Couples Counseling Therapists in Bozeman, MT

Photo of Taniquell Wilder O'Tool, MS, LCPC, Counselor
Taniquell Wilder O'Tool
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bozeman, MT 59715
Through marriage and couples therapy, I help couples learn to recognize and acknowledge each other's emotional triggers and to validate each other's experiences and emotions without judgment.
Accepting new clients - Hi, I’m Taniquell. As a licensed counselor working with couples and adults, I’m passionate about helping clients cultivate groundedness, confidence, and connection in the midst of life's chaos. In today's fast-paced, technology-driven world, it's easy to feel disconnected and to sense something is “off." But what if you could rediscover your inner compass, quiet the inner critic, and feel more present in your life and relationships? Together, we can work toward helping you find inner and interpersonal harmony, develop new, effective responses to ongoing problems, and embrace and build on existing strengths.
Through marriage and couples therapy, I help couples learn to recognize and acknowledge each other's emotional triggers and to validate each other's experiences and emotions without judgment.
Accepting new clients - Hi, I’m Taniquell. As a licensed counselor working with couples and adults, I’m passionate about helping clients cultivate groundedness, confidence, and connection in the midst of life's chaos. In today's fast-paced, technology-driven world, it's easy to feel disconnected and to sense something is “off." But what if you could rediscover your inner compass, quiet the inner critic, and feel more present in your life and relationships? Together, we can work toward helping you find inner and interpersonal harmony, develop new, effective responses to ongoing problems, and embrace and build on existing strengths.
(406) 233-9451 View (406) 233-9451
Photo of Josh Timothy Baker, MS, LCPC
Josh Timothy Baker
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bozeman, MT 59718
My mentor said to me: “we get there together.” This means that we need one another to go the distance. Grief, anxiety, trauma, depression, relational conflicts or any number of other challenges can lead to feeling disconnected, distressed, or ashamed. I aim to provide an empathetic presence to provide support, healthy reflection, and hope as we find healthy change to pursue. Counseling can be proactive too (before our crisis). If you are interested in understanding yourself better, developing healthy coping skills, exploring your beliefs, or strengthening your relational skills I would love to partner with you.
My mentor said to me: “we get there together.” This means that we need one another to go the distance. Grief, anxiety, trauma, depression, relational conflicts or any number of other challenges can lead to feeling disconnected, distressed, or ashamed. I aim to provide an empathetic presence to provide support, healthy reflection, and hope as we find healthy change to pursue. Counseling can be proactive too (before our crisis). If you are interested in understanding yourself better, developing healthy coping skills, exploring your beliefs, or strengthening your relational skills I would love to partner with you.
(406) 344-1314 View (406) 344-1314
Photo of Hannah Wilson, LCPC, CST, Counselor
Hannah Wilson
Counselor, LCPC, CST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bozeman, MT 59715
I hope to work with you to to create the relationship(s) you desire knowing that we have all have been impacted by trauma and/or everyday stressors.
I work with individuals and couples. Sexuality consists of delightful spectrums from identities, relational systems and genders. Seeking exploration and connection as we cultivate a pleasure focus to create the relationships that you find meaningful and fulfilling. This is your therapeutic experience and I work to make it fit you. Specializing in gender related topics, sexual dysfunction, and relationships and intimacy, this journey is with curiosity offer practical interventions to move you toward the connection you are seeking!
I hope to work with you to to create the relationship(s) you desire knowing that we have all have been impacted by trauma and/or everyday stressors.
I work with individuals and couples. Sexuality consists of delightful spectrums from identities, relational systems and genders. Seeking exploration and connection as we cultivate a pleasure focus to create the relationships that you find meaningful and fulfilling. This is your therapeutic experience and I work to make it fit you. Specializing in gender related topics, sexual dysfunction, and relationships and intimacy, this journey is with curiosity offer practical interventions to move you toward the connection you are seeking!
(406) 929-1324 View (406) 929-1324
Photo of Sandy Bierle, MS, PCLC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Sandy Bierle
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, PCLC
Verified Verified
Bozeman, MT 59715
I offer counseling for individuals, families, couples, and adolescents using an emotion focused approach.
Hello! My name is Sandy and I am a pre-licensed counselor working in a private practice setting with a wide array of clients. I have specialized training with families, couples, and adolescents, yet I am passionate about working with anyone who is seeking support and transformation. Life's challenges come in all sorts of forms and I strive to provide a safe and judgement-free space to help you navigate them. I invest in my clients and work to support their healing by connecting to who they really are beneath the struggles so they can live happier and more connected lives. I believe we are all wired for connection and also to heal.
I offer counseling for individuals, families, couples, and adolescents using an emotion focused approach.
Hello! My name is Sandy and I am a pre-licensed counselor working in a private practice setting with a wide array of clients. I have specialized training with families, couples, and adolescents, yet I am passionate about working with anyone who is seeking support and transformation. Life's challenges come in all sorts of forms and I strive to provide a safe and judgement-free space to help you navigate them. I invest in my clients and work to support their healing by connecting to who they really are beneath the struggles so they can live happier and more connected lives. I believe we are all wired for connection and also to heal.
(406) 446-8837 View (406) 446-8837
Photo of Heidi McKinley, PhD, LCPC, Counselor
Heidi McKinley
Counselor, PhD, LCPC
Verified Verified
Bozeman, MT 59715
Waitlist for new clients
I deeply value relationship and look forward to providing you the space you need to explore life's most difficult experiences, as well as life's greatest joys.
Hello! My name is Heidi McKinley and I am a licensed clinical professional counselor and counselor educator and supervisor. I am passionate about counseling and truly enjoy working with clients who desire change in their lives but may feel scared, ambivalent, stuck or confused. Every person, couple, and family has a unique story with varied experiences and struggles. I value human connection and relationship and believe there so much power in each that can help facilitate that desired change.
I deeply value relationship and look forward to providing you the space you need to explore life's most difficult experiences, as well as life's greatest joys.
Hello! My name is Heidi McKinley and I am a licensed clinical professional counselor and counselor educator and supervisor. I am passionate about counseling and truly enjoy working with clients who desire change in their lives but may feel scared, ambivalent, stuck or confused. Every person, couple, and family has a unique story with varied experiences and struggles. I value human connection and relationship and believe there so much power in each that can help facilitate that desired change.
(406) 412-7313 View (406) 412-7313
Photo of Autumn Clowes, MS, LCPC, NBCC, Counselor
Autumn Clowes
Counselor, MS, LCPC, NBCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Bozeman, MT 59718
A deep therapy relationship builds over time, however to ensure that I am the right counselor for you to begin with, I offer a free phone consultation.
I believe that everyone has within them the capacity for growth and profound strength. However, sometimes we find ourselves stuck in problematic patterns without the insight or support we need to free ourselves. One of the greatest honors of my lifetime is the ongoing opportunity I have to walk alongside my clients as they both deepen their understanding of themselves and rewrite their stories to ones of strength, self-compassion and empowerment.
A deep therapy relationship builds over time, however to ensure that I am the right counselor for you to begin with, I offer a free phone consultation.
I believe that everyone has within them the capacity for growth and profound strength. However, sometimes we find ourselves stuck in problematic patterns without the insight or support we need to free ourselves. One of the greatest honors of my lifetime is the ongoing opportunity I have to walk alongside my clients as they both deepen their understanding of themselves and rewrite their stories to ones of strength, self-compassion and empowerment.
(406) 551-1035 View (406) 551-1035
Photo of Eilissa Crowe, LCPC, MHP, Counselor
Eilissa Crowe
Counselor, LCPC, MHP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bozeman, MT 59715
Currently accepting new clients for in-person or telehealth appointments. I work with adults experiencing difficulties due to effects from trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship conflicts, and changing life circumstances. My approach is to honor each individual where they are while helping them explore the root of difficult emotions and unwanted behavior or relationship patterns.
Currently accepting new clients for in-person or telehealth appointments. I work with adults experiencing difficulties due to effects from trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship conflicts, and changing life circumstances. My approach is to honor each individual where they are while helping them explore the root of difficult emotions and unwanted behavior or relationship patterns.
(406) 693-1421 View (406) 693-1421
Photo of Marise Rowell, MA, MS, LCPC, RYT-200, GRMS, Counselor
Marise Rowell
Counselor, MA, MS, LCPC, RYT-200, GRMS
Verified Verified
Bozeman, MT 59719  (Online Only)
Through a safe, caring, helping relationship, I am here to help you connect with your self, your life, and others as you experience your change.
In life, change is inevitable. Sometimes we want it, and sometimes we don't. Sometimes it comes easy, and sometimes it's among the hardest thing we'll ever try to do. Themes central to experiencing change include tolerating uncertainties, having safe supportive others who can witness and support change, and having choice on the kinds of support needed to make sustainable change. I'm pleased to offer Psychotherapy to residents in the State of Montana, as well as Programs and Collective Healing Communities.
Through a safe, caring, helping relationship, I am here to help you connect with your self, your life, and others as you experience your change.
In life, change is inevitable. Sometimes we want it, and sometimes we don't. Sometimes it comes easy, and sometimes it's among the hardest thing we'll ever try to do. Themes central to experiencing change include tolerating uncertainties, having safe supportive others who can witness and support change, and having choice on the kinds of support needed to make sustainable change. I'm pleased to offer Psychotherapy to residents in the State of Montana, as well as Programs and Collective Healing Communities.
(406) 577-8101 View (406) 577-8101
Photo of Julie Menanno - The Secure Relationship, COACH, Counselor
The Secure Relationship
Counselor, COACH
Verified Verified
Bozeman, MT 59715  (Online Only)
Each member of our team is a fully licensed therapist trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy For Couples.
Currently Accepting Clients Worldwide! Book your first session by visiting our website. We offer a wide range of fees and availability.
Each member of our team is a fully licensed therapist trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy For Couples.
Currently Accepting Clients Worldwide! Book your first session by visiting our website. We offer a wide range of fees and availability.
(406) 302-5551 View (406) 302-5551
Photo of Elizabeth Bentley, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Bentley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bozeman, MT 59715
September is National Suicide Awareness Month. If you are struggling with suicidal ideation, please reach out to the Bozeman Help Center or text/call 988. I am currently adding clients to my waitlist. I have a deep passion for supporting individuals, couples, and families navigating difficult times. My ideal client is someone who is feeling lost or stuck in their ability to make progress or changes in their life, and who is motivated to work on themself and their relationships with others. I have an eclectic background, having worked across the lifespan in a variety of areas, including hospitals, schools, and group practice.
September is National Suicide Awareness Month. If you are struggling with suicidal ideation, please reach out to the Bozeman Help Center or text/call 988. I am currently adding clients to my waitlist. I have a deep passion for supporting individuals, couples, and families navigating difficult times. My ideal client is someone who is feeling lost or stuck in their ability to make progress or changes in their life, and who is motivated to work on themself and their relationships with others. I have an eclectic background, having worked across the lifespan in a variety of areas, including hospitals, schools, and group practice.
(406) 800-0571 View (406) 800-0571
Photo of Carly Cook, PCLC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Carly Cook
Pre-Licensed Professional, PCLC
Verified Verified
Bozeman, MT 59718
Some of my experience includes working with individuals who have experienced trauma, domestic violence, sexual assault/abuse, relationship difficulties, depression, anxiety, and managing difficult life transitions.
Accepting new clients. Counseling offers a space for deepening our connection to ourselves, exploring emotions, and healing or processing areas where we may feel stuck, overwhelmed, or closed off. I believe in the process of self-exploration to become more fulfilled, connected, and grounded versions of ourselves. I practice from a holistic, person-centered approach, which offers space for emotional exploration and processing in a warm, collaborative environment and a therapeutic relationship that is genuine, authentic, and compassionate. I am trained in EMDR and enjoy integrating mindfulness and somatic modalities into my practice.
Some of my experience includes working with individuals who have experienced trauma, domestic violence, sexual assault/abuse, relationship difficulties, depression, anxiety, and managing difficult life transitions.
Accepting new clients. Counseling offers a space for deepening our connection to ourselves, exploring emotions, and healing or processing areas where we may feel stuck, overwhelmed, or closed off. I believe in the process of self-exploration to become more fulfilled, connected, and grounded versions of ourselves. I practice from a holistic, person-centered approach, which offers space for emotional exploration and processing in a warm, collaborative environment and a therapeutic relationship that is genuine, authentic, and compassionate. I am trained in EMDR and enjoy integrating mindfulness and somatic modalities into my practice.
(406) 319-3835 View (406) 319-3835
Photo of John Beck, LCPC, MA, MEd, Counselor
John Beck
Counselor, LCPC, MA, MEd
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bozeman, MT 59715
I help people feel better about their lives and relationships. In my 20 years as a therapist it has been gratifying to help my clients overcome depression and anxiety. In using a trauma treatment called Brain Spotting has been meaningful to me in helping people process and over-come significant traumas. I also specialize in couples therapy helping people move from conflict to resolution while developing the skills to feel more pleasure and connected in their relationship. Finally, I specialize in helping adolescents (ages 12 up) gain skills and confidence to be successful in school and peer / adult relationships.
I help people feel better about their lives and relationships. In my 20 years as a therapist it has been gratifying to help my clients overcome depression and anxiety. In using a trauma treatment called Brain Spotting has been meaningful to me in helping people process and over-come significant traumas. I also specialize in couples therapy helping people move from conflict to resolution while developing the skills to feel more pleasure and connected in their relationship. Finally, I specialize in helping adolescents (ages 12 up) gain skills and confidence to be successful in school and peer / adult relationships.
(406) 445-1182 View (406) 445-1182
Photo of Linda Hoenigsberg, LCPC, Counselor
Linda Hoenigsberg
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Bozeman, MT 59715  (Online Only)
I'll tailor my approach to your unique needs, offering individual, couples, or group therapy as needed.
My ideal client seeks self-exploration & understanding, facing issues like anxiety, depression, or relationship difficulties. They need a supportive space for personal growth, aiming to gain insight, develop coping strategies, improve communication, & foster healthy relationships. They aspire to enhance mental well-being, achieve a better life quality, & unlock their full potential.
I'll tailor my approach to your unique needs, offering individual, couples, or group therapy as needed.
My ideal client seeks self-exploration & understanding, facing issues like anxiety, depression, or relationship difficulties. They need a supportive space for personal growth, aiming to gain insight, develop coping strategies, improve communication, & foster healthy relationships. They aspire to enhance mental well-being, achieve a better life quality, & unlock their full potential.
(406) 344-1938 View (406) 344-1938
Photo of Molly Nelson, SWLC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Molly Nelson
Pre-Licensed Professional, SWLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bozeman, MT 59715
I am a social worker who utilizes a collaborative, client centered approach when working with individuals and couples. My therapeutic background includes helping clients develop tools to manage their symptoms of anxiety, depression, mental health crises, relationship difficulties, and life transitions. I am passionate about helping clients enhance their interpersonal relationships through developing a non-judgmental awareness, and a deepened understanding of their behavioral patterns. I believe everyone contains unique strengths and skills to overcome life’s challenges.
I am a social worker who utilizes a collaborative, client centered approach when working with individuals and couples. My therapeutic background includes helping clients develop tools to manage their symptoms of anxiety, depression, mental health crises, relationship difficulties, and life transitions. I am passionate about helping clients enhance their interpersonal relationships through developing a non-judgmental awareness, and a deepened understanding of their behavioral patterns. I believe everyone contains unique strengths and skills to overcome life’s challenges.
(406) 350-7845 View (406) 350-7845
Photo of Karen Patty, LCPC, CTTS, MHP, Counselor
Karen Patty
Counselor, LCPC, CTTS, MHP
Verified Verified
Bozeman, MT 59715
My aim is to take the mystery out of the process, partner with you on your journey from step one, and find ways to help you get what you need/want out of each session.
Have you experienced a setback that you can't seem to shake? Do you struggle with your emotional responses? Do you feel like you're just not living your best life right now? Sometimes the things we go through in life simply overwhelm our ability to cope; they stress our brains and our bodies and we feel stuck. Understanding how these experiences affect us and what we can do to get back on track is a powerful gift we can give to ourselves. Whether it's just you, or you and a partner, who needs help...having someone to guide you on the path to healing is priceless.
My aim is to take the mystery out of the process, partner with you on your journey from step one, and find ways to help you get what you need/want out of each session.
Have you experienced a setback that you can't seem to shake? Do you struggle with your emotional responses? Do you feel like you're just not living your best life right now? Sometimes the things we go through in life simply overwhelm our ability to cope; they stress our brains and our bodies and we feel stuck. Understanding how these experiences affect us and what we can do to get back on track is a powerful gift we can give to ourselves. Whether it's just you, or you and a partner, who needs help...having someone to guide you on the path to healing is priceless.
(406) 420-8231 View (406) 420-8231
Photo of Ian Andrew Mascari, PCLC
Ian Andrew Mascari
Professional Counselor Licensure Candidate, PCLC
Verified Verified
Bozeman, MT 59715
I have a strong passion for helping families, couples, and individuals of all ages in their journey toward personal growth, understanding, and harmony. I believe that everyone is capable of having a fulfilling and emotionally healthy life. I focus on cultivating a supportive and empathetic space that will help you to get in touch with your inner desire for growth and self-betterment. Some areas of focus in my practice are relationship issues, improving communication skills, cultivating self-awareness, anxiety and stress management, ADHD, conflict resolution, and parent-child relationships
I have a strong passion for helping families, couples, and individuals of all ages in their journey toward personal growth, understanding, and harmony. I believe that everyone is capable of having a fulfilling and emotionally healthy life. I focus on cultivating a supportive and empathetic space that will help you to get in touch with your inner desire for growth and self-betterment. Some areas of focus in my practice are relationship issues, improving communication skills, cultivating self-awareness, anxiety and stress management, ADHD, conflict resolution, and parent-child relationships
(406) 296-4467 View (406) 296-4467
Photo of Dr. Mary Black, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Mary Black
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Bozeman, MT 59718
She also has experience and interests in treating: Anxiety and Mood Disorders • Emotional Regulation Difficulties • Trauma, Stress, and Adjustment • Interpersonal and Relationship Issues • Parenting • Social Skill Deficits • Self-Esteem • Identity Development • Grief.
Dr. Mary Ward Black is a licensed clinical psychologist practicing within the Big Sky Psychological Consortium. She enjoys providing assessment (ADHD and psychodiagnostic) and therapy services to adolescents and adults, and uses a diverse range of evidence-based techniques that integrate cognitive behavioral, interpersonal, and client-centered theories. In her practice, Dr. Black emphasizes mindfulness, communication skills, and insight into personal values and meaning. She compassionately collaborates with each individual client, tailoring her therapeutic approach to highlight their personal strengths and values.
She also has experience and interests in treating: Anxiety and Mood Disorders • Emotional Regulation Difficulties • Trauma, Stress, and Adjustment • Interpersonal and Relationship Issues • Parenting • Social Skill Deficits • Self-Esteem • Identity Development • Grief.
Dr. Mary Ward Black is a licensed clinical psychologist practicing within the Big Sky Psychological Consortium. She enjoys providing assessment (ADHD and psychodiagnostic) and therapy services to adolescents and adults, and uses a diverse range of evidence-based techniques that integrate cognitive behavioral, interpersonal, and client-centered theories. In her practice, Dr. Black emphasizes mindfulness, communication skills, and insight into personal values and meaning. She compassionately collaborates with each individual client, tailoring her therapeutic approach to highlight their personal strengths and values.
(406) 229-6078 View (406) 229-6078
Photo of Joni Evans, LMFT, LCPC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Joni Evans
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCPC
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Bozeman, MT 59718
Waitlist for new clients
I have additional training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy, Mindful Self-Compassion, Mindfulness, CBT, CBTI for Insomnia, art therapy, yoga, meditation, self-compassion in psychotherapy, and mind-body techniques.
I believe that within every person is the capacity and courage to be who one truly is and live a joyful life. My goal is to help you overcome life's obstacles and find more authenticity, connection and meaning in your life. My approach is integrative and addresses the interplay of emotional, mental and physical well-being. I work with mindfulness, body-centered, positive psychology, and existential techniques to help you become more self aware, live more fully in the present, reduce distress, maintain healthy relationships, and to live an authentic life.
I have additional training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy, Mindful Self-Compassion, Mindfulness, CBT, CBTI for Insomnia, art therapy, yoga, meditation, self-compassion in psychotherapy, and mind-body techniques.
I believe that within every person is the capacity and courage to be who one truly is and live a joyful life. My goal is to help you overcome life's obstacles and find more authenticity, connection and meaning in your life. My approach is integrative and addresses the interplay of emotional, mental and physical well-being. I work with mindfulness, body-centered, positive psychology, and existential techniques to help you become more self aware, live more fully in the present, reduce distress, maintain healthy relationships, and to live an authentic life.
(406) 551-9806 View (406) 551-9806
Photo of Alana Vosen, MS, LCPC, Counselor
Alana Vosen
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Bozeman, MT 59718
With incorporating, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) in helping individuals, couples, and families I help clients to live their best life and gain the confidence within themselves to do that.
I use Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) to help individuals identify their attachment needs and help the couple work together to form a more secure bond. With EFT, I will help the couple or individual strengthen their relationships through emotional bonding with their partner/friend/family member.
With incorporating, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) in helping individuals, couples, and families I help clients to live their best life and gain the confidence within themselves to do that.
I use Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) to help individuals identify their attachment needs and help the couple work together to form a more secure bond. With EFT, I will help the couple or individual strengthen their relationships through emotional bonding with their partner/friend/family member.
(406) 412-7005 View (406) 412-7005
Photo of Jan Matney - nCenter Counseling, Neurofeedback & Stimulation, LCPC, Counselor
nCenter Counseling, Neurofeedback & Stimulation
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bozeman, MT 59718
We see children, adolescents, adults, parents and couples, with issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, parenting, relationships, behavior, substance abuse and attention.
If talk therapy has not been 100% effective and you are seeking a holistic approach that includes healing of your mind, brain, and body, the nCenter might be what you are looking for. Our team of dedicated professionals works to integrate counseling, neurofeedback, and nutritional counseling along with qEEG brain maps and psychological assessments so that our clients can experience healing at all levels. We also have a PA who is able to provide medication management. The nCenter is committed to the highest standards of excellence, and we work to consider both your financial needs and your personal preferences about our services.
We see children, adolescents, adults, parents and couples, with issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, parenting, relationships, behavior, substance abuse and attention.
If talk therapy has not been 100% effective and you are seeking a holistic approach that includes healing of your mind, brain, and body, the nCenter might be what you are looking for. Our team of dedicated professionals works to integrate counseling, neurofeedback, and nutritional counseling along with qEEG brain maps and psychological assessments so that our clients can experience healing at all levels. We also have a PA who is able to provide medication management. The nCenter is committed to the highest standards of excellence, and we work to consider both your financial needs and your personal preferences about our services.
(406) 219-1519 View (406) 219-1519
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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.