Couples Counseling Therapists in Overland Park, KS

Photo of Devonie Atchison, MS, LCMFT, LMFT, LCAC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Devonie Atchison
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LCMFT, LMFT, LCAC
Verified Verified
15 Endorsed
Overland Park, KS 66210
Online scheduling is available. Are you wanting to experience changes in your life or your relationship, but aren't sure where to begin? Perhaps things like shame, resentment, hurt, trauma, depression, or anxiety are getting in the way of your happiness. You are worthy of feeling supported and connected as you navigate through these challenges. You don’t have to feel stuck, hopeless, or alone. I strive to support relationships of those who are seeking security and connection and aid individuals in (re)discovering their inherent worthiness.
Online scheduling is available. Are you wanting to experience changes in your life or your relationship, but aren't sure where to begin? Perhaps things like shame, resentment, hurt, trauma, depression, or anxiety are getting in the way of your happiness. You are worthy of feeling supported and connected as you navigate through these challenges. You don’t have to feel stuck, hopeless, or alone. I strive to support relationships of those who are seeking security and connection and aid individuals in (re)discovering their inherent worthiness.
(785) 789-3227 View (785) 789-3227
Photo of Debra Neal - Pathways to Empowerment, MEd, LCPC
Pathways to Empowerment
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MEd, LCPC
Verified Verified
Overland Park, KS 66212
Couples and individuals who believe in the pricelessness of a relationship that works and progress together through hard times, My work is dedicated to helping couples learn how to stop the cycle of hurting and harming each other and seek, with the right tools, understanding, trusting and loving again.
I believe every individual and couple deserves to get more of what they want and need out of their committed relationship. I believe in the pricelessness of two individuals working together as a team learning how to partner better with a specialist in relationship counseling. Yes, I understand the pain of broken trust, communication breakdown and unrelenting tension within the relationship. Absolutely, I know the loneliness, the hopelessness, and the resentment of a relationship that is not working. Don’t Give Up! Relationships are hard. Don’t give up, break up or risk having a breakdown. My work is dedicated to help others
Couples and individuals who believe in the pricelessness of a relationship that works and progress together through hard times, My work is dedicated to helping couples learn how to stop the cycle of hurting and harming each other and seek, with the right tools, understanding, trusting and loving again.
I believe every individual and couple deserves to get more of what they want and need out of their committed relationship. I believe in the pricelessness of two individuals working together as a team learning how to partner better with a specialist in relationship counseling. Yes, I understand the pain of broken trust, communication breakdown and unrelenting tension within the relationship. Absolutely, I know the loneliness, the hopelessness, and the resentment of a relationship that is not working. Don’t Give Up! Relationships are hard. Don’t give up, break up or risk having a breakdown. My work is dedicated to help others
(833) 407-0783 View (833) 407-0783
Photo of Lauren King Mason, MA, LCMFT, BCN, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lauren King Mason
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LCMFT, BCN
Verified Verified
Overland Park, KS 66210
Along with offering psychotherapy (talk-therapy) to couples, individuals and adolescents, I am also excited to share neurofeedback as a treatment option.
I am committed to meeting my clients right where they are on their journey. I draw them out into a space that is safe, authentic and affirming. I desire to walk along side, encourage and equip my clients to become the very best version of their true self. It is my intent to bring about soulful transformation and restoration; inspiring whole-hearted living.
Along with offering psychotherapy (talk-therapy) to couples, individuals and adolescents, I am also excited to share neurofeedback as a treatment option.
I am committed to meeting my clients right where they are on their journey. I draw them out into a space that is safe, authentic and affirming. I desire to walk along side, encourage and equip my clients to become the very best version of their true self. It is my intent to bring about soulful transformation and restoration; inspiring whole-hearted living.
(913) 808-2999 View (913) 808-2999
Photo of Sarah Fry, MA, LMFT, LMAC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sarah Fry
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LMAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Overland Park, KS 66210
Hi! I'm Sarah, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and licensed Master's Addiction Counselor with a passion for guiding individuals, couples, and families through life's most challenging moments. With a focus on anxiety, depression, addiction, and significant life transitions, I hold a unique ability to connect with my clients and foster a safe environment for healing and growth. I believe in challenging social norms to create meaningful discussions that lead to empowerment and understanding. Through my compassionate approach, I strive to illuminate pathways to emotional well-being for those in my care!
Hi! I'm Sarah, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and licensed Master's Addiction Counselor with a passion for guiding individuals, couples, and families through life's most challenging moments. With a focus on anxiety, depression, addiction, and significant life transitions, I hold a unique ability to connect with my clients and foster a safe environment for healing and growth. I believe in challenging social norms to create meaningful discussions that lead to empowerment and understanding. Through my compassionate approach, I strive to illuminate pathways to emotional well-being for those in my care!
(913) 578-3763 View (913) 578-3763
Photo of Kate Patt, MA, LCMFT, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kate Patt
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LCMFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
Overland Park, KS 66207
Waitlist for new clients
Healing is possible, and it begins in the midst of a trust-filled therapeutic relationship.
Hello, I'm Kate. I would describe myself as a warm, experienced, and empathetic psychotherapist. My flexible, integrative approach allows me to confidently work with a variety of ages and concerns, including: anxiety, depression, OCD, family conflict, relationship difficulties, issues of spirituality, and more. Additionally, I have advanced training and experience in working with disordered eating.
Healing is possible, and it begins in the midst of a trust-filled therapeutic relationship.
Hello, I'm Kate. I would describe myself as a warm, experienced, and empathetic psychotherapist. My flexible, integrative approach allows me to confidently work with a variety of ages and concerns, including: anxiety, depression, OCD, family conflict, relationship difficulties, issues of spirituality, and more. Additionally, I have advanced training and experience in working with disordered eating.
(913) 733-1297 x6 View (913) 733-1297 x6
Photo of Amy Weiskirch, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amy Weiskirch
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Overland Park, KS 66223
Midlife Counseling for Individuals and Couples. Accepting New Clients! Are you struggling with empty nest syndrome—trying to cope with midlife identity crisis—caring for aging parents—experiencing menopause or new health concerns—exploring retirement or new career paths—facing a gray divorce—or wanting to reconnect with your partner, you’re not alone. If you are going through a midlife crisis, you are most likely feeling confusion, fear, inner turmoil, and even loss of your role or purpose in life. This can be a time of tremendous stress, anxiety, and depression. I’m here to help and support you through this difficult time.
Midlife Counseling for Individuals and Couples. Accepting New Clients! Are you struggling with empty nest syndrome—trying to cope with midlife identity crisis—caring for aging parents—experiencing menopause or new health concerns—exploring retirement or new career paths—facing a gray divorce—or wanting to reconnect with your partner, you’re not alone. If you are going through a midlife crisis, you are most likely feeling confusion, fear, inner turmoil, and even loss of your role or purpose in life. This can be a time of tremendous stress, anxiety, and depression. I’m here to help and support you through this difficult time.
(913) 423-6125 View (913) 423-6125
Photo of Emily Aguilar, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Emily Aguilar
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Overland Park, KS 66210
My specialties are grief/loss, transitions, religious trauma, and couples.
Finding a therapist can be overwhelming, and at times, intimidating. I can relate to that! That's why I've made it my goal to create a safe and approachable space that naturally yields growth and accountability. My approach is mostly client-centered. I believe you are the expert on YOU and I am here to be a compassionate facilitator, listener, encourager and supporter in your process of self-discovery and healing.
My specialties are grief/loss, transitions, religious trauma, and couples.
Finding a therapist can be overwhelming, and at times, intimidating. I can relate to that! That's why I've made it my goal to create a safe and approachable space that naturally yields growth and accountability. My approach is mostly client-centered. I believe you are the expert on YOU and I am here to be a compassionate facilitator, listener, encourager and supporter in your process of self-discovery and healing.
(913) 430-1817 View (913) 430-1817
Photo of Anthony Dummermuth, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Anthony Dummermuth
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Overland Park, KS 66202
My approach to counseling is to create a safe environment where we can join together in working through whatever you are struggling with. I work with individuals, couples, and families who are struggling with a variety of personal and relational problems, and seek to restore hope, meaning, and connection. My hope is that through counseling you will feel more known and connected to yourself and to others.
My approach to counseling is to create a safe environment where we can join together in working through whatever you are struggling with. I work with individuals, couples, and families who are struggling with a variety of personal and relational problems, and seek to restore hope, meaning, and connection. My hope is that through counseling you will feel more known and connected to yourself and to others.
(913) 305-5079 View (913) 305-5079
Photo of Addie Cutler, PLMFT, LMFT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Addie Cutler
Pre-Licensed Professional, PLMFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Overland Park, KS 66212
I work with individuals and couples on issues including infidelity repair, developing healthy conflict skills, sex and intimacy, premarital/precommitment therapy, and reigniting or deepening connection.
You wish your relationship and life felt more connected, authentic, and whole. You desire to show up as your best self, but find that it’s so much harder than it should be. You tell yourself that you should forgive, move on, commit; and that you should have changed already! You feel bogged down by anxiety and fear, wondering if things can really change. You hope to find deep connection and healing, and hope that therapy is the next step on your path. Let’s walk together toward the life you desire!
I work with individuals and couples on issues including infidelity repair, developing healthy conflict skills, sex and intimacy, premarital/precommitment therapy, and reigniting or deepening connection.
You wish your relationship and life felt more connected, authentic, and whole. You desire to show up as your best self, but find that it’s so much harder than it should be. You tell yourself that you should forgive, move on, commit; and that you should have changed already! You feel bogged down by anxiety and fear, wondering if things can really change. You hope to find deep connection and healing, and hope that therapy is the next step on your path. Let’s walk together toward the life you desire!
(816) 623-1557 View (816) 623-1557
Photo of Carolyn S Pepper, PsyD, RYT-200, Psychologist
Carolyn S Pepper
Psychologist, PsyD, RYT-200
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Overland Park, KS 66212
I help people heal by focusing on the relationship we build together.
I enjoy working with a variety of different folks from varied background, and with a wide range of concerns. This might mean that you are ready to look at something that has been around for a while or it might be a new difficulty in your life. Clients should be ready to work and to lean into what can be a challenging process. Change is hard and it often takes more than the 1 hour a week we meet to see the changes you want in your life. Therapy does not offer a quick fix, but together we can often make big changes in relatively short amount of time. Additionally, I enjoy incorporating assessment and trauma sensitive yoga in my work.
I help people heal by focusing on the relationship we build together.
I enjoy working with a variety of different folks from varied background, and with a wide range of concerns. This might mean that you are ready to look at something that has been around for a while or it might be a new difficulty in your life. Clients should be ready to work and to lean into what can be a challenging process. Change is hard and it often takes more than the 1 hour a week we meet to see the changes you want in your life. Therapy does not offer a quick fix, but together we can often make big changes in relatively short amount of time. Additionally, I enjoy incorporating assessment and trauma sensitive yoga in my work.
(913) 354-8171 View (913) 354-8171
Photo of Reggie Jackson, LSCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Reggie Jackson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Overland Park, KS 66204  (Online Only)
Some of the areas of focus of my work include: men's issues, couples, racial trauma, depression and anxiety, complex trauma, and toxic/abusive relationships .
Thanks for taking the time to consider me as an ally on your journey! I am the founder of Satori Counseling Services and with 20 years of mental health experience, I've worked with several different folks with various challenges, including: men's issues, healing from traumas, depression and anxiety and couples work. I also offer an in person anger management and emotional regulation course that is court approved for many counties in the Kansas City Metro. Give me a call to get scheduled!
Some of the areas of focus of my work include: men's issues, couples, racial trauma, depression and anxiety, complex trauma, and toxic/abusive relationships .
Thanks for taking the time to consider me as an ally on your journey! I am the founder of Satori Counseling Services and with 20 years of mental health experience, I've worked with several different folks with various challenges, including: men's issues, healing from traumas, depression and anxiety and couples work. I also offer an in person anger management and emotional regulation course that is court approved for many counties in the Kansas City Metro. Give me a call to get scheduled!
(785) 333-3731 View (785) 333-3731
Photo of Larry W Tyndall, PhD, Psychologist
Larry W Tyndall
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Overland Park, KS 66213
In addition to mood, anxiety, and relationship issues, I specialize in working with adults who have experienced sexual, physical, and emotional abuse and/or neglect in childhood.
I believe psychotherapy is a mixture of psychoeducation (providing information to help people develop new coping and relationship skills), emotional processing (learning to identify and work through uncomfortable feelings), and corrective emotional experience (using the counseling relationship as a safe place to experiment with new interpersonal skills). I utilize a mixture of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (addressing how our thoughts and beliefs impact our emotional experience, self-image, and behavior); Family Systems Therapy (helping people gain insight into characteristic relationship patterns); and Psychodynamic Psychotherapy (understanding how ways of coping developed earlier in life may not serve us well in the present).
In addition to mood, anxiety, and relationship issues, I specialize in working with adults who have experienced sexual, physical, and emotional abuse and/or neglect in childhood.
I believe psychotherapy is a mixture of psychoeducation (providing information to help people develop new coping and relationship skills), emotional processing (learning to identify and work through uncomfortable feelings), and corrective emotional experience (using the counseling relationship as a safe place to experiment with new interpersonal skills). I utilize a mixture of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (addressing how our thoughts and beliefs impact our emotional experience, self-image, and behavior); Family Systems Therapy (helping people gain insight into characteristic relationship patterns); and Psychodynamic Psychotherapy (understanding how ways of coping developed earlier in life may not serve us well in the present).
(913) 721-4580 View (913) 721-4580
Photo of Aubree Ridley, LCMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Aubree Ridley
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Overland Park, KS 66210
You remember a time when things didn’t feel so out of control, stuck and stressful; and when family conflict, anxiety or constant work stress weren’t the “norm”... but those days feel like a distant memory. I help people just like you: busy parents, professionals and other adults and couples going through stressful transitions. Those who want to feel happier, healthier and thrive in all areas of their life. Whether your goals are achieving overall wellness, overcoming traumatic memories, creating fulfilling personal and work relationships, or simply enjoying your family again, I work to provide the support you need to move forward.
You remember a time when things didn’t feel so out of control, stuck and stressful; and when family conflict, anxiety or constant work stress weren’t the “norm”... but those days feel like a distant memory. I help people just like you: busy parents, professionals and other adults and couples going through stressful transitions. Those who want to feel happier, healthier and thrive in all areas of their life. Whether your goals are achieving overall wellness, overcoming traumatic memories, creating fulfilling personal and work relationships, or simply enjoying your family again, I work to provide the support you need to move forward.
(913) 733-0083 View (913) 733-0083
Photo of Angela L Lake, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Angela L Lake
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Overland Park, KS 66212
I support couples and families to connect and communicate with one another in a more meaningful way, to learn to accept each other where they are.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, personal relationships? Concerned about finding a therapist who will be a good fit for you? My view of therapy is to come alongside you; to support transformation into the best version of yourself; to allow you to integrate thoughts, feelings, and emotions; to work through old wounds and barriers...so you can learn to use healthier coping skills, better communication skills, and handle conflict. I believe when you feel accepted and supported, then you are more able to risk vulnerability, to look into yourself in order to grow, enjoy being you and have healthier connections.
I support couples and families to connect and communicate with one another in a more meaningful way, to learn to accept each other where they are.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, personal relationships? Concerned about finding a therapist who will be a good fit for you? My view of therapy is to come alongside you; to support transformation into the best version of yourself; to allow you to integrate thoughts, feelings, and emotions; to work through old wounds and barriers...so you can learn to use healthier coping skills, better communication skills, and handle conflict. I believe when you feel accepted and supported, then you are more able to risk vulnerability, to look into yourself in order to grow, enjoy being you and have healthier connections.
(913) 728-5132 View (913) 728-5132
Photo of Amy Burton, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Amy Burton
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Overland Park, KS 66210
In my work with couples, I help partners enhance or mend a relationship by being attuned to one another and re-establishing an emotional connection.
A counselor's technical skills are only as important as his or her ability to connect with you, otherwise personal growth in therapy may be limited. Establishing a balanced, trusting, supportive, and safe relationship with you is a paramount aspiration within my counseling framework. It is my mission to provide you with empathic counseling support by not only using research-based and proven interventions, but also with my ability to foster a supportive and nurturing therapeutic alliance. I provide comprehensive therapy for couples, individuals, adolescents, and families utilizing a client centered, emotionally-focused approach.
In my work with couples, I help partners enhance or mend a relationship by being attuned to one another and re-establishing an emotional connection.
A counselor's technical skills are only as important as his or her ability to connect with you, otherwise personal growth in therapy may be limited. Establishing a balanced, trusting, supportive, and safe relationship with you is a paramount aspiration within my counseling framework. It is my mission to provide you with empathic counseling support by not only using research-based and proven interventions, but also with my ability to foster a supportive and nurturing therapeutic alliance. I provide comprehensive therapy for couples, individuals, adolescents, and families utilizing a client centered, emotionally-focused approach.
(913) 243-2699 View (913) 243-2699
Photo of Ashley Shadel, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ashley Shadel
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Overland Park, KS 66210
Feeling stuck in your day-to-day life or relationships? Or just ready to take that next step to care for yourself? I am a licensed Marriage & Family Therapist and openly welcome individuals (adolescents through adults), couples, and families using an empathetic approach that incorporates real-world tools and coping skills. I treat a variety of issues including anxiety, overwhelm, depression, self-esteem, ADHD, and couple conflict. I am also a Certified Prepare-Enrich Facilitator and offer premarital and marital enrichment counseling and believe wholeheartedly in couples therapy throughout the lifespan of a relationship.
Feeling stuck in your day-to-day life or relationships? Or just ready to take that next step to care for yourself? I am a licensed Marriage & Family Therapist and openly welcome individuals (adolescents through adults), couples, and families using an empathetic approach that incorporates real-world tools and coping skills. I treat a variety of issues including anxiety, overwhelm, depression, self-esteem, ADHD, and couple conflict. I am also a Certified Prepare-Enrich Facilitator and offer premarital and marital enrichment counseling and believe wholeheartedly in couples therapy throughout the lifespan of a relationship.
(913) 423-8729 View (913) 423-8729
Photo of Lizzy Hollwedel, MS, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lizzy Hollwedel
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Overland Park, KS 66210  (Online Only)
Hello! I’m so glad you came across my page! I know personally how hard it can be to take the first step in finding therapy. Experiencing mental and emotional stress and overwhelm is so hard to navigate, especially alone! Maybe for you, your unwanted thoughts feel incredibly overwhelming and out of control. Maybe anxieties and insecurities are popping up and you're exhausted managing that persistent fear. Maybe you are navigating through a life change, such as pregnancy or postpartum and it is bringing up anxiety and overwhelm. Whatever it is for you, I am so honored to partner with women navigating these struggles.
Hello! I’m so glad you came across my page! I know personally how hard it can be to take the first step in finding therapy. Experiencing mental and emotional stress and overwhelm is so hard to navigate, especially alone! Maybe for you, your unwanted thoughts feel incredibly overwhelming and out of control. Maybe anxieties and insecurities are popping up and you're exhausted managing that persistent fear. Maybe you are navigating through a life change, such as pregnancy or postpartum and it is bringing up anxiety and overwhelm. Whatever it is for you, I am so honored to partner with women navigating these struggles.
(785) 264-6144 View (785) 264-6144
Photo of Rebecca Randall, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rebecca Randall
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Overland Park, KS 66212  (Online Only)
Welcome! It is my honor and a joy to meet you. My name is Rebecca Randall and I am a licensed professional counselor in Kansas. I received my Master of Arts in Counseling from MidAmerica Nazarene University, with an emphasis in marriage, couples and families. If you are here, I imagine you are in search of someone to listen, understand and hold your story with you. My passion is to help people overcome shame, loneliness, grief, trauma, big life transitions and conflict in their relationships. I work specifically with young adults and couples as they navigate daily life struggles.
Welcome! It is my honor and a joy to meet you. My name is Rebecca Randall and I am a licensed professional counselor in Kansas. I received my Master of Arts in Counseling from MidAmerica Nazarene University, with an emphasis in marriage, couples and families. If you are here, I imagine you are in search of someone to listen, understand and hold your story with you. My passion is to help people overcome shame, loneliness, grief, trauma, big life transitions and conflict in their relationships. I work specifically with young adults and couples as they navigate daily life struggles.
(913) 285-8745 View (913) 285-8745
Photo of Terri Clinton Dichiser, MA, JD, LCPC, NCC
Terri Clinton Dichiser
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, JD, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Overland Park, KS 66210
My passion is collaborating with individuals and couples to help them achieve their goals for a fulfilling life and relationship.
I believe in the power of collaborating with clients to help them achieve their goals for a fulfilling life. I have helped thousands of individuals and couples figure out their path, including pre-marriage, marriage counseling, separation, divorce and blended families. These are big questions and struggles mixed with complex and difficult questions. I also work with individuals living with depression, anxiety and hopelessness. I won't judge you and you can ask questions in a safe, secure environment with a caring professional. I uniquely understand the legal issues around divorce and how to emotionally navigate that path.
My passion is collaborating with individuals and couples to help them achieve their goals for a fulfilling life and relationship.
I believe in the power of collaborating with clients to help them achieve their goals for a fulfilling life. I have helped thousands of individuals and couples figure out their path, including pre-marriage, marriage counseling, separation, divorce and blended families. These are big questions and struggles mixed with complex and difficult questions. I also work with individuals living with depression, anxiety and hopelessness. I won't judge you and you can ask questions in a safe, secure environment with a caring professional. I uniquely understand the legal issues around divorce and how to emotionally navigate that path.
(913) 270-2437 View (913) 270-2437
Photo of Malique Taylor, MS, LPC(KS), PLPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Malique Taylor
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC(KS), PLPC
Verified Verified
Overland Park, KS 66210
I personally come from a school that is EFT (Emotion Focused Therapy) focused, so when it comes to couples we use a lot of the Gottman cycle as the basis of sessions.
My initial desire to do therapy started with wanting to help minority men take some of the worlds weight off of their shoulders. I am also strongly motivated to help couples find their relationship goals. As of now I can help those who reside in Kansas or Missouri.
I personally come from a school that is EFT (Emotion Focused Therapy) focused, so when it comes to couples we use a lot of the Gottman cycle as the basis of sessions.
My initial desire to do therapy started with wanting to help minority men take some of the worlds weight off of their shoulders. I am also strongly motivated to help couples find their relationship goals. As of now I can help those who reside in Kansas or Missouri.
(913) 404-5249 View (913) 404-5249
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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.