Couples Counseling Therapists in Shrewsbury, MA

Photo of Mercy Tandoh - RAI Counseling Services LLC, LMHC, LICSW, MA, Counselor
RAI Counseling Services LLC
Counselor, LMHC, LICSW, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Shrewsbury, MA 01545  (Online Only)
We use a collaborative approach and focus on building a trusting therapeutic relationship, two factors that are important in promoting growth in treatment.
We have openings for virtual/video sessions! RAI Counseling Services LLC has a team of counselors from diverse backgrounds, who are passionate about helping others. We believe in taking brave steps toward healing, living and growth. If you're experiencing anxiety, racing thoughts, prolonged sadness and depression, distress due to traumatic experiences, grief, mood disorders, PPA/PPD, life transitions/stressors or you've been trying to gain as much control over your life as possible due to other chronic mental illnesses, we are here for you!
We use a collaborative approach and focus on building a trusting therapeutic relationship, two factors that are important in promoting growth in treatment.
We have openings for virtual/video sessions! RAI Counseling Services LLC has a team of counselors from diverse backgrounds, who are passionate about helping others. We believe in taking brave steps toward healing, living and growth. If you're experiencing anxiety, racing thoughts, prolonged sadness and depression, distress due to traumatic experiences, grief, mood disorders, PPA/PPD, life transitions/stressors or you've been trying to gain as much control over your life as possible due to other chronic mental illnesses, we are here for you!
(508) 714-7110 View (508) 714-7110
Photo of Keith Willette, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Keith Willette
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shrewsbury, MA 01545
I work with a variety of issues however, my expertise lies in couples therapy.
I have been trained in cognitive behavioral therapy and am a graduate of Assumption College. I hold a masters degree in counseling psychology. I am certified in both family counseling and children & adolescent therapy from the Aaron T. Beck Institute.
I work with a variety of issues however, my expertise lies in couples therapy.
I have been trained in cognitive behavioral therapy and am a graduate of Assumption College. I hold a masters degree in counseling psychology. I am certified in both family counseling and children & adolescent therapy from the Aaron T. Beck Institute.
(774) 435-1928 View (774) 435-1928
Photo of JJ Jarrard - Rainbow Counseling & Consultation LLC, LMHC, Counselor
Rainbow Counseling & Consultation LLC
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Shrewsbury, MA 01545  (Online Only)
Rainbow Counseling & Consultation LLC is a practice that specializes in affirmative therapy for LGBTQ+ people, couples, families and allies.
Are you looking for a therapist that understands what it is like to be queer? Or a therapist that can help you navigate the ups and downs of non traditional relationships or family styles? You deserve therapy that is affirming and judgement-free while working through difficulties with communication, intimacy, mental health, sleep, eating, addiction, career stress, faith/religion, gender dysphoria and/or transitioning. You deserve therapy in the comfort of your own home that is easily accessible through computer or phone via secure tele-health.
Rainbow Counseling & Consultation LLC is a practice that specializes in affirmative therapy for LGBTQ+ people, couples, families and allies.
Are you looking for a therapist that understands what it is like to be queer? Or a therapist that can help you navigate the ups and downs of non traditional relationships or family styles? You deserve therapy that is affirming and judgement-free while working through difficulties with communication, intimacy, mental health, sleep, eating, addiction, career stress, faith/religion, gender dysphoria and/or transitioning. You deserve therapy in the comfort of your own home that is easily accessible through computer or phone via secure tele-health.
(508) 403-9111 View (508) 403-9111
Photo of Jenn Luke, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jenn Luke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Shrewsbury, MA 01545
Are you finding life hard to cope with and you need to work through your concerns in a safe and empathetic environment. I can provide that and more. My name is Jenn and I have been in the social work field for 28 years. I have experience working with children, adolescents, adults, couples, families and groups. I specialize in helping clients coping with stress, anxiety, depression, ADHD, relationship issues, parental challenges and grief. The ideal client is coming to therapy motivated to work through their concerns, hear a different perspective and develop strategies to overcome these challenges.
Are you finding life hard to cope with and you need to work through your concerns in a safe and empathetic environment. I can provide that and more. My name is Jenn and I have been in the social work field for 28 years. I have experience working with children, adolescents, adults, couples, families and groups. I specialize in helping clients coping with stress, anxiety, depression, ADHD, relationship issues, parental challenges and grief. The ideal client is coming to therapy motivated to work through their concerns, hear a different perspective and develop strategies to overcome these challenges.
(508) 625-7019 View (508) 625-7019
Photo of Kayla Johnson, LMHC, Counselor
Kayla Johnson
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shrewsbury, MA 01545  (Online Only)
I'm glad you're here! I have openings for Telehealth counseling! We all face challenges and unfortunately, the expectation is - don't talk about it, avoid and distract from the fears and uncomfortable emotions that are triggered. If you're a parent or caregiver, that speaks to another layer of difficulty in coping with your own triggers, as well as what your child or other family member(s) may be struggling with! You are not alone and we are not meant to do life alone. Contact me to receive support to address issues related to ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Parenting challenges, Relationship Issues, Self-Harm & related safety concerns.
I'm glad you're here! I have openings for Telehealth counseling! We all face challenges and unfortunately, the expectation is - don't talk about it, avoid and distract from the fears and uncomfortable emotions that are triggered. If you're a parent or caregiver, that speaks to another layer of difficulty in coping with your own triggers, as well as what your child or other family member(s) may be struggling with! You are not alone and we are not meant to do life alone. Contact me to receive support to address issues related to ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Parenting challenges, Relationship Issues, Self-Harm & related safety concerns.
(508) 469-4607 View (508) 469-4607
Photo of Kathleen Litchfield, MFT
Kathleen Litchfield
MFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Shrewsbury, MA 01545
I am equally passionate about supporting and guiding women who are struggling with life transitions such as loss of relationship, job change, stage of life change.
Taking the first step may be the hardest, but you’ll feel so much better when you do. And I’m here to help! I am a dedicated, experienced therapist who is passionate about my work. I help couples navigate their way through troubling times and improve the quality of their relationship. Poor communication, betrayal, feelings of disconnect and living parallel lives, are just a few of the issues couples bring to therapy. You can learn new ways to relate to one another, actively problem solve, and discover what each of you need to feel loved and cared for in your relationship. You both deserve a happy partnership!
I am equally passionate about supporting and guiding women who are struggling with life transitions such as loss of relationship, job change, stage of life change.
Taking the first step may be the hardest, but you’ll feel so much better when you do. And I’m here to help! I am a dedicated, experienced therapist who is passionate about my work. I help couples navigate their way through troubling times and improve the quality of their relationship. Poor communication, betrayal, feelings of disconnect and living parallel lives, are just a few of the issues couples bring to therapy. You can learn new ways to relate to one another, actively problem solve, and discover what each of you need to feel loved and cared for in your relationship. You both deserve a happy partnership!
(508) 214-4735 View (508) 214-4735
Photo of Victoria Flynn-Sankaran, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Victoria Flynn-Sankaran
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Shrewsbury, MA 01545  (Online Only)
Increased communication with couples is my favorite part of this work.
I created Upswing Counseling Services because time and time again I hear people feel that they are invalided in health care settings. I want clients to understand that they will drive services and their treatment.
Increased communication with couples is my favorite part of this work.
I created Upswing Counseling Services because time and time again I hear people feel that they are invalided in health care settings. I want clients to understand that they will drive services and their treatment.
(508) 231-4915 View (508) 231-4915
Photo of Laurel Earls, LMFT, RYT-, Marriage & Family Therapist
Laurel Earls
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, RYT-
Verified Verified
Shrewsbury, MA 01545  (Online Only)
Couples/families: Attack/Defend sound familiar, feeling blamed, or blaming the other? Communication feeling hard, even impossible with your partner? Individuals: are you finding yourself unhappy, unfulfilled, missing something in your life? Perhaps you are struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, isolation? I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who works with individuals, couples and families to support clients identifying and reaching their goals. Therapy can be an opportunity to acknowledge what is not working, learn tools, skills, and strategies to help you change your life and your relationships.
Couples/families: Attack/Defend sound familiar, feeling blamed, or blaming the other? Communication feeling hard, even impossible with your partner? Individuals: are you finding yourself unhappy, unfulfilled, missing something in your life? Perhaps you are struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, isolation? I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who works with individuals, couples and families to support clients identifying and reaching their goals. Therapy can be an opportunity to acknowledge what is not working, learn tools, skills, and strategies to help you change your life and your relationships.
(857) 254-8144 View (857) 254-8144
Photo of Tayo Akinmuyisan, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Tayo Akinmuyisan
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Shrewsbury, MA 01545
My identity as a Black man, combat veteran, military spouse, and immigrant enriches my clinical practice, allowing me to offer a distinctive and invaluable outlook in addressing challenges such as depression, anxiety, insomnia, and post-traumatic stress, among others.
I am an Army combat veteran with a strong interest in serving a diverse clientele experiencing mental health challenges throughout the lifespan. My approach to treatment is integrative, combining cognitive-behavioral, developmental, and systems perspectives.
My identity as a Black man, combat veteran, military spouse, and immigrant enriches my clinical practice, allowing me to offer a distinctive and invaluable outlook in addressing challenges such as depression, anxiety, insomnia, and post-traumatic stress, among others.
I am an Army combat veteran with a strong interest in serving a diverse clientele experiencing mental health challenges throughout the lifespan. My approach to treatment is integrative, combining cognitive-behavioral, developmental, and systems perspectives.
(508) 388-5866 View (508) 388-5866
Photo of Jacqueline McLean, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jacqueline McLean
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shrewsbury, MA 01545
I help people overcome many different psychological challenges, including anxiety, depression, eating disorders, substance abuse, relationship issues and many more (please see my website). By bridging two different careers myself for the past 24 years, I am able to work with people, not only around major mental health issues, but in career changing and strategic life planning. I am also qualified to work with professionals and executives who want to excel or redirect their careers. As an experienced divorce coach and educator, I help adolescents handle the impact divorcing parents have on their lives.
I help people overcome many different psychological challenges, including anxiety, depression, eating disorders, substance abuse, relationship issues and many more (please see my website). By bridging two different careers myself for the past 24 years, I am able to work with people, not only around major mental health issues, but in career changing and strategic life planning. I am also qualified to work with professionals and executives who want to excel or redirect their careers. As an experienced divorce coach and educator, I help adolescents handle the impact divorcing parents have on their lives.
(508) 928-5177 View (508) 928-5177
Photo of Carol L A Smith, MDiv, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carol L A Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MDiv, MSW
Verified Verified
Shrewsbury, MA 01545
help couples decide if they are compatible and wish to continue or terminate their marriages.
As a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker I focus on helping individuals and couples deal with life's difficult circumstances using a variety of psycho-therapeutic styles to help people manage anxiety and depression and to improve communication, intimacy and purpose in their daily lives. Mindfulness and cognition are helpful tools in my work. As an ordained Christian therapist I utilize a spiritual perspective with those seeking such. I enjoy helping people find new life out of difficult circumstances and unhappy histories.The initial consultation includes choosing between regular psychotherapy or spiritual direction - My blog: Living Each Day with Christ.
help couples decide if they are compatible and wish to continue or terminate their marriages.
As a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker I focus on helping individuals and couples deal with life's difficult circumstances using a variety of psycho-therapeutic styles to help people manage anxiety and depression and to improve communication, intimacy and purpose in their daily lives. Mindfulness and cognition are helpful tools in my work. As an ordained Christian therapist I utilize a spiritual perspective with those seeking such. I enjoy helping people find new life out of difficult circumstances and unhappy histories.The initial consultation includes choosing between regular psychotherapy or spiritual direction - My blog: Living Each Day with Christ.
(774) 413-8220 View (774) 413-8220
Photo of Cheryl Whitney - Cheryl Whitney, LMHC, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Cheryl Whitney, LMHC
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Shrewsbury, MA 01545
Every day, we must fit into many different roles no matter who we are and these roles include employee, parent, child, student, partner, etc.
Do you ever feel like all you can do is throw your arms up in the air? Do you just want to feel like a whole person again? Whether it is work, school, finances, relationships, children or some other source of stress, an excellent way to get back on confident feet is to work with a skilled clinician such as myself. Therapy can help build coping skills to manage life challenges, gain skills to redirect misguided or distorted thoughts and process emotions in order to have a better understanding of personal needs and how to meet them.
Every day, we must fit into many different roles no matter who we are and these roles include employee, parent, child, student, partner, etc.
Do you ever feel like all you can do is throw your arms up in the air? Do you just want to feel like a whole person again? Whether it is work, school, finances, relationships, children or some other source of stress, an excellent way to get back on confident feet is to work with a skilled clinician such as myself. Therapy can help build coping skills to manage life challenges, gain skills to redirect misguided or distorted thoughts and process emotions in order to have a better understanding of personal needs and how to meet them.
(508) 413-3168 View (508) 413-3168
Photo of Mary L. Ludy - Mary Ludy, LMHC, LMFT, LMHC, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mary Ludy, LMHC, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMHC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Shrewsbury, MA 01545  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a senior, experienced and ethical psychotherapist who works with adults, couples and families within the context of individual, group and couples therapy. My work with you is strength-based and solution-focused and will help you with coping and self-help strategies, communication and conflict resolution skills, resolve emotional conflicts, and increase satisfaction with your life and functioning. I treat all mood illnesses and adjustment disorders, such as life stages, transitions, and negative stressors. I'm experienced with extensive and diverse populations and cultures, and have knowledge with illness and disabilities.
I am a senior, experienced and ethical psychotherapist who works with adults, couples and families within the context of individual, group and couples therapy. My work with you is strength-based and solution-focused and will help you with coping and self-help strategies, communication and conflict resolution skills, resolve emotional conflicts, and increase satisfaction with your life and functioning. I treat all mood illnesses and adjustment disorders, such as life stages, transitions, and negative stressors. I'm experienced with extensive and diverse populations and cultures, and have knowledge with illness and disabilities.
(508) 709-6109 View (508) 709-6109
Photo of Front Desk - Serenity Coaching and Counseling, LLC - , LMHC, LICSW, LADAC, CADAC, LMFT, Counselor
Serenity Coaching and Counseling, LLC -
Counselor, LMHC, LICSW, LADAC, CADAC, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Shrewsbury, MA 01545
We are finally coming off a wait list! We have a high rate of success with a low turn over of clients. Spots will fill up fast - contact us today! We are a GROUP PRIVATE PRACTICE focused on mental health or substance use COACHING and COUNSELING support for adults and teens. Our PROVIDERS have extensive experience and are independently LICENSED to practice or in process be under full apprenticeship. Our goal is to offer education and guidance to INDIVIDUALS, COUPLES, and FAMILIES dealing with a variety of issues that affect their MENTAL HEALTH, BALANCE, and WELL-BEING.
We are finally coming off a wait list! We have a high rate of success with a low turn over of clients. Spots will fill up fast - contact us today! We are a GROUP PRIVATE PRACTICE focused on mental health or substance use COACHING and COUNSELING support for adults and teens. Our PROVIDERS have extensive experience and are independently LICENSED to practice or in process be under full apprenticeship. Our goal is to offer education and guidance to INDIVIDUALS, COUPLES, and FAMILIES dealing with a variety of issues that affect their MENTAL HEALTH, BALANCE, and WELL-BEING.
(508) 436-2608 View (508) 436-2608
Photo of Nancy E. Ostrowski, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nancy E. Ostrowski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shrewsbury, MA 01545
Not accepting new clients
I have had over 25 years of experience working with adults, children, teens and couples in various settings such as in the school, the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Residential Group Home and overseas where I spent some time in Kiev, Ukraine working with orphans.
Many clients who I meet with for the first time confess how scared they were to make the initial phone call and to set up an appointment. Usually after the first appointment they say they are glad they did. In today's culture, there are so many stressors and demands of everyday life that we often wind up taking care of others and sometimes find ourselves feeling overwhelmed, depressed, anxious and stuck. I have watched change and relief take place as clients meet with me over time and together we gain understanding and awareness of how to move forward.
I have had over 25 years of experience working with adults, children, teens and couples in various settings such as in the school, the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Residential Group Home and overseas where I spent some time in Kiev, Ukraine working with orphans.
Many clients who I meet with for the first time confess how scared they were to make the initial phone call and to set up an appointment. Usually after the first appointment they say they are glad they did. In today's culture, there are so many stressors and demands of everyday life that we often wind up taking care of others and sometimes find ourselves feeling overwhelmed, depressed, anxious and stuck. I have watched change and relief take place as clients meet with me over time and together we gain understanding and awareness of how to move forward.
(978) 986-4041 View (978) 986-4041
Photo of Andrew Knorr, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Andrew Knorr
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Shrewsbury, MA 01545
If you are interested in working hard and allowing the healing of a therapeutic relationship with an experienced therapist to help you become the person you want to be, call or email now for an appointment!.
I specialize in work with college students and the LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender) community. If you want to work with an experienced therapist with 27 years of service in the mental heatlh professions, please visit my website now - www.aknorrtherapy.com to learn more about how I might be of assistance to you. I have extensive experience with a broad range of clinical issues, including: depression, anxiety, sexual identity issues, relationship issues, transitions, loss, and change related concerns.
If you are interested in working hard and allowing the healing of a therapeutic relationship with an experienced therapist to help you become the person you want to be, call or email now for an appointment!.
I specialize in work with college students and the LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender) community. If you want to work with an experienced therapist with 27 years of service in the mental heatlh professions, please visit my website now - www.aknorrtherapy.com to learn more about how I might be of assistance to you. I have extensive experience with a broad range of clinical issues, including: depression, anxiety, sexual identity issues, relationship issues, transitions, loss, and change related concerns.
(508) 812-0015 View (508) 812-0015
Photo of Kasey Pendexter, LMHC, CCTP-II, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kasey Pendexter
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMHC, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Shrewsbury, MA 01545
Not accepting new clients
Lastly, recent experiences have led me to support women who have been in or are current survivors of Intimate Partner Violence/Domestic Violence.
With an extensive history of working with trauma-impacted youth and adults, I look to bring peace and healing using a multi-faceted approach. Most of us go through life with our bodies and minds disengaged from one another; I believe we must bridge that gap in order to build & protect our internal peace. As an RPCV in West Africa to working with Deaf youth, I have been humbled to to align and ally myself with beautiful populations and cultures and believe that therapeutic rapport is the key to working towards goals set by my clients.
Lastly, recent experiences have led me to support women who have been in or are current survivors of Intimate Partner Violence/Domestic Violence.
With an extensive history of working with trauma-impacted youth and adults, I look to bring peace and healing using a multi-faceted approach. Most of us go through life with our bodies and minds disengaged from one another; I believe we must bridge that gap in order to build & protect our internal peace. As an RPCV in West Africa to working with Deaf youth, I have been humbled to to align and ally myself with beautiful populations and cultures and believe that therapeutic rapport is the key to working towards goals set by my clients.
(774) 425-7451 View (774) 425-7451
Photo of Kelley Smith - Kelley Smith, LICSW, LICSW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelley Smith, LICSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Shrewsbury, MA 01545
Not accepting new clients
* Please note I am not currently accepting new clients and I do not keep a waiting list. Change is part of life, but nobody said it would be this hard. You are feeling stuck, overwhelmed, and listening to those negative thoughts playing in your head. You can’t stop judging yourself or figure out how to do things differently. Possibly life took a turn, such as death, illness, trauma, or relationship difficulties. Or a transition is ahead such as pregnancy, marriage, or an empty nest, a time that you think you should feel happy. Though, you have mixed feelings, which brings you back to that self-judging cycle.
* Please note I am not currently accepting new clients and I do not keep a waiting list. Change is part of life, but nobody said it would be this hard. You are feeling stuck, overwhelmed, and listening to those negative thoughts playing in your head. You can’t stop judging yourself or figure out how to do things differently. Possibly life took a turn, such as death, illness, trauma, or relationship difficulties. Or a transition is ahead such as pregnancy, marriage, or an empty nest, a time that you think you should feel happy. Though, you have mixed feelings, which brings you back to that self-judging cycle.
(339) 674-4974 View (339) 674-4974
Photo of Tessa Hayes Licsw - LIKEMIND Mental Health & Wellness, Inc., LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
LIKEMIND Mental Health & Wellness, Inc.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Shrewsbury, MA 01545
At LIKEMIND, we provide: individual, couples, family, & group psychotherapy, psychological & neuropsychological evaluations, and executive functioning coaching to/for young adults.
At LIKEMIND Mental Health & Wellness, Inc. we understand that young adults today are facing challenges unique to their generation and their stage in life. That is why it is essential that they have access to services designed specifically to address and manage these challenges. The transitional milestones of young adulthood are very different than those of childhood or of adulthood. The services provided at LIKEMIND acknowledge these differences.
At LIKEMIND, we provide: individual, couples, family, & group psychotherapy, psychological & neuropsychological evaluations, and executive functioning coaching to/for young adults.
At LIKEMIND Mental Health & Wellness, Inc. we understand that young adults today are facing challenges unique to their generation and their stage in life. That is why it is essential that they have access to services designed specifically to address and manage these challenges. The transitional milestones of young adulthood are very different than those of childhood or of adulthood. The services provided at LIKEMIND acknowledge these differences.
(508) 841-3038 View (508) 841-3038
Photo of Matthew Waugh, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Matthew Waugh
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shrewsbury, MA 01545
Not accepting new clients
My ideal clients are couples and individuals struggling in relationship. I am a licensed marriage and family therapist and I chose this profession because I find helping couples very rewarding. I support clients working through the struggles of not feeling understood, feeling attacked and judged. I teach them how to step back and get curious about each other. As couples begin to understand each other better, the disconnection and discouragement shifts, connection deepens and they learn to work together. I work with them to develop tools for better communication and conflict resolution.
My ideal clients are couples and individuals struggling in relationship. I am a licensed marriage and family therapist and I chose this profession because I find helping couples very rewarding. I support clients working through the struggles of not feeling understood, feeling attacked and judged. I teach them how to step back and get curious about each other. As couples begin to understand each other better, the disconnection and discouragement shifts, connection deepens and they learn to work together. I work with them to develop tools for better communication and conflict resolution.
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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.