Couples Counseling Therapists in Rochester Hills, MI

Photo of Amy R​o​m​a​n​o - Healing Hearts & Minds Center for Counseling, LLC, Counselor
Healing Hearts & Minds Center for Counseling, LLC
Counselor
Verified Verified
Rochester Hills, MI 48309
Our goal here at Healing Hearts & Minds is to provide our clients with a warm, compassionate, & supportive environment in which individuals, couples & families find the strength & insight necessary to promote growth, elicit change & find relief from the stressors that may be bogging you down or holding you back.
Life isn't always easy. Whether you or your loved one are facing challenges at work, home, or school....we are here to help!
Our goal here at Healing Hearts & Minds is to provide our clients with a warm, compassionate, & supportive environment in which individuals, couples & families find the strength & insight necessary to promote growth, elicit change & find relief from the stressors that may be bogging you down or holding you back.
Life isn't always easy. Whether you or your loved one are facing challenges at work, home, or school....we are here to help!
(248) 809-5755 View (248) 809-5755
Photo of Liz Grazioli Talbot, LPC, LMSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Liz Grazioli Talbot
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LPC, LMSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Rochester Hills, MI 48307
The word "kairos" comes the Greek word meaning, "the opportune and decisive moment for change." I will support you through the counseling process while you search for continued joy and wellness in your life. Child and adolescent services are available to focus in on difficult attitudes, home or school behavior problems, parental divorce or separation issues. Adult counseling is needed to help in difficult life transitions, which may cause anxiety or depression. Couple counseling is available to help develop the necessary communication skills to enhance the relationship. Couples may have reached an impass due to the developmental stages of marriage.
The word "kairos" comes the Greek word meaning, "the opportune and decisive moment for change." I will support you through the counseling process while you search for continued joy and wellness in your life. Child and adolescent services are available to focus in on difficult attitudes, home or school behavior problems, parental divorce or separation issues. Adult counseling is needed to help in difficult life transitions, which may cause anxiety or depression. Couple counseling is available to help develop the necessary communication skills to enhance the relationship. Couples may have reached an impass due to the developmental stages of marriage.
(855) 756-5939 View (855) 756-5939
Photo of Jenn Peper, MA, LPC, ATR, Counselor
Jenn Peper
Counselor, MA, LPC, ATR
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Rochester Hills, MI 48309
Waitlist for new clients
At the core of Jenn’s belief system is that the therapeutic relationship is the foundation for meaningful change.
Jenn offers expert care for individuals facing a range of challenges, including trauma, anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief, and chronic health issues. Jenn integrates evidence-based techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with person- centered, existentialism, and humanistic approaches to provide a comprehensive, personalized therapy experience. Incorporating an art therapist approach, Jenn provides clients with a creative outlet for expression, helping them explore emotions and experiences in a non-verbal way.
At the core of Jenn’s belief system is that the therapeutic relationship is the foundation for meaningful change.
Jenn offers expert care for individuals facing a range of challenges, including trauma, anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief, and chronic health issues. Jenn integrates evidence-based techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with person- centered, existentialism, and humanistic approaches to provide a comprehensive, personalized therapy experience. Incorporating an art therapist approach, Jenn provides clients with a creative outlet for expression, helping them explore emotions and experiences in a non-verbal way.
(947) 222-4432 View (947) 222-4432
Photo of Erin Marie Buerschen, MA, LLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Erin Marie Buerschen
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP
Verified Verified
Rochester Hills, MI 48309
I mainly work with adults and the aging population. I work with individuals, couples and families. I am able to help with substance abuse (including co-dependency issues, as often times, addiction is a family disease). I work with mental health issues including anxiety, depression and trauma. I assist those who have experienced grief/loss. When working with couples my goal is to help them build an understanding of themselves and their partner(s). I work with the LGBTQ population and have training in substance abuse in LGBTQ population. I have experience with many different cultural backgrounds and religious affiliations.
I mainly work with adults and the aging population. I work with individuals, couples and families. I am able to help with substance abuse (including co-dependency issues, as often times, addiction is a family disease). I work with mental health issues including anxiety, depression and trauma. I assist those who have experienced grief/loss. When working with couples my goal is to help them build an understanding of themselves and their partner(s). I work with the LGBTQ population and have training in substance abuse in LGBTQ population. I have experience with many different cultural backgrounds and religious affiliations.
(586) 331-6112 View (586) 331-6112
Photo of Jean Washington, MA, LPC, NCC, MBA, Counselor
Jean Washington
Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, MBA
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Rochester Hills, MI 48306
Licensed professional counselor - EMDR Certified - Specialization in couples counseling- Imago Trained Relationship Therapist - Also work with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, weight loss issues, trauma, and working through a difficult divorce.
Do you want more out of life? Do you have hopes and dreams that seem unattainable? You have come to the right place. Many people spend their lives wishing for more, but fear change. If you are ready to make positive changes in your life, contact me, lets get started. I look forward to meeting you. Openings for new clients: Tues & Fri 9-5pm only.
Licensed professional counselor - EMDR Certified - Specialization in couples counseling- Imago Trained Relationship Therapist - Also work with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, weight loss issues, trauma, and working through a difficult divorce.
Do you want more out of life? Do you have hopes and dreams that seem unattainable? You have come to the right place. Many people spend their lives wishing for more, but fear change. If you are ready to make positive changes in your life, contact me, lets get started. I look forward to meeting you. Openings for new clients: Tues & Fri 9-5pm only.
(248) 513-8731 View (248) 513-8731
Photo of Carrie Pardon, MBA, MA, LPC, Counselor
Carrie Pardon
Counselor, MBA, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Rochester Hills, MI 48309
I know the struggle is real. Every. Day. Whether you deal with trauma that is tormenting, anxiety, depression, have been in a relationship that has wounded you, or are looking to improve your emotional health, I offer a safe environment where we can build trust while we dive into what is keeping you from healing & moving toward your goals. Clients who work with me describe: decreased stress & anxiety, healing from trauma & pain, improved communication patterns & increased marital satisfaction. Together we can get to the root of your struggles to bring real change and growth!
I know the struggle is real. Every. Day. Whether you deal with trauma that is tormenting, anxiety, depression, have been in a relationship that has wounded you, or are looking to improve your emotional health, I offer a safe environment where we can build trust while we dive into what is keeping you from healing & moving toward your goals. Clients who work with me describe: decreased stress & anxiety, healing from trauma & pain, improved communication patterns & increased marital satisfaction. Together we can get to the root of your struggles to bring real change and growth!
(947) 888-5625 View (947) 888-5625
Photo of Kason Lamar Dickerson - Tree Of Life Counseling Services LLC, MA, LLPC, SCL, Counselor
Tree Of Life Counseling Services LLC
Counselor, MA, LLPC, SCL
Verified Verified
Rochester Hills, MI 48309
I see Couples, Children, Teens, Families and Adults.
Counseling involves empathy, congruence, trust, and genuineness and is based on an open therapeutic relationship. I 'am skilled, trained and have the necessary tools to assist my clients in the therapeutic process. Establishing a trusting, genuine, secure and judgement free environment is conducive to a healthy therapeutic safe haven. Through my education and personal experience I 'am devoted to giving my client the gift of resolve, healing and strength. As I help them explore emotions, feelings, thoughts and beliefs that they encounter daily.
I see Couples, Children, Teens, Families and Adults.
Counseling involves empathy, congruence, trust, and genuineness and is based on an open therapeutic relationship. I 'am skilled, trained and have the necessary tools to assist my clients in the therapeutic process. Establishing a trusting, genuine, secure and judgement free environment is conducive to a healthy therapeutic safe haven. Through my education and personal experience I 'am devoted to giving my client the gift of resolve, healing and strength. As I help them explore emotions, feelings, thoughts and beliefs that they encounter daily.
(248) 218-9397 View (248) 218-9397
Photo of Jessica Contreras-Janette, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jessica Contreras-Janette
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Rochester Hills, MI 48309
I chose this profession from a profound desire to help and a strong belief that we all deserve help and healing. Deciding to seek help is the first brave step towards wellness. Taking positive strides and making healthy changes is what I am here to help with. Developing a warm, trusting, and calm environment is what I strive to provide each and every session. The most important aspect of therapy is developing a healthy therapeutic relationship where you feel safe to share your feelings, thoughts and experiences.
I chose this profession from a profound desire to help and a strong belief that we all deserve help and healing. Deciding to seek help is the first brave step towards wellness. Taking positive strides and making healthy changes is what I am here to help with. Developing a warm, trusting, and calm environment is what I strive to provide each and every session. The most important aspect of therapy is developing a healthy therapeutic relationship where you feel safe to share your feelings, thoughts and experiences.
(248) 218-9871 View (248) 218-9871
Photo of Jordan Tasker - Root & Bloom Therapy PLLC, MA, LPC, Counselor
Root & Bloom Therapy PLLC
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rochester Hills, MI 48309
In this space, we aim to address issues such as depression, anxiety, shame, relationship challenges, panic attacks, mood disorder, and the stresses of life transitions.
Ever felt like you were ready for change, but you weren’t quite sure where to start? Or that you wanted to talk to someone, but you weren’t sure how? Or wondered, “has anyone else ever felt this way?” Good news, you’ve come to the right place. Welcome to Root & Bloom Therapy, a mental health practice serving Metro Detroit.
In this space, we aim to address issues such as depression, anxiety, shame, relationship challenges, panic attacks, mood disorder, and the stresses of life transitions.
Ever felt like you were ready for change, but you weren’t quite sure where to start? Or that you wanted to talk to someone, but you weren’t sure how? Or wondered, “has anyone else ever felt this way?” Good news, you’ve come to the right place. Welcome to Root & Bloom Therapy, a mental health practice serving Metro Detroit.
(586) 684-1237 View (586) 684-1237
Photo of Cindy Bilinsky, LP, LMSW, CAADC, Psychologist
Cindy Bilinsky
Psychologist, LP, LMSW, CAADC
Verified Verified
Rochester Hills, MI 48309
Life challenges can be overwhelming at times. I strive to assist individuals, couples and families in achieving emotionally healthy lives and reaching their specific life goals. I have a master degree in social work with a post graduate in Marriage and Couples therapy and a Ph.D in Clinical Psychology. I am a Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor and I am trained in EMDR. I specialize in anxiety, depression, PTSD, relationship issues, parenting, substance use and adjustment struggles. I have clinical interests in cognitive behavioral, EMDR, mindfulness, animal-assisted, creative and art approached therapy.
Life challenges can be overwhelming at times. I strive to assist individuals, couples and families in achieving emotionally healthy lives and reaching their specific life goals. I have a master degree in social work with a post graduate in Marriage and Couples therapy and a Ph.D in Clinical Psychology. I am a Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor and I am trained in EMDR. I specialize in anxiety, depression, PTSD, relationship issues, parenting, substance use and adjustment struggles. I have clinical interests in cognitive behavioral, EMDR, mindfulness, animal-assisted, creative and art approached therapy.
(586) 648-1543 View (586) 648-1543
Photo of Olesya Tran, MS, LLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Olesya Tran
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MS, LLP
Verified Verified
Rochester Hills, MI 48309
My educational training in Clinical Health Psychology has provided me with a background in variety of issues including: Depression, Anxiety, Relationship Issues, Stress and Coping Mechanisms, Health related Concerns & Chronic Health Conditions.
Emotional pain, racing thoughts, impulsivity, hopelessness, being overwhelmed are just a few of many things that people struggle with and some even accept as normal part of life. Moreover, many people are nervous to start therapy. I strive to provide a safe, non-judgmental, and empathic environment where I believe that each client is the best expert on their own lives. I listen and unconditionally accept each individual and create an integrative, unique and collaborative approach to therapy for every client. If you've considered therapy but still unsure, contact me. I am here to answer your questions.
My educational training in Clinical Health Psychology has provided me with a background in variety of issues including: Depression, Anxiety, Relationship Issues, Stress and Coping Mechanisms, Health related Concerns & Chronic Health Conditions.
Emotional pain, racing thoughts, impulsivity, hopelessness, being overwhelmed are just a few of many things that people struggle with and some even accept as normal part of life. Moreover, many people are nervous to start therapy. I strive to provide a safe, non-judgmental, and empathic environment where I believe that each client is the best expert on their own lives. I listen and unconditionally accept each individual and create an integrative, unique and collaborative approach to therapy for every client. If you've considered therapy but still unsure, contact me. I am here to answer your questions.
(586) 221-4083 View (586) 221-4083
Photo of Kristen R Qualls, MA, LPC, LMFT, NCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kristen R Qualls
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LPC, LMFT, NCC
Verified Verified
Rochester Hills, MI 48309  (Online Only)
Fighting in circles without resolution? Struggling to communicate or feel understood? Arguing or shutting down? Feeling disconnected and sad or scared? Relationship struggles are common. Low desire, affairs, and trust violations are symptoms of deeper relationship problems. Couples therapy with a specialist can make all the difference. I like helping people get down to business so they can understand and correct problems at the core. Clients love my genuine, straightforward approach and learn a lot in sessions. They leave feeling safe, with increased hope, and tasks to work on to improve their lives and achieve their goals.
Fighting in circles without resolution? Struggling to communicate or feel understood? Arguing or shutting down? Feeling disconnected and sad or scared? Relationship struggles are common. Low desire, affairs, and trust violations are symptoms of deeper relationship problems. Couples therapy with a specialist can make all the difference. I like helping people get down to business so they can understand and correct problems at the core. Clients love my genuine, straightforward approach and learn a lot in sessions. They leave feeling safe, with increased hope, and tasks to work on to improve their lives and achieve their goals.
(810) 637-1936 View (810) 637-1936
Photo of Jeanette von Grabe Gottman Couples Therapist, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jeanette von Grabe Gottman Couples Therapist
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Rochester Hills, MI 48306  (Online Only)
Not all therapist have special training in couples therapy.
Are you feeling disconnected, lonely, angry, frustrated or resentful in your marriage? Do you find yourself stuck in the same argument over and over again? Perhaps tough conversations with your partner are a struggle, that only lead to more conflict, or even worse… silence and further disengagement. Let’s break these unhealthy patterns and negative emotional cycles together. Clients have reported that they enjoy working with my warm and compassionate personality combined with my direct and practical approach.
Not all therapist have special training in couples therapy.
Are you feeling disconnected, lonely, angry, frustrated or resentful in your marriage? Do you find yourself stuck in the same argument over and over again? Perhaps tough conversations with your partner are a struggle, that only lead to more conflict, or even worse… silence and further disengagement. Let’s break these unhealthy patterns and negative emotional cycles together. Clients have reported that they enjoy working with my warm and compassionate personality combined with my direct and practical approach.
(586) 331-6972 View (586) 331-6972
Photo of David Hamel, LMSW, PsyS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
David Hamel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, PsyS
Verified Verified
Rochester Hills, MI 48309
I work with adults, adolescents and children, and enjoy helping couples and families.
I AM NOT CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. You're searching for a therapist to be of help to yourself or a loved one. Whether you hope to ease a problem such as anxiety, depression, relationship stress, substance abuse, or grief, or want to build a more satisfying life, finding the right professional to guide you is important. In my more than 30 years as a therapist, my clients have told me that my ability to help them develop new skills and insights, while connecting with them with compassion and humor, has helped them reach their goals.
I work with adults, adolescents and children, and enjoy helping couples and families.
I AM NOT CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. You're searching for a therapist to be of help to yourself or a loved one. Whether you hope to ease a problem such as anxiety, depression, relationship stress, substance abuse, or grief, or want to build a more satisfying life, finding the right professional to guide you is important. In my more than 30 years as a therapist, my clients have told me that my ability to help them develop new skills and insights, while connecting with them with compassion and humor, has helped them reach their goals.
(248) 292-3075 View (248) 292-3075
Photo of Craig Gromek, MA, LPC, Counselor
Craig Gromek
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Rochester Hills, MI 48309
I have experience working with a wide range of clients and presenting issues including substance use, depression, anxiety, and adjustment and relationship issues.
Deciding on therapy is a step toward self-improvement. Deciding on a therapist is the next step in that pursuit. It is important to find a therapist that will provide an environment that allows you to share, collaborate, and ultimately, grow. I believe that therapy can help provide an additional perspective, which can bolster self-awareness and foster individual growth. My goal is for clients to feel safe and comfortable to explore areas of their lives they wish to better understand or improve.
I have experience working with a wide range of clients and presenting issues including substance use, depression, anxiety, and adjustment and relationship issues.
Deciding on therapy is a step toward self-improvement. Deciding on a therapist is the next step in that pursuit. It is important to find a therapist that will provide an environment that allows you to share, collaborate, and ultimately, grow. I believe that therapy can help provide an additional perspective, which can bolster self-awareness and foster individual growth. My goal is for clients to feel safe and comfortable to explore areas of their lives they wish to better understand or improve.
(248) 609-3127 View (248) 609-3127
Photo of Lisa Barber, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lisa Barber
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rochester Hills, MI 48307
"The struggle you're in today is developing the strength you need for tomorrow." I'm passionate about working with adults and couples who are seeking to overcome life challenges and live a fulfilling life. I strive to create a supportive, safe, and non-judgmental environment that encourages insight and self-awareness and enhances the self-discovery process. I will empower you to make positive changes in your life that increase personal connections and help you to feel hopeful about the future.
"The struggle you're in today is developing the strength you need for tomorrow." I'm passionate about working with adults and couples who are seeking to overcome life challenges and live a fulfilling life. I strive to create a supportive, safe, and non-judgmental environment that encourages insight and self-awareness and enhances the self-discovery process. I will empower you to make positive changes in your life that increase personal connections and help you to feel hopeful about the future.
(248) 595-7730 View (248) 595-7730
Photo of Adam Hamilton - Rochester Evidence-Based Psychotherapy Clinic, LPC, LMFT, LMSW, LLMSW, NCC
Rochester Evidence-Based Psychotherapy Clinic
LPC, LMFT, LMSW, LLMSW, NCC
Verified Verified
Rochester Hills, MI 48309
At our practice, we have created an inviting and comfortable environment in which clients and professional staff can collaborate to address a number of presenting concerns. We are trained in a variety of evidence-based treatment methods that have been developed and rigorously researched by some of the world's leading experts. Our measured, thoughtful approach to assessment and treatment planning help to ensure that all clients are presented with treatment options that are well-suited to meet their needs. You and your therapist will partner to develop a customized plan to help you achieve an optimal treatment outcome.
At our practice, we have created an inviting and comfortable environment in which clients and professional staff can collaborate to address a number of presenting concerns. We are trained in a variety of evidence-based treatment methods that have been developed and rigorously researched by some of the world's leading experts. Our measured, thoughtful approach to assessment and treatment planning help to ensure that all clients are presented with treatment options that are well-suited to meet their needs. You and your therapist will partner to develop a customized plan to help you achieve an optimal treatment outcome.
(248) 710-0139 View (248) 710-0139
Photo of Christine Rice, MA, LLC, CCTP, EMDR, Counselor
Christine Rice
Counselor, MA, LLC, CCTP, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rochester Hills, MI 48309
Christine Rice, MA, LLC, CCTP, EMDR Trained (She / Her) Every person who enters my office comes with their own unique history, identity, strengths and therapy goals. With this focus, I employ a variety of therapeutic approaches including existential therapy, Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and the Gottman Method so I can tailor our sessions to your needs. In our sessions, I will use compassion and unconditional positive regard to create a space where you can bring your whole self. I welcome all clients (both couples and individuals).
Christine Rice, MA, LLC, CCTP, EMDR Trained (She / Her) Every person who enters my office comes with their own unique history, identity, strengths and therapy goals. With this focus, I employ a variety of therapeutic approaches including existential therapy, Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and the Gottman Method so I can tailor our sessions to your needs. In our sessions, I will use compassion and unconditional positive regard to create a space where you can bring your whole self. I welcome all clients (both couples and individuals).
(248) 712-3103 View (248) 712-3103
Photo of Debbra Bronstad, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Debbra Bronstad
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rochester Hills, MI 48309
Is your heart aching after the loss of a loved one? A relationship break-up or divorce? Grief Recovery can help bring peace to the pain and regrets so you can enjoy life again with purpose and passion.
Grief, pain, anxiety/worries/panic, trauma or heartbreak...Are you looking for a shelter in the storm? Christian counseling available for men, women and couples. I help my clients heal the root causes of their symptoms to bring calm and peace to their hearts. Call me for a free 15-minute consultation. There is hope and freedom even from traumatic experiences. Let me help you put an end to the past haunting you and your relationships. Painful arguments with your mate? I'd like to help you have a better kind of conversation that builds intimacy rather than isolation. Continuing to serve California clients after a move to Michigan.
Is your heart aching after the loss of a loved one? A relationship break-up or divorce? Grief Recovery can help bring peace to the pain and regrets so you can enjoy life again with purpose and passion.
Grief, pain, anxiety/worries/panic, trauma or heartbreak...Are you looking for a shelter in the storm? Christian counseling available for men, women and couples. I help my clients heal the root causes of their symptoms to bring calm and peace to their hearts. Call me for a free 15-minute consultation. There is hope and freedom even from traumatic experiences. Let me help you put an end to the past haunting you and your relationships. Painful arguments with your mate? I'd like to help you have a better kind of conversation that builds intimacy rather than isolation. Continuing to serve California clients after a move to Michigan.
(248) 817-8116 View (248) 817-8116
Photo of Jessica Jenkins, PhD, Psychologist
Jessica Jenkins
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Rochester Hills, MI 48307
I enjoy working with a broad range of clients including children, adolescents and adults in individual, couples and family therapy.
As an experienced, licensed psychologist, my role is to help people during difficult times in their lives. You might be experiencing conflict, anger, despair, sadness or simply feeling overwhelmed with daily responsibilities. I can help you to learn new, more efficient ways for managing time, stressors, relationships and emotions. My approach is supportive, with a focus on blending relief with an understanding of past and present factors impacting you and your decision-making.
I enjoy working with a broad range of clients including children, adolescents and adults in individual, couples and family therapy.
As an experienced, licensed psychologist, my role is to help people during difficult times in their lives. You might be experiencing conflict, anger, despair, sadness or simply feeling overwhelmed with daily responsibilities. I can help you to learn new, more efficient ways for managing time, stressors, relationships and emotions. My approach is supportive, with a focus on blending relief with an understanding of past and present factors impacting you and your decision-making.
(248) 455-6612 View (248) 455-6612
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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.