Couples Counseling Therapists in Downtown, Charlotte, NC

Photo of Robert McGuire, MA, LCMHC, CSAT, CPTT, EMDR Tr
Robert McGuire
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, CSAT, CPTT, EMDR Tr
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downtown, Charlotte, NC 28210  (Online Only)
Allow me to partner with you as you begin your journey towards greater health, happiness and healing.
Trying to face life’s challenges on your own can easily become confusing, overwhelming and discouraging. I want to offer you a place where you can feel understood, supported, and encouraged. I offer you hope and an opportunity for freedom. My desire is to walk alongside you with genuineness and acceptance, as you navigate and overcome life’s challenges.
Allow me to partner with you as you begin your journey towards greater health, happiness and healing.
Trying to face life’s challenges on your own can easily become confusing, overwhelming and discouraging. I want to offer you a place where you can feel understood, supported, and encouraged. I offer you hope and an opportunity for freedom. My desire is to walk alongside you with genuineness and acceptance, as you navigate and overcome life’s challenges.
(980) 270-1396 View (980) 270-1396
Photo of Lourdes Maria Anduiza - Cross Culture Consulting, LLC, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cross Culture Consulting, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Downtown, Charlotte, NC 28203
You can free yourself of this toxic relationship.
Having trouble sleeping, and/or worried all the time? Does it seem you get angry over the smallest thing? Or having trouble trusting others? Traumas experienced throughout our lives can show up in our daily lives in many different ways and will look different in everyone. Maybe it's constant worry about anything and everything or bouts of sadness that seems to come from nowhere. Maybe you've been feeling this way for a few months or it's been years, but the feelings don't seem to resolve themselves.
You can free yourself of this toxic relationship.
Having trouble sleeping, and/or worried all the time? Does it seem you get angry over the smallest thing? Or having trouble trusting others? Traumas experienced throughout our lives can show up in our daily lives in many different ways and will look different in everyone. Maybe it's constant worry about anything and everything or bouts of sadness that seems to come from nowhere. Maybe you've been feeling this way for a few months or it's been years, but the feelings don't seem to resolve themselves.
(704) 271-2066 View (704) 271-2066
Photo of Samantha McGirt, NCC, LCMHC
Samantha McGirt
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, NCC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Downtown, Charlotte, NC 28270  (Online Only)
The therapeutic relationship can be a vehicle for change; therefore, I am dedicated to providing the best clinical services to meet your needs.
Life is filled with many ups, downs, and uncertainties creating overwhelming stress, anxiety, and changes in one's mood. I am here to help you navigate your way through your journey towards healing, wholeness, and to thrive at life. I offer therapy for those who may be experiencing life changes or transitions, having difficulties in their personal relationships, depression, anxiety, and other challenges that may be affecting your thoughts, mood, and/or quality of life. My experiences have given me the valuable opportunity to work with people from diverse cultural, ethnic, and sexual backgrounds.
The therapeutic relationship can be a vehicle for change; therefore, I am dedicated to providing the best clinical services to meet your needs.
Life is filled with many ups, downs, and uncertainties creating overwhelming stress, anxiety, and changes in one's mood. I am here to help you navigate your way through your journey towards healing, wholeness, and to thrive at life. I offer therapy for those who may be experiencing life changes or transitions, having difficulties in their personal relationships, depression, anxiety, and other challenges that may be affecting your thoughts, mood, and/or quality of life. My experiences have given me the valuable opportunity to work with people from diverse cultural, ethnic, and sexual backgrounds.
(704) 610-3836 View (704) 610-3836
Photo of Evelyn Deloris Rogers, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Evelyn Deloris Rogers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downtown, Charlotte, NC 28227
Your journey starts now! Let's partner to improve your self-worth, confidence, and communication skills by overcoming undesirable experiences through client-centered therapy.
Let love heal! As a dedicated therapist, my mission is to create a safe and empowering space for black women and people of color to explore their experiences, heal from trauma, and foster resilience. I understand the unique challenges faced by our community and am committed to providing culturally competent, empathetic, and affirming care. Together, we will work towards personal growth, self-empowerment, and holistic well-being, honoring your identity and journey every step of the way.
Your journey starts now! Let's partner to improve your self-worth, confidence, and communication skills by overcoming undesirable experiences through client-centered therapy.
Let love heal! As a dedicated therapist, my mission is to create a safe and empowering space for black women and people of color to explore their experiences, heal from trauma, and foster resilience. I understand the unique challenges faced by our community and am committed to providing culturally competent, empathetic, and affirming care. Together, we will work towards personal growth, self-empowerment, and holistic well-being, honoring your identity and journey every step of the way.
(704) 741-2257 View (704) 741-2257
Photo of Carolyn J Henderson, MA, LCMHC, QS, NCC, BCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Carolyn J Henderson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, QS, NCC, BCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Downtown, Charlotte, NC 28210
I specialize in crisis counseling and stabilization, trauma, PTSD, Grief and loss, addictive behaviors, infidelity, domestic and intimate partner violence, pre-marital and marital counseling developing healthy relationships.
I am an interactive, cognitive behavioral client-centered therapist who focuses on the development of healthy relationships that have been impacted by trauma, grief and loss, infidelity, life transitions, depression, domestic and substance abuse. My empathetic and compassionate approach provides support and practical feedback while building on client's strengths using an empowerment model and the development of deeper self-discovery and awareness. The goal is to identify effective coping strategies to manage what clients are currently experiencing. I endeavor to walk alongside of clients in the midst of their pain and their joy.
I specialize in crisis counseling and stabilization, trauma, PTSD, Grief and loss, addictive behaviors, infidelity, domestic and intimate partner violence, pre-marital and marital counseling developing healthy relationships.
I am an interactive, cognitive behavioral client-centered therapist who focuses on the development of healthy relationships that have been impacted by trauma, grief and loss, infidelity, life transitions, depression, domestic and substance abuse. My empathetic and compassionate approach provides support and practical feedback while building on client's strengths using an empowerment model and the development of deeper self-discovery and awareness. The goal is to identify effective coping strategies to manage what clients are currently experiencing. I endeavor to walk alongside of clients in the midst of their pain and their joy.
(704) 946-5674 View (704) 946-5674
Photo of Daphne Jane Timmons - Daphne Timmons, PhD, PhD, Psychologist
Daphne Timmons, PhD
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Downtown, Charlotte, NC 28204
I am a clinical psychologist providing counseling to couples, families, and adults. My services are offered to the greater Charlotte area and with telehealth in South Carolina. I provide treatment for depression, anxiety, stress, medical problems, attention and focus problems and grief and loss issues. I completed my doctorate at the University of South Carolina. I am passionate about my work with clients and enjoy learning and developing new skills and techniques to support them in managing the complexity of their daily lives.
I am a clinical psychologist providing counseling to couples, families, and adults. My services are offered to the greater Charlotte area and with telehealth in South Carolina. I provide treatment for depression, anxiety, stress, medical problems, attention and focus problems and grief and loss issues. I completed my doctorate at the University of South Carolina. I am passionate about my work with clients and enjoy learning and developing new skills and techniques to support them in managing the complexity of their daily lives.
(704) 761-4980 View (704) 761-4980
Photo of Cody W Chase, MA, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Cody W Chase
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
Verified Verified
Downtown, Charlotte, NC 28210
As an Marriage & Family Therapist, I specialize in couples and families, but can also help individuals navigate their family systems as well.
Life is messy and sometimes we need help making sense of the chaos. I provide a safe and confidential space to be heard, be real, and be understood. I am passionate about helping people navigate the various expected and unexpected happenings in their lives. Whether it is managing the new territory of parenthood, dealing with an unexpected diagnosis, or handling the stresses of everyday life, I strive to help people remain grounded and arm them with healthy coping strategies to get on their desired path.
As an Marriage & Family Therapist, I specialize in couples and families, but can also help individuals navigate their family systems as well.
Life is messy and sometimes we need help making sense of the chaos. I provide a safe and confidential space to be heard, be real, and be understood. I am passionate about helping people navigate the various expected and unexpected happenings in their lives. Whether it is managing the new territory of parenthood, dealing with an unexpected diagnosis, or handling the stresses of everyday life, I strive to help people remain grounded and arm them with healthy coping strategies to get on their desired path.
(704) 327-0314 View (704) 327-0314
Photo of Dr. Kelly Breen Boyce, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Kelly Breen Boyce
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downtown, Charlotte, NC 28204
Boyce offers intensive couples session (1.
A candidate at the Psychoanalytic Center of the Carolinas in Chapel Hill, Dr. Boyce has a deep appreciation of the complexities of the mind as well as the impact of early experiences and relationships. Psychodynamic and psychoanalytic theories offer a comprehensive understanding of human nature. As opposed to other models that aim to solve a particular problem or target symptoms, psychoanalysis gets to the heart of the matter. Dr. Boyce provides therapy that addresses the whole person, helping the individual to develop inner capacities that can improve relationships as well as foster a richer, more meaningful life.
Boyce offers intensive couples session (1.
A candidate at the Psychoanalytic Center of the Carolinas in Chapel Hill, Dr. Boyce has a deep appreciation of the complexities of the mind as well as the impact of early experiences and relationships. Psychodynamic and psychoanalytic theories offer a comprehensive understanding of human nature. As opposed to other models that aim to solve a particular problem or target symptoms, psychoanalysis gets to the heart of the matter. Dr. Boyce provides therapy that addresses the whole person, helping the individual to develop inner capacities that can improve relationships as well as foster a richer, more meaningful life.
(704) 612-2373 View (704) 612-2373
Photo of Asha Sims, MA, LCMHCS, RYT-200, Licensed Professional Counselor
Asha Sims
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHCS, RYT-200
Verified Verified
Downtown, Charlotte, NC 28202
Are you an out-of the box person looking for an out of the box therapist? Do you find yourself frustrated with traditional psychotherapy and feeling like your current treatment methods are not fully meeting your needs. Are you feeling lost ? Lacking a sense of life purpose? You are not alone! Many individuals experience challenges such as stress, anxiety, sensitivity to others, physical pain, somatic concerns, disconnection, financial difficulties, or relationship issues that traditional therapy may not fully address. It may be time to realign and rediscover your true self through a holistic approach to healing.
Are you an out-of the box person looking for an out of the box therapist? Do you find yourself frustrated with traditional psychotherapy and feeling like your current treatment methods are not fully meeting your needs. Are you feeling lost ? Lacking a sense of life purpose? You are not alone! Many individuals experience challenges such as stress, anxiety, sensitivity to others, physical pain, somatic concerns, disconnection, financial difficulties, or relationship issues that traditional therapy may not fully address. It may be time to realign and rediscover your true self through a holistic approach to healing.
(704) 703-7278 View (704) 703-7278
Photo of David J. Wheeler, PhD, Psychologist
David J. Wheeler
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downtown, Charlotte, NC 28210
I am a psychologist who specializes in treating anger management, relationships issues, depression, and anxiety. I also help with divorce transitions, personal coaching, workplace conflicts, and identity development. I have received training in the Gottman Method for couples therapy. I work exclusively with adults and primarily rely upon Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I help people manage their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors in more effective ways. I offer support and guidance in a nonjudgmental and practical manner. I also administer psychological testing for bariatric surgery, ADHD, and intelligence.
I am a psychologist who specializes in treating anger management, relationships issues, depression, and anxiety. I also help with divorce transitions, personal coaching, workplace conflicts, and identity development. I have received training in the Gottman Method for couples therapy. I work exclusively with adults and primarily rely upon Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I help people manage their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors in more effective ways. I offer support and guidance in a nonjudgmental and practical manner. I also administer psychological testing for bariatric surgery, ADHD, and intelligence.
(704) 207-0543 View (704) 207-0543
Photo of Amanda Richardson, MA, LCMHC, NCC, Counselor
Amanda Richardson
Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downtown, Charlotte, NC 28282
I have experience providing individual, family, and group counseling services for children, adolescents, adults and couples in a variety of settings.
Hello and Welcome! First and foremost, I'd like to commend you on taking the first step. Oftentimes the first step is the hardest, but... YOU'VE DONE IT! Often, I ask clients, “How do you eat an elephant?” After the looks of bewilderment subside, I am most often told, “You can’t”. As your counselor, it is my hope to show you that it can be accomplished. But how? "One small bite at a time." My ideal client is one who is willing to take a chance on becoming the absolute best version of themselves. It is my hope that in working together, we can tackle the stressors of everyday life and get back to living a fulfilled life.
I have experience providing individual, family, and group counseling services for children, adolescents, adults and couples in a variety of settings.
Hello and Welcome! First and foremost, I'd like to commend you on taking the first step. Oftentimes the first step is the hardest, but... YOU'VE DONE IT! Often, I ask clients, “How do you eat an elephant?” After the looks of bewilderment subside, I am most often told, “You can’t”. As your counselor, it is my hope to show you that it can be accomplished. But how? "One small bite at a time." My ideal client is one who is willing to take a chance on becoming the absolute best version of themselves. It is my hope that in working together, we can tackle the stressors of everyday life and get back to living a fulfilled life.
(910) 390-8052 View (910) 390-8052
Photo of Josh Burnett, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Josh Burnett
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Downtown, Charlotte, NC 28226
I help adults and teens become better versions of themselves. Life can bring big challenges, heartbreak, loss, stress, relationship issues and much more. Maybe you’ve been too strong trying to hold it all together and it’s starting to wear you down, feeling stressed, overwhelmed, anxious or depressed. I can help you!
I help adults and teens become better versions of themselves. Life can bring big challenges, heartbreak, loss, stress, relationship issues and much more. Maybe you’ve been too strong trying to hold it all together and it’s starting to wear you down, feeling stressed, overwhelmed, anxious or depressed. I can help you!
(704) 228-7251 View (704) 228-7251
Photo of Tim Wood, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tim Wood
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downtown, Charlotte, NC 28209
Congratulations on taking the steps to educate yourself about counseling services. It is my goal to provide a safe, understanding, and professional atmosphere for every client and family I see. My treatment approach is eclectic and personalized to meet your needs. I believe in strengths based approaches for individuals and families to create new patterns of thinking, including practicing new behaviors and beliefs that are the essential components of change. I have extensive experience working with Couples, Families, Children, Teens, and Adults.
Congratulations on taking the steps to educate yourself about counseling services. It is my goal to provide a safe, understanding, and professional atmosphere for every client and family I see. My treatment approach is eclectic and personalized to meet your needs. I believe in strengths based approaches for individuals and families to create new patterns of thinking, including practicing new behaviors and beliefs that are the essential components of change. I have extensive experience working with Couples, Families, Children, Teens, and Adults.
(704) 869-2613 View (704) 869-2613
Photo of Scott Alan Smith, MA, LCMHC, CSAT, CPTT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Scott Alan Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, CSAT, CPTT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Downtown, Charlotte, NC 28226
I utilize multiple therapeutic modalities in my counseling, including but not limited to Brainspotting, Internal Family Systems, cognitive-behavioral, dialectical behavioral, emotionally-focused couples counseling, solution-focused, and rational-emotive behavior therapies while emphasizing a spiritual perspective that treats the entire person.
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist and a Certified Partner Trauma Therapist. I am also a Licensed Professional Counselor in the STate of South Carolina. I have a master's degree in Christian counseling from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary. I have been working as a therapist since 2012, specializing in helping couples and individuals with sex addiction, betrayal trauma, relationships, and mental health problems, including anxiety, depression, grief and loss.
I utilize multiple therapeutic modalities in my counseling, including but not limited to Brainspotting, Internal Family Systems, cognitive-behavioral, dialectical behavioral, emotionally-focused couples counseling, solution-focused, and rational-emotive behavior therapies while emphasizing a spiritual perspective that treats the entire person.
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist and a Certified Partner Trauma Therapist. I am also a Licensed Professional Counselor in the STate of South Carolina. I have a master's degree in Christian counseling from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary. I have been working as a therapist since 2012, specializing in helping couples and individuals with sex addiction, betrayal trauma, relationships, and mental health problems, including anxiety, depression, grief and loss.
(704) 981-6840 View (704) 981-6840
Photo of Zara Steinhart, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Zara Steinhart
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downtown, Charlotte, NC 28204
I specialize primarily in the treatment and healing from eating disorders, body image issues, anxiety, perfectionism and family/ couples therapy. I have extensive knowledge and training working with young people and their families, assisting them in coming together through the difficult treatment of eating disorders or other behavioral health issues. I provide families and parents with expert education, support and knowledge to empower them to help their loved one.
I specialize primarily in the treatment and healing from eating disorders, body image issues, anxiety, perfectionism and family/ couples therapy. I have extensive knowledge and training working with young people and their families, assisting them in coming together through the difficult treatment of eating disorders or other behavioral health issues. I provide families and parents with expert education, support and knowledge to empower them to help their loved one.
(980) 577-4646 View (980) 577-4646
Photo of Samantha Malfitano - Serenity Psychotherapy LLC, LPC
Serenity Psychotherapy LLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Downtown, Charlotte, NC 28207
I specialize in areas such as anxiety, depression, eating disorders, relationship conflicts, life transitions, career change, college prep for students, confidence, and self-esteem.
I am passionate about the overall health and well-being of humans and believe in taking a holistic approach to healing. Everything I do with you is personalized to your needs
I specialize in areas such as anxiety, depression, eating disorders, relationship conflicts, life transitions, career change, college prep for students, confidence, and self-esteem.
I am passionate about the overall health and well-being of humans and believe in taking a holistic approach to healing. Everything I do with you is personalized to your needs
(704) 286-9625 View (704) 286-9625
Photo of Julie Campbell, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julie Campbell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Downtown, Charlotte, NC 28205  (Online Only)
Hello! Thanks for choosing to read this: Being a therapist is my greatest passion and a proud part of my identity. I am here to help all those who struggle with the variety of stressor in life: from depression, anxiety, trauma, family conflict, domestic violence, relationship issues, the list goes on. My specialties are working with folks who have trauma (past or present) to take back their hope, empowerment, and narrative, supporting the queer community at all stages, domestic violence therapy for survivors and families, and helping families build resilient healthy relationships.
Hello! Thanks for choosing to read this: Being a therapist is my greatest passion and a proud part of my identity. I am here to help all those who struggle with the variety of stressor in life: from depression, anxiety, trauma, family conflict, domestic violence, relationship issues, the list goes on. My specialties are working with folks who have trauma (past or present) to take back their hope, empowerment, and narrative, supporting the queer community at all stages, domestic violence therapy for survivors and families, and helping families build resilient healthy relationships.
(704) 538-4729 View (704) 538-4729
Photo of Jenna Wilson, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jenna Wilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downtown, Charlotte, NC 28204
I frequently engage couples experiencing relationship difficulties, including intimacy issues, as well as, individuals suffering from depression, anxiety, or a loss in their lives.
Throughout our life's journey, we encounter a multitude of experiences. Some may contain extreme joy and happiness, while others can manifest feelings of doubt, sadness, anxiety or questioning if change or healing is possible in our current circumstances. During these difficult seasons we need the courage and perspective to explore challenging questions and the willingness to listen to the answers that emerge. My goal is to empower my clients and develop a rapport which promotes the confidence, skills and change agents needed to progress towards a direction that nourishes emotional and physical well-being.
I frequently engage couples experiencing relationship difficulties, including intimacy issues, as well as, individuals suffering from depression, anxiety, or a loss in their lives.
Throughout our life's journey, we encounter a multitude of experiences. Some may contain extreme joy and happiness, while others can manifest feelings of doubt, sadness, anxiety or questioning if change or healing is possible in our current circumstances. During these difficult seasons we need the courage and perspective to explore challenging questions and the willingness to listen to the answers that emerge. My goal is to empower my clients and develop a rapport which promotes the confidence, skills and change agents needed to progress towards a direction that nourishes emotional and physical well-being.
(704) 729-7588 View (704) 729-7588
Photo of Matthew Cyr, LCSWA
Matthew Cyr
LCSW Associate, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Downtown, Charlotte, NC 28211
Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or relationship issues, I am here to provide a compassionate, non-judgmental space where you can explore your feelings and find the support you need.
As a clinical social worker, my ideal client is someone who is open to exploring their issues and committed to personal growth and healing. They may be facing a range of challenges including anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, or life transitions. These clients often feel stuck, overwhelmed, or uncertain about how to move forward in their lives. Some of their goals include emotional stability, healing from trauma, and improving their mental health. They seek help because they recognize they cannot navigate their struggles alone and that professional help can provide them with the tools and guidance they need.
Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or relationship issues, I am here to provide a compassionate, non-judgmental space where you can explore your feelings and find the support you need.
As a clinical social worker, my ideal client is someone who is open to exploring their issues and committed to personal growth and healing. They may be facing a range of challenges including anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, or life transitions. These clients often feel stuck, overwhelmed, or uncertain about how to move forward in their lives. Some of their goals include emotional stability, healing from trauma, and improving their mental health. They seek help because they recognize they cannot navigate their struggles alone and that professional help can provide them with the tools and guidance they need.
(980) 246-2266 View (980) 246-2266
Photo of Susan Holtz - Holtz Counseling & Wellness, PLLC, MS, LCMHC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Holtz Counseling & Wellness, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC-S
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Downtown, Charlotte, NC 28210  (Online Only)
Do you struggle with feelings of sadness, anxiety, overwhelm, frustration, had challenging relationship, problems with work performance and relationships, or a loss of self and / or a loved one? Do you have thoughts that you are not good enough, life is hopelessness or helplessness, and that things will never change or get better? Do these thoughts and feelings affect many areas of your life such as struggles at work, at home, or in relationships?
Do you struggle with feelings of sadness, anxiety, overwhelm, frustration, had challenging relationship, problems with work performance and relationships, or a loss of self and / or a loved one? Do you have thoughts that you are not good enough, life is hopelessness or helplessness, and that things will never change or get better? Do these thoughts and feelings affect many areas of your life such as struggles at work, at home, or in relationships?
(704) 396-4588 View (704) 396-4588
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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.