Couples Counseling Therapists in Dekalb, IL

Photo of Kelly Robinson, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Kelly Robinson
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dekalb, IL 60115
As a marriage and family therapist, I have had the opportunity to work with couples and individuals with varying needs.
Whether you are going through an important transition or need extra support as you navigate everyday life, it is worth remembering that everyone needs help sometimes. Being a wife for the last 16 years and a mom for the last 20 years has given me the opportunity to experience the richness of family life including teen parenthood/parenthood, marriage, life cycle transitions, blended family dynamics, anxiety and stress related challenges. Challenges create strength and it is my passion to help others sift through the inevitable challenges of life to cultivate understanding and clarity and the ability to move forward with strength.
As a marriage and family therapist, I have had the opportunity to work with couples and individuals with varying needs.
Whether you are going through an important transition or need extra support as you navigate everyday life, it is worth remembering that everyone needs help sometimes. Being a wife for the last 16 years and a mom for the last 20 years has given me the opportunity to experience the richness of family life including teen parenthood/parenthood, marriage, life cycle transitions, blended family dynamics, anxiety and stress related challenges. Challenges create strength and it is my passion to help others sift through the inevitable challenges of life to cultivate understanding and clarity and the ability to move forward with strength.
(815) 567-9054 View (815) 567-9054
Photo of Megan Orr, LCSW, CCTP, C-DBT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Megan Orr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP, C-DBT
Verified Verified
Dekalb, IL 60115  (Online Only)
I view therapy as a partnership on your journey to healing and self-discovery.
If you are looking for a safe space to explore your gender or sexuality, manage anxiety or heal trauma, continue reading. In our sessions you will have a non-judgmental space to work on these issues as we partner to find solutions for you. If you are experiencing grief or loss, we can process and find tools to help you get through it. If you are struggling with your self-image, I will help you look for your truth. I also provide LCSW supervision and enjoy providing therapy to other therapists.
I view therapy as a partnership on your journey to healing and self-discovery.
If you are looking for a safe space to explore your gender or sexuality, manage anxiety or heal trauma, continue reading. In our sessions you will have a non-judgmental space to work on these issues as we partner to find solutions for you. If you are experiencing grief or loss, we can process and find tools to help you get through it. If you are struggling with your self-image, I will help you look for your truth. I also provide LCSW supervision and enjoy providing therapy to other therapists.
(331) 276-6517 View (331) 276-6517
Photo of J Wett, MS, LMFT, CCTP, Marriage & Family Therapist
J J Wett
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dekalb, IL 60115  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Have you had a hard time adjusting to a life change? Are you feeling nervous or sad? Have you had relationship difficulties with your partner? Have you had a difficult time "getting through" to your children? I can help! I provide individual, couple, and family therapy to everyone no matter the age, race, gender, sexual orientation, or disability. In fact, I specialize in helping people with traumatic experiences and their family members overcome obstacles in their life!
Have you had a hard time adjusting to a life change? Are you feeling nervous or sad? Have you had relationship difficulties with your partner? Have you had a difficult time "getting through" to your children? I can help! I provide individual, couple, and family therapy to everyone no matter the age, race, gender, sexual orientation, or disability. In fact, I specialize in helping people with traumatic experiences and their family members overcome obstacles in their life!
(815) 570-9176 View (815) 570-9176
Photo of Heather Ross - Life Solutions: Integrative Healing, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Life Solutions: Integrative Healing
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Dekalb, IL 60115  (Online Only)
I believe in building connections with clients that honor the therapeutic process and facilitate change. I provide a comfortable and supportive therapeutic relationship that fosters a positive experience. I believe you are the expert in your life and I respect the your right to choose your own path and create the change you want to see. If you need guidance and researched-based services to make those changes happen, I will partner with you to get the work done.
I believe in building connections with clients that honor the therapeutic process and facilitate change. I provide a comfortable and supportive therapeutic relationship that fosters a positive experience. I believe you are the expert in your life and I respect the your right to choose your own path and create the change you want to see. If you need guidance and researched-based services to make those changes happen, I will partner with you to get the work done.
(779) 223-5443 View (779) 223-5443
Photo of Maggie Milano, LCPC, CFLE, NCC, CHAIS, ACS, Counselor
Maggie Milano
Counselor, LCPC, CFLE, NCC, CHAIS, ACS
Verified Verified
Dekalb, IL 60115
I've worked with individuals, couples, and families.
Life involves stress; it's inevitable. Everyone struggles and needs support, yet many people have not found help. It's hard to figure everything out on our own. You deserve to be listened to objectively, kindly, and without interruption. Sometimes family and friends don't provide help the way we need (or they may make things worse). Psychotherapists can help provide unbiased support and interventions that research shows are pretty darn effective. Though it may not feel like it, lowering stress levels and resolving challenges is not as hard as it may seem. A little guidance could make a big difference!
I've worked with individuals, couples, and families.
Life involves stress; it's inevitable. Everyone struggles and needs support, yet many people have not found help. It's hard to figure everything out on our own. You deserve to be listened to objectively, kindly, and without interruption. Sometimes family and friends don't provide help the way we need (or they may make things worse). Psychotherapists can help provide unbiased support and interventions that research shows are pretty darn effective. Though it may not feel like it, lowering stress levels and resolving challenges is not as hard as it may seem. A little guidance could make a big difference!
(815) 286-4030 View (815) 286-4030
Photo of James Thomson, LCPC, Counselor
James Thomson
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dekalb, IL 60115
I specialize in working with individuals and couples.
STRUGGLING WITH ANXIETY? Discover "What Your Anxiety is telling You." If you have a fever, your temperature is not what's wrong; it's a symptom that points to what's wrong. Let's work together to reduce your symptom of anxiety that is robbing you of your peace of mind. FOR RELATIONSHIPS: I developed the program "A World Class Love: Building the Relationship of Your Dreams" to teach couples how to stop fighting, improve their communication skills and re-kindle their love. When we work together, I will guide you through this step by step process to help you build the relationship of your dreams.
I specialize in working with individuals and couples.
STRUGGLING WITH ANXIETY? Discover "What Your Anxiety is telling You." If you have a fever, your temperature is not what's wrong; it's a symptom that points to what's wrong. Let's work together to reduce your symptom of anxiety that is robbing you of your peace of mind. FOR RELATIONSHIPS: I developed the program "A World Class Love: Building the Relationship of Your Dreams" to teach couples how to stop fighting, improve their communication skills and re-kindle their love. When we work together, I will guide you through this step by step process to help you build the relationship of your dreams.
(815) 217-2186 View (815) 217-2186
Photo of Natalia Vinokur, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Natalia Vinokur
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Dekalb, IL 60115
Waitlist for new clients
Utilizing evidence-based practices, I strive to support, encourage, educate, and empower my clients. Together we'll work side by side to help strengthen awareness, communication, increase personal growth and healing within yourself and your relationship. We will also identify strengths, patterns, coping skills. My specialties include Acute, Chronic and Complex Traumas, Suicidality, Post Traumatic Stress Disorders, Anxiety, Depression, Life Transitions. I use many counseling modalities that are specific to individual needs and preferences, such as Systemic Theory, CBT, Person Centered and Trauma Informed Approaches.
Utilizing evidence-based practices, I strive to support, encourage, educate, and empower my clients. Together we'll work side by side to help strengthen awareness, communication, increase personal growth and healing within yourself and your relationship. We will also identify strengths, patterns, coping skills. My specialties include Acute, Chronic and Complex Traumas, Suicidality, Post Traumatic Stress Disorders, Anxiety, Depression, Life Transitions. I use many counseling modalities that are specific to individual needs and preferences, such as Systemic Theory, CBT, Person Centered and Trauma Informed Approaches.
(815) 501-5974 View (815) 501-5974
Photo of Anxiety And Depression Counseling New Hope Counseling Center, LMFT, LCSW, Marriage & Family Therapist
Anxiety And Depression Counseling New Hope Counseling Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dekalb, IL 60115
We specialize in couples counseling, affair recovery, teen anxiety and depression, school avoidance, PTSD recovery, depression and anxiety.
Immediate openings at our DeKalb location! Is your marriage struggling to thrive? Are you worried about changes you've seen in your teenager? Have you experienced trauma that has left you unable to manage day to day life? Our therapists are here to provide a safe place for you to come ask questions, receive a listening ear, and walk with you through life's challenges.
We specialize in couples counseling, affair recovery, teen anxiety and depression, school avoidance, PTSD recovery, depression and anxiety.
Immediate openings at our DeKalb location! Is your marriage struggling to thrive? Are you worried about changes you've seen in your teenager? Have you experienced trauma that has left you unable to manage day to day life? Our therapists are here to provide a safe place for you to come ask questions, receive a listening ear, and walk with you through life's challenges.
(224) 302-6961 View (224) 302-6961
Photo of Candice Riles-Daniels - Healing Crown Counseling PLLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Healing Crown Counseling PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dekalb, IL 60115  (Online Only)
Candice has worked with clients who have struggled with mood disorders, anxiety, psychosis, grief and loss, substance abuse, LGBTQ Issues, personality disorders, and PTSD. Her specialties include struggles with intimate and family relationships, personality disorders, criminal thinking, anger management, poor self image, depression, and trauma. Candice prioritizes the therapeutic relationship and rapport that is developed with each of her clients. She is passionate about helping clients draw strength from their experiences; to live a better quality of life and reach personal fulfillment.
Candice has worked with clients who have struggled with mood disorders, anxiety, psychosis, grief and loss, substance abuse, LGBTQ Issues, personality disorders, and PTSD. Her specialties include struggles with intimate and family relationships, personality disorders, criminal thinking, anger management, poor self image, depression, and trauma. Candice prioritizes the therapeutic relationship and rapport that is developed with each of her clients. She is passionate about helping clients draw strength from their experiences; to live a better quality of life and reach personal fulfillment.
(779) 252-7348 View (779) 252-7348
Photo of Amr Kireem, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amr Kireem
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Dekalb, IL 60115
I have been providing therapy to adolescents, adults of all ages, and couples.
My name is Dr. Amr Kireem, a clinical psychologist and licensed clinical professional counselor (LCPC) in the state of Illinois. I have been working with clients since 2009 who struggle with anxiety, depression, ADHD, addiction, OCD, PTSD/trauma, relationship issues, codependency, life transitions, and other symptoms. Applying evidence-based approaches, changing faulty assumptions, and finding HOPE are the keys to a successful outcome, while keeping the individual's culture and ethnicity in mind.
I have been providing therapy to adolescents, adults of all ages, and couples.
My name is Dr. Amr Kireem, a clinical psychologist and licensed clinical professional counselor (LCPC) in the state of Illinois. I have been working with clients since 2009 who struggle with anxiety, depression, ADHD, addiction, OCD, PTSD/trauma, relationship issues, codependency, life transitions, and other symptoms. Applying evidence-based approaches, changing faulty assumptions, and finding HOPE are the keys to a successful outcome, while keeping the individual's culture and ethnicity in mind.
(773) 923-1873 View (773) 923-1873
Photo of Rebecca Esser, MA, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rebecca Esser
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Dekalb, IL 60115  (Online Only)
In conjunction to couples therapy I also provide sex therapy to both couples and individuals to help rediscover the silenced parts, such as, desire and eroctic energy to create healthy sexuality.
Everyone struggles. from time to time. I am committed to helping my clients harness their power to foster healing and restore balance to those who have been impacted by, days of feeling defeated and overwhelmed, mental health, trauma, relationship issues, grief and loss, addiction and other life stressors. I provide a collaborative, safe, non-judgmental, empathetic environment in which you are free to discover your true authentic self while developing meaningful and lasting solutions to emotional, behavioral and relational struggles. I help clients gain insight about how their past impacts the present and am EMDR trained.
In conjunction to couples therapy I also provide sex therapy to both couples and individuals to help rediscover the silenced parts, such as, desire and eroctic energy to create healthy sexuality.
Everyone struggles. from time to time. I am committed to helping my clients harness their power to foster healing and restore balance to those who have been impacted by, days of feeling defeated and overwhelmed, mental health, trauma, relationship issues, grief and loss, addiction and other life stressors. I provide a collaborative, safe, non-judgmental, empathetic environment in which you are free to discover your true authentic self while developing meaningful and lasting solutions to emotional, behavioral and relational struggles. I help clients gain insight about how their past impacts the present and am EMDR trained.
(779) 228-4911 View (779) 228-4911
Photo of Evelyn Comber, PhD, LCPC, MA, Counselor
Evelyn Comber
Counselor, PhD, LCPC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dekalb, IL 60115  (Online Only)
Change (no matter what it is) challenges your perceptions, feeling, memories, habits, and relationships. It starts out hard and messy, but it is growth. You are becoming a better parent, friend, partner, worker. But, you may not yet have much confidence in the decisions you're making. You want someone to listen carefully and to not question your sanity, in a non-judgmental, compassionate and insightful way. You know self questioning is normal, but you also know that talking it over with someone who has your best interests at heart will help you to feel better and more confident about your choices.
Change (no matter what it is) challenges your perceptions, feeling, memories, habits, and relationships. It starts out hard and messy, but it is growth. You are becoming a better parent, friend, partner, worker. But, you may not yet have much confidence in the decisions you're making. You want someone to listen carefully and to not question your sanity, in a non-judgmental, compassionate and insightful way. You know self questioning is normal, but you also know that talking it over with someone who has your best interests at heart will help you to feel better and more confident about your choices.
(815) 216-9829 View (815) 216-9829
Photo of Dr. Scott Sibley, PhD, LMFT, CFLE, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Scott Sibley
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, CFLE
Verified Verified
Dekalb, IL 60115
Are you struggling in a relationship? I have a passion for helping individuals, couples, and families with the challenges in their lives. Regardless of whether you are experiencing depression, anxiety, addiction, romantic relationship issues, problems or trauma related to your family of origin, or needing help navigating through transitions in life, I am here to assist you. I know that with the right support a person can be resilient and find the healing they need in their lives. We can work together to achieve your goals and improve your relationships. I invite you to visit my website DecideToCommit.com to learn more about me.
Are you struggling in a relationship? I have a passion for helping individuals, couples, and families with the challenges in their lives. Regardless of whether you are experiencing depression, anxiety, addiction, romantic relationship issues, problems or trauma related to your family of origin, or needing help navigating through transitions in life, I am here to assist you. I know that with the right support a person can be resilient and find the healing they need in their lives. We can work together to achieve your goals and improve your relationships. I invite you to visit my website DecideToCommit.com to learn more about me.
(815) 473-3835 View (815) 473-3835
Photo of Amanda Ruppert, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Amanda Ruppert
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Dekalb, IL 60115
The therapeutic approaches that I utilize include: CBT & DBT when appropriate, Bowenian/Transgenerational Therapy, Structural Therapy, Attachment Therapy, Gottman Method Couples Therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS) & Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR).
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I utilize systemic thinking by looking beyond an individual and observing how their surrounding environments/relationships impact them. I find this approach to be highly effective and necessary to promote personal growth. I believe that everyone is worthy of being able to share their story in a supportive, non-judgmental environment. I feel privileged to be a part of someone's journey to understanding their past, being aware of the present and setting goals for their future.
The therapeutic approaches that I utilize include: CBT & DBT when appropriate, Bowenian/Transgenerational Therapy, Structural Therapy, Attachment Therapy, Gottman Method Couples Therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS) & Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR).
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I utilize systemic thinking by looking beyond an individual and observing how their surrounding environments/relationships impact them. I find this approach to be highly effective and necessary to promote personal growth. I believe that everyone is worthy of being able to share their story in a supportive, non-judgmental environment. I feel privileged to be a part of someone's journey to understanding their past, being aware of the present and setting goals for their future.
(779) 222-2709 View (779) 222-2709
Photo of Gina L Raimondi, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gina L Raimondi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dekalb, IL 60115
I am looking forward to working with you. I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, substance abuse, self harm, and eating disorders. I have extensive experience working with adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I am sensitive to individuals with an extensive history from childhood trauma and sexual abuse. Depression and anxiety can plague many of us, however psychotherapy treatment is needed for those of us who need more support. I am here for you, your friend, family member, or loved one.
I am looking forward to working with you. I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, substance abuse, self harm, and eating disorders. I have extensive experience working with adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I am sensitive to individuals with an extensive history from childhood trauma and sexual abuse. Depression and anxiety can plague many of us, however psychotherapy treatment is needed for those of us who need more support. I am here for you, your friend, family member, or loved one.
(847) 380-8092 View (847) 380-8092
Photo of Debra K Hirschberg, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Debra K Hirschberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dekalb, IL 60115
Don't let your life or your relationships spiral out of control any longer. If you feel like you don't have a voice or are struggling with life or relationships we can help. We at Hope Reins are committed to helping you experience hope again, a sense of purpose and real change. We work with individuals, couples, children, teens and families who are struggling with trust, depression, anxiety, relationship and other problems. If you have not found help with traditional therapy, we offer fun, adventurous and creative alternative therapies such as horse and art therapy.
Don't let your life or your relationships spiral out of control any longer. If you feel like you don't have a voice or are struggling with life or relationships we can help. We at Hope Reins are committed to helping you experience hope again, a sense of purpose and real change. We work with individuals, couples, children, teens and families who are struggling with trust, depression, anxiety, relationship and other problems. If you have not found help with traditional therapy, we offer fun, adventurous and creative alternative therapies such as horse and art therapy.
(847) 513-9160 View (847) 513-9160
Photo of Michael W. Elgersma, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Michael W. Elgersma
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Dekalb, IL 60115  (Online Only)
I am devoted to working with families: helping couples work through concerns in their marriage or relationships, helping parents with the difficult task of raising children, and helping children/adolescents dealing with the various difficult challenges they experience as a young person in today’s world.
Life can be difficult and frustrating. Our lives can become messy and complicated. But there is hope. I am dedicated to walking alongside of others to help them find hope and make some sense of their life and experiences. I sincerely believe that counseling gives an individual the opportunity to experience significant growth and healing through a greater personal awareness and understanding of themselves and the world around them.
I am devoted to working with families: helping couples work through concerns in their marriage or relationships, helping parents with the difficult task of raising children, and helping children/adolescents dealing with the various difficult challenges they experience as a young person in today’s world.
Life can be difficult and frustrating. Our lives can become messy and complicated. But there is hope. I am dedicated to walking alongside of others to help them find hope and make some sense of their life and experiences. I sincerely believe that counseling gives an individual the opportunity to experience significant growth and healing through a greater personal awareness and understanding of themselves and the world around them.
(815) 981-3239 View (815) 981-3239
Photo of Halie Howells, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Halie Howells
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Dekalb, IL 60115
I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist; I work with families, couples, and individuals and conceptualize problems by piecing together the influence of the larger system (family, school, environment, etc).
Therapy is about gathering and understanding the pieces of your story. The themes of our story, the characters we've encountered, the obstacles we've faced, and the meaning we've made from our experiences, these are all complex things. It's my job (and joy!) to sort through these pieces and provide a new lens in order to challenge you, push you, and help you grow into the most healthy, authentic version of you. I love helping people understand themselves better and find courage to connect more with those around them.
I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist; I work with families, couples, and individuals and conceptualize problems by piecing together the influence of the larger system (family, school, environment, etc).
Therapy is about gathering and understanding the pieces of your story. The themes of our story, the characters we've encountered, the obstacles we've faced, and the meaning we've made from our experiences, these are all complex things. It's my job (and joy!) to sort through these pieces and provide a new lens in order to challenge you, push you, and help you grow into the most healthy, authentic version of you. I love helping people understand themselves better and find courage to connect more with those around them.
(402) 858-7805 View (402) 858-7805
Photo of Dr. Jessica Swenson, PhD, LCPC, CCTP, SOTP
Dr. Jessica Swenson
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, PhD, LCPC, CCTP, SOTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dekalb, IL 60115
I work with all relationship types - you do not have to be straight and married to attend couples therapy! Not ready to attend therapy or want to try to DIY first? I can help! Go to my website link above to see more!.
"Should I stay or should I go?" This is the age old question asked to me, for the last 10 years by just about every couple experiencing distress that I've sat with. If you are reading this, my guess is that you asked yourself the exact same question at some point...Stay? Or Go? If you are struggling to find the right path for you in this relationship - I can help. As Psychologist, Clinical Therapist & an expert in the science of love, I specialize in helping people rebuild their attachment w/ each other, reduce conflict, repair trust, create positive feelings, and take control of emotional & physical symptoms that hold you back.
I work with all relationship types - you do not have to be straight and married to attend couples therapy! Not ready to attend therapy or want to try to DIY first? I can help! Go to my website link above to see more!.
"Should I stay or should I go?" This is the age old question asked to me, for the last 10 years by just about every couple experiencing distress that I've sat with. If you are reading this, my guess is that you asked yourself the exact same question at some point...Stay? Or Go? If you are struggling to find the right path for you in this relationship - I can help. As Psychologist, Clinical Therapist & an expert in the science of love, I specialize in helping people rebuild their attachment w/ each other, reduce conflict, repair trust, create positive feelings, and take control of emotional & physical symptoms that hold you back.
(331) 225-1762 View (331) 225-1762
Photo of Christine Novak - Changes Counseling, LLC, MA, LCPC
Changes Counseling, LLC
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Dekalb, IL 60115
For couples, we use researched-based methods to improve relationships.
Hi, I'm Christine Novak, MA, LCPC, of Changes Counseling, LLC. We offer counseling to individuals, couples, youth and families in Rochelle and Peru, Illinois. Changes Counseling has been serving rural Northern Illinois since 2010 with professional, confidential mental health services. With a team of experienced, licensed counselors we know how to help you and your family improve your situation. Our first priority is for you to feel comfortable, listened to, and respected. We have helped hundreds of people through life's challenges. Call us today for an appointment. We look forward to helping your reach your goals.
For couples, we use researched-based methods to improve relationships.
Hi, I'm Christine Novak, MA, LCPC, of Changes Counseling, LLC. We offer counseling to individuals, couples, youth and families in Rochelle and Peru, Illinois. Changes Counseling has been serving rural Northern Illinois since 2010 with professional, confidential mental health services. With a team of experienced, licensed counselors we know how to help you and your family improve your situation. Our first priority is for you to feel comfortable, listened to, and respected. We have helped hundreds of people through life's challenges. Call us today for an appointment. We look forward to helping your reach your goals.
(815) 620-4944 View (815) 620-4944
1
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.