Couples Counseling Therapists in Chicago, IL

Photo of Erik A Giles, MSW, Pre-Lic, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erik A Giles
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, Pre-Lic
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60647
I work with adults and couples, but I often establish the best report with men of all ages struggling with strong emotions, or anxiety and sadness in work and relationships.
After 25 years in the corporate world, I love being a therapist! I came to this work to be authentic, direct, and conversational. I get that it feels weird to tell some stranger what’s bothering you… or worse the things you feel like you are screwing up. Often my clients tell me that after only the first session, they sleep better and finally feel like they aren’t floating or worse drowning in feelings they don’t know how to process. That is what I do. We’re going to address that and yes, I’ll be direct with you if there’s things you can change. I don’t have all the answers but together we can find ways to make things better.
I work with adults and couples, but I often establish the best report with men of all ages struggling with strong emotions, or anxiety and sadness in work and relationships.
After 25 years in the corporate world, I love being a therapist! I came to this work to be authentic, direct, and conversational. I get that it feels weird to tell some stranger what’s bothering you… or worse the things you feel like you are screwing up. Often my clients tell me that after only the first session, they sleep better and finally feel like they aren’t floating or worse drowning in feelings they don’t know how to process. That is what I do. We’re going to address that and yes, I’ll be direct with you if there’s things you can change. I don’t have all the answers but together we can find ways to make things better.
(312) 626-4334 View (312) 626-4334
Photo of Crystal Whitaker, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Crystal Whitaker
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60605  (Online Only)
As a Person-Centered clinician, I use active listening skills, empathic responding & unconditional positive regard to build a healthy therapeutic relationship with my clients to help facilitate continual growth.
So many times we pre-judge situations based on past traumas or conditioning. Entering an intimate space with yourself is no easy task. But with the help of someone you trust, it makes the journey easier to embrace. It is my belief that my job as a therapist is to help my clients connect the dots within their lives in order to enhance their overall mental health. This is done by unpacking, exploring and examining roadblocks from our past that are preventing us from being present in the here & now. This type of awareness helps to foster continual growth & grants access to understanding the story behind our behaviors.
As a Person-Centered clinician, I use active listening skills, empathic responding & unconditional positive regard to build a healthy therapeutic relationship with my clients to help facilitate continual growth.
So many times we pre-judge situations based on past traumas or conditioning. Entering an intimate space with yourself is no easy task. But with the help of someone you trust, it makes the journey easier to embrace. It is my belief that my job as a therapist is to help my clients connect the dots within their lives in order to enhance their overall mental health. This is done by unpacking, exploring and examining roadblocks from our past that are preventing us from being present in the here & now. This type of awareness helps to foster continual growth & grants access to understanding the story behind our behaviors.
(312) 728-4185 View (312) 728-4185
Photo of Nikoleta Giannakopoulos, LPC, NCC, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nikoleta Giannakopoulos
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60642
I offer support across various areas, with a particular passion for guiding individuals and couples through grief & loss, trauma, relationship dynamics, cultural differences, body image issues, anxiety, and depression.
In my sessions, I strive for that comfy, familiar feeling, like wrapping yourself in your favorite sweater—warm, cozy, and uniquely tailored to you. I'm all about building genuine connections, where you feel truly seen, heard, and supported. My therapy approach is a blend of warmth, authenticity, and teamwork, creating a safe, non-judgmental space where we can navigate life's challenges together with compassion and understanding. I believe in being direct yet gentle, sprinkling in a dose of humor and lightness when it fits, to craft an experience that's supportive and transformative, just like you deserve.
I offer support across various areas, with a particular passion for guiding individuals and couples through grief & loss, trauma, relationship dynamics, cultural differences, body image issues, anxiety, and depression.
In my sessions, I strive for that comfy, familiar feeling, like wrapping yourself in your favorite sweater—warm, cozy, and uniquely tailored to you. I'm all about building genuine connections, where you feel truly seen, heard, and supported. My therapy approach is a blend of warmth, authenticity, and teamwork, creating a safe, non-judgmental space where we can navigate life's challenges together with compassion and understanding. I believe in being direct yet gentle, sprinkling in a dose of humor and lightness when it fits, to craft an experience that's supportive and transformative, just like you deserve.
(708) 249-3615 View (708) 249-3615
Photo of Alexandra Joseph, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alexandra Joseph
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
I have current openings in my practice for adults in their 20s, 30s and 40s, marital and pre-marital couples who are experiencing anxiety, depression, experiences of trauma, problematic drug and alcohol use, and relational difficulties. I am part of a group practice, North Shore Psychotherapy, that is located in the Lakeview neighborhood. My priority is to create a non-judgmental space for my clients in which they feel safe and supported. Additional specialties: emerging adulthood, building self-confidence, significant life transitions, disordered eating patterns, and women's issues.
I have current openings in my practice for adults in their 20s, 30s and 40s, marital and pre-marital couples who are experiencing anxiety, depression, experiences of trauma, problematic drug and alcohol use, and relational difficulties. I am part of a group practice, North Shore Psychotherapy, that is located in the Lakeview neighborhood. My priority is to create a non-judgmental space for my clients in which they feel safe and supported. Additional specialties: emerging adulthood, building self-confidence, significant life transitions, disordered eating patterns, and women's issues.
(224) 803-3872 View (224) 803-3872
Photo of Mary Hotze, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mary Hotze
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
I work with individuals, families, and couples, to help them build, strengthen, and heal their relationships. In more than 19 years of clinical practice, I have developed transformative ways to work with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, and PTSD. I use a variety of techniques including Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR). I also help individuals who are facing life transitions, or who are experiencing difficulties in their partner relationships. I have experience with diverse family structures, and cross-cultural families and have lived extensively overseas, giving me a unique cultural perspective.
I work with individuals, families, and couples, to help them build, strengthen, and heal their relationships. In more than 19 years of clinical practice, I have developed transformative ways to work with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, and PTSD. I use a variety of techniques including Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR). I also help individuals who are facing life transitions, or who are experiencing difficulties in their partner relationships. I have experience with diverse family structures, and cross-cultural families and have lived extensively overseas, giving me a unique cultural perspective.
(773) 985-3859 View (773) 985-3859
Photo of Thomas L Schemper, PhD, Psychologist
Thomas L Schemper
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60611
I specialize in couples work and relationship coaching with family, friends and co-workers.
Life unfolds presenting its challenges and we are often required to adapt and change. I have over 25 years of experience helping my clients at these important times. I actively participate in creating an environment that is safe and promotes healing and growth. I do this by striving to be attentive, supportive, challenging and compassionate while embracing the gifts,losses,struggles, irony and humor in life's situations. I help my clients cultivate self care by being good observers of themselves and their surroundings, asking hard questions, and showing compassion as they try different approaches and stay open to new possibilities.
I specialize in couples work and relationship coaching with family, friends and co-workers.
Life unfolds presenting its challenges and we are often required to adapt and change. I have over 25 years of experience helping my clients at these important times. I actively participate in creating an environment that is safe and promotes healing and growth. I do this by striving to be attentive, supportive, challenging and compassionate while embracing the gifts,losses,struggles, irony and humor in life's situations. I help my clients cultivate self care by being good observers of themselves and their surroundings, asking hard questions, and showing compassion as they try different approaches and stay open to new possibilities.
(630) 426-3843 x261 View (630) 426-3843 x261
Photo of Lisa Andersen Peterson, MBA, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lisa Andersen Peterson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MBA, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613
I welcome individuals, couples, or family systems.
Are you an individual wanting another perspective as you sort through life? A new couple or family? Been together for what seems like forever? Issues with your grown siblings? Whether just starting out and working through the complexities of a new job, relationship or family, or understanding that living with the same person day in and day out, year after year, can be difficult (right?!), sometimes it is helpful to bring in an outside person to help work through the "everyday-ness" of life.
I welcome individuals, couples, or family systems.
Are you an individual wanting another perspective as you sort through life? A new couple or family? Been together for what seems like forever? Issues with your grown siblings? Whether just starting out and working through the complexities of a new job, relationship or family, or understanding that living with the same person day in and day out, year after year, can be difficult (right?!), sometimes it is helpful to bring in an outside person to help work through the "everyday-ness" of life.
(847) 813-7445 View (847) 813-7445
Photo of Stacey McGinn Hurst - Mind Body Connections
Mind Body Connections
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60613
If you desire to build a healthier relationship to your bodymind, Self and others, you are in the right place. Perhaps you've tried traditional therapy and are hitting a block or it's challenging to put into words what's going on inside of you, or maybe you have a "loud body" that aches all the time in one way or another? The clinicians at MBC are trained in a variety of modalities to help you tap into your inner resources and find harmony with your body, mind and spirit. You will collaborate with one of our clinicians to begin on your path towards optimal health and well-being.
If you desire to build a healthier relationship to your bodymind, Self and others, you are in the right place. Perhaps you've tried traditional therapy and are hitting a block or it's challenging to put into words what's going on inside of you, or maybe you have a "loud body" that aches all the time in one way or another? The clinicians at MBC are trained in a variety of modalities to help you tap into your inner resources and find harmony with your body, mind and spirit. You will collaborate with one of our clinicians to begin on your path towards optimal health and well-being.
(312) 646-4414 View (312) 646-4414
Photo of Ninfa A. Martinez, PhD, LMFT, LCPC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ninfa A. Martinez
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613
To get an appointment, please click on the link to my web page. I have over thirty years of experience working with Latinx clients, immigrant families, and multiracial couples. If you have experienced sexual abuse, or are a victim/witness of a crime, suffer from depression, or anxiety, I can help you. If you have relational issues between partners, couples, parents and adult children, or siblings, give yourself the opportunity to improve your relationships. I also work with young adults who are becoming independent. I supervise MFT and Counseling students and clinicians.
To get an appointment, please click on the link to my web page. I have over thirty years of experience working with Latinx clients, immigrant families, and multiracial couples. If you have experienced sexual abuse, or are a victim/witness of a crime, suffer from depression, or anxiety, I can help you. If you have relational issues between partners, couples, parents and adult children, or siblings, give yourself the opportunity to improve your relationships. I also work with young adults who are becoming independent. I supervise MFT and Counseling students and clinicians.
(773) 717-2970 View (773) 717-2970
Photo of Alexandra Oeser, BFA, MAATC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Alexandra Oeser
Pre-Licensed Professional, BFA, MAATC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60602
I am an art therapist and counselor who works with children, adults, older adults and couples. I have experience working with clients to address depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, and loss. I utilize a person-centered and trauma-informed approach, and use Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and art therapy practices.
I am an art therapist and counselor who works with children, adults, older adults and couples. I have experience working with clients to address depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, and loss. I utilize a person-centered and trauma-informed approach, and use Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and art therapy practices.
(773) 825-3747 View (773) 825-3747
Photo of Mary Madrake, PsyD, Psychologist
Mary Madrake
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640  (Online Only)
Dr. Mary Madrake is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with extensive experience working with members of the LGBT+ community, neurodivergent clients, those in non-monogamous and alternative relationships, and clients involved in kink. Dr. Madrake has experience in a variety of settings, including schools, community mental health centers, and private practice. They provide individual and couples therapy with older children, adolescents, and adults. They have experience treating trauma, relationship issues, gender identity and sexuality, emotional and behavioral disorders, anxiety, and adjustment to a variety of life transitions.
Dr. Mary Madrake is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with extensive experience working with members of the LGBT+ community, neurodivergent clients, those in non-monogamous and alternative relationships, and clients involved in kink. Dr. Madrake has experience in a variety of settings, including schools, community mental health centers, and private practice. They provide individual and couples therapy with older children, adolescents, and adults. They have experience treating trauma, relationship issues, gender identity and sexuality, emotional and behavioral disorders, anxiety, and adjustment to a variety of life transitions.
(708) 272-1885 View (708) 272-1885
Photo of Kerstin O'Connor, MSW LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kerstin O'Connor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60660  (Online Only)
Considering change, whether big or small, takes courage and hard work. My hope as we engage in a therapeutic relationship is to create a welcoming, open environment where you feel supported, valued, and safe. I work with adults identifying a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, life transitions, relationship challenges, and grief & loss. I provide a focus on relational dynamics in addition to the impacts of systems, environment, and trauma. Together we'll work to form a deep understanding of your most important relationships, emotions, and experiences while examining pathways for support and change.
Considering change, whether big or small, takes courage and hard work. My hope as we engage in a therapeutic relationship is to create a welcoming, open environment where you feel supported, valued, and safe. I work with adults identifying a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, life transitions, relationship challenges, and grief & loss. I provide a focus on relational dynamics in addition to the impacts of systems, environment, and trauma. Together we'll work to form a deep understanding of your most important relationships, emotions, and experiences while examining pathways for support and change.
(773) 900-5710 View (773) 900-5710
Photo of Jamilah Hines, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jamilah Hines
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60605
I work with individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, grief and loss, trauma recovery, relationship and family conflict, major life transitions, self-esteem issues, and provide coping skills and strategies.
NOW accepting new clients! Has life become overwhelming? Do you often feel defeated or unsure of your purpose? Please know that you are not alone in your experiences. It can be challenging to trust enough to talk about what you are going through. I provide a safe and sacred space to talk about your thoughts and feelings without judgment. My goal is to meet you where you are and support you in becoming the best version of yourself.
I work with individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, grief and loss, trauma recovery, relationship and family conflict, major life transitions, self-esteem issues, and provide coping skills and strategies.
NOW accepting new clients! Has life become overwhelming? Do you often feel defeated or unsure of your purpose? Please know that you are not alone in your experiences. It can be challenging to trust enough to talk about what you are going through. I provide a safe and sacred space to talk about your thoughts and feelings without judgment. My goal is to meet you where you are and support you in becoming the best version of yourself.
(872) 266-8258 View (872) 266-8258
Photo of Katerina Fager, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Katerina Fager
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613  (Online Only)
Do you feel disconnected, deal with infidelity, or poor communication? I help individuals and couples to develop some new skills and new ways to communicate and grow to create more satisfying relationships. I have completed Level 3 Clinical Training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy and use Gottman Method in my work with couples. This method is designed to help teach specific tools to deepen friendship and intimacy in your relationship. I believe that although each individual is unique, everyone has the ability to change, heal and move forward. Therapy can help you to feel better and have a better relationship.
Do you feel disconnected, deal with infidelity, or poor communication? I help individuals and couples to develop some new skills and new ways to communicate and grow to create more satisfying relationships. I have completed Level 3 Clinical Training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy and use Gottman Method in my work with couples. This method is designed to help teach specific tools to deepen friendship and intimacy in your relationship. I believe that although each individual is unique, everyone has the ability to change, heal and move forward. Therapy can help you to feel better and have a better relationship.
(773) 295-1693 View (773) 295-1693
Photo of Jessie Beebe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessie Beebe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613
I help clients find their self worth, decrease feelings of guilt and shame, reflect on their life challenges by exploring childhood patterns, relationship with self and others, or a current situation causing them stress or anxiety.
Are you feeling stuck and struggling to make a healthier change in your life? Is your anxiety crippling you or do you feel down and can’t shake it off? Many people deal with anxiety, depression in silence, especially the ones adjusting to a new identity such as parenthood. Others’ anxiety comes from challenges at work, relationships and other life stressors. I work with clients who struggle in silence and constantly ruminate on changing yet they might not have the tools nor the energy to get out of feeling stuck.
I help clients find their self worth, decrease feelings of guilt and shame, reflect on their life challenges by exploring childhood patterns, relationship with self and others, or a current situation causing them stress or anxiety.
Are you feeling stuck and struggling to make a healthier change in your life? Is your anxiety crippling you or do you feel down and can’t shake it off? Many people deal with anxiety, depression in silence, especially the ones adjusting to a new identity such as parenthood. Others’ anxiety comes from challenges at work, relationships and other life stressors. I work with clients who struggle in silence and constantly ruminate on changing yet they might not have the tools nor the energy to get out of feeling stuck.
(773) 985-5952 View (773) 985-5952
Photo of Yoko Mori, PhD, Psychologist
Yoko Mori
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60611
Using our therapeutic relationship as a tool, I hope to highlight your strengths and opportunity for personal growth.
Hello. All of us experience challenges and hardships in our lives. These challenges could make you feel disconnected from people around you, sad, overwhelmed, or alone. You may be reacting to hardships that are happening in your current life or in the past. Whether the issues are current or past, it affects your emotional well-being today. I believe therapy helps us understand our emotions, especially how these emotional struggles happen at the particular time in our lives.
Using our therapeutic relationship as a tool, I hope to highlight your strengths and opportunity for personal growth.
Hello. All of us experience challenges and hardships in our lives. These challenges could make you feel disconnected from people around you, sad, overwhelmed, or alone. You may be reacting to hardships that are happening in your current life or in the past. Whether the issues are current or past, it affects your emotional well-being today. I believe therapy helps us understand our emotions, especially how these emotional struggles happen at the particular time in our lives.
(484) 494-2944 View (484) 494-2944
Photo of Reylla Santos - Dr. Santos - Therapist, Supervisor & Consultant, PhD, LCPC, MA
Dr. Santos - Therapist, Supervisor & Consultant
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, PhD, LCPC, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60618
I work on developing a sound relationship where mutual respect is achieved.
I have been working with marginalized populations and people struggling with addictions for over a decade. Clients who benefit the most from my approach are those who often feel outcasted by their environment, misunderstood in their relationships, or limited in their career. Throughout sessions, you will be better equipped to resolve conflicts within yourself and with others, and feel more confident, and free. I've been working mainly with Latinos(as) and African Americans, but anyone who is willing to explore themselves will benefit greatly from this work.
I work on developing a sound relationship where mutual respect is achieved.
I have been working with marginalized populations and people struggling with addictions for over a decade. Clients who benefit the most from my approach are those who often feel outcasted by their environment, misunderstood in their relationships, or limited in their career. Throughout sessions, you will be better equipped to resolve conflicts within yourself and with others, and feel more confident, and free. I've been working mainly with Latinos(as) and African Americans, but anyone who is willing to explore themselves will benefit greatly from this work.
(872) 233-4568 View (872) 233-4568
Photo of Sarah Manaher, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Manaher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60615  (Online Only)
I am a relational psychotherapist who specializes in trauma, grief, loss, intimate partner violence, depression, and anxiety.
I have had a diverse set of professional experiences that allow me to work with many different people experiencing varying challenges and at various stages of life. One of my greatest strengths is my ability to recognize the humanity in all people and to work from a non-judgmental, mutually respecting stance that recognizes the expertise and strength in everyone when they walk through the door.
I am a relational psychotherapist who specializes in trauma, grief, loss, intimate partner violence, depression, and anxiety.
I have had a diverse set of professional experiences that allow me to work with many different people experiencing varying challenges and at various stages of life. One of my greatest strengths is my ability to recognize the humanity in all people and to work from a non-judgmental, mutually respecting stance that recognizes the expertise and strength in everyone when they walk through the door.
(708) 265-3662 View (708) 265-3662
Photo of Matthew Frantz, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Matthew Frantz
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657
I specialize in working with anxiety, trauma and relationship issues and cater each treatment to the individual in order to help you achieve your goals and understand your self more deeply.
Individuals come to me experiencing anxiety or depression, feeling that they have not been able to feel better or make progress on their own. They may be questioning decisions they make in their relationships, careers or family life. Many feel that they need to make a change but are unsure where to start or how to be the most effective. In therapy I can help you in explore and understand the unknown parts of yourself to help reveal and ultimately repair the inner road blocks you may experience.
I specialize in working with anxiety, trauma and relationship issues and cater each treatment to the individual in order to help you achieve your goals and understand your self more deeply.
Individuals come to me experiencing anxiety or depression, feeling that they have not been able to feel better or make progress on their own. They may be questioning decisions they make in their relationships, careers or family life. Many feel that they need to make a change but are unsure where to start or how to be the most effective. In therapy I can help you in explore and understand the unknown parts of yourself to help reveal and ultimately repair the inner road blocks you may experience.
(773) 701-7565 View (773) 701-7565
Photo of Susan Zeigler, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan Zeigler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60625
I am here to work with you regarding the things in life where you feel "stuck." You may be stuck for a variety of reasons, including past or current trauma, chronic illness, relationship or work-related stressors, or caring for children or your aging parents. You might be in a heterosexual marriage and realize that you are LGBTQ, and you are scared, wondering how to move forward in a way that is sensitive to your family, and is true to your identity. I have both personal and professional experience with this issue, and I am happy to help you navigate through it.
I am here to work with you regarding the things in life where you feel "stuck." You may be stuck for a variety of reasons, including past or current trauma, chronic illness, relationship or work-related stressors, or caring for children or your aging parents. You might be in a heterosexual marriage and realize that you are LGBTQ, and you are scared, wondering how to move forward in a way that is sensitive to your family, and is true to your identity. I have both personal and professional experience with this issue, and I am happy to help you navigate through it.
(773) 492-8506 View (773) 492-8506
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.