Couples Counseling Therapists in East Grand Rapids, MI

Photo of Cailee Eisel, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cailee Eisel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
East Grand Rapids, MI 49506  (Online Only)
I work with teens and adults who have struggled with substance use, co-occurring issues, trauma, anxiety, depression, self-harm, self-esteem, and relationship conflict.
Are you/child feeling stuck, defeated, and overwhelmed? Maybe you/child tried to create a healthier life only to be met with disappointment and confirmation you are not enough? You are not broken. Healing is possible. In our work together, you have an opportunity to explore your feelings, thoughts, and behaviors in a safe and validating environment. I am here to help you develop skills and make long-term change. I believe you can heal the mind when you focus on healing the whole body. Let's dive in and see what you are capable of and build that life that is worth living.
I work with teens and adults who have struggled with substance use, co-occurring issues, trauma, anxiety, depression, self-harm, self-esteem, and relationship conflict.
Are you/child feeling stuck, defeated, and overwhelmed? Maybe you/child tried to create a healthier life only to be met with disappointment and confirmation you are not enough? You are not broken. Healing is possible. In our work together, you have an opportunity to explore your feelings, thoughts, and behaviors in a safe and validating environment. I am here to help you develop skills and make long-term change. I believe you can heal the mind when you focus on healing the whole body. Let's dive in and see what you are capable of and build that life that is worth living.
(616) 208-5249 View (616) 208-5249
Photo of Justyne Ortquist, MS, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Justyne Ortquist
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
East Grand Rapids, MI 49506
She helps individuals, couples, and families cultivate self-compassion, resilience, and healthier relationships with themselves and others.
Justyne is a compassionate and dedicated therapist specializing in relational therapy and the treatment of eating disorders. With a wealth of experience and expertise, Justyne employs an integrative approach that combines somatic techniques, trauma-informed yoga, and emotion focused therapy to facilitate healing on multiple levels. Her deep understanding of the relationship between body and mind informs her approach to somatic-based healing, which goes beyond traditional talk therapy. This is the foundation of her work with clients to support them in healing trauma in the body and addressing maladaptive coping mechanisms.
She helps individuals, couples, and families cultivate self-compassion, resilience, and healthier relationships with themselves and others.
Justyne is a compassionate and dedicated therapist specializing in relational therapy and the treatment of eating disorders. With a wealth of experience and expertise, Justyne employs an integrative approach that combines somatic techniques, trauma-informed yoga, and emotion focused therapy to facilitate healing on multiple levels. Her deep understanding of the relationship between body and mind informs her approach to somatic-based healing, which goes beyond traditional talk therapy. This is the foundation of her work with clients to support them in healing trauma in the body and addressing maladaptive coping mechanisms.
(616) 277-7533 View (616) 277-7533
Photo of Joe Horak, PhD, Psychologist
Joe Horak
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
East Grand Rapids, MI 49506
I specialize in working with individuals and couples, who want to do more profound work to make a permanent change.
I like to the heart of the matter quickly and then work with my clients to co-creative solutions tailored to their specific needs. My clients describe being in therapy with me as being involved in 'deeper work.' The deeper work may be related to the past, but it also could be doing a deeper dive into your current life and finding healthier ways to cope. I am trained in leadership assessment and coaching and I consult with family-owned businesses. In addition, to my psychology license in Michigan, I also am approved to provide telehealth services in Florida
I specialize in working with individuals and couples, who want to do more profound work to make a permanent change.
I like to the heart of the matter quickly and then work with my clients to co-creative solutions tailored to their specific needs. My clients describe being in therapy with me as being involved in 'deeper work.' The deeper work may be related to the past, but it also could be doing a deeper dive into your current life and finding healthier ways to cope. I am trained in leadership assessment and coaching and I consult with family-owned businesses. In addition, to my psychology license in Michigan, I also am approved to provide telehealth services in Florida
(616) 523-3796 View (616) 523-3796
Photo of Robert J. Baird, PhD, MSW, MDiv, Psychologist
Robert J. Baird
Psychologist, PhD, MSW, MDiv
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East Grand Rapids, MI 49506
Relational Distress: Love and relationships take work, commitment, and a willingness to adapt to change with your partner.
If you're searching for a therapist who will encourage you to stay in counseling for years while holding your hand singing camp songs, I suggest you keep looking. But if you prefer a trained clinician whose approach to counseling is goal-oriented and solution-focused, contact my office staff to set up an appointment. You can trust that I will be sensitive and empathetic, but since you are hiring me to do a job, I will be directive in identifying the best approach to solve your problems. Most of my clinical practice focuses on Relational/Marriage issues as well as Anxiety/Depression.
Relational Distress: Love and relationships take work, commitment, and a willingness to adapt to change with your partner.
If you're searching for a therapist who will encourage you to stay in counseling for years while holding your hand singing camp songs, I suggest you keep looking. But if you prefer a trained clinician whose approach to counseling is goal-oriented and solution-focused, contact my office staff to set up an appointment. You can trust that I will be sensitive and empathetic, but since you are hiring me to do a job, I will be directive in identifying the best approach to solve your problems. Most of my clinical practice focuses on Relational/Marriage issues as well as Anxiety/Depression.
(616) 458-0692 View (616) 458-0692
Photo of Amy L Jarchow, PhD, Psychologist
Amy L Jarchow
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
East Grand Rapids, MI 49506
In addition, you will learn practical skills to cope with depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, or whatever life stressors you are facing.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, depressed, or anxious? Having a hard time communicating effectively with others? Making the decision to seek professional help is a difficult task. I am hoping that this information helps you in making that decision. I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and have worked in private practice since earning my PhD in 2004. I enjoy my job immensely and I work diligently to provide a comfortable, open environment for my clients with an emphasis on collaboration. We will work together to try to reach your goals so you can ultimately enjoy a better quality of life.
In addition, you will learn practical skills to cope with depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, or whatever life stressors you are facing.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, depressed, or anxious? Having a hard time communicating effectively with others? Making the decision to seek professional help is a difficult task. I am hoping that this information helps you in making that decision. I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and have worked in private practice since earning my PhD in 2004. I enjoy my job immensely and I work diligently to provide a comfortable, open environment for my clients with an emphasis on collaboration. We will work together to try to reach your goals so you can ultimately enjoy a better quality of life.
(616) 458-0692 View (616) 458-0692
Photo of Jennifer DiGennaro, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer DiGennaro
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
East Grand Rapids, MI 49506
I help people who are hurting and faced with variety of issues often around their body size or eating behaviors, in addition to symptoms of depression, anxiety, chronic stress, trauma or relationship problems.
Being at war with yourself and your body is exhausting. Maybe it started with your first diet in your teens or maybe it didn't start until later in life dealing with chronic pain or illness, or something else. You are sick of suffering and feeling like your body is an endless problem to be solved. It is hard to feel hopeful. Psychotherapy with me can help you deepen self-trust, self-care and self-acceptance. I have specialized training in trauma-informed approaches, including EMDR and Body Trust® which inform my holistic approach. I can support you to work through your past, honor your present and envision your future.
I help people who are hurting and faced with variety of issues often around their body size or eating behaviors, in addition to symptoms of depression, anxiety, chronic stress, trauma or relationship problems.
Being at war with yourself and your body is exhausting. Maybe it started with your first diet in your teens or maybe it didn't start until later in life dealing with chronic pain or illness, or something else. You are sick of suffering and feeling like your body is an endless problem to be solved. It is hard to feel hopeful. Psychotherapy with me can help you deepen self-trust, self-care and self-acceptance. I have specialized training in trauma-informed approaches, including EMDR and Body Trust® which inform my holistic approach. I can support you to work through your past, honor your present and envision your future.
(616) 201-3324 View (616) 201-3324
Photo of Theresa Joan Anderson-Varney, PhD, Psychologist
Theresa Joan Anderson-Varney
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
East Grand Rapids, MI 49506
I also address relationship issues, as well as many other struggles.
The trials of life sometimes bring sadness and fear. I offer a place for healing and help in a safe environment, for children, adolescents, and adults. I will help you to find the answers to your conflicts and concerns. Whatever the problem we will work together to find the way out. I offer hope for the hopeless.
I also address relationship issues, as well as many other struggles.
The trials of life sometimes bring sadness and fear. I offer a place for healing and help in a safe environment, for children, adolescents, and adults. I will help you to find the answers to your conflicts and concerns. Whatever the problem we will work together to find the way out. I offer hope for the hopeless.
(616) 414-4569 View (616) 414-4569
Photo of Miriam Engler, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Miriam Engler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
East Grand Rapids, MI 49506
I enjoy working with Christians who are struggling with reconciling who God is in their lives with what He says in His Word: helping them work through Christian clichés to a meaningful relationship with the living God.
I work as a therapist because I believe we can experience real healing in our lives. The broken world in which we live frequently leaves scars and wounds. And we often wound others. As a Christian therapist I believe God heals significantly. I work with Christians and non Christians alike with respect for individual values and beliefs. Therapy begins with developing a respectful, trusting relationship. The client and therapist begin a journey to enable the client to reconcile, their past, their present, and their beliefs. It can enable them to work toward future goals successfully.
I enjoy working with Christians who are struggling with reconciling who God is in their lives with what He says in His Word: helping them work through Christian clichés to a meaningful relationship with the living God.
I work as a therapist because I believe we can experience real healing in our lives. The broken world in which we live frequently leaves scars and wounds. And we often wound others. As a Christian therapist I believe God heals significantly. I work with Christians and non Christians alike with respect for individual values and beliefs. Therapy begins with developing a respectful, trusting relationship. The client and therapist begin a journey to enable the client to reconcile, their past, their present, and their beliefs. It can enable them to work toward future goals successfully.
(616) 920-0891 View (616) 920-0891
Photo of Diana Ditrapani, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Diana Ditrapani
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
East Grand Rapids, MI 49506
She enjoys working with a range of people and situations such as couples, young adults seeking life skills direction, individuals suffering from anxiety and depression, school-aged children, and families.
Diana "DeeDee" DiTrapani is a Licensed Master Social Worker. She received her Master's Degree from Wayne State University and has been working in the field for 34 years. Many of those years have been spent working with children and families in child welfare, foster care, and adoption.
She enjoys working with a range of people and situations such as couples, young adults seeking life skills direction, individuals suffering from anxiety and depression, school-aged children, and families.
Diana "DeeDee" DiTrapani is a Licensed Master Social Worker. She received her Master's Degree from Wayne State University and has been working in the field for 34 years. Many of those years have been spent working with children and families in child welfare, foster care, and adoption.
(616) 253-8970 View (616) 253-8970
Photo of Stephen E Craig, PhD, LPC, Counselor
Stephen E Craig
Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East Grand Rapids, MI 49506
The counseling relationship is a foundation for the work that follows.
Counseling is an important way to invest in your health and future. For some, counseling can be a way to work through difficult life seasons, including career transition, parenting or relationship stress, divorce, or grief/loss. For others who may have a history of abuse, depression, anxiety, or other condition, counseling can help one learn to manage symptoms and to pursue a life of joy and contentment. For couples or families, for whom old ways of connecting and resolving problems are no longer working, psychotherapy provides a way to explore how a situation began and to develop new ways of resolving difficulties.
The counseling relationship is a foundation for the work that follows.
Counseling is an important way to invest in your health and future. For some, counseling can be a way to work through difficult life seasons, including career transition, parenting or relationship stress, divorce, or grief/loss. For others who may have a history of abuse, depression, anxiety, or other condition, counseling can help one learn to manage symptoms and to pursue a life of joy and contentment. For couples or families, for whom old ways of connecting and resolving problems are no longer working, psychotherapy provides a way to explore how a situation began and to develop new ways of resolving difficulties.
(616) 818-0727 View (616) 818-0727
Photo of Rebecca Klott - River City Psychological Services, PhD, LP, CAADC, Psychologist
River City Psychological Services
Psychologist, PhD, LP, CAADC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
East Grand Rapids, MI 49506
We believe that the psychotherapy relationship should be based on respect and healthy boundaries.
Sometimes life can present us with difficulties, as well as opportunities, that we don't expect or aren't sure how to handle. Many people find ways of healing, growing, and even striving through the counseling process. Once you've decided to seek out psychotherapy, finding the therapist who is the right fit for you can feel overwhelming. The psychologists, professional counselors and social workers at River City Psychological Services (RCPS) strive to create a safe environment where people can grow and heal.
We believe that the psychotherapy relationship should be based on respect and healthy boundaries.
Sometimes life can present us with difficulties, as well as opportunities, that we don't expect or aren't sure how to handle. Many people find ways of healing, growing, and even striving through the counseling process. Once you've decided to seek out psychotherapy, finding the therapist who is the right fit for you can feel overwhelming. The psychologists, professional counselors and social workers at River City Psychological Services (RCPS) strive to create a safe environment where people can grow and heal.
(616) 920-8113 View (616) 920-8113
Photo of Charles E Grayson, PhD, Psychologist
Charles E Grayson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East Grand Rapids, MI 49506
I also offer marital and relationship counseling.
Psychotherapy can help you with worries, anxiety, depression, and troubled relationships. I can assist you in becoming more constructive in your approach to life; you will discover in treatment abilities that you posess but that you might not even have known about which, when they are known to you, help you to be in a stronger position to feel more confidence and comfort dealing with the challenging aspects of your life. My therapeutic method consists of a process of problem solving with a focus on exploring ones thinking, imagining, feeling and experiencing.
I also offer marital and relationship counseling.
Psychotherapy can help you with worries, anxiety, depression, and troubled relationships. I can assist you in becoming more constructive in your approach to life; you will discover in treatment abilities that you posess but that you might not even have known about which, when they are known to you, help you to be in a stronger position to feel more confidence and comfort dealing with the challenging aspects of your life. My therapeutic method consists of a process of problem solving with a focus on exploring ones thinking, imagining, feeling and experiencing.
(616) 365-5000 View (616) 365-5000
Photo of Kathleen J Cramer, PhD, LP, Psychologist
Kathleen J Cramer
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
East Grand Rapids, MI 49506
Dr Cramer is a licensed clinical psychologist with 11 years of experience as a psychotherapist. She is also a registered nurse. She is a compassionate therapist who strives to create a close and supportive relationship with each patient. She has a strong belief in treating the whole person, utilizing psychotherapy with a focus on wellness, inner peace, spirituality and cultivating a deeper awareness with ones inner self. She has experience in the treatment of a wide range of problems, trauma and stress, relationship/marital or couple problems, issues related to chronic pain, and patients in recovery from substance abuse/addiction.
Dr Cramer is a licensed clinical psychologist with 11 years of experience as a psychotherapist. She is also a registered nurse. She is a compassionate therapist who strives to create a close and supportive relationship with each patient. She has a strong belief in treating the whole person, utilizing psychotherapy with a focus on wellness, inner peace, spirituality and cultivating a deeper awareness with ones inner self. She has experience in the treatment of a wide range of problems, trauma and stress, relationship/marital or couple problems, issues related to chronic pain, and patients in recovery from substance abuse/addiction.
(616) 920-0467 View (616) 920-0467
Photo of Robin M Ward, PsyD, Psychologist
Robin M Ward
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East Grand Rapids, MI 49506
I am a psychologist practicing in Grand Rapids, MI who provides individual therapy, couples therapy, psychological assessment, and supervision.
People often seek therapy following life changes where customary ways of coping are no longer sufficient to meet the demands of their world. I consider the focus of my work as a therapist the development of a safe and trusting relationship where I can help a person discuss difficult feelings as well as identify problematic interpersonal patterns that may be getting in the way of personal goals and successful relationships. I then work closely and collaboratively with my client to develop creative and effective ways to move past these roadblocks.
I am a psychologist practicing in Grand Rapids, MI who provides individual therapy, couples therapy, psychological assessment, and supervision.
People often seek therapy following life changes where customary ways of coping are no longer sufficient to meet the demands of their world. I consider the focus of my work as a therapist the development of a safe and trusting relationship where I can help a person discuss difficult feelings as well as identify problematic interpersonal patterns that may be getting in the way of personal goals and successful relationships. I then work closely and collaboratively with my client to develop creative and effective ways to move past these roadblocks.
(616) 537-8219 View (616) 537-8219
Photo of Melissa Muir, MA, MLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Melissa Muir
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, MLP
Verified Verified
East Grand Rapids, MI 49506
If you or your child are living with strong emotions, suicide attempts, self-harming, hospitalizations, chronic relationship/behavioral issues, or roller coaster emotions; life is very tough. You may feel like you are held hostage by these emotions and have a difficult time imagining that a 'normal' or healthy life is even possible. As a therapist trained in the specialty of DBT therapy, I believe that EVERYONE is capable of creating a life worth living.
If you or your child are living with strong emotions, suicide attempts, self-harming, hospitalizations, chronic relationship/behavioral issues, or roller coaster emotions; life is very tough. You may feel like you are held hostage by these emotions and have a difficult time imagining that a 'normal' or healthy life is even possible. As a therapist trained in the specialty of DBT therapy, I believe that EVERYONE is capable of creating a life worth living.
(616) 499-4174 View (616) 499-4174
Photo of Natalie Blauer, LMSW, CAADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Natalie Blauer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAADC
Verified Verified
East Grand Rapids, MI 49506
I enjoy working with folks on relationship issues, co-parenting issues, marital issues, and general women's issues.
If you want help making your life more manageable or finding a way out of the chaos, you have come to the right place. If you feel like you are struggling to reconcile experiences or find coping skills to manage mental health concerns, relationship issues, and/or addictions, you have also come to the right place. We will work together to identify the source of your discomfort and unmanageability and then identify tools to move forward. Once we have identified the problem, we can work towards a solution. I am very solution focused in my approach and enjoy working with individuals who are ready to make sustainable change.
I enjoy working with folks on relationship issues, co-parenting issues, marital issues, and general women's issues.
If you want help making your life more manageable or finding a way out of the chaos, you have come to the right place. If you feel like you are struggling to reconcile experiences or find coping skills to manage mental health concerns, relationship issues, and/or addictions, you have also come to the right place. We will work together to identify the source of your discomfort and unmanageability and then identify tools to move forward. Once we have identified the problem, we can work towards a solution. I am very solution focused in my approach and enjoy working with individuals who are ready to make sustainable change.
(616) 404-4155 View (616) 404-4155
Photo of Tory Seif, PhD, Psychologist
Tory Seif
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
East Grand Rapids, MI 49506
Waitlist for new clients
I really enjoy working with individuals and families on issues involving stress and anxiety (Panic Disorder, OCD, Generalized Anxiety, Agoraphobia, etc.), folks dealing with issues related to the Autistic Spectrum, people dealing with adjustments to chronic health issues and their impacts, and relationship concerns ranging from parenting and romantic relationships to family dynamics and interacting with adult children.
I really enjoy working with individuals and families on issues involving stress and anxiety (Panic Disorder, OCD, Generalized Anxiety, Agoraphobia, etc.), folks dealing with issues related to the Autistic Spectrum, people dealing with adjustments to chronic health issues and their impacts, and relationship concerns ranging from parenting and romantic relationships to family dynamics and interacting with adult children.
(616) 449-2155 View (616) 449-2155
Photo of Jacquelyn Lee, MA, LPC, LLC, Counselor
Jacquelyn Lee Lee
Counselor, MA, LPC, LLC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
East Grand Rapids, MI 49506  (Online Only)
I also have formal training in Gottman Couples Therapy, Levels 1 and 2.
Are you looking for a counselor who will accept you just as you are, make you feel safe, and help you to rediscover hope? I will walk beside you while you learn to experience more self-compassion, live more contentedly, and enjoy a more abundant life. Since 1995, I have worked with clients experiencing troubling issues such as trauma and PTSD, depression, anxiety, hopelessness, various types of relationship problems, low self-esteem, parenting difficulties, school-related problems, marriage difficulties, and spiritual needs.
I also have formal training in Gottman Couples Therapy, Levels 1 and 2.
Are you looking for a counselor who will accept you just as you are, make you feel safe, and help you to rediscover hope? I will walk beside you while you learn to experience more self-compassion, live more contentedly, and enjoy a more abundant life. Since 1995, I have worked with clients experiencing troubling issues such as trauma and PTSD, depression, anxiety, hopelessness, various types of relationship problems, low self-esteem, parenting difficulties, school-related problems, marriage difficulties, and spiritual needs.
(616) 918-6004 View (616) 918-6004
Photo of Anu Allington, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anu Allington
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
East Grand Rapids, MI 49506
I specialize in Eating Disorders, Anxiety, Couples' Counseling, Family Therapy, ADHD, Depression, and those with chronic medical conditions.
Reaching out for counseling takes courage and strength. Whether you are seeking support for a life stressor, a recent loss, to explore who you are, to address mental health challenges, or to navigate relationship difficulties, I welcome your contact. My goal is to offer you a safe and collaborative space where you feel heard and validated. I bring warmth, compassion, skill, and caring attention to help you along your journey, and together, we will develop treatment goals, clarify your core values, strengthen coping strategies, and engage in self-exploration leading to lasting change and growth.
I specialize in Eating Disorders, Anxiety, Couples' Counseling, Family Therapy, ADHD, Depression, and those with chronic medical conditions.
Reaching out for counseling takes courage and strength. Whether you are seeking support for a life stressor, a recent loss, to explore who you are, to address mental health challenges, or to navigate relationship difficulties, I welcome your contact. My goal is to offer you a safe and collaborative space where you feel heard and validated. I bring warmth, compassion, skill, and caring attention to help you along your journey, and together, we will develop treatment goals, clarify your core values, strengthen coping strategies, and engage in self-exploration leading to lasting change and growth.
(616) 724-7299 View (616) 724-7299
Photo of Anna Gerard, DSW, LCSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anna Gerard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
East Grand Rapids, MI 49506  (Online Only)
My practice is grounded in Relational Theory and I believe the most important component of successful treatment is having a strong relationship with your therapist.
I believe the most well-adjusted individuals have found contentment through the brave exploration of themselves. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Doctorate in Clinical Social Work from the University of Pennsylvania. For over fifteen years, I have worked with a variety of populations, including children, adolescents, families and adults. My experience supporting clients through Substance Abuse, Anxiety, Depression, Eating Disorders, Grief and Loss, PTSD and OCD is vast. I also have specialized expertise working with adolescents and young adults.
My practice is grounded in Relational Theory and I believe the most important component of successful treatment is having a strong relationship with your therapist.
I believe the most well-adjusted individuals have found contentment through the brave exploration of themselves. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Doctorate in Clinical Social Work from the University of Pennsylvania. For over fifteen years, I have worked with a variety of populations, including children, adolescents, families and adults. My experience supporting clients through Substance Abuse, Anxiety, Depression, Eating Disorders, Grief and Loss, PTSD and OCD is vast. I also have specialized expertise working with adolescents and young adults.
(616) 577-7890 View (616) 577-7890
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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.