Couples Counseling Therapists in Worcester, MA
![Photo of Pamela Daly - Guided Growth Therapy Collective, MA, CAGS, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5fb3a406-5643-40bc-bc49-5cb98883814d/1/320x400.png)
Guided Growth Therapy Collective
Counselor, MA, CAGS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Worcester, MA 01603 (Online Only)
Thank you for considering us as a partner in your mental health journey.
Are you struggling with managing life's challenges lately? At Guided Growth Therapy Collective we are dedicated to helping individuals navigate those challenges and cultivate their mental well-being. With a compassionate and client-centered approach, We strive to create a safe and non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. We believe that each person is unique, and we tailor our therapeutic techniques to meet your specific needs and goals. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, or stress we are here to support you on your journey towards healing and growth.
Thank you for considering us as a partner in your mental health journey.
Are you struggling with managing life's challenges lately? At Guided Growth Therapy Collective we are dedicated to helping individuals navigate those challenges and cultivate their mental well-being. With a compassionate and client-centered approach, We strive to create a safe and non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. We believe that each person is unique, and we tailor our therapeutic techniques to meet your specific needs and goals. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, or stress we are here to support you on your journey towards healing and growth.
![Photo of Mary L. Ludy - Mary Ludy, LMHC, LMFT, LMHC, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d59e9f77-d891-47e9-85d8-af0649c87c27/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mary Ludy, LMHC, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMHC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Worcester, MA 01609 (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.
![Photo of Erin Almstrom, MA, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b72f4f92-80fb-48c3-9d04-597d02e7bd42/2/320x400.jpeg)
(ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS FOR TELE-HEALTH (Virtual) VISITS). Expectant mothers and new moms, especially if they already have toddlers or older siblings, may feel a range of anxieties and negative thoughts as they struggle to cope in what we hope would be a joyful time. There is warm and caring support to work through all these feelings and to establish coping mechanisms that will benefit your child and you. Let me help you to feel positive and secure as a pregnant mom, new mother, or as parents together. [TRUSTED REFERRAL PARTNER OF EMBRACE MIDWIFERY, WORCESTER.]
(ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS FOR TELE-HEALTH (Virtual) VISITS). Expectant mothers and new moms, especially if they already have toddlers or older siblings, may feel a range of anxieties and negative thoughts as they struggle to cope in what we hope would be a joyful time. There is warm and caring support to work through all these feelings and to establish coping mechanisms that will benefit your child and you. Let me help you to feel positive and secure as a pregnant mom, new mother, or as parents together. [TRUSTED REFERRAL PARTNER OF EMBRACE MIDWIFERY, WORCESTER.]
![Photo of Nathan Peterson - Integrated Wellness Management, Inc., LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43ac5ed9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I believe that a healthy and well-balanced person is one who cares for themselves emotionally, physically and spiritually. Integrated Wellness counseling goal is to assist individuals and families to find the tools and the balance to live a healthier and more productive life. Integrated Wellness provides counseling services for individuals, couples and familes who struggle with many emotional and behavioral needs that include, but are not limited to depression, anxiety, communication issues, conflict resolutions, stress management and life situations.
I believe that a healthy and well-balanced person is one who cares for themselves emotionally, physically and spiritually. Integrated Wellness counseling goal is to assist individuals and families to find the tools and the balance to live a healthier and more productive life. Integrated Wellness provides counseling services for individuals, couples and familes who struggle with many emotional and behavioral needs that include, but are not limited to depression, anxiety, communication issues, conflict resolutions, stress management and life situations.
![Photo of Wanda M Martinez, DMin, CAGS, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4241ef48-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Thirty years' experience working with children, adolescents, families, and adults from every walk of life. Using a holistic approach to counseling involving mind, body, and spirit to help and support clients through their journey into recovery. Client-centered, bilingual and bi-cultural. Professional background on family and individual therapy, alcohol and substance abuse, trauma recovery, dual diagnosis, cultural transition, intimate partner violence, and pastoral counseling.
Thirty years' experience working with children, adolescents, families, and adults from every walk of life. Using a holistic approach to counseling involving mind, body, and spirit to help and support clients through their journey into recovery. Client-centered, bilingual and bi-cultural. Professional background on family and individual therapy, alcohol and substance abuse, trauma recovery, dual diagnosis, cultural transition, intimate partner violence, and pastoral counseling.
![Photo of John 'Jack' Bonina, MS, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c31e9c2-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
John 'Jack' Bonina
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Worcester, MA 01609
My approach with clients recognizes that most people are looking for tangible help, don't have a lot of time between work and family, and want to feel like they are moving toward a better understanding of solutions to address their difficulties. My work with clients acknowledges these issues. I take a very active role in counseling to explore the options with my clients, provide new knowlege of issues where relevant, and help an individual to reach their potential. Issues related to marital/partner, parenting/child, family,work,school,stress, anxiety, depression, and substance abuse are all areas I work with.
My approach with clients recognizes that most people are looking for tangible help, don't have a lot of time between work and family, and want to feel like they are moving toward a better understanding of solutions to address their difficulties. My work with clients acknowledges these issues. I take a very active role in counseling to explore the options with my clients, provide new knowlege of issues where relevant, and help an individual to reach their potential. Issues related to marital/partner, parenting/child, family,work,school,stress, anxiety, depression, and substance abuse are all areas I work with.
![Photo of Sophie Kolchin-Miller, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/62e51d23-006e-4b04-9dfc-82499d0cb96d/12/320x400.jpeg)
Sophie Kolchin-Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Worcester, MA 01602 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Reaching out to a therapist is a courageous and healthy way of taking care of yourself. Perhaps you’re here because of a loss or trauma, a life transition, or a relationship challenge. Or maybe it’s a feeling of stuckness or pain, or a sense of fear or shame that prevents you from expressing important parts of yourself. Whatever it is that brings you to therapy, I am confident that working through your suffering within the safety of a trusting relationship can give you relief and help you live more authentically.
Reaching out to a therapist is a courageous and healthy way of taking care of yourself. Perhaps you’re here because of a loss or trauma, a life transition, or a relationship challenge. Or maybe it’s a feeling of stuckness or pain, or a sense of fear or shame that prevents you from expressing important parts of yourself. Whatever it is that brings you to therapy, I am confident that working through your suffering within the safety of a trusting relationship can give you relief and help you live more authentically.
![Photo of Ashley Harmon, LMHC, BCBA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/10d6c989-663a-4d35-abe8-4c8c5354d117/1/320x400.jpeg)
Do you find yourself struggling with managing anxiety or finding peace within yourself? Or wishing you could communicate in a healthier way or achieve greater intimacy with your partner? I support couples and individuals by encouraging and modeling more collaborative, authentic and empathic relationships. I believe with the help of some humor, a judgement-free therapeutic space encourages an individual's introspection, self-compassion and growth. Every person has unique strengths and insight that can lead them towards a life enriched by deep and well balanced relationships with themselves and others.
Do you find yourself struggling with managing anxiety or finding peace within yourself? Or wishing you could communicate in a healthier way or achieve greater intimacy with your partner? I support couples and individuals by encouraging and modeling more collaborative, authentic and empathic relationships. I believe with the help of some humor, a judgement-free therapeutic space encourages an individual's introspection, self-compassion and growth. Every person has unique strengths and insight that can lead them towards a life enriched by deep and well balanced relationships with themselves and others.
![Photo of Danielle DaRocha - Empowered Pathways Counseling, LLC, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53dde7ef-63cc-436c-ab23-6cd8bd9705af/1/320x400.jpeg)
Empowered Pathways Counseling, LLC
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Worcester, MA 01608 (Online Only)
“I believe that therapy is a platform that allows people to understand themselves better. The therapeutic relationship provides an opportunity to overcome challenges by trialing coping skills and talking through issues to gain new insight. Engaging in activities of wellness that supports the whole individual promotes continuous healing that allows us to connect to ourselves and others on a deeper level.”
“I believe that therapy is a platform that allows people to understand themselves better. The therapeutic relationship provides an opportunity to overcome challenges by trialing coping skills and talking through issues to gain new insight. Engaging in activities of wellness that supports the whole individual promotes continuous healing that allows us to connect to ourselves and others on a deeper level.”
![Photo of Shauna M Simpson, LADC-1, Drug & Alcohol Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ffd8ec3d-b653-4ba5-ab79-4acbde5198db/1/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in Substance Abuse Disorders and work with clients who are experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, grief, relationship conflict.
I specialize in Substance Abuse Disorders and work with clients who are experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, grief, relationship conflict.
![Photo of Brittany Ford Petty, LICSW, E-RYT, IINHC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/36e8dc1d-4882-43eb-9e00-cb1f221086d4/1/320x400.png)
Brittany Ford Petty
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, E-RYT, IINHC
Verified Verified
Worcester, MA 01609
It is with gratitude that I hold space for you. The therapeutic relationship is an important tool used to build a solid and trusting relationship with yourself, the world around you, and the people within it. I work with humans who may be struggling to cope with life's unpredictable and impermanent nature, with life transitions, anxiety, grief, trauma, and other forms of emotional pain. I provide a safe, non-judgmental space to explore patterns of thinking and living that have hindered your growth and prevented you from engaging wholeheartedly in your life.
It is with gratitude that I hold space for you. The therapeutic relationship is an important tool used to build a solid and trusting relationship with yourself, the world around you, and the people within it. I work with humans who may be struggling to cope with life's unpredictable and impermanent nature, with life transitions, anxiety, grief, trauma, and other forms of emotional pain. I provide a safe, non-judgmental space to explore patterns of thinking and living that have hindered your growth and prevented you from engaging wholeheartedly in your life.
15 Second Videos
Arammu Relationship Clinic
Cassandra DeQuevedo
Dr. Mitch and Lisa Marriages/Couples Workshops
Cassandra DeQuevedo
CrossPoint Clinical Services
Carol L A Smith
Robert M Mello Jr
Lauren Drean
Levi Rhodes
Zach Rotfus
Randy Reed
Cassandra DeQuevedo
Maxim M. Arbuzov
Rachel Gaillard Smook
Jalessa A Townsend
Kate Lally, LMHC
Alexa Moubarak
Matthew Krieger
Elizabeth Masterman
Charles Codner
Vinnie Cappetta
![Photo of Amelia Hasbun, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/87987a97-922a-4d07-934d-715f9c01fa24/2/320x400.jpeg)
Amelia Hasbun
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Worcester, MA 01609
Waitlist for new clients
I find great joy in collaborating with individuals, couples, and families who bring a sense of motivation, open-mindedness, and a deep drive to enrich their overall well-being. It's truly heartening to work with clients who proactively seek therapy, demonstrating a strong commitment to addressing diverse challenges and fostering personal growth within themselves and their relationships. Whether they're grappling with communication hurdles, navigating complexities of identity, or adapting to new environments due to relocation, I deeply appreciate their willingness to embark on this journey of exploration and growth together.
I find great joy in collaborating with individuals, couples, and families who bring a sense of motivation, open-mindedness, and a deep drive to enrich their overall well-being. It's truly heartening to work with clients who proactively seek therapy, demonstrating a strong commitment to addressing diverse challenges and fostering personal growth within themselves and their relationships. Whether they're grappling with communication hurdles, navigating complexities of identity, or adapting to new environments due to relocation, I deeply appreciate their willingness to embark on this journey of exploration and growth together.
![Photo of Tessa Hayes Licsw - LIKEMIND Mental Health & Wellness, Inc., LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46eff898-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
LIKEMIND Mental Health & Wellness, Inc.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Worcester, MA 01608
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.
![Photo of Mary Lippoth - Mary Lippoth, M.A., LMHC, MA, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fb71e189-2e6a-46fd-a0a3-28f63e817d9d/2/320x400.jpeg)
I work with children ages 5+, adolescents and adults/couples.
Welcome and thank you for reading further. Since even prior to the Pandemic, it seems life has become much more stressful for children, adolescents and adults but mental health awareness has improved. If you or your child are struggling with anxiety/social anxiety, AD(H)D, OCD, depression, significant loss/bereavement, have experienced trauma, feeling pressure to be perfect, feeling disconnected in your relationships, or in general feeling you've lost perspective of where you want to or are supposed to be at this point in your life, I would like to be of assistance. I have been successfully treating all of these conditions and more.
I work with children ages 5+, adolescents and adults/couples.
Welcome and thank you for reading further. Since even prior to the Pandemic, it seems life has become much more stressful for children, adolescents and adults but mental health awareness has improved. If you or your child are struggling with anxiety/social anxiety, AD(H)D, OCD, depression, significant loss/bereavement, have experienced trauma, feeling pressure to be perfect, feeling disconnected in your relationships, or in general feeling you've lost perspective of where you want to or are supposed to be at this point in your life, I would like to be of assistance. I have been successfully treating all of these conditions and more.
![Photo of Elizabeth A Greene, LMHC, MFT, GT, CTGM/DM, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4005e473-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Elizabeth A Greene
Counselor, LMHC, MFT, GT, CTGM/DM
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Worcester, MA 01608
Waitlist for new clients
Hi, I am Elizabeth Greene and I am a Licensed Mental health therapist. Do you want to find someone who you feel really listens to you and who really cares about your goals as much as you do? People who come to me, individuals, couples and families have told me that I put them at ease and they really feel comfortable talking with me. They also have liked that I really try to find out what works for them by trying different things and also see the best way they learn.
Hi, I am Elizabeth Greene and I am a Licensed Mental health therapist. Do you want to find someone who you feel really listens to you and who really cares about your goals as much as you do? People who come to me, individuals, couples and families have told me that I put them at ease and they really feel comfortable talking with me. They also have liked that I really try to find out what works for them by trying different things and also see the best way they learn.
![Photo of Sanjay Grant - Uniquely Empowered Counseling Services, MA, LMHC, LADC I, CST, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8bdb2285-89cf-4f18-a171-842d0b933994/2/320x400.jpeg)
Uniquely Empowered Counseling Services
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LADC I, CST
Verified Verified
Worcester, MA 01607 (Online Only)
I specialize in treating sexuality and relationship issues, substance use, anxiety, depression, ptsd, interpersonal issues, major life changes/adjustments and issues related to racial identity/racial trauma, diversity, and equity.
Time is not static and neither are our lives. Our surroundings and the connections in them also change continuously. Navigating the various changes we may encounter in our life might be challenging at times, necessitating the assistance of a professional. The focus is to assist clients in exploring their sexualities, be more confident in their identities, increase mental reslience and better function in their relationships.
I specialize in treating sexuality and relationship issues, substance use, anxiety, depression, ptsd, interpersonal issues, major life changes/adjustments and issues related to racial identity/racial trauma, diversity, and equity.
Time is not static and neither are our lives. Our surroundings and the connections in them also change continuously. Navigating the various changes we may encounter in our life might be challenging at times, necessitating the assistance of a professional. The focus is to assist clients in exploring their sexualities, be more confident in their identities, increase mental reslience and better function in their relationships.
![Photo of Amber Considine, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/70ec1906-d80b-4c67-9241-889c095e318c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Amber Considine
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Worcester, MA 01603 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a pre-Licensed Mental Health Counselor specializing in relationship and sex therapy. Many people tell me that I am the first person they have ever talked to about "this stuff". I primarily enjoy working with motivated clients who are interested in navigating the complexities of their intimate lives with openness and honesty. I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and multi partner relationships exploring intimacy, sexual functioning, power dynamics, and communication. My passion lies with helping others feel empowered by their sexuality and supporting the creation of sexual authenticity.
I am a pre-Licensed Mental Health Counselor specializing in relationship and sex therapy. Many people tell me that I am the first person they have ever talked to about "this stuff". I primarily enjoy working with motivated clients who are interested in navigating the complexities of their intimate lives with openness and honesty. I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and multi partner relationships exploring intimacy, sexual functioning, power dynamics, and communication. My passion lies with helping others feel empowered by their sexuality and supporting the creation of sexual authenticity.
![Photo of Dan Secor, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3da380b8-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in mood disorders and anxiety issues, but have an extensive background in many disciplines, including communication issues, parenting skills, couples counseling, trauma work, recovery work, etc.
I primarily learned using a Cognitive-Behavioral Model (learned through the Beck Institute), but have since incorporated more Mindfulness-based and Humanistic approaches to my work.
I specialize in mood disorders and anxiety issues, but have an extensive background in many disciplines, including communication issues, parenting skills, couples counseling, trauma work, recovery work, etc.
I primarily learned using a Cognitive-Behavioral Model (learned through the Beck Institute), but have since incorporated more Mindfulness-based and Humanistic approaches to my work.
![Photo of Shelley Ashton-Briggs - Pathways To Wellness Associates, LLC, LICSW, LMHC, LPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cc5a87a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Pathways To Wellness Associates, LLC
Counselor, LICSW, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Worcester, MA 01605
Our specialties and populations include but are not limited to depression, Anxiety, ADHD/ADD, Conduct Disorders, Affective Disorders, Trauma and PTSD, Parenting Issues, Stress Reduction, Anger Management, Adjustment Issues, and Child and Adolescent Development as well as adults, couples and marriage counseling.
Pathways To Wellness Associates, LLC assists high functioning individuals and families to recognize and achieve their full potential in a safe and supportive atmosphere. We provide the highest quality counseling services founded in theory and evidence based practices. Our licensed therapists specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Family Systems Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Attachment, Self-Regulation, and Competency (ARC) Framework and Child and Family Therapy.
Our specialties and populations include but are not limited to depression, Anxiety, ADHD/ADD, Conduct Disorders, Affective Disorders, Trauma and PTSD, Parenting Issues, Stress Reduction, Anger Management, Adjustment Issues, and Child and Adolescent Development as well as adults, couples and marriage counseling.
Pathways To Wellness Associates, LLC assists high functioning individuals and families to recognize and achieve their full potential in a safe and supportive atmosphere. We provide the highest quality counseling services founded in theory and evidence based practices. Our licensed therapists specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Family Systems Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Attachment, Self-Regulation, and Competency (ARC) Framework and Child and Family Therapy.
![Photo of Couples Therapy And Family Transitions Megan Welsh, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c741dafc-ae34-400b-9900-ed6577e133e7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Couples Therapy And Family Transitions Megan Welsh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Worcester, MA 01605 (Online Only)
My therapeutic approach is rooted in psychodynamic therapy, emphasizing the importance of the therapeutic relationship in healing.
Welcome! I'm Megan Welsh, a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) based in Massachusetts. With nearly 15 years of experience in the field and a passion for helping individuals and couples navigate life's challenges, I offer a warm and empathetic approach to therapy. Common issues I address include life/family transitions, relational conflict, anxiety, and depression. I have a passion for working with people with shifting family dynamics like adding a new baby, becoming a foster parent/adoption or martial challenges. My experience extends to working with college students and medical professionals.
My therapeutic approach is rooted in psychodynamic therapy, emphasizing the importance of the therapeutic relationship in healing.
Welcome! I'm Megan Welsh, a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) based in Massachusetts. With nearly 15 years of experience in the field and a passion for helping individuals and couples navigate life's challenges, I offer a warm and empathetic approach to therapy. Common issues I address include life/family transitions, relational conflict, anxiety, and depression. I have a passion for working with people with shifting family dynamics like adding a new baby, becoming a foster parent/adoption or martial challenges. My experience extends to working with college students and medical professionals.
See more therapy options for Worcester
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.