a special interest in infertility and incest survivorship, I work with individuals and couples who struggle with any number of life challenges.
It's a privilege to assist individuals and couples who want to make their lives better. I love my work, even more than when I received my initial social work degree. Returning to school later to get my doctorate and teach, I always maintained a private practice. In a nutshell, my philosophy is that I partner with my clients to figure out what they can do to improve their relationships and sense of well-being. Though I have a special interest in infertility and incest survivorship, I work with individuals and couples who struggle with any number of life challenges.
(847) 416-0616 View (847) 416-0616
Photo of Lizzy Ball, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lizzy Ball
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Uptown, Chicago, IL 60640  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Chicago, Illinois offering individual and couples therapy to adults seeking positive change.
We often feel overwhelmed, out of control, or caught in patterns we can’t seem to escape. Many of us move around the world carrying secret struggles with negative thoughts, emotions, or urges, which disturb our day-to-day life and make waves in our relationships. Clients who seek my support are resourceful, and have typically already tried all of the tools in their existing toolbox. We are searching collaboratively for new pathways to positive change.
I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Chicago, Illinois offering individual and couples therapy to adults seeking positive change.
We often feel overwhelmed, out of control, or caught in patterns we can’t seem to escape. Many of us move around the world carrying secret struggles with negative thoughts, emotions, or urges, which disturb our day-to-day life and make waves in our relationships. Clients who seek my support are resourceful, and have typically already tried all of the tools in their existing toolbox. We are searching collaboratively for new pathways to positive change.
(312) 767-7711 View (312) 767-7711
Photo of Justin Evan Tobin, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Justin Evan Tobin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Uptown, Chicago, IL 60613  (Online Only)
I help individuals and couples break their patterns so that they can reach the life satisfaction they are looking to achieve.
Do you feel stuck in the same routine? Doing the same behaviors over and over again? Do you feel a lot of stress, irritability or anger? Making a decision for change in your life is not easy and trusting these decisions is even more difficult. You may even feel depressed or anxious. Relationships can be confusing, career choices can be overwhelming, and figuring out your future can seem stressful.
I help individuals and couples break their patterns so that they can reach the life satisfaction they are looking to achieve.
Do you feel stuck in the same routine? Doing the same behaviors over and over again? Do you feel a lot of stress, irritability or anger? Making a decision for change in your life is not easy and trusting these decisions is even more difficult. You may even feel depressed or anxious. Relationships can be confusing, career choices can be overwhelming, and figuring out your future can seem stressful.
(312) 346-5156 View (312) 346-5156
Photo of Nomi Ostrander, PhD, MPH, LCSW, LICSW, CST, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nomi Ostrander
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, MPH, LCSW, LICSW, CST
Verified Verified
Uptown, Chicago, IL 60640  (Online Only)
My assumption about most people who seek out a therapist is they are stuck in a situation and have already tried everything they can think of to get unstuck. My approach is pragmatic, non-judgmental, and client-centered. I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and polycules to develop new skills that will empower them to move towards the lives they want to live. I am a total nerd about therapy and love the creativity of tailoring therapeutic approaches to clients.
My assumption about most people who seek out a therapist is they are stuck in a situation and have already tried everything they can think of to get unstuck. My approach is pragmatic, non-judgmental, and client-centered. I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and polycules to develop new skills that will empower them to move towards the lives they want to live. I am a total nerd about therapy and love the creativity of tailoring therapeutic approaches to clients.
(773) 570-9525 View (773) 570-9525
Photo of Alexis Jenkins, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alexis Jenkins
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Uptown, Chicago, IL 60640
As a Gottman Level 1 certified clinician, I am happy to assist you and your partner/s in enhancing mutual understanding, strengthening your connection, and successfully navigating the ups and downs of life and partnership.
I would be delighted to explore life's journey with you, discovering ways to create comfort and stillness, overcome challenges, and gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and others. I hold an appreciation for evidence-based treatment approaches such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical-behavioral therapy (DBT). Through my experience in supporting individuals at the IOP/PHP levels of care, I have observed how CBT and DBT offer valuable insights and skills for navigating life's complexities. Consequently, these modalities will serve as the primary guiding frameworks in our collaborative efforts.
As a Gottman Level 1 certified clinician, I am happy to assist you and your partner/s in enhancing mutual understanding, strengthening your connection, and successfully navigating the ups and downs of life and partnership.
I would be delighted to explore life's journey with you, discovering ways to create comfort and stillness, overcome challenges, and gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and others. I hold an appreciation for evidence-based treatment approaches such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical-behavioral therapy (DBT). Through my experience in supporting individuals at the IOP/PHP levels of care, I have observed how CBT and DBT offer valuable insights and skills for navigating life's complexities. Consequently, these modalities will serve as the primary guiding frameworks in our collaborative efforts.
(872) 401-6843 View (872) 401-6843
Photo of Kevin Lage, LCPC
Kevin Lage
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Uptown, Chicago, IL 60640
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 7 years of experience in the field. I work with adults, minors, couples, or families and specialize in addiction, anxiety, depression, anger management, and coping skills. I take a person-centered, eclectic, and supportive approach while using Rogerian and Trust-Based Relational Intervention modalities. I holistically look at the person I'm counseling from their full environmental perspective and listen in a non-judgmental and accepting way.
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 7 years of experience in the field. I work with adults, minors, couples, or families and specialize in addiction, anxiety, depression, anger management, and coping skills. I take a person-centered, eclectic, and supportive approach while using Rogerian and Trust-Based Relational Intervention modalities. I holistically look at the person I'm counseling from their full environmental perspective and listen in a non-judgmental and accepting way.
(872) 217-9997 View (872) 217-9997
Photo of Sandra Zakowski, PhD, Psychologist
Sandra Zakowski
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Uptown, Chicago, IL 60640  (Online Only)
I am experienced in working with people who are dealing with a variety of issues including trauma, depression, anxiety, loss, acculturation, chronic medical problems, relationship problems, academic issues, and adjustment to other life stressors. Each individual requires a unique approach when seeking help in coping with problems of daily living, and I am dedicated to creating a collaborative therapy environment that is based on safety and mutual respect. I tend to be direct and interactive in therapy using an integrative approach and work to empower clients to access their strengths in coping with life issues.
I am experienced in working with people who are dealing with a variety of issues including trauma, depression, anxiety, loss, acculturation, chronic medical problems, relationship problems, academic issues, and adjustment to other life stressors. Each individual requires a unique approach when seeking help in coping with problems of daily living, and I am dedicated to creating a collaborative therapy environment that is based on safety and mutual respect. I tend to be direct and interactive in therapy using an integrative approach and work to empower clients to access their strengths in coping with life issues.
(773) 236-8242 View (773) 236-8242
Photo of Olivia Santiago, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Olivia Santiago
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Uptown, Chicago, IL 60640
Olivia has worked with clients of all ages with various levels of trauma experiences, narcissistic/ sexual/ physical abuse survivors, attachment difficulties, life transitions, codepedency, depression, anxiety, grief, and familial/peer relationship concerns. Practicing both personally and professionally from an anti-racist/ anti-oppressive lens and being LGBTQIA+ affirming, Olivia honors the intersectionalities of identities, lived experiences, and the ways in which these experiences are held in our bodies. She uses movement and expression to promote holistic healing that can aid with how these experiences show up in our bodies.
Olivia has worked with clients of all ages with various levels of trauma experiences, narcissistic/ sexual/ physical abuse survivors, attachment difficulties, life transitions, codepedency, depression, anxiety, grief, and familial/peer relationship concerns. Practicing both personally and professionally from an anti-racist/ anti-oppressive lens and being LGBTQIA+ affirming, Olivia honors the intersectionalities of identities, lived experiences, and the ways in which these experiences are held in our bodies. She uses movement and expression to promote holistic healing that can aid with how these experiences show up in our bodies.
(773) 900-7996 View (773) 900-7996
Photo of Robert Benson Sanoshy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Robert Benson Sanoshy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Uptown, Chicago, IL 60640
My ideal style of therapy is suited to clients who believe that the relationship between therapist and client is paramount to the ability to change. I believe that change happens at the crossroads of challenge and non-judgement and this is the primary focus of my treatment- creating a safe environment in which clients believe they can present their issues and have them challenged in a supportive and non-judgemental way. I firmly believe that all clients have the ability to heal and grow regardless of personal, historical, professional and relational challenges.
My ideal style of therapy is suited to clients who believe that the relationship between therapist and client is paramount to the ability to change. I believe that change happens at the crossroads of challenge and non-judgement and this is the primary focus of my treatment- creating a safe environment in which clients believe they can present their issues and have them challenged in a supportive and non-judgemental way. I firmly believe that all clients have the ability to heal and grow regardless of personal, historical, professional and relational challenges.
(773) 570-7904 View (773) 570-7904
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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.