Couples Counseling Therapists in Arlington, MA

Photo of Chelsea Levy, PsyD, Psychologist
Chelsea Levy
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Arlington, MA 02474
I am a licensed psychologist providing adult psychotherapy, couples therapy, sex therapy and family therapy. I approach therapy from a relational perspective, and enjoy working collaboratively with clients and their strengths to create change. I am particularly interested in working with clients around family of origin issues, relationship issues, trauma, sexual relationships and sexuality. I work with couples on communication, strengthening relational dynamics and sexual or intimacy concerns. I also work as a sex therapist and am open to working whether you come as a couple or as an individual.
I am a licensed psychologist providing adult psychotherapy, couples therapy, sex therapy and family therapy. I approach therapy from a relational perspective, and enjoy working collaboratively with clients and their strengths to create change. I am particularly interested in working with clients around family of origin issues, relationship issues, trauma, sexual relationships and sexuality. I work with couples on communication, strengthening relational dynamics and sexual or intimacy concerns. I also work as a sex therapist and am open to working whether you come as a couple or as an individual.
(781) 350-9375 View (781) 350-9375
Photo of Patricia Cadet, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Patricia Cadet
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, MA 02474
My professional practice consists of individuals, couples, children and families.
I believe therapy is an opportunity to heal, grow, explore and create change. If you are looking for extra support or guidance through a challenging situation and ready to move to a new direction. My style is interactive,utilizing the client's strengths, as we work together towards achieving your goals.
My professional practice consists of individuals, couples, children and families.
I believe therapy is an opportunity to heal, grow, explore and create change. If you are looking for extra support or guidance through a challenging situation and ready to move to a new direction. My style is interactive,utilizing the client's strengths, as we work together towards achieving your goals.
(617) 440-4008 View (617) 440-4008
Photo of Christie M Carlson, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christie M Carlson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Arlington, MA 02474
With a background in education, experience with diverse populations and different ages, I have a thorough understanding of, and interest in, human development, families and couples, loss and grief.
Welcome! Everyone has resources and strengths that can enhance one's life and relationships. People who contact me often feel overwhelmed, depressed, anxious, ashamed, or burdened in some way. I will help you to identify and use your unique resources to address particular challenges and to create the life you choose to live.
With a background in education, experience with diverse populations and different ages, I have a thorough understanding of, and interest in, human development, families and couples, loss and grief.
Welcome! Everyone has resources and strengths that can enhance one's life and relationships. People who contact me often feel overwhelmed, depressed, anxious, ashamed, or burdened in some way. I will help you to identify and use your unique resources to address particular challenges and to create the life you choose to live.
(781) 519-9923 View (781) 519-9923
Photo of Chuck Weinstein, LMHC, CPRP, CPS, Counselor
Chuck Weinstein
Counselor, LMHC, CPRP, CPS
Verified Verified
Arlington, MA 02474
Waitlist for new clients
While I am currently at capacity with clients, there are times when openings become available. Drawing from over three decades of experience in mental health, addiction counseling, and psychiatric rehabilitation, I offer specialized, personalized approaches for both individuals and couples. In couples counseling, our focus is on enhancing communication and fostering skills to reignite connections and reopen hearts. I approach our work with utmost respect, collaboration, and a deep appreciation for your unique journey. You are the expert in your own experience, I provide unwavering support, strategies and realistic optimism.
While I am currently at capacity with clients, there are times when openings become available. Drawing from over three decades of experience in mental health, addiction counseling, and psychiatric rehabilitation, I offer specialized, personalized approaches for both individuals and couples. In couples counseling, our focus is on enhancing communication and fostering skills to reignite connections and reopen hearts. I approach our work with utmost respect, collaboration, and a deep appreciation for your unique journey. You are the expert in your own experience, I provide unwavering support, strategies and realistic optimism.
(339) 217-8830 View (339) 217-8830
Photo of Jessica Anne Dreifuss, PhD, Psychologist
Jessica Anne Dreifuss
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Arlington, MA 02476
I would be honored to help you work toward a life and/or relationship that feels fulfilling and meaningful.
I am a psychologist experienced in working in outpatient and partial hospitalization settings who specializes in both couples therapy and individual therapy for adults to address a broad range of difficulties. I have specific expertise in couples therapy for relationship distress and communication problems as well as in individual therapy to treat mood disorders, anxiety, OCD, relationship issues, and life transitions/stressors. I also often work with individuals who have eating disorders, personality disorders, ADHD, and substance use problems. My approach is client-centered and founded in evidence-based treatment techniques.
I would be honored to help you work toward a life and/or relationship that feels fulfilling and meaningful.
I am a psychologist experienced in working in outpatient and partial hospitalization settings who specializes in both couples therapy and individual therapy for adults to address a broad range of difficulties. I have specific expertise in couples therapy for relationship distress and communication problems as well as in individual therapy to treat mood disorders, anxiety, OCD, relationship issues, and life transitions/stressors. I also often work with individuals who have eating disorders, personality disorders, ADHD, and substance use problems. My approach is client-centered and founded in evidence-based treatment techniques.
(339) 331-0788 View (339) 331-0788
Photo of Yvonne Christina Castaneda, LICSW, MSW, CLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Yvonne Christina Castaneda
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW, CLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, MA 02476
Waitlist for new clients
I use different treatment modalities to treat symptoms that are triggered by any number of life stressors: family conflicts, relationship concerns, medical conditions, work related stress, acculturation difficulties, existential angst.
I won't know on day one what method of treatment works best for you, because people reveal themselves over time, and at their own pace. My holistic, culturally sensitive approach is rooted in respect, truth and compassion. I respect the unique way in which you show up in the world. I believe there is power in discovering your truth, and I will always show you compassion. I incorporate my knowledge of the human body that I gained through professional experience in the fitness/yoga industry to help you better understand the connection between the mind, the body and the spirit.
I use different treatment modalities to treat symptoms that are triggered by any number of life stressors: family conflicts, relationship concerns, medical conditions, work related stress, acculturation difficulties, existential angst.
I won't know on day one what method of treatment works best for you, because people reveal themselves over time, and at their own pace. My holistic, culturally sensitive approach is rooted in respect, truth and compassion. I respect the unique way in which you show up in the world. I believe there is power in discovering your truth, and I will always show you compassion. I incorporate my knowledge of the human body that I gained through professional experience in the fitness/yoga industry to help you better understand the connection between the mind, the body and the spirit.
(781) 208-5419 View (781) 208-5419
Photo of Joanna M. Poole, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Joanna M. Poole
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Arlington, MA 02474
Waitlist for new clients
I'm an experienced therapist with a collaborative, client-centered approach that incorporates my professional training, life experience, and ongoing passion for the work. For more than 20 years, my work has included individual and couple therapy, group therapy, teaching, training, and supervision. I am also trained and certified in the Internal Family Systems Model (IFS) and offer an IFS therapy approach for individuals and couples, as well as supervision and consultation from this lens. I start with a free phone consultation to connect with potential clients/supervisees and assess whether we are a good match for one another.
I'm an experienced therapist with a collaborative, client-centered approach that incorporates my professional training, life experience, and ongoing passion for the work. For more than 20 years, my work has included individual and couple therapy, group therapy, teaching, training, and supervision. I am also trained and certified in the Internal Family Systems Model (IFS) and offer an IFS therapy approach for individuals and couples, as well as supervision and consultation from this lens. I start with a free phone consultation to connect with potential clients/supervisees and assess whether we are a good match for one another.
(617) 936-7231 View (617) 936-7231
Photo of Andrew P Sonnekalb, PsyD, Psychologist
Andrew P Sonnekalb
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Arlington, MA 02476
It takes great courage to reach out to a therapist. It is my hope to meet you in your courage and earn your trust as we build a safe, strong, and productive connection together. Therapy is often about restoring and healing connections with oneself and others. To that end, I serve individuals, groups, couples, and families across the life span with a focus on individual and couples therapy. My experience working in outpatient clinics, schools, hospitals, outpatient primary care settings, and with public safety departments, gives me a unique perspective to draw from.
It takes great courage to reach out to a therapist. It is my hope to meet you in your courage and earn your trust as we build a safe, strong, and productive connection together. Therapy is often about restoring and healing connections with oneself and others. To that end, I serve individuals, groups, couples, and families across the life span with a focus on individual and couples therapy. My experience working in outpatient clinics, schools, hospitals, outpatient primary care settings, and with public safety departments, gives me a unique perspective to draw from.
(617) 855-0365 View (617) 855-0365
Photo of Jeffrey J Howlett, LMHC, LMFT, Counselor
Jeffrey J Howlett
Counselor, LMHC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Arlington, MA 02476
I help individuals, couples, and families identify how unhealthy patterns, beliefs, and coping skills contribute to problems.
I've been a licensed mental health counselor (LMHC), and a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) for almost twenty years. I work with individuals, couples, and families out of the basement office of my home in Arlington, MA. My most basic therapeutic approach is that everyone is born good and whole. But, life happens and it sends us difficulties that we can’t always understand or handle. These difficulties can happen as children, adolescents, adults, in school, home, work, and in our marriages. Sometimes these problematic life experiences can affect our core beliefs negatively and/or overwhelm our abilities to cope.
I help individuals, couples, and families identify how unhealthy patterns, beliefs, and coping skills contribute to problems.
I've been a licensed mental health counselor (LMHC), and a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) for almost twenty years. I work with individuals, couples, and families out of the basement office of my home in Arlington, MA. My most basic therapeutic approach is that everyone is born good and whole. But, life happens and it sends us difficulties that we can’t always understand or handle. These difficulties can happen as children, adolescents, adults, in school, home, work, and in our marriages. Sometimes these problematic life experiences can affect our core beliefs negatively and/or overwhelm our abilities to cope.
(781) 483-4693 View (781) 483-4693
Photo of Katherine L. Alson, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katherine L. Alson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Arlington, MA 02476  (Online Only)
*NOW ACCEPTING ONLINE CLIENTS IN DAYTIME HOURS* Are you unhappy w/ your relationship? Are you engaged married or in a committed relationship? Does it feel like you & your partner speak different languages, or are having the same arguments over again? Want to feel more connected? I provide pre-marital, marital, & relationship counseling to engaged, married, or dating couples to help build solid, positive connections for the future. I work with you - individually, or as a couple - to anticipate the bumps in the road, & help to have successful, loving relationships. I also work w/ Grief & Loss, Life Transitions, & Sandwich Generation.
*NOW ACCEPTING ONLINE CLIENTS IN DAYTIME HOURS* Are you unhappy w/ your relationship? Are you engaged married or in a committed relationship? Does it feel like you & your partner speak different languages, or are having the same arguments over again? Want to feel more connected? I provide pre-marital, marital, & relationship counseling to engaged, married, or dating couples to help build solid, positive connections for the future. I work with you - individually, or as a couple - to anticipate the bumps in the road, & help to have successful, loving relationships. I also work w/ Grief & Loss, Life Transitions, & Sandwich Generation.
(339) 707-7067 View (339) 707-7067
Photo of Janet Zimmern, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Janet Zimmern
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Arlington, MA 02474  (Online Only)
My areas of expertise include working with individual adult men and women, couples, families, parenting issues, & also recovery from illness.
A safe, empathic therapeutic space for clients to make meaningful changes in their lives," "I help clients make meaningful and necessary changes for overall increased life satisfaction. I do this by providing a safe, non threatening and supportive setting for clients to "do their work" and create a therapeutic space where humor is allowed. If appropriate, a client's sense of their own spirituality is acknowledged and integrated as a resource of empowerment, to sort through feelings, thoughts and behaviors that either help or hinder them in achieving identified goals.
My areas of expertise include working with individual adult men and women, couples, families, parenting issues, & also recovery from illness.
A safe, empathic therapeutic space for clients to make meaningful changes in their lives," "I help clients make meaningful and necessary changes for overall increased life satisfaction. I do this by providing a safe, non threatening and supportive setting for clients to "do their work" and create a therapeutic space where humor is allowed. If appropriate, a client's sense of their own spirituality is acknowledged and integrated as a resource of empowerment, to sort through feelings, thoughts and behaviors that either help or hinder them in achieving identified goals.
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Photo of Danielle Green, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Danielle Green
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Arlington, MA 02476
I help couples develop skills to restore trust, communicate and express feelings effectively, understand and resolve differences, and enhance intimacy. It is my passion to help couples repair their connections and create secure and lasting bonds with those who matter the most. I also offer supervision to advanced practitioners interested in learning more about working with couples. I am a Principal Staff member of NECCF and Psych Garden. I received my MSW from Columbia University in 1993 and went on to complete 5 years of specialist training in couples and family therapy at the Ackerman Institute for the Family, in New York City.
I help couples develop skills to restore trust, communicate and express feelings effectively, understand and resolve differences, and enhance intimacy. It is my passion to help couples repair their connections and create secure and lasting bonds with those who matter the most. I also offer supervision to advanced practitioners interested in learning more about working with couples. I am a Principal Staff member of NECCF and Psych Garden. I received my MSW from Columbia University in 1993 and went on to complete 5 years of specialist training in couples and family therapy at the Ackerman Institute for the Family, in New York City.
(617) 360-8833 View (617) 360-8833
Photo of Barbara Phillips, PhD, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Barbara Phillips
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Arlington, MA 02474
I work collaboratively with each client-- Individually or in Couples-- to create an environment in which the healing process can take place.
"PEACE. It does not mean to be in a place where there is no noise, trouble or hard work. It means to be in the midst of those things and still BE CALM IN YOUR HEART" (author unknown). Has childhood trauma, relationship difficulties, or life circumstances created emotional pain, physical pain, confusion, or self-doubt? Each of us has the capacity and potential to live a peaceful, fulfilling, and satisfying life. We can work together to make this growth possible. I have extensive experience in transforming patterns that cause depression, anxiety, distress, and disconnection from one's self and others.
I work collaboratively with each client-- Individually or in Couples-- to create an environment in which the healing process can take place.
"PEACE. It does not mean to be in a place where there is no noise, trouble or hard work. It means to be in the midst of those things and still BE CALM IN YOUR HEART" (author unknown). Has childhood trauma, relationship difficulties, or life circumstances created emotional pain, physical pain, confusion, or self-doubt? Each of us has the capacity and potential to live a peaceful, fulfilling, and satisfying life. We can work together to make this growth possible. I have extensive experience in transforming patterns that cause depression, anxiety, distress, and disconnection from one's self and others.
(781) 728-0811 View (781) 728-0811
Photo of Dal Hucknall, LICSW , CNC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dal Hucknall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW , CNC
Verified Verified
Arlington, MA 02474
My typical client is someone who is looking for an alternative, holistic approach to modern- day problems. These problems may include conditions such as anxiety, depression, past trauma, or relationship issues. Also, many people seek therapy and support to transition through major life changes and losses. In all cases, people are seeking to become a better, or even best, version of themselves. Many wish to build optimal daily habits in order to achieve this. Thus they appreciate my combined approach of counseling and life -coaching, as well as the multiple and varied resources ,"tools", and strategies used for concrete change.
My typical client is someone who is looking for an alternative, holistic approach to modern- day problems. These problems may include conditions such as anxiety, depression, past trauma, or relationship issues. Also, many people seek therapy and support to transition through major life changes and losses. In all cases, people are seeking to become a better, or even best, version of themselves. Many wish to build optimal daily habits in order to achieve this. Thus they appreciate my combined approach of counseling and life -coaching, as well as the multiple and varied resources ,"tools", and strategies used for concrete change.
(781) 285-7026 View (781) 285-7026
Photo of Nicole Flory, PhD, MA, Diplom-, Psychol, Psychologist
Nicole Flory
Psychologist, PhD, MA, Diplom-, Psychol
Verified Verified
Arlington, MA 02474
My international training includes sex and couples therapy, clinical psychology, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and mindfulness.
If you are struggling with a medical, sexual, or relationship problem I want you to know that I am committed to helping people just like yourself. Finding the right professional for your personal needs is an important first step towards success. My web page, http://www.drflory.com is intended to give you more details; I am a licensed psychologist with over 15 years of international work experience. Ich spreche auch deutsch.
My international training includes sex and couples therapy, clinical psychology, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and mindfulness.
If you are struggling with a medical, sexual, or relationship problem I want you to know that I am committed to helping people just like yourself. Finding the right professional for your personal needs is an important first step towards success. My web page, http://www.drflory.com is intended to give you more details; I am a licensed psychologist with over 15 years of international work experience. Ich spreche auch deutsch.
(781) 437-7264 View (781) 437-7264
Photo of Juliana Fay, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Juliana Fay
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Arlington, MA 02474
I have 15+ years of clinical experience and extensive training with a variety of evidence based models of care for both couples and individuals.
Are you and your partner feeling “stuck” and disconnected due to family stress, questions around ethical non-monogomy, or lack of sexual intimacy? Or perhaps you are struggling to find clarity following a major life transition like a divorce, infidelity, or the discovery of a family secret? I blend my clinical expertise with a down-to-earth practicality and sense of humor that leaves you feeling both heard and empowered. I provide clients an authentic and nonjudgmental experience that allows you to explore the messy and complicated parts of life.
I have 15+ years of clinical experience and extensive training with a variety of evidence based models of care for both couples and individuals.
Are you and your partner feeling “stuck” and disconnected due to family stress, questions around ethical non-monogomy, or lack of sexual intimacy? Or perhaps you are struggling to find clarity following a major life transition like a divorce, infidelity, or the discovery of a family secret? I blend my clinical expertise with a down-to-earth practicality and sense of humor that leaves you feeling both heard and empowered. I provide clients an authentic and nonjudgmental experience that allows you to explore the messy and complicated parts of life.
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Photo of Julie Marie Allfree- Walsh - Allfree Counseling, MS, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Allfree Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Arlington, MA 02474
I have a creative background ;I have helped people with many issues ranging from relationship issues such as family issues, dealing with a serious medical diagnosis, , divorce, combined families, same sex couples, poly issues , and parenting, to depression, anxiety, trauma, and career planning, as well as, spiritual issues-finding meaning in life.
Clients who value growth through insight,emotional awareness and creativity, do well with me. By growth I mean moving towards being more mindful. Being more present in body,mind and,sprit. I am best suited to treating depression, anxiety,trauma,sexual identity issues, as well as relationship issues and issues of life purpose including career and relationships. I also specialize in working with people who have been diagnosed or their child has been Diagnosed with an illness such as Type 1 diabetes.
I have a creative background ;I have helped people with many issues ranging from relationship issues such as family issues, dealing with a serious medical diagnosis, , divorce, combined families, same sex couples, poly issues , and parenting, to depression, anxiety, trauma, and career planning, as well as, spiritual issues-finding meaning in life.
Clients who value growth through insight,emotional awareness and creativity, do well with me. By growth I mean moving towards being more mindful. Being more present in body,mind and,sprit. I am best suited to treating depression, anxiety,trauma,sexual identity issues, as well as relationship issues and issues of life purpose including career and relationships. I also specialize in working with people who have been diagnosed or their child has been Diagnosed with an illness such as Type 1 diabetes.
(339) 499-7201 View (339) 499-7201
Photo of Judy Glick, MEd, LMHC, LCSW, Counselor
Judy Glick
Counselor, MEd, LMHC, LCSW
Verified Verified
Arlington, MA 02474  (Online Only)
People find me non-judgmental,compassionate,insightful and fully engaged in the therapeutic relationship.
I create a safe,supportive and nurturing environment for change to take place.I guide you in making changes that allow you to feel more successful,satisfied and empowered in your life. Along with this comes fulfilling relationships and work, enhanced self-esteem, physical well-being and more connection to yourself.I assist you in learning to interrupt negative patterns and self-defeating behaviors and help you replace them with positive feelings,new beliefs and life affirming behaviors.In the process you discover inner resources and develop self-acceptance and self compassion.I bring warmth,humor,compassion and wisdom to the process.
People find me non-judgmental,compassionate,insightful and fully engaged in the therapeutic relationship.
I create a safe,supportive and nurturing environment for change to take place.I guide you in making changes that allow you to feel more successful,satisfied and empowered in your life. Along with this comes fulfilling relationships and work, enhanced self-esteem, physical well-being and more connection to yourself.I assist you in learning to interrupt negative patterns and self-defeating behaviors and help you replace them with positive feelings,new beliefs and life affirming behaviors.In the process you discover inner resources and develop self-acceptance and self compassion.I bring warmth,humor,compassion and wisdom to the process.
(781) 443-8482 View (781) 443-8482
Photo of Emily E Manove, PhD, Psychologist
Emily E Manove
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Arlington, MA 02476
I welcome your courage in sharing your challenges with me and believe that we can work together using evidence-based therapy to create change. Our relationship matters to me and I will check in with you frequently about our work. I bring respect, empathy, humor, and authenticity (I'm a real person!) to the therapy room. I often work with OCD, anxiety, substance use, shame, perfectionism, body image, eating issues, depression, trauma/PTSD, relationship issues and parenting. I am an experienced IFS and AEDP therapist. I also use mindfulness, ACT, CBT and DBT heavily in my practice. I am a certified and experienced couples' therapist.
I welcome your courage in sharing your challenges with me and believe that we can work together using evidence-based therapy to create change. Our relationship matters to me and I will check in with you frequently about our work. I bring respect, empathy, humor, and authenticity (I'm a real person!) to the therapy room. I often work with OCD, anxiety, substance use, shame, perfectionism, body image, eating issues, depression, trauma/PTSD, relationship issues and parenting. I am an experienced IFS and AEDP therapist. I also use mindfulness, ACT, CBT and DBT heavily in my practice. I am a certified and experienced couples' therapist.
(339) 233-4578 View (339) 233-4578
Photo of Michelle Cresta, LMHC, MEd, CCTP, Counselor
Michelle Cresta
Counselor, LMHC, MEd, CCTP
Verified Verified
Arlington, MA 02474
I believe that building and strengthening the therapeutic relationship is key to your recovery.
Welcome to my page! I wanted to start by saying, I am happy you are making active steps to better manage your mental health. I know how challenging it can be to start the process. I wanted to share some information about my background, specialties and approach to help determine if I would be a good fit as your therapist. I graduated from Cambridge College in 2014 with an M.Ed in Counseling Psychology and Addiction Counseling. I have worked in an array of settings, including residential, inpatient and outpatient with individuals, families and groups. I also have experience with Vocational and Education Counseling and Case Management.
I believe that building and strengthening the therapeutic relationship is key to your recovery.
Welcome to my page! I wanted to start by saying, I am happy you are making active steps to better manage your mental health. I know how challenging it can be to start the process. I wanted to share some information about my background, specialties and approach to help determine if I would be a good fit as your therapist. I graduated from Cambridge College in 2014 with an M.Ed in Counseling Psychology and Addiction Counseling. I have worked in an array of settings, including residential, inpatient and outpatient with individuals, families and groups. I also have experience with Vocational and Education Counseling and Case Management.
(339) 217-1933 View (339) 217-1933
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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.