Couples Counseling Therapists in Grand Rapids, MI

Photo of Betsy Love, LMFT, MSMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Betsy Love
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MSMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49505  (Online Only)
It is my goal to teach healthy patterns for coping and communicating by fostering a relationship that is based on trust, safety, and authentic care.
Come as you are. I have many years of experience working with people and have seen people travel from brokenness to restoration. This isn't the end of your story. It takes an incredible amount of courage to face things in life but you don't have to be alone. I know that it can be scary to walk into a therapy room and share things that require great vulnerability. Lack of self-love. Infertility. Pregnancy Loss. Postpartum Depression. Guilt/Shame. Life Transitions. Identity. Marriage and Family Issues. Whatever you're facing, I would love to help you find healing.
It is my goal to teach healthy patterns for coping and communicating by fostering a relationship that is based on trust, safety, and authentic care.
Come as you are. I have many years of experience working with people and have seen people travel from brokenness to restoration. This isn't the end of your story. It takes an incredible amount of courage to face things in life but you don't have to be alone. I know that it can be scary to walk into a therapy room and share things that require great vulnerability. Lack of self-love. Infertility. Pregnancy Loss. Postpartum Depression. Guilt/Shame. Life Transitions. Identity. Marriage and Family Issues. Whatever you're facing, I would love to help you find healing.
(616) 426-6532 View (616) 426-6532
Photo of Marcie Dullea, MA, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Marcie Dullea
Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
If you are struggling with issues with anxiety, depression, life transitions, self-esteem, suicidal ideation, PTSD, or OCD I am able to guide you to a better place. I work with individuals, families, and couples. My therapeutic style is eclectic, which means I strive to fit your needs and your lifestyle. I also have over 20 years experience working with families that struggle with parenting skills and children with defiance issues.
If you are struggling with issues with anxiety, depression, life transitions, self-esteem, suicidal ideation, PTSD, or OCD I am able to guide you to a better place. I work with individuals, families, and couples. My therapeutic style is eclectic, which means I strive to fit your needs and your lifestyle. I also have over 20 years experience working with families that struggle with parenting skills and children with defiance issues.
(586) 217-3955 View (586) 217-3955
Photo of Chris Postema, PhD, LMSW, CAADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chris Postema
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LMSW, CAADC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49525
Everyone experiences life struggles. I believe clients come to therapy already equipped with the tools and skills to make change and therapy is a tool to help accomplish that goal. I specialize in helping individuals with trauma, depression, anxiety and relationship problems. I've worked with adults, children, adolescents and families for 20 years, and take great joy in seeing change happen in the lives of others. I believe in a client-centered approach, which means you are the expert of your own life, and I am a facilitator in helping you accomplish your own goals. I also have experience working with other healthcare professionals.
Everyone experiences life struggles. I believe clients come to therapy already equipped with the tools and skills to make change and therapy is a tool to help accomplish that goal. I specialize in helping individuals with trauma, depression, anxiety and relationship problems. I've worked with adults, children, adolescents and families for 20 years, and take great joy in seeing change happen in the lives of others. I believe in a client-centered approach, which means you are the expert of your own life, and I am a facilitator in helping you accomplish your own goals. I also have experience working with other healthcare professionals.
(616) 438-0643 View (616) 438-0643
Photo of Abigail J C Smith, MA, LPC, CAADC, Counselor
Abigail J C Smith
Counselor, MA, LPC, CAADC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
I have training and experience in the US and in India and in helping individuals and couples from diverse backgrounds with relationship and parenting issues, substance abuse, identity, depression and severe mental illness.
As a therapist I specialize in Substance Use, Anxiety, Identity development and Couple’s Therapy. Trauma from your past creates messages that can have an impact on how you view yourself. Some of those messages create habits and coping mechanisms that can have negative consequences, consequences that inhibit you from knowing the goodness that lies deep within you. Knowing your inherent goodness gives you the framework and foundation to tackle the tougher issues and is an indispensable starting point for your healing journey.
I have training and experience in the US and in India and in helping individuals and couples from diverse backgrounds with relationship and parenting issues, substance abuse, identity, depression and severe mental illness.
As a therapist I specialize in Substance Use, Anxiety, Identity development and Couple’s Therapy. Trauma from your past creates messages that can have an impact on how you view yourself. Some of those messages create habits and coping mechanisms that can have negative consequences, consequences that inhibit you from knowing the goodness that lies deep within you. Knowing your inherent goodness gives you the framework and foundation to tackle the tougher issues and is an indispensable starting point for your healing journey.
(616) 239-3039 View (616) 239-3039
Photo of Rebecca Klott - River City Psychological Services, PhD, LP, CAADC, Psychologist
River City Psychological Services
Psychologist, PhD, LP, CAADC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
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 Hailey Williams, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hailey Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49525
During our sessions, we will build a strong therapeutic relationship and work toward empowered action to help meet your goals.
We all carry stories that need acknowledgement - the things you talk about but more importantly, the things you don't. In addition to my own life experiences, I have worked alongside individuals who have survived trauma, battled with depression and anxiety, mood disorders, and suicidality, experienced significant family conflict or major life changes, and suffered devastating loss. I am here to walk with you through the hard things: past, present, and future.
During our sessions, we will build a strong therapeutic relationship and work toward empowered action to help meet your goals.
We all carry stories that need acknowledgement - the things you talk about but more importantly, the things you don't. In addition to my own life experiences, I have worked alongside individuals who have survived trauma, battled with depression and anxiety, mood disorders, and suicidality, experienced significant family conflict or major life changes, and suffered devastating loss. I am here to walk with you through the hard things: past, present, and future.
(616) 449-3216 View (616) 449-3216
Photo of Jeffrey Hollander, MSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jeffrey Hollander
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49506  (Online Only)
If you are looking for a therapist who will be a "partner" with you to help resolve problems, then you have me.
I work with adults primarily, but will accept ages 17 and 18. I focus on Substance Use Disorders and Co- Occurring Disorders and general Mental Health problems. I am skilled in Couples Therapy and in working with Co dependent spouses. I have experience with the prison system and work with Parolees and Probationers. I treat issues of Self Image, Self Esteem, and Anger Management skills as well as relationship difficulties. Please note that I am no longer with Northwest Counseling. I have joined Bloom Behavioral Health Partners. My personal web site is www.rationaltherapytechniques.com.
If you are looking for a therapist who will be a "partner" with you to help resolve problems, then you have me.
I work with adults primarily, but will accept ages 17 and 18. I focus on Substance Use Disorders and Co- Occurring Disorders and general Mental Health problems. I am skilled in Couples Therapy and in working with Co dependent spouses. I have experience with the prison system and work with Parolees and Probationers. I treat issues of Self Image, Self Esteem, and Anger Management skills as well as relationship difficulties. Please note that I am no longer with Northwest Counseling. I have joined Bloom Behavioral Health Partners. My personal web site is www.rationaltherapytechniques.com.
(616) 710-4391 View (616) 710-4391
Photo of Jacinta Glashower, MA, LLC, Counselor
Jacinta Glashower
Counselor, MA, LLC
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49544
Couples: preparing for marriage/engagement, refreshing and maintaining a marriage, repairing and healing marriage strain and challenges.
Support, encouragement, and space to breathe. We all need these to get us through life. From the daily anxiety of tasks and relationships to deep trauma. It can feel suffocating. I would like to provide a safe place to heal and process. To hold onto hope when you are unable to have any. To lift you up in support of your goals for yourself and your relationships. I am ready to invest in you. My hope is for us to work together to identify what you need and to find ways to best meet those needs. I specialize in addressing depression, anxiety, relationship struggles, preparation for marriage, post-traumatic stress, and grief.
Couples: preparing for marriage/engagement, refreshing and maintaining a marriage, repairing and healing marriage strain and challenges.
Support, encouragement, and space to breathe. We all need these to get us through life. From the daily anxiety of tasks and relationships to deep trauma. It can feel suffocating. I would like to provide a safe place to heal and process. To hold onto hope when you are unable to have any. To lift you up in support of your goals for yourself and your relationships. I am ready to invest in you. My hope is for us to work together to identify what you need and to find ways to best meet those needs. I specialize in addressing depression, anxiety, relationship struggles, preparation for marriage, post-traumatic stress, and grief.
(616) 253-9340 View (616) 253-9340
Photo of Dr. Tristan McBain, PhD, LPC, LMFT, NCC, Counselor
Dr. Tristan McBain
Counselor, PhD, LPC, LMFT, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546  (Online Only)
You love your partner and value this relationship - you just need a little help breathing new life into it.
Are you tired of feeling frustrated or hurt in your relationship? Do you have the same argument over and over with your partner but yet things never seem to change? You may blame each other or speak with sarcasm or defensiveness when you talk. It's easier sometimes to just avoid the hard conversations but then the problem never gets solved and you're left feeling unheard. Maybe you walk on eggshells because you can't be honest about your true feelings. Or perhaps your connection has grown stale over time and the passion just isn't there anymore. You'd love to have deeper emotional intimacy and exciting sex with the one you love.
You love your partner and value this relationship - you just need a little help breathing new life into it.
Are you tired of feeling frustrated or hurt in your relationship? Do you have the same argument over and over with your partner but yet things never seem to change? You may blame each other or speak with sarcasm or defensiveness when you talk. It's easier sometimes to just avoid the hard conversations but then the problem never gets solved and you're left feeling unheard. Maybe you walk on eggshells because you can't be honest about your true feelings. Or perhaps your connection has grown stale over time and the passion just isn't there anymore. You'd love to have deeper emotional intimacy and exciting sex with the one you love.
(734) 359-6654 View (734) 359-6654
Photo of Mike Copeland, Pre-Licensed Professional
Mike Copeland
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49508
I also help couples navigate their stories, providing a safe space to explore communication, address conflicts, and deepen connections.
Everyone has a story—what’s yours? Every day, our thoughts shape our stories from lived experiences. Are there parts you wish you could forget? Do you feel like you’re never enough? Is your people-pleasing, anxiety, shame, and childhood trauma crippling? This is a painful place to be, but you don't have to go through this alone. As a narrative therapist, I understand how your background (or story) impacts your life. I offer a space to unpack and heal from the toughest parts of your story, helping you transition from trauma to healing, shame to self-compassion, people-pleasing to self-empowerment, and anxiety to authenticity.
I also help couples navigate their stories, providing a safe space to explore communication, address conflicts, and deepen connections.
Everyone has a story—what’s yours? Every day, our thoughts shape our stories from lived experiences. Are there parts you wish you could forget? Do you feel like you’re never enough? Is your people-pleasing, anxiety, shame, and childhood trauma crippling? This is a painful place to be, but you don't have to go through this alone. As a narrative therapist, I understand how your background (or story) impacts your life. I offer a space to unpack and heal from the toughest parts of your story, helping you transition from trauma to healing, shame to self-compassion, people-pleasing to self-empowerment, and anxiety to authenticity.
(616) 727-7880 View (616) 727-7880
Photo of Patty Wagenhofer, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Patty Wagenhofer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49525
As a LGBTQ+ member of the community and survivor of past trauma, severe depression, and challenges with substances, my sensitivity to gender related issues along with a deep-rooted personal understanding positions me to be a powerful mental health partner to my clients.
Are you faced with challenges that are overwhelming or goals that just seem out of reach? Do you feel depressed, sad, anxious or wonder why you are not able to move forward in your life? Do you just want to feel better? Are alcohol or other drugs part of the picture that may be impacting your life? My focus is to help people build a framework for success for those wishing to break free of addictions, stigma, past traumas, depression, anxiety, and resolve conflict in relationships. “I love empowering others and supporting them in creating hope and realizing their dreams.” Anything is possible.
As a LGBTQ+ member of the community and survivor of past trauma, severe depression, and challenges with substances, my sensitivity to gender related issues along with a deep-rooted personal understanding positions me to be a powerful mental health partner to my clients.
Are you faced with challenges that are overwhelming or goals that just seem out of reach? Do you feel depressed, sad, anxious or wonder why you are not able to move forward in your life? Do you just want to feel better? Are alcohol or other drugs part of the picture that may be impacting your life? My focus is to help people build a framework for success for those wishing to break free of addictions, stigma, past traumas, depression, anxiety, and resolve conflict in relationships. “I love empowering others and supporting them in creating hope and realizing their dreams.” Anything is possible.
(616) 344-9670 View (616) 344-9670
Photo of Erika McAfee-Levan, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Erika McAfee-Levan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49525  (Online Only)
As a dedicated therapist with extensive experience, I wholly dedicate my career to supporting individuals, couples, and families on their path to a happier and healthier life. My therapeutic approach is straightforward and innovative rooted in Cognitive Behavior Therapy, backed by a proven track record of assisting individuals, couples, and families in leading healthier, more productive lives. I firmly believe that positive change can be achieved by uncovering and understanding the underlying beliefs formed through our unique life experiences, thus promoting healthier thinking patterns and favorable outcomes.
As a dedicated therapist with extensive experience, I wholly dedicate my career to supporting individuals, couples, and families on their path to a happier and healthier life. My therapeutic approach is straightforward and innovative rooted in Cognitive Behavior Therapy, backed by a proven track record of assisting individuals, couples, and families in leading healthier, more productive lives. I firmly believe that positive change can be achieved by uncovering and understanding the underlying beliefs formed through our unique life experiences, thus promoting healthier thinking patterns and favorable outcomes.
(616) 404-3792 View (616) 404-3792
Photo of Jennifer L Selent, MA LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jennifer L Selent
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist that has been working with Families, Couples, and Individuals with many diagnosis for over 15 years. I have a very wide array of experience, but do provide specialized training for the following populations: First Responders, individuals suffering from traumatic stress, eating disorders/disordered eating, addiction, and grief as well as their families. I also can support with performance issues related to competition, work, etc. I expect you would find me to be down to earth and practical, but clinically sophisticated in my approach. My goal is partnership and empowerment.
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist that has been working with Families, Couples, and Individuals with many diagnosis for over 15 years. I have a very wide array of experience, but do provide specialized training for the following populations: First Responders, individuals suffering from traumatic stress, eating disorders/disordered eating, addiction, and grief as well as their families. I also can support with performance issues related to competition, work, etc. I expect you would find me to be down to earth and practical, but clinically sophisticated in my approach. My goal is partnership and empowerment.
(616) 537-6729 View (616) 537-6729
Photo of Carly C. Brooks-Harmon, MA, LPC, Counselor
Carly C. Brooks-Harmon
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
Sometimes life can be overwhelming, and it can be difficult to manage the stress and trials that come. Our experiences can leave us feeling overwhelmed, alone, or unsure where to turn. When we feel stuck or scared, we can act in ways we question, lose track of what we value, or begin to feel unworthy of those around us. This can impact the way we interact with others and show up in our day to day lives. Through the counseling relationship you can learn to explore more about yourself, process your experiences and emotions, begin to heal, and take charge of the life you want to live.
Sometimes life can be overwhelming, and it can be difficult to manage the stress and trials that come. Our experiences can leave us feeling overwhelmed, alone, or unsure where to turn. When we feel stuck or scared, we can act in ways we question, lose track of what we value, or begin to feel unworthy of those around us. This can impact the way we interact with others and show up in our day to day lives. Through the counseling relationship you can learn to explore more about yourself, process your experiences and emotions, begin to heal, and take charge of the life you want to live.
(616) 253-8995 View (616) 253-8995
Photo of Michael L. Zandstra, LMSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michael L. Zandstra
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Hi! Thanks for stopping by. My practice experience is grounded in a relationship based processing style. I work to highlight an individuals strengths and create a safe and comfortable space for clients to process a variety of issues related to grief, loss, depression, anxiety, trauma and family or relationship conflict.
Hi! Thanks for stopping by. My practice experience is grounded in a relationship based processing style. I work to highlight an individuals strengths and create a safe and comfortable space for clients to process a variety of issues related to grief, loss, depression, anxiety, trauma and family or relationship conflict.
(616) 522-8847 View (616) 522-8847
Photo of Matt DeWit, LLC, Counselor
Matt DeWit
Counselor, LLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49504
I am honored to come on this journey with you. As a therapist I create a safe and non judgemental environment for you to explore who you truly are. Clients can expect me to be warm and empathetic. I believe therapy is a sacred space where we get to discover who you are, how you got here and who you want to be. I desire clients who are interested in exploring the unknowns of themselves and learning to discover their unique place in the world; those who have found that their old way of existing isn’t enough and want a better life. I want you to flourish and we will create an environment and relationship for you to do that.
I am honored to come on this journey with you. As a therapist I create a safe and non judgemental environment for you to explore who you truly are. Clients can expect me to be warm and empathetic. I believe therapy is a sacred space where we get to discover who you are, how you got here and who you want to be. I desire clients who are interested in exploring the unknowns of themselves and learning to discover their unique place in the world; those who have found that their old way of existing isn’t enough and want a better life. I want you to flourish and we will create an environment and relationship for you to do that.
(616) 207-1701 View (616) 207-1701
Photo of Cheryl Lynn Dudgeon - Reclaim Life Therapy, PLLC, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Reclaim Life Therapy, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49503  (Online Only)
I am dedicated in helping you develop greater awareness, coping skills, and if desired, a richer relationship with God, which can improve your mental health.
Are you overwhelmed by life and not sure how to get through another day? Troubled by the past and not sure how to resolve it? Is anxiety, depression, or grief the main feelings you experience on a daily basis? Do you want to be content and free from worry? To enjoy life to it's fullest?
I am dedicated in helping you develop greater awareness, coping skills, and if desired, a richer relationship with God, which can improve your mental health.
Are you overwhelmed by life and not sure how to get through another day? Troubled by the past and not sure how to resolve it? Is anxiety, depression, or grief the main feelings you experience on a daily basis? Do you want to be content and free from worry? To enjoy life to it's fullest?
(616) 871-2419 View (616) 871-2419
Photo of Robert J. Baird, PhD, MSW, MDiv, Psychologist
Robert J. Baird
Psychologist, PhD, MSW, MDiv
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
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 Health For Life Grand Rapids - Trauma Informed Counseling Center of Grand Rapids , LPC, LMSW, LMFT, LLP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Trauma Informed Counseling Center of Grand Rapids
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMSW, LMFT, LLP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
Our therapists are skilled in working with a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, and life transitions. No matter what you’re facing, we are here to support you on your journey towards healing and growth. We offer a welcoming and non-judgmental environment where you can feel safe to explore your thoughts and emotions. Our goal is to help you develop the skills and insights needed to navigate life’s challenges and find greater happiness and fulfillment.
Our therapists are skilled in working with a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, and life transitions. No matter what you’re facing, we are here to support you on your journey towards healing and growth. We offer a welcoming and non-judgmental environment where you can feel safe to explore your thoughts and emotions. Our goal is to help you develop the skills and insights needed to navigate life’s challenges and find greater happiness and fulfillment.
(616) 202-5246 View (616) 202-5246
Photo of Miriam Engler, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Miriam Engler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
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 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

See more therapy options for Grand Rapids

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.