Couples Counseling Therapists in Kernersville, NC

Photo of Leslie Travia, MA, LCMHC
Leslie Travia
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Kernersville, NC 27284  (Online Only)
You are the driver of your therapy bus. Being comfortable with me as your therapist is most important in our therapeutic relationship. Once you begin your therapy journey whatever are your life concerns, issues they will be processed as you are at ease to share. Goals will then be stated and updated as needed. You are doing therapy for you, this counseling journey will be as you intend it to be. Ask yourself if nothing changes then will it change?
You are the driver of your therapy bus. Being comfortable with me as your therapist is most important in our therapeutic relationship. Once you begin your therapy journey whatever are your life concerns, issues they will be processed as you are at ease to share. Goals will then be stated and updated as needed. You are doing therapy for you, this counseling journey will be as you intend it to be. Ask yourself if nothing changes then will it change?
(336) 559-5493 View (336) 559-5493
Photo of Kirsten Schoonmaker Bryant, MA, LCMHC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kirsten Schoonmaker Bryant
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Kernersville, NC 27284
Waitlist for new clients
However, my passion as a therapist is Couples and Family Counseling.
Since 1992, I have had the honor of accompanying countless individuals in their journey towards living more authentic and satisfying lives. I am convinced that everyone possesses the ability to live their life to its fullest potential. As your counselor, my role is to help awaken you to this dormant power within. I believe that we all function based on the beliefs instilled in us at an early age and are reinforced in various ways throughout our lives. It is when we begin to challenge these "truths" that we experience a great awakening and discover our true self.
However, my passion as a therapist is Couples and Family Counseling.
Since 1992, I have had the honor of accompanying countless individuals in their journey towards living more authentic and satisfying lives. I am convinced that everyone possesses the ability to live their life to its fullest potential. As your counselor, my role is to help awaken you to this dormant power within. I believe that we all function based on the beliefs instilled in us at an early age and are reinforced in various ways throughout our lives. It is when we begin to challenge these "truths" that we experience a great awakening and discover our true self.
(336) 802-1172 View (336) 802-1172
Photo of Heather Lane Dunleavy Adult Autism Specialist, MA, MEd, LMFT, AAMFT, ASDCS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Heather Lane Dunleavy Adult Autism Specialist
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MEd, LMFT, AAMFT, ASDCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kernersville, NC 27284
I also work with couples and families, where one family member has autism, to help address issues at home to help to improve the communication skills within the family unit.
In 2011, I decided to start studying to become a therapist after working as a classroom educator for 16 years, because I saw the failing of the educational system and the struggles of the family system. I started working as a therapist in 2016, and today, we all face a variety of emotional issues that are difficult for to express, name, and discuss. Many people feel as if no one is listening or will listen to them, especially adults on the Autism Spectrum who already struggle with communication. I want to help empower all people on the Autism Spectrum and their support systems.
I also work with couples and families, where one family member has autism, to help address issues at home to help to improve the communication skills within the family unit.
In 2011, I decided to start studying to become a therapist after working as a classroom educator for 16 years, because I saw the failing of the educational system and the struggles of the family system. I started working as a therapist in 2016, and today, we all face a variety of emotional issues that are difficult for to express, name, and discuss. Many people feel as if no one is listening or will listen to them, especially adults on the Autism Spectrum who already struggle with communication. I want to help empower all people on the Autism Spectrum and their support systems.
(336) 697-6368 View (336) 697-6368
Photo of Adrienne Loffredo, LMCHC-A, Counselor
Adrienne Loffredo
Counselor, LMCHC-A
Verified Verified
Kernersville, NC 27284  (Online Only)
Together, we can create a plan to address life stressors, relationship issues and symptoms of anxiety and depression.
Beginning therapy is a big step towards improving your life. I work with clients who struggle with issues related to relationship challenges, life transitions, stress, anxiety and depression. I help clients create meaningful change and discover healthy ways of coping with life challenges. I specialize in working with couples using Emotion Focused Therapy, an approach based in research on attachment styles and relationship patterns. I also specialize in working with individuals using a Person-Centered approach, based on building a warm therapeutic relationship as the base for counseling.
Together, we can create a plan to address life stressors, relationship issues and symptoms of anxiety and depression.
Beginning therapy is a big step towards improving your life. I work with clients who struggle with issues related to relationship challenges, life transitions, stress, anxiety and depression. I help clients create meaningful change and discover healthy ways of coping with life challenges. I specialize in working with couples using Emotion Focused Therapy, an approach based in research on attachment styles and relationship patterns. I also specialize in working with individuals using a Person-Centered approach, based on building a warm therapeutic relationship as the base for counseling.
(336) 967-9138 View (336) 967-9138
Photo of Nina Scherer, Counselor
Nina Scherer
Counselor
Verified Verified
Kernersville, NC 27284
Let me help you create the life you want to have. We will start working from where you are and support you building a life worth living. I believe that a strong therapeutic relationship is the foundation for positive change. I passionately believe in treating clients with the utmost dignity and respect. I have had the privilege of working with amazing clients from diverse backgrounds, different kinds of diagnoses, and in all phases of life.
Let me help you create the life you want to have. We will start working from where you are and support you building a life worth living. I believe that a strong therapeutic relationship is the foundation for positive change. I passionately believe in treating clients with the utmost dignity and respect. I have had the privilege of working with amazing clients from diverse backgrounds, different kinds of diagnoses, and in all phases of life.
(336) 560-9481 View (336) 560-9481
Photo of Joseph B Alexander - Footprints Counseling, MA, MDiv, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Footprints Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MDiv, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Kernersville, NC 27285
Couples desire to resolve and mend their relationship problems, may be unable to communicate & it's gratifying to help them change.
Clients come to me in trying times for help dealing with issues like depression, anxiety, grief issues, and anger issues. I don't see myself as the "expert" who is going to provide all the "answers" but I do promise to walk with my clients as they address the issues we identify together that they want to address in therapy. I am comfortable working with clients individuals, couples and families, and kids (age 9 to adults). I have been theologically trained and can explore spiritual issues and crises as a pastoral counselor, also.
Couples desire to resolve and mend their relationship problems, may be unable to communicate & it's gratifying to help them change.
Clients come to me in trying times for help dealing with issues like depression, anxiety, grief issues, and anger issues. I don't see myself as the "expert" who is going to provide all the "answers" but I do promise to walk with my clients as they address the issues we identify together that they want to address in therapy. I am comfortable working with clients individuals, couples and families, and kids (age 9 to adults). I have been theologically trained and can explore spiritual issues and crises as a pastoral counselor, also.
(336) 939-0412 View (336) 939-0412
Photo of Counseling Intake Coordinator - Family Services, Inc., Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Family Services, Inc.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Kernersville, NC 27284
Lisha Méjan works with general relationship or life challenges, and is trained in Brainspotting.
Sometimes you just need the right person to talk to. Meet our professional, caring therapists, who provide confidential counseling for clients of all ages through individual, couples and family sessions. Each of our therapists can assist with adjustment and relationship issues, stress, anxiety, depression, anger management, grief, loss, and trauma. See our website link, and staff photos for details. - Our intern Lynn Raj partners with clients in cultivating their strengths and building resiliency. She supports clients in identifying and developing healthy strategies to cope with life’s stressors.
Lisha Méjan works with general relationship or life challenges, and is trained in Brainspotting.
Sometimes you just need the right person to talk to. Meet our professional, caring therapists, who provide confidential counseling for clients of all ages through individual, couples and family sessions. Each of our therapists can assist with adjustment and relationship issues, stress, anxiety, depression, anger management, grief, loss, and trauma. See our website link, and staff photos for details. - Our intern Lynn Raj partners with clients in cultivating their strengths and building resiliency. She supports clients in identifying and developing healthy strategies to cope with life’s stressors.
(336) 415-4712 View (336) 415-4712
Photo of Leslie E Kausch, MEd, NCLCMHC, NCC
Leslie E Kausch
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MEd, NCLCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Kernersville, NC 27284
My goal is to help you to discover your resources and to find and use your power to take a more active stance in your life. I provide counseling for adults, couples, and young women on relationship issues, power dynamics, conflict resolution, and issues around confidence, anxiety, or general 'stuckness', dealing with these concerns as women. I also provide counseling for mother/daughter pairs to help them build a stronger relationship, even as they grow individually.
My goal is to help you to discover your resources and to find and use your power to take a more active stance in your life. I provide counseling for adults, couples, and young women on relationship issues, power dynamics, conflict resolution, and issues around confidence, anxiety, or general 'stuckness', dealing with these concerns as women. I also provide counseling for mother/daughter pairs to help them build a stronger relationship, even as they grow individually.
(336) 617-9438 View (336) 617-9438
Photo of Tonya Moore - Trinity Christian Counseling, LCMHCS, LCMHC, NCC, BCPCC, ICST, Licensed Professional Counselor
Trinity Christian Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHCS, LCMHC, NCC, BCPCC, ICST
Verified Verified
Kernersville, NC 27284
We offer help to children, adults, couples, pastors, and families.
Have there been times when you felt that all hope was lost? It isn't. Do you wonder how you are going to take that next step? God is on your side. He has beautiful plans for your life, plans to give you hope and a future! The team at Trinity Christian Counseling desires nothing more than to assist you in discovering that plan and to walk along side you as you grow in God's grace. Using the Bible, Christ-centered wisdom, and psychological principles, we will help guide you back to emotional, spiritual, behavioral, and relational wholeness.
We offer help to children, adults, couples, pastors, and families.
Have there been times when you felt that all hope was lost? It isn't. Do you wonder how you are going to take that next step? God is on your side. He has beautiful plans for your life, plans to give you hope and a future! The team at Trinity Christian Counseling desires nothing more than to assist you in discovering that plan and to walk along side you as you grow in God's grace. Using the Bible, Christ-centered wisdom, and psychological principles, we will help guide you back to emotional, spiritual, behavioral, and relational wholeness.
(336) 397-4718 View (336) 397-4718
Photo of Tonya Moore, NCC, LCMHCS, BCPCC, CCTP
Tonya Moore
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervis, NCC, LCMHCS, BCPCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kernersville, NC 27284
I work with adults, adolescents, families, and couples.
There are times when there is the feeling that all hope is gone. I believe that God has a plan for your life, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future...and will bring you back from captivity. My goal is simple: to help my clients discover that "plan", gain insight, make changes, and grow in God's grace. I am here to assist you in your journey back to wholeness: mentally, emotionally, relationally, and/or spiritually. Whether you're trying to restore a broken marriage, mend family relationships, pick up the pieces or seeking a fresh start, hope and healing awaits you.
I work with adults, adolescents, families, and couples.
There are times when there is the feeling that all hope is gone. I believe that God has a plan for your life, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future...and will bring you back from captivity. My goal is simple: to help my clients discover that "plan", gain insight, make changes, and grow in God's grace. I am here to assist you in your journey back to wholeness: mentally, emotionally, relationally, and/or spiritually. Whether you're trying to restore a broken marriage, mend family relationships, pick up the pieces or seeking a fresh start, hope and healing awaits you.
(336) 223-5183 View (336) 223-5183
Photo of Trinity Center - Trinity Center, Inc., LCMHC, Psychologist
Trinity Center, Inc.
Psychologist, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Kernersville, NC 27284
Trinity Center has been committed to helping people for over forty years. Our counselors and psychologists work with adults, adolescents and children experiencing a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss, adjustment and life transitions, relationship issues, family of origin issues and identity concerns. Our goal is to help clients address their individual concerns so that they can live full, engaged lives. In addition to counseling, we offer psychoeducational assessment and spiritual direction services.
Trinity Center has been committed to helping people for over forty years. Our counselors and psychologists work with adults, adolescents and children experiencing a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss, adjustment and life transitions, relationship issues, family of origin issues and identity concerns. Our goal is to help clients address their individual concerns so that they can live full, engaged lives. In addition to counseling, we offer psychoeducational assessment and spiritual direction services.
(336) 441-5698 View (336) 441-5698
Photo of Laura Taylor - Greenway Counseling & Wellness, LCMHCS, LCMHC, LCMHCA, LCASA, LCSW, Licensed Professional Counselor
Greenway Counseling & Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHCS, LCMHC, LCMHCA, LCASA, LCSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Kernersville, NC 27284
Our goal is to truly 'get' you, which starts by building a strong relationship.
As a group practice, we have a particular interest in helping our adult clients address traumas that may have occurred across their lifespan. Trauma can come in all shapes and sizes, & we believe it can be at the center of many concerns such as anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, performance issues, & addiction. We also love working with children, teens, & their families! Whether it's fears and worries, behavior problems, family & life changes, or school & relationship struggles, we are here to support younger individuals & their families.
Our goal is to truly 'get' you, which starts by building a strong relationship.
As a group practice, we have a particular interest in helping our adult clients address traumas that may have occurred across their lifespan. Trauma can come in all shapes and sizes, & we believe it can be at the center of many concerns such as anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, performance issues, & addiction. We also love working with children, teens, & their families! Whether it's fears and worries, behavior problems, family & life changes, or school & relationship struggles, we are here to support younger individuals & their families.
(336) 496-2361 View (336) 496-2361
Photo of Jan Elliott - Anomaly Counseling Center, NCC, LPCA, Counselor
Anomaly Counseling Center
Counselor, NCC, LPCA
Verified Verified
Kernersville, NC 27284
Couples therapy available with both husband and wife therapists, Chris and Jan, in the session together.
Defined as a deviation from the standard or the expected, Anomaly is synonymous with peculiar and rarity. As an individual, there is something peculiar and rare about you that has the ability to begin a journey toward victory. ACC strives to be an unexpected experience for the client, as the counselors are individuals with the potential for rarity too. Chris and Jan Elliott are Licensed Professional Counselor Associates specializing in professional counseling for teenagers, families, couples, and individuals from a Biblical worldview. Come, let us experience the unexpected together.
Couples therapy available with both husband and wife therapists, Chris and Jan, in the session together.
Defined as a deviation from the standard or the expected, Anomaly is synonymous with peculiar and rarity. As an individual, there is something peculiar and rare about you that has the ability to begin a journey toward victory. ACC strives to be an unexpected experience for the client, as the counselors are individuals with the potential for rarity too. Chris and Jan Elliott are Licensed Professional Counselor Associates specializing in professional counseling for teenagers, families, couples, and individuals from a Biblical worldview. Come, let us experience the unexpected together.
(336) 701-6320 View (336) 701-6320
Photo of Chaka Burnett, MA, LCMHCA, NCC, Counselor
Chaka Burnett
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
Kernersville, NC 27284
I hold Gottman Method Couples Therapy Level I and II certifications and work with couples to help improve communication, strengthen friendship, and rebuild intimacy and connection.
Hello - I’m glad our paths have crossed! My name is Chaka (yes, like Chaka Khan), and my goal is to work with you to overcome obstacles and issues that are interfering with your progress and passion in life. Resolving conflict, repairing relationships, healing from past trauma, building self-esteem, reversing dysfunctional patterns all assist in reaching this goal. I truly believe that, although people get hurt in relationships, it is also through relationships that people can heal. Change is not easy, but it is attainable and sustainable. As you embark on your healing journey, I will be here to see you through it.
I hold Gottman Method Couples Therapy Level I and II certifications and work with couples to help improve communication, strengthen friendship, and rebuild intimacy and connection.
Hello - I’m glad our paths have crossed! My name is Chaka (yes, like Chaka Khan), and my goal is to work with you to overcome obstacles and issues that are interfering with your progress and passion in life. Resolving conflict, repairing relationships, healing from past trauma, building self-esteem, reversing dysfunctional patterns all assist in reaching this goal. I truly believe that, although people get hurt in relationships, it is also through relationships that people can heal. Change is not easy, but it is attainable and sustainable. As you embark on your healing journey, I will be here to see you through it.
(336) 742-1171 View (336) 742-1171
Photo of Elyse Edwards - Forsyth Family Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor
Forsyth Family Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kernersville, NC 27284
Our licensed therapists have extensive training and experience in issues affecting adults, couples, children, adolescents and their families. We specialize in treating a range of conditions including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, attachment, addiction, grief, women/men's issues, ADHD, oppositional/defiance, trauma, post traumatic stress disorder, OCD, and much more. We also offer extensive effective parenting training if your child is oppositional, defiant, and sometimes even aggressive.
Our licensed therapists have extensive training and experience in issues affecting adults, couples, children, adolescents and their families. We specialize in treating a range of conditions including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, attachment, addiction, grief, women/men's issues, ADHD, oppositional/defiance, trauma, post traumatic stress disorder, OCD, and much more. We also offer extensive effective parenting training if your child is oppositional, defiant, and sometimes even aggressive.
(336) 750-6021 View (336) 750-6021
Photo of Stéphanie Gimenez - Safe Haven Counseling, PLLC | Stéphanie Gimenez, NCC,  LCMHC, LCAS-A, Licensed Professional Counselor
Safe Haven Counseling, PLLC | Stéphanie Gimenez
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LCMHC, LCAS-A
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kernersville, NC 27284
My specialties include domestic violence/intimate partner violence (DV/IPV) screening, assessment, crisis intervention, safety planning, case management, legal & community advocacy, support & counseling for individuals, low-risk couples & groups, as well as treatment for individuals struggling with severe mental illness & co-occurring substance abuse issues.
Stéphanie Gimenez is a trilingual immigrant with a rich cultural background who provides domestic violence (DV), mental health (MH), addiction, career & grief counseling services in English, Spanish & French. As a DV survivor, single mother & advocate for gender, racial, religious, cultural & social equality, Stéphanie provides individual, couple & group counseling in person, online, via phone & in-home to help her clients break free from DV, heal from trauma, manage mental illness, improve overall wellness, address relationship or addiction issues, work through grief or seek career advancement & improve their quality of life.
My specialties include domestic violence/intimate partner violence (DV/IPV) screening, assessment, crisis intervention, safety planning, case management, legal & community advocacy, support & counseling for individuals, low-risk couples & groups, as well as treatment for individuals struggling with severe mental illness & co-occurring substance abuse issues.
Stéphanie Gimenez is a trilingual immigrant with a rich cultural background who provides domestic violence (DV), mental health (MH), addiction, career & grief counseling services in English, Spanish & French. As a DV survivor, single mother & advocate for gender, racial, religious, cultural & social equality, Stéphanie provides individual, couple & group counseling in person, online, via phone & in-home to help her clients break free from DV, heal from trauma, manage mental illness, improve overall wellness, address relationship or addiction issues, work through grief or seek career advancement & improve their quality of life.
(336) 396-7834 View (336) 396-7834
Photo of Breanna Elder Sparrow, MA, LCMHC, CCTP
Breanna Elder Sparrow
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Kernersville, NC 27284
Well-being is essential for filing those roles of spouse, parent, employee, student, etc.
Many times people find themselves at a place in life where they find it difficult to move towards their goals in life. Goals vary from person to person; but they are important to who we are. A person may notice the same mountain is circled with little to no progress. This can be very frustrating. Obstacles might include past "hang-ups", lack of self trust, or feeling unmotivated or overwhelmed with life's circumstances. There may be times the individual wonders if things will always be a certain way, or they may wonder if there is something they are missing. They desire to move past the obstacles and achieve their goal.
Well-being is essential for filing those roles of spouse, parent, employee, student, etc.
Many times people find themselves at a place in life where they find it difficult to move towards their goals in life. Goals vary from person to person; but they are important to who we are. A person may notice the same mountain is circled with little to no progress. This can be very frustrating. Obstacles might include past "hang-ups", lack of self trust, or feeling unmotivated or overwhelmed with life's circumstances. There may be times the individual wonders if things will always be a certain way, or they may wonder if there is something they are missing. They desire to move past the obstacles and achieve their goal.
(336) 814-8831 View (336) 814-8831
Photo of Nicole Powell, MEd, LCMHCA, Counselor
Nicole Powell
Counselor, MEd, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Kernersville, NC 27284
Some common issues I work with include relationship stress, communication skills, parenting, family conflict, mood disorders (depression, anxiety, etc.
I believe that every person has the ability to grow, heal and change. As a counselor, I provide a space of nonjudgmental acceptance and authenticity which invites clients to show up exactly as they are and to be valued and supported in all aspects of their identity. I aim to partner with and empower my clients, utilizing the strengths and skills they already possess, to work toward their goals for healing and growth. My counseling orientation is grounded in a family systems approach, though I also draw significantly from attachment theory and person-centered counseling.
Some common issues I work with include relationship stress, communication skills, parenting, family conflict, mood disorders (depression, anxiety, etc.
I believe that every person has the ability to grow, heal and change. As a counselor, I provide a space of nonjudgmental acceptance and authenticity which invites clients to show up exactly as they are and to be valued and supported in all aspects of their identity. I aim to partner with and empower my clients, utilizing the strengths and skills they already possess, to work toward their goals for healing and growth. My counseling orientation is grounded in a family systems approach, though I also draw significantly from attachment theory and person-centered counseling.
(336) 594-2301 View (336) 594-2301
Photo of Ryan MacLeod, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ryan MacLeod
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Kernersville, NC 27284
It’s true that a satisfying relationship can be hard to build and maintain over a long time.
At Bloom Couples Counseling, I offer a comprehensive, scientifically-based approach to relationship counseling in a supportive and appropriately challenging setting. I help you unravel the mystery of the cyclical nature of relationship problems, reducing frustration and restoring connection. Using evidence-based tools and approaches, my goal is to help you and your partner move from distance to addressing the problems as a team, leaving you both with a sense of pride in each other's core needs and dreams for the relationship.
It’s true that a satisfying relationship can be hard to build and maintain over a long time.
At Bloom Couples Counseling, I offer a comprehensive, scientifically-based approach to relationship counseling in a supportive and appropriately challenging setting. I help you unravel the mystery of the cyclical nature of relationship problems, reducing frustration and restoring connection. Using evidence-based tools and approaches, my goal is to help you and your partner move from distance to addressing the problems as a team, leaving you both with a sense of pride in each other's core needs and dreams for the relationship.
(336) 276-1424 View (336) 276-1424
Photo of Cynthia Jones - Challenge 2 Change Transition Services, LCMHC
Challenge 2 Change Transition Services
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Kernersville, NC 27284
Over 15 years of working experience with all populations (children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families) in individual and group settings to help them overcome life adversities and obstacles.
There are many reasons why people seek counseling. I believe that clients have the capacity to learn, change and grow so that they may experience more meaningful, healthier, and happier lives. Whatever your reasons are for seeking services, I look forward to partnering with you to address whatever counseling needs you may have.
Over 15 years of working experience with all populations (children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families) in individual and group settings to help them overcome life adversities and obstacles.
There are many reasons why people seek counseling. I believe that clients have the capacity to learn, change and grow so that they may experience more meaningful, healthier, and happier lives. Whatever your reasons are for seeking services, I look forward to partnering with you to address whatever counseling needs you may have.
(336) 777-7971 View (336) 777-7971
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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.