Couples Counseling Therapists in Muskegon, MI
![Photo of Joshua Martinez, MA, TLLP, LLPC, Limited Licensed Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50c7cc1b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Joshua Martinez
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, TLLP, LLPC
Not Verified Not Verified
1 Endorsed
Muskegon, MI 49441
I believe in creating a warm and safe place where people can feel comfortable working through their difficulties and emerge with new strength. I work with adolescents, adults, couples, and families on a wide range of personal and interpersonal issues. Some people have a clear idea of the problem they want to address, and others are simply experiencing too much difficulty and only know that something needs to change. In either case, I explore their individual experiences and perspectives, and what they would like out of the therapeutic process before collaboratively developing the interventions and tools that best meet their needs.
I believe in creating a warm and safe place where people can feel comfortable working through their difficulties and emerge with new strength. I work with adolescents, adults, couples, and families on a wide range of personal and interpersonal issues. Some people have a clear idea of the problem they want to address, and others are simply experiencing too much difficulty and only know that something needs to change. In either case, I explore their individual experiences and perspectives, and what they would like out of the therapeutic process before collaboratively developing the interventions and tools that best meet their needs.
![Photo of Blake Martinez, PsyD, LP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40640349-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a fully licensed Psychologist. I attained my Doctorate in Clinical Psychology at Union Institute & University. My areas of focus include the effects of family dynamics, culture and systems on an individual's mental health. I integrate cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) along with other evidence based practices to meet client needs. I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and families to help enrich and unburden the lives of my clients. Whether you are looking to target a specific problem in your life or just looking for ways to manage your mind for unlocking your better self, therapy can be a powerful support tool.
I am a fully licensed Psychologist. I attained my Doctorate in Clinical Psychology at Union Institute & University. My areas of focus include the effects of family dynamics, culture and systems on an individual's mental health. I integrate cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) along with other evidence based practices to meet client needs. I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and families to help enrich and unburden the lives of my clients. Whether you are looking to target a specific problem in your life or just looking for ways to manage your mind for unlocking your better self, therapy can be a powerful support tool.
![Photo of Joseph Christian Thompson, LLC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a3eb18ed-643c-44d1-ade1-933b6b9f155d/1/320x400.jpeg)
I work with all ages and conditions, but I have a passion for those with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship distress, and grief.
Counseling has always been a calling for me. I have gone through a number of difficulties throughout my life that have given me a unique perspective on what it is life to struggle with mental health. My purpose is to guide clients to a place of peace and understanding, both in themselves and the world around them. I want to work to bring meaning, hope, and peace to others, and to empower them to face life's challenges.
I work with all ages and conditions, but I have a passion for those with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship distress, and grief.
Counseling has always been a calling for me. I have gone through a number of difficulties throughout my life that have given me a unique perspective on what it is life to struggle with mental health. My purpose is to guide clients to a place of peace and understanding, both in themselves and the world around them. I want to work to bring meaning, hope, and peace to others, and to empower them to face life's challenges.
![Photo of Gabriel Cerchiori, LLMFT, LLC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bf8164d6-60d9-4eb3-a707-a9fa8de9e837/1/320x400.jpeg)
Gabriel Cerchiori
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LLMFT, LLC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Muskegon, MI 49441
We all find ourselves in spots that are less than ideal from time to time. A relationship that brought us safety, joy and fulfillment in the past now turns us into an anxious and distracted mess. We feel our body giving way to time and it scares us. Or perhaps we have found that the way the world always seemed may not truly be the way it is and we are left with more questions than we have answers for. Whatever the specifics, we all need a place to breath, collect ourselves and reassess our trajectory, especially when it comes to our relationships and our inner worlds.
We all find ourselves in spots that are less than ideal from time to time. A relationship that brought us safety, joy and fulfillment in the past now turns us into an anxious and distracted mess. We feel our body giving way to time and it scares us. Or perhaps we have found that the way the world always seemed may not truly be the way it is and we are left with more questions than we have answers for. Whatever the specifics, we all need a place to breath, collect ourselves and reassess our trajectory, especially when it comes to our relationships and our inner worlds.
![Photo of Joy Anne Lyle, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d5db7c0-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Joy Anne Lyle
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Muskegon, MI 49442
I specialize in adolescents, trauma, and couples.
All my life, I have had one goal- to change the world. I have learned over time that this happens through deep, meaningful conversations. Help me change the world through you! My ideal client would be one who is motivated to change. This is a client who wants to see progress and is willing to put in the work. These clients can have a wide variety of issues, including, anxiety, depression, emotional regulation, trauma, and marital issues. They can have a wide variety of goals as well, the overarching theme being wellness. I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and a Certified Child and Adolescent Anxiety Professional.
I specialize in adolescents, trauma, and couples.
All my life, I have had one goal- to change the world. I have learned over time that this happens through deep, meaningful conversations. Help me change the world through you! My ideal client would be one who is motivated to change. This is a client who wants to see progress and is willing to put in the work. These clients can have a wide variety of issues, including, anxiety, depression, emotional regulation, trauma, and marital issues. They can have a wide variety of goals as well, the overarching theme being wellness. I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and a Certified Child and Adolescent Anxiety Professional.
![Photo of Dr. June Marie Martinez, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5d6534cc-3e74-427e-ba87-0dcfc8b394c9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Working with couples is a particular passion of mine.
I enjoy working with with families, couples, and individuals from various religious and ethnic backgrounds. I have been married for 45 years and raised five children. My family experiences together with specialized training in relationships, domestic abuse, and parenting have prepared me to work with a variety of family dynamics. I have two Masters degrees in Psychology -clinical and counseling. I have a doctorate in clinical psychology. I also work with PTSD, ADHD and personality assessments, depression, anxiety, various mood disorders, relationship issues, post affair couple counseling, pre-marital counseling, grief & loss
Working with couples is a particular passion of mine.
I enjoy working with with families, couples, and individuals from various religious and ethnic backgrounds. I have been married for 45 years and raised five children. My family experiences together with specialized training in relationships, domestic abuse, and parenting have prepared me to work with a variety of family dynamics. I have two Masters degrees in Psychology -clinical and counseling. I have a doctorate in clinical psychology. I also work with PTSD, ADHD and personality assessments, depression, anxiety, various mood disorders, relationship issues, post affair couple counseling, pre-marital counseling, grief & loss
![Photo of Kellie Gerstweiler - Synergy Life Services, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44ec790b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am honored to join clients on their journey towards personal growth and greatness. I specialize in working with: teenagers , adults and couples. I support my clients as they address issues related to: Addictions/Sobriety, Anxiety, Depression, Parenting Support, Personal/Spiritual Growth, PTSD, Sexual Abuse and or Trauma.
I am honored to join clients on their journey towards personal growth and greatness. I specialize in working with: teenagers , adults and couples. I support my clients as they address issues related to: Addictions/Sobriety, Anxiety, Depression, Parenting Support, Personal/Spiritual Growth, PTSD, Sexual Abuse and or Trauma.
![Photo of Kellie Crowell Bowen - Kellie Crowell, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/38177828-cb2e-4be7-88fe-e7bc59fcab0f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kellie Crowell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Muskegon, MI 49442
I also specialize in couples/marriage counseling and enjoy teaching couples how to reconnect and communicate without defensiveness or assumptions.
Being a human doesn't come with a handbook, and I want to help you navigate the parts of life that you are struggling with. Adult and teenage depression, anxiety, communication, boundaries, stress, sexuality, marriage, relationships, and trauma are areas of therapy that I focus on. I am passionate about what I do and love to weave CBT, existentialism, and positive psychology into my therapeutic approach. These methods can help individuals overcome trauma, provide new perspectives, decrease pessimism, and improve motivation. My approach fosters the ability to talk without filters, embarrassment, or pressure.
I also specialize in couples/marriage counseling and enjoy teaching couples how to reconnect and communicate without defensiveness or assumptions.
Being a human doesn't come with a handbook, and I want to help you navigate the parts of life that you are struggling with. Adult and teenage depression, anxiety, communication, boundaries, stress, sexuality, marriage, relationships, and trauma are areas of therapy that I focus on. I am passionate about what I do and love to weave CBT, existentialism, and positive psychology into my therapeutic approach. These methods can help individuals overcome trauma, provide new perspectives, decrease pessimism, and improve motivation. My approach fosters the ability to talk without filters, embarrassment, or pressure.
![Photo of Karli Baldus, LLP, LPC, RDT, Limited Licensed Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43b57e21-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Karli Baldus
Limited Licensed Psychologist, LLP, LPC, RDT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Muskegon, MI 49441
I specialize in working with teens, couples, and families.
Need someone to listen and support you through difficult issues? I provide an Integrative approach using Trauma Focused Therapy, Internal Family Systems, CBT, Interpersonal Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Drama Therapy, where appropriate. I believe it is my job to provide the supportive environment, professional insight, and researched-based strategies to allow the client to grow. I want to help my clients become their best selves.
I specialize in working with teens, couples, and families.
Need someone to listen and support you through difficult issues? I provide an Integrative approach using Trauma Focused Therapy, Internal Family Systems, CBT, Interpersonal Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Drama Therapy, where appropriate. I believe it is my job to provide the supportive environment, professional insight, and researched-based strategies to allow the client to grow. I want to help my clients become their best selves.
![Photo of Margaret A Lowe - Harbor Psychological Associates, PsyD, LP, CST](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a70ea3df-9cf6-4980-9151-3f93c94a9d4d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Harbor Psychological Associates offers a full array of counseling services for children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families.
Harbor Psychological Associates is an established group of experienced, skilled and compassionate mental health professionals providing confidential, quality services. We are psychologists and counselors who are here to help adults, children, couples and families who are dealing with a wide range of issues. Our therapists are licensed and/or certified in their respective disciplines, have advanced degrees and specialty training. We offer both telehealth and in-person sessions. Our offices are in a beautiful old home located in the historic district of downtown Muskegon.
Harbor Psychological Associates offers a full array of counseling services for children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families.
Harbor Psychological Associates is an established group of experienced, skilled and compassionate mental health professionals providing confidential, quality services. We are psychologists and counselors who are here to help adults, children, couples and families who are dealing with a wide range of issues. Our therapists are licensed and/or certified in their respective disciplines, have advanced degrees and specialty training. We offer both telehealth and in-person sessions. Our offices are in a beautiful old home located in the historic district of downtown Muskegon.
![Photo of Telko Cunningham - Services of Hope, CAADC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/458fecf9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I'm here to help you through life's distressing events including: Depression, anxiety, substance abuse, relationship issues, grief/loss, physical/sexual abuse, gender identity, and parenting issues.
Life can be overwhelming at times and everybody needs somebody! You do not have to handle the stress and issues of life alone. If you are feeling lost, confused, hopeless, helpless or just need some support working on some issues, you can contact me. I enjoy working with adolescence, adults, and the elderly population. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to restore, recognize, and resolve the challenges in your life. We will uncover long-standing negative behaviors/thoughts that may be holding you back from enjoying a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
I'm here to help you through life's distressing events including: Depression, anxiety, substance abuse, relationship issues, grief/loss, physical/sexual abuse, gender identity, and parenting issues.
Life can be overwhelming at times and everybody needs somebody! You do not have to handle the stress and issues of life alone. If you are feeling lost, confused, hopeless, helpless or just need some support working on some issues, you can contact me. I enjoy working with adolescence, adults, and the elderly population. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to restore, recognize, and resolve the challenges in your life. We will uncover long-standing negative behaviors/thoughts that may be holding you back from enjoying a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
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![Photo of Stacey Vandenberg, PhD, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e5e11fad-6f0a-4e1d-95de-26c4200a3d93/2/320x400.jpeg)
Stacey Vandenberg
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Muskegon, MI 49445
By building a trusting therapeutic relationship, I have worked with many individuals/couples that have realized that they can live their lives with greater peace/happiness and reduce their loneliness, confusion, rapid thinking, shame/guilt, and worry by recognizing new coping skills, self-confidence, and developing new ways of perceiving their experiences.
I am a psychologist with over 25 years of experience helping others to navigate life's journey. I offer a judgment-free environment to overcome life's challenges and provide a haven for self-discovery. Through this process, my clients have recognized their ability to heal and gain a greater insight into self-empowerment. I specialize in overcoming trauma, parts therapy (IFS), relationships, anxiety, depression, and more with individuals/couples in coordination with their PCP when needed. I have found that how we perceive ourselves is our reality, and, together, we can expand that perspective.
By building a trusting therapeutic relationship, I have worked with many individuals/couples that have realized that they can live their lives with greater peace/happiness and reduce their loneliness, confusion, rapid thinking, shame/guilt, and worry by recognizing new coping skills, self-confidence, and developing new ways of perceiving their experiences.
I am a psychologist with over 25 years of experience helping others to navigate life's journey. I offer a judgment-free environment to overcome life's challenges and provide a haven for self-discovery. Through this process, my clients have recognized their ability to heal and gain a greater insight into self-empowerment. I specialize in overcoming trauma, parts therapy (IFS), relationships, anxiety, depression, and more with individuals/couples in coordination with their PCP when needed. I have found that how we perceive ourselves is our reality, and, together, we can expand that perspective.
![Photo of Erika McAfee-Levan, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0bea4a31-cb7a-432d-8bf7-be23d57e8e4f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Erika McAfee-Levan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Muskegon, MI 49440 (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.
![Photo of Stephanie Kitchen, MS, LPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d3d6301-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I work with people to find balance, reduce stress, feel stronger, more confident and centered. Together, we will work to identify patterns of thinking and behaving that are no longer useful, and may be getting in the way of the changes you want to make. With support, in a confidential setting, you can begin to improve your relationship with yourself, and with others. I work with couples in a similar way, identifying and changing patterns of thinking, communicating and relating so that you can improve communication, get more support, and feel more connected.
I work with people to find balance, reduce stress, feel stronger, more confident and centered. Together, we will work to identify patterns of thinking and behaving that are no longer useful, and may be getting in the way of the changes you want to make. With support, in a confidential setting, you can begin to improve your relationship with yourself, and with others. I work with couples in a similar way, identifying and changing patterns of thinking, communicating and relating so that you can improve communication, get more support, and feel more connected.
![Photo of Matthew M. Ready, LMSW, CAADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ff4af876-4be0-463a-8588-7c3b7ff94f21/2/320x400.jpeg)
The relationship between client and clinician is a key component of treatment efficacy. I believe that this therapeutic relationship is founded in a spirit of collaboration, an emotional bond and an agreement on goals and tasks. Two main characteristics of therapy are critical to the building of this therapeutic alliance: expertise and compassion. I am confident in my ability to help resolve any issues in a satisfying manner, prepared in both theory and practice, clear in my thoughts, ideas, and logical in the problem solving process. Of equal importance, I am accepting, understanding and genuinely interested in you and your needs.
The relationship between client and clinician is a key component of treatment efficacy. I believe that this therapeutic relationship is founded in a spirit of collaboration, an emotional bond and an agreement on goals and tasks. Two main characteristics of therapy are critical to the building of this therapeutic alliance: expertise and compassion. I am confident in my ability to help resolve any issues in a satisfying manner, prepared in both theory and practice, clear in my thoughts, ideas, and logical in the problem solving process. Of equal importance, I am accepting, understanding and genuinely interested in you and your needs.
![Photo of Sheila D Wilkinson, MA, LPC, FLE, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5311a965-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Along with working with couples and sexual addictions, I also work with individuals in areas of trauma, sexual abuse and ADHD.
Life can be difficult at times and often we struggle to navigate those challenging times. Marriage and trauma difficulties, in particular, can be very personal and often leave us feeling extremely confused and lonely. As a therapist I use the Gottman Method Therapy and Emotion Focused Therapy to assist couples. I work with my clients to identify a specific cycle of conflict, identify and express personal longings, increase level of intimacy, and put trust/commitment back into relationships. I also use EMDR, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to explore, educate and empower those with trauma and each person I come in contact with.
Along with working with couples and sexual addictions, I also work with individuals in areas of trauma, sexual abuse and ADHD.
Life can be difficult at times and often we struggle to navigate those challenging times. Marriage and trauma difficulties, in particular, can be very personal and often leave us feeling extremely confused and lonely. As a therapist I use the Gottman Method Therapy and Emotion Focused Therapy to assist couples. I work with my clients to identify a specific cycle of conflict, identify and express personal longings, increase level of intimacy, and put trust/commitment back into relationships. I also use EMDR, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to explore, educate and empower those with trauma and each person I come in contact with.
![Photo of Kyle Williams, LMSW, ACSW, Coach, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fac9826-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kyle Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, ACSW, Coach
Verified Verified
Muskegon, MI 49441
With over 30 years of clinical experience, Kyle is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and nationally certified by NASW's Academy of Certified Social Workers as well as a certified MentorCoach. "I am a pragmatist with a knack for developing interpersonal power in others. With a practical and research-guided approach, I help families and individuals draw on their strengths and replicate successes, both small and large. I work with individuals, couples, multi-generational family systems, families with children - and I am trained and experienced in working with a wide variety of life issues."
With over 30 years of clinical experience, Kyle is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and nationally certified by NASW's Academy of Certified Social Workers as well as a certified MentorCoach. "I am a pragmatist with a knack for developing interpersonal power in others. With a practical and research-guided approach, I help families and individuals draw on their strengths and replicate successes, both small and large. I work with individuals, couples, multi-generational family systems, families with children - and I am trained and experienced in working with a wide variety of life issues."
![Photo of James Ian Sherrill, LPC, CAADC, TF-CBT, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/733ab71f-5125-4a05-a112-3c294cd4c199/1/320x400.jpeg)
James Ian Sherrill
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CAADC, TF-CBT
Verified Verified
Muskegon, MI 49442
Pro Bono counseling options available with Intern Clinician Logan Montgomery. Adjusting to change, overcoming trauma, addictions, unhealthy coping patterns can be hard.It helps to have a trusted person to work through the dilemmas life throws at you. You want to release those burdens, feel contentment with your life, satisfaction in your relationship, be happy. Let me be that person to support your emotional processing, be the sounding board to help you make the best decisions, that trusted professional to make your goals the main focus.
Pro Bono counseling options available with Intern Clinician Logan Montgomery. Adjusting to change, overcoming trauma, addictions, unhealthy coping patterns can be hard.It helps to have a trusted person to work through the dilemmas life throws at you. You want to release those burdens, feel contentment with your life, satisfaction in your relationship, be happy. Let me be that person to support your emotional processing, be the sounding board to help you make the best decisions, that trusted professional to make your goals the main focus.
![Photo of Michael McShannock, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b56cdd3e-d6c3-4fd3-b34c-8266003ec9a4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Michael McShannock
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Muskegon, MI 49444
I believe this is best accomplished within the context of a genuine and accepting therapeutic relationship, in combination with:.
It is my goal and passion to provide outpatient counseling services in a manner which challenges and inspires you to expand your awareness, overcome limitations, and achieve self-defined goals.
I believe this is best accomplished within the context of a genuine and accepting therapeutic relationship, in combination with:.
It is my goal and passion to provide outpatient counseling services in a manner which challenges and inspires you to expand your awareness, overcome limitations, and achieve self-defined goals.
![Photo of Hasina Bankston, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/33fb58b1-0311-49b1-b7e4-6c1a19063ede/3/320x400.jpeg)
Hasina Bankston
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Muskegon, MI 49440
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.
See more therapy options for Muskegon
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.