Couples Counseling Therapists in Creston, Grand Rapids, MI

Photo of Rachel Duhon, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rachel Duhon
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Creston, Grand Rapids, MI 49505
I believe that trust is essential in a therapeutic relationship, and I work to provide an place where you truly feel heard and valued.
Sometimes in life you don't feel heard or understood. At those times, nothing feels safe and you feel alone. When you are going through a difficult time in your life, whether acute or long-term, it can feel overwhelming and isolating. I believe my role in therapy is that of a helper, to be with you in your journey, whether that be finding your own voice, healing past wounds, or working through trauma. Through building a relationship based on compassion, empathy, and respect, we discover the tools needed for growth and change, the resilience and strength that you always possessed.
I believe that trust is essential in a therapeutic relationship, and I work to provide an place where you truly feel heard and valued.
Sometimes in life you don't feel heard or understood. At those times, nothing feels safe and you feel alone. When you are going through a difficult time in your life, whether acute or long-term, it can feel overwhelming and isolating. I believe my role in therapy is that of a helper, to be with you in your journey, whether that be finding your own voice, healing past wounds, or working through trauma. Through building a relationship based on compassion, empathy, and respect, we discover the tools needed for growth and change, the resilience and strength that you always possessed.
(616) 208-5256 View (616) 208-5256
Photo of Hannah Miller, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hannah Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Creston, Grand Rapids, MI 49505
I have a passion for helping individuals who may have experienced trauma, anxiety, depression, addiction, or have been impacted by addiction. I also enjoy supporting others with their mental health challenges and navigating life stressors. For example, one may be experiencing grief, making change, conflict in relationships with others and self, and low self-esteem. As a therapist, I want to build a positive and supportive therapeutic relationship with my clients. I want to be clear on their goals and address any problems they may be facing. Most importantly, I want my clients to feel safe, seen, heard, understood, and valued.
I have a passion for helping individuals who may have experienced trauma, anxiety, depression, addiction, or have been impacted by addiction. I also enjoy supporting others with their mental health challenges and navigating life stressors. For example, one may be experiencing grief, making change, conflict in relationships with others and self, and low self-esteem. As a therapist, I want to build a positive and supportive therapeutic relationship with my clients. I want to be clear on their goals and address any problems they may be facing. Most importantly, I want my clients to feel safe, seen, heard, understood, and valued.
(616) 345-5668 View (616) 345-5668
Photo of Ardrace D Morris, MS, MA, TLLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Ardrace D Morris
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MS, MA, TLLP
Verified Verified
Creston, Grand Rapids, MI 49501
As a former professional coach and educator, I have experience working with adults, adolescence, children and couples.
Are you feeling powerless? Is your fear, anger, confusion, and indecision getting the best of you? Unfortunately, we cannot control the experiences that impact us. At times, your lens of experience can lead you to a place of depression, anxiety, stress, or not living your best life. I will support you in facing adversity and reclaiming your power of self-love. Taking this step towards therapy is commendable. At 1 Verse Counseling and Consulting we believe you deserve to be "Mentally Well" 1 Verse at a time!
As a former professional coach and educator, I have experience working with adults, adolescence, children and couples.
Are you feeling powerless? Is your fear, anger, confusion, and indecision getting the best of you? Unfortunately, we cannot control the experiences that impact us. At times, your lens of experience can lead you to a place of depression, anxiety, stress, or not living your best life. I will support you in facing adversity and reclaiming your power of self-love. Taking this step towards therapy is commendable. At 1 Verse Counseling and Consulting we believe you deserve to be "Mentally Well" 1 Verse at a time!
(616) 207-0354 View (616) 207-0354
Photo of Courtney Kozarian, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Courtney Kozarian
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Creston, Grand Rapids, MI 49505
I work with individuals, couples and families.
I believe every person has a unique story, influenced by all of the situations and life experiences that have led up to this moment. My goal as a therapist is to build a warm and trusting relationship with you in order to support and encourage your personal growth and change. With both my personal and professional experience with blended families, non-monogamous relationships and anxiety/depression, I understand how difficult it can be to find a therapist who can provide a non-judgmental space to navigate your deepest thoughts and feelings. It is my goal to provide a space that is safe and welcoming for every client.
I work with individuals, couples and families.
I believe every person has a unique story, influenced by all of the situations and life experiences that have led up to this moment. My goal as a therapist is to build a warm and trusting relationship with you in order to support and encourage your personal growth and change. With both my personal and professional experience with blended families, non-monogamous relationships and anxiety/depression, I understand how difficult it can be to find a therapist who can provide a non-judgmental space to navigate your deepest thoughts and feelings. It is my goal to provide a space that is safe and welcoming for every client.
(616) 580-1857 View (616) 580-1857
Photo of Danjuma Gibson, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Danjuma Gibson
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Creston, Grand Rapids, MI 49505
In addition to working with individuals and couples, I provide cross-cultural and psycho-educational workshops (or consulting) to institutions & organizations.
You deserve a safe space where you are unconditionally accepted, and where you can process your joys, concerns, hopes, and fears. You deserve a therapeutic space where you are not judged, or pressured to be someone you are not. I provide psychotherapy to individuals & couples that is client-focused, culturally sensitive, and contextually relevant to you. Whether you are dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship difficulties, grief & loss, or poor self-worth, you will have your "own space" here. ALL are welcomed & affirmed in their unique personhood. With therapy, you can foster the courage to heal & live again.
In addition to working with individuals and couples, I provide cross-cultural and psycho-educational workshops (or consulting) to institutions & organizations.
You deserve a safe space where you are unconditionally accepted, and where you can process your joys, concerns, hopes, and fears. You deserve a therapeutic space where you are not judged, or pressured to be someone you are not. I provide psychotherapy to individuals & couples that is client-focused, culturally sensitive, and contextually relevant to you. Whether you are dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship difficulties, grief & loss, or poor self-worth, you will have your "own space" here. ALL are welcomed & affirmed in their unique personhood. With therapy, you can foster the courage to heal & live again.
(708) 315-6240 View (708) 315-6240
Photo of Hasina Bankston, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hasina Bankston
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Creston, Grand Rapids, MI 49505
I am skilled with providing clinical guidance and and therapy to individuals, couples and families experiencing depression, anxiety, anger, grief, trauma and new life transitions.
It's my passion to empower individuals to improve their overall physical, mental, and emotional well-being. My goal is to meet people where they are and to provide a non-judgmental, culturally sensitive, and compassionate approach to everyone I encounter. My approach focuses on building a strong therapeutic relationship and creating a safe space for clients.
I am skilled with providing clinical guidance and and therapy to individuals, couples and families experiencing depression, anxiety, anger, grief, trauma and new life transitions.
It's my passion to empower individuals to improve their overall physical, mental, and emotional well-being. My goal is to meet people where they are and to provide a non-judgmental, culturally sensitive, and compassionate approach to everyone I encounter. My approach focuses on building a strong therapeutic relationship and creating a safe space for clients.
(616) 319-4224 View (616) 319-4224
Photo of Dr. Patricia Keller, PhD, LPC, NCC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Patricia Keller
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC, ACS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Creston, Grand Rapids, MI 49508  (Online Only)
If you're looking for a dedicated partner to help you thrive during life's transitions, overcome obstacles, tap into your inner strength, and make a change in your life, I welcome you to reach out.
Are feeling stuck, overwhelmed, and unsure about your next steps? I'm dedicated to helping women navigate life's challenges and transitions, offering counseling, life coaching, and therapeutic support. I'm deeply committed to empowering individuals, especially during life challenges. My focus areas encompass stress management, anxiety, depression, motivation, relationships, life transitions, self-esteem, and confidence, both in personal growth and career development.
If you're looking for a dedicated partner to help you thrive during life's transitions, overcome obstacles, tap into your inner strength, and make a change in your life, I welcome you to reach out.
Are feeling stuck, overwhelmed, and unsure about your next steps? I'm dedicated to helping women navigate life's challenges and transitions, offering counseling, life coaching, and therapeutic support. I'm deeply committed to empowering individuals, especially during life challenges. My focus areas encompass stress management, anxiety, depression, motivation, relationships, life transitions, self-esteem, and confidence, both in personal growth and career development.
(616) 303-5492 x104 View (616) 303-5492 x104
Photo of Kelsey Di Pirro, LMSW, LCSW, CAADC, AASW, SEP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelsey Di Pirro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCSW, CAADC, AASW, SEP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Creston, Grand Rapids, MI 49505
Building resiliency isn't always about overcoming the mountain sized obstacles. Sometimes, its about overcoming the desire to stay in bed all day, or have popcorn for dinner the fifth day in a row, or have just one more drink at the end of the day. Trauma, and its positive counter-part- Healing, is within each of us. Cultivating a positive support system and partnership is all about accessing the natural power you hold within yourself. Within each individual, and couple, embracing healing is possible. I believe in empowering people to build a relationship with themselves in such a way that they develop internal trust and reliance.
Building resiliency isn't always about overcoming the mountain sized obstacles. Sometimes, its about overcoming the desire to stay in bed all day, or have popcorn for dinner the fifth day in a row, or have just one more drink at the end of the day. Trauma, and its positive counter-part- Healing, is within each of us. Cultivating a positive support system and partnership is all about accessing the natural power you hold within yourself. Within each individual, and couple, embracing healing is possible. I believe in empowering people to build a relationship with themselves in such a way that they develop internal trust and reliance.
(312) 605-5945 View (312) 605-5945
Photo of Michael Walton, MDiv, MA, LLPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michael Walton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MDiv, MA, LLPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Creston, Grand Rapids, MI 49505
I have personally walked with individuals through many different relational issues, struggles and trauma. I specialize in the areas of sexual and gender identity, intimacy and pornography addiction, couples, premarital and marriage counseling, as well as counseling services for ministers My other specialities include: therapy for depression and anxiety, career-related issues, conflict resolution, grief counseling, stress management, work-life balance issues, trauma and crisis, spiritual issues and concerns, communication issues, assertiveness, men's issues/pornography. I am also a licensed as a Prepare/Enrich premarital and marriage counselor.
I have personally walked with individuals through many different relational issues, struggles and trauma. I specialize in the areas of sexual and gender identity, intimacy and pornography addiction, couples, premarital and marriage counseling, as well as counseling services for ministers My other specialities include: therapy for depression and anxiety, career-related issues, conflict resolution, grief counseling, stress management, work-life balance issues, trauma and crisis, spiritual issues and concerns, communication issues, assertiveness, men's issues/pornography. I am also a licensed as a Prepare/Enrich premarital and marriage counselor.
(616) 298-3386 View (616) 298-3386
Photo of Thomas Richard Stewart, MA, LLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Thomas Richard Stewart
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP
Verified Verified
Creston, Grand Rapids, MI 49505
I have helped couples relate to each other in more intimate and meaningful ways.
I have been a psychotherapist for the past 15+ years and really enjoy my job. I have been able to meet a lot of interesting people and help others with a variety of problems. I strive to offer opportunities for people to live more authentic and meaningful lives and have deeper more intimate relationships. I do not offer shallow advice, easy solutions, false hopes, or pat answers; only a commitment to journey with you in the most authentic and compassionate ways I know how.
I have helped couples relate to each other in more intimate and meaningful ways.
I have been a psychotherapist for the past 15+ years and really enjoy my job. I have been able to meet a lot of interesting people and help others with a variety of problems. I strive to offer opportunities for people to live more authentic and meaningful lives and have deeper more intimate relationships. I do not offer shallow advice, easy solutions, false hopes, or pat answers; only a commitment to journey with you in the most authentic and compassionate ways I know how.
(616) 520-4196 View (616) 520-4196
Photo of Hillari Madison, MA, MLP
Hillari Madison
MA, MLP
Verified Verified
Creston, Grand Rapids, MI 49505
Waitlist for new clients
I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and families in areas relating to anxiety, depression, general relationship concerns, health issues, life transitions, marriage counseling, ADHD/ADD, and faith. I also specialize in psychological assessing for ADHD/ADD, professional/organizational development as well as other areas.
I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and families in areas relating to anxiety, depression, general relationship concerns, health issues, life transitions, marriage counseling, ADHD/ADD, and faith. I also specialize in psychological assessing for ADHD/ADD, professional/organizational development as well as other areas.
(616) 359-0073 View (616) 359-0073
Photo of Sarah Rhein, MA, LPC, Counselor
Sarah Rhein
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Creston, Grand Rapids, MI 49505
Everyone who takes the risk to try counseling needs to be listened to and their unique story heard. During counseling sessions you will feel valued, supported, and equipped to face the struggles of life. Together we'll figure out how you can move forward, if you feel stuck, and reach your goals. We'll use your strengths to overcome what may be holding you back, and holistic strategies for healing and growth. Whether dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship difficulty, or some other issue, we can work together to develop solutions. As a therapist I offer you a fresh perspective, some new skills, guidance, and hope.
Everyone who takes the risk to try counseling needs to be listened to and their unique story heard. During counseling sessions you will feel valued, supported, and equipped to face the struggles of life. Together we'll figure out how you can move forward, if you feel stuck, and reach your goals. We'll use your strengths to overcome what may be holding you back, and holistic strategies for healing and growth. Whether dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship difficulty, or some other issue, we can work together to develop solutions. As a therapist I offer you a fresh perspective, some new skills, guidance, and hope.
(616) 201-1371 View (616) 201-1371
Photo of Sasha Brattain, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sasha Brattain
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Creston, Grand Rapids, MI 49505
Congratulations on your decision to begin outpatient therapy. Every person has a unique journey that has made them who they are today. The path to healing can be overwhelming, however, the process is life-changing. My goal as a therapist is to support individuals, families, and couples as they navigate the intricate complexities of their lives in an effort to improve life satisfaction and self-efficacy.
Congratulations on your decision to begin outpatient therapy. Every person has a unique journey that has made them who they are today. The path to healing can be overwhelming, however, the process is life-changing. My goal as a therapist is to support individuals, families, and couples as they navigate the intricate complexities of their lives in an effort to improve life satisfaction and self-efficacy.
(616) 208-5318 View (616) 208-5318
Photo of Angelina Scianna - Life Support LLC, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Life Support LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Creston, Grand Rapids, MI 49505
As a therapist, I strive to support you while working with you to improve your emotional and mental well being, relationships and quality of life. I believe the most important piece to therapy is the relationship you have with your therapist. My goal is to create a comfortable, nonjudgmental space to help you achieve your personal goals and overcome barriers to living the life you want. You are the expert, and I want you to feel empowered to make the changes you decide are best for you.
As a therapist, I strive to support you while working with you to improve your emotional and mental well being, relationships and quality of life. I believe the most important piece to therapy is the relationship you have with your therapist. My goal is to create a comfortable, nonjudgmental space to help you achieve your personal goals and overcome barriers to living the life you want. You are the expert, and I want you to feel empowered to make the changes you decide are best for you.
(616) 426-9401 View (616) 426-9401
Photo of Emily Warning, LMSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily Warning
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Creston, Grand Rapids, MI 49505
Waitlist for new clients
I consider ​ relationship the greatest tool in healing, starting with the therapeutic ​ relationship.
I specialize in utilizing a holistic & relational ​approach to address issues that arise from unresolved ​trauma, stress and anxiety, life transitions, and mood ​disorders. I believe by addressing dysfunctional patterns ​of the mind and body that stem from the past, we can live ​fuller and more balanced lives in the present and future. I am passionate about working with young adults, adults (to age 65), & family ​units. Common areas of need include life transition support, developmental ​trauma & accompanying symptoms, & relationship/attachment struggles.
I consider ​ relationship the greatest tool in healing, starting with the therapeutic ​ relationship.
I specialize in utilizing a holistic & relational ​approach to address issues that arise from unresolved ​trauma, stress and anxiety, life transitions, and mood ​disorders. I believe by addressing dysfunctional patterns ​of the mind and body that stem from the past, we can live ​fuller and more balanced lives in the present and future. I am passionate about working with young adults, adults (to age 65), & family ​units. Common areas of need include life transition support, developmental ​trauma & accompanying symptoms, & relationship/attachment struggles.
(616) 757-0697 View (616) 757-0697
Photo of Jason Lowell, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jason Lowell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Creston, Grand Rapids, MI 49505
Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of working with individuals dealing with various issues, including relationship conflicts, depression, anxiety, and significant life transitions.
Hello and welcome! I'm Jason, a dedicated and passionate mental health professional who fervently desires to support you on your path to well-being and personal growth. My journey in the field of mental health began with a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from CMU, which provided me with a strong foundation in understanding the complexities of human behavior and thought processes. Driven by a deeper commitment to helping individuals, I pursued a Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. This advanced training has equipped me with the skills and knowledge to assist those facing a wide range of challenges effectively.
Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of working with individuals dealing with various issues, including relationship conflicts, depression, anxiety, and significant life transitions.
Hello and welcome! I'm Jason, a dedicated and passionate mental health professional who fervently desires to support you on your path to well-being and personal growth. My journey in the field of mental health began with a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from CMU, which provided me with a strong foundation in understanding the complexities of human behavior and thought processes. Driven by a deeper commitment to helping individuals, I pursued a Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. This advanced training has equipped me with the skills and knowledge to assist those facing a wide range of challenges effectively.
(616) 737-8511 View (616) 737-8511
Photo of Ashley Yancho, LMSW, CAADC, MPA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ashley Yancho
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAADC, MPA
Verified Verified
Creston, Grand Rapids, MI 49505
Asking for help is difficult and it takes courage to share personal information with an individual you don't know. My goal is to offer a safe and comfortable environment for clients. I am passionate at providing therapy services to individuals, couples, adolescents and families, during major life changes, working through loss or trauma, or relationship stress . I utilize a variety of therapy interventions. Due to my belief in your ability to find your own answers, I see my role as a facilitator. I will provide objective guidance, challenge and support. I will listen without judgment, while helping you to tackle life's challenges.
Asking for help is difficult and it takes courage to share personal information with an individual you don't know. My goal is to offer a safe and comfortable environment for clients. I am passionate at providing therapy services to individuals, couples, adolescents and families, during major life changes, working through loss or trauma, or relationship stress . I utilize a variety of therapy interventions. Due to my belief in your ability to find your own answers, I see my role as a facilitator. I will provide objective guidance, challenge and support. I will listen without judgment, while helping you to tackle life's challenges.
(616) 512-2579 View (616) 512-2579
Photo of Mari Graham Monarch, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mari Graham Monarch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Creston, Grand Rapids, MI 49505  (Online Only)
My passion is working with adults, seniors and couples wanting to make positive changes in their lives.
Are you looking to heal from infidelity or struggling with conflict in your relationship? Are you at a crossroad of staying or leaving your marriage? Do you want to have healthier relationships with your partner or others? Are you feeling overwhelmed by a health diagnosis or chronic illness? Midlife concerns? Do you struggle with feelings of anxiety or depression? Are you struggling with past trauma? Everyone can use someone to talk to and I offer my 25 years of experience in the mental health and medical fields with adults,seniors & couples to help you grow, reflect, gain insight,heal and develop positive coping skills.
My passion is working with adults, seniors and couples wanting to make positive changes in their lives.
Are you looking to heal from infidelity or struggling with conflict in your relationship? Are you at a crossroad of staying or leaving your marriage? Do you want to have healthier relationships with your partner or others? Are you feeling overwhelmed by a health diagnosis or chronic illness? Midlife concerns? Do you struggle with feelings of anxiety or depression? Are you struggling with past trauma? Everyone can use someone to talk to and I offer my 25 years of experience in the mental health and medical fields with adults,seniors & couples to help you grow, reflect, gain insight,heal and develop positive coping skills.
(810) 642-3140 View (810) 642-3140
Photo of Dr. Tracy Marie Newbern, DSW, LMSW, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Tracy Marie Newbern
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LMSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Creston, Grand Rapids, MI 49505  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Therapist with a Doctorate and a master’s degree in clinical social work. I have experience working with adults and veterans within clinical inpatient and outpatient mental health settings and over 27 years of experience diagnosing and treating clients who have trauma experience. I employ a strengths-based client-centered perspective utilizing mindfulness psychotherapy and the whole health model to empower clients and emphasize a balance between the mind, body, and spirit, which promotes wellness.
I am a Licensed Clinical Therapist with a Doctorate and a master’s degree in clinical social work. I have experience working with adults and veterans within clinical inpatient and outpatient mental health settings and over 27 years of experience diagnosing and treating clients who have trauma experience. I employ a strengths-based client-centered perspective utilizing mindfulness psychotherapy and the whole health model to empower clients and emphasize a balance between the mind, body, and spirit, which promotes wellness.
(616) 439-2406 View (616) 439-2406
Photo of Vivian Keller, LMSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Vivian Keller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Creston, Grand Rapids, MI 49505
I am a licensed social worker in the state of Michigan with over 20 years of experience working with families, adults, children, adolescents and in group settings. I have experience in helping clients with stress management and anxiety, depression, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. My goal is to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Giving a listening ear, feedback and creating goals with clients that help see their own path to well-being. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and a happier life; this a great first step
I am a licensed social worker in the state of Michigan with over 20 years of experience working with families, adults, children, adolescents and in group settings. I have experience in helping clients with stress management and anxiety, depression, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. My goal is to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Giving a listening ear, feedback and creating goals with clients that help see their own path to well-being. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and a happier life; this a great first step
(616) 282-6254 View (616) 282-6254
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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.