Photo of Dr. Dana Lebo, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Dana Lebo
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27516  (Online Only)
I invite you to partner with me in your wellness journey.
Are you looking for support to master life's challenges, break free of ineffective patterns of behavior & improve your mental health & well-being? With over two decades of experience, I am passionate about helping individuals enhance their performance & better manage anxiety, life transitions, trauma, depression, pain, sleep, and more. My approach to therapy is grounded in mind-body, non-pharmacological techniques for dealing with the complexities & stress of busy home, school, work, sports & family lives. Additionally, I am credentialed to practice teletherapy in 36 states listed on the PsyPact Map at psypact.org under Quick Links.
I invite you to partner with me in your wellness journey.
Are you looking for support to master life's challenges, break free of ineffective patterns of behavior & improve your mental health & well-being? With over two decades of experience, I am passionate about helping individuals enhance their performance & better manage anxiety, life transitions, trauma, depression, pain, sleep, and more. My approach to therapy is grounded in mind-body, non-pharmacological techniques for dealing with the complexities & stress of busy home, school, work, sports & family lives. Additionally, I am credentialed to practice teletherapy in 36 states listed on the PsyPact Map at psypact.org under Quick Links.
(919) 276-8758 View (919) 276-8758
Photo of Zena Chase, MS, LCMHC, NCC
Zena Chase
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27517
I have worked with children and adults from all walks of life who struggle with chronic illnesses, loss, Adjustment Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Abuse, Eating Disorders, Substance Use, Couples & Family therapies.
I’m very passionate about helping people, and celebrating their courageous strides. It takes courage to seek counseling, and courage to trust the process. I strive to create a partnership that is therapeutic in nature, and intentional in effort. It is with that intention, courage, and partnership that I assist my clients’ in reaching therapeutic goals, accepting and achieving growth, increasing awareness, and fostering resilience.
I have worked with children and adults from all walks of life who struggle with chronic illnesses, loss, Adjustment Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Abuse, Eating Disorders, Substance Use, Couples & Family therapies.
I’m very passionate about helping people, and celebrating their courageous strides. It takes courage to seek counseling, and courage to trust the process. I strive to create a partnership that is therapeutic in nature, and intentional in effort. It is with that intention, courage, and partnership that I assist my clients’ in reaching therapeutic goals, accepting and achieving growth, increasing awareness, and fostering resilience.
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Photo of Niki Feehan, MS, LCMHCA, Counselor
Niki Feehan
Counselor, MS, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
Sex and relationship counseling is an opportunity to create and commit to yourself, your partners, and your intimate relationships. So whether you're trying to get back out there after a significant break up, to connect with a partner's sexuality, or to establish your own boundaries in an intimate relationship, you deserve the time and space to figure it out. I am proud to work with individuals, couples, and partners to explore their values and show up as their most authentic selves in their most valuable relationships.
Sex and relationship counseling is an opportunity to create and commit to yourself, your partners, and your intimate relationships. So whether you're trying to get back out there after a significant break up, to connect with a partner's sexuality, or to establish your own boundaries in an intimate relationship, you deserve the time and space to figure it out. I am proud to work with individuals, couples, and partners to explore their values and show up as their most authentic selves in their most valuable relationships.
(919) 298-8315 View (919) 298-8315
Photo of Molly J. McDonald, LCSW-C, LICSW, MBA, CDM, CSAT-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Molly J. McDonald
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW, MBA, CDM, CSAT-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
I provide Psychotherapy, Life & Clinical Coaching, Divorce Coaching & Mediation, Financial psychology counseling & expatriate counseling for individuals, couples and families; treatment and intervention for those affected by mood disorders (depression and anxiety), trauma, grief, loss and professional & personal transition. I have lived abroad, experienced numerous cultural, personal, and professional transitions myself which I draw on in my work. My combined background in mental health & business gives me a unique perspective that allows me to work with individuals who are facing challenges in their personal and professional lives.
I provide Psychotherapy, Life & Clinical Coaching, Divorce Coaching & Mediation, Financial psychology counseling & expatriate counseling for individuals, couples and families; treatment and intervention for those affected by mood disorders (depression and anxiety), trauma, grief, loss and professional & personal transition. I have lived abroad, experienced numerous cultural, personal, and professional transitions myself which I draw on in my work. My combined background in mental health & business gives me a unique perspective that allows me to work with individuals who are facing challenges in their personal and professional lives.
(202) 765-3876 View (202) 765-3876
Photo of Donna C Bell, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Donna C Bell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Carrboro, NC 27510
I provide therapy for individuals and couples who are looking for change through a warm, engaged, and challenging process. You are the best expert about your life and your experiences; sometimes you just need external perspective to help you truly know what you know and figure out what you want to do with that knowledge. Financial issues, grief, loss, transitions, and relationships - these are the issues people bring to therapy. I work with the information that you bring into the room to help co-create solutions that truly work for you.
I provide therapy for individuals and couples who are looking for change through a warm, engaged, and challenging process. You are the best expert about your life and your experiences; sometimes you just need external perspective to help you truly know what you know and figure out what you want to do with that knowledge. Financial issues, grief, loss, transitions, and relationships - these are the issues people bring to therapy. I work with the information that you bring into the room to help co-create solutions that truly work for you.
(919) 794-4291 View (919) 794-4291
Photo of Amber L. Borcyk, MSSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amber L. Borcyk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27514  (Online Only)
For relationship therapy, we will focus on finding authentic solutions for your relationship.
It can be scary to be honest with oneself, let alone with others. Yet, most of us still desire to be seen, loved, and accepted. I work with people curious about how their childhood, cultural background(s), identities, and trauma influence how they relate to themselves, family, lovers, friends, and authority figures. My work centers on anti-racism and the lived experiences of folks who are Queer, Transgender, Polyamourous, or Kinky. I enjoy working with people outside of these identities as well. Modalities I utilize are Relationship Analysis, EMDR, Parts Work, Psychodynamic Techniques, and Sex Therapy.
For relationship therapy, we will focus on finding authentic solutions for your relationship.
It can be scary to be honest with oneself, let alone with others. Yet, most of us still desire to be seen, loved, and accepted. I work with people curious about how their childhood, cultural background(s), identities, and trauma influence how they relate to themselves, family, lovers, friends, and authority figures. My work centers on anti-racism and the lived experiences of folks who are Queer, Transgender, Polyamourous, or Kinky. I enjoy working with people outside of these identities as well. Modalities I utilize are Relationship Analysis, EMDR, Parts Work, Psychodynamic Techniques, and Sex Therapy.
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Photo of Donna Murray, LPCC-S, Counselor
Donna Murray
Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27517  (Online Only)
I value the client-counselor relationship and thus it is important to me that I provide my clients with a safe, caring and accepting environment.
Hello! My name is Donna Murray and I look forward to connecting with you. I’ve had the joy of working in the counseling field for over 25 years in multiple settings including: private practice, inpatient and outpatient, home-based, school-based and residential detox. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in the states of Ohio, West Virginia and North Carolina and have been offering counseling services since 1996. Currently, I also serve on the West Virginia Certification Board for Addiction & Prevention Professionals.
I value the client-counselor relationship and thus it is important to me that I provide my clients with a safe, caring and accepting environment.
Hello! My name is Donna Murray and I look forward to connecting with you. I’ve had the joy of working in the counseling field for over 25 years in multiple settings including: private practice, inpatient and outpatient, home-based, school-based and residential detox. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in the states of Ohio, West Virginia and North Carolina and have been offering counseling services since 1996. Currently, I also serve on the West Virginia Certification Board for Addiction & Prevention Professionals.
(919) 642-4512 View (919) 642-4512
Photo of Danielle R Oakley, PhD, HSP, Psychologist
Danielle R Oakley
Psychologist, PhD, HSP
Verified Verified
Hillsborough, NC 27278  (Online Only)
Life events occur that can overwhelm our coping skills or maybe we have been dealing with challenges for a long time. Either way, there are times we could all use support and perspective. I often work with people experiencing anxiety, depression, interpersonal relationship issues, trauma, and eating disorders. I believe that social/cultural identities, roles, and life circumstances impact how we feel about ourselves and others. I'd like to get to know your unique story. Whether this is your first time looking for a therapist or it's time to re-connect with treatment, you have taken the first step.
Life events occur that can overwhelm our coping skills or maybe we have been dealing with challenges for a long time. Either way, there are times we could all use support and perspective. I often work with people experiencing anxiety, depression, interpersonal relationship issues, trauma, and eating disorders. I believe that social/cultural identities, roles, and life circumstances impact how we feel about ourselves and others. I'd like to get to know your unique story. Whether this is your first time looking for a therapist or it's time to re-connect with treatment, you have taken the first step.
(984) 364-8686 View (984) 364-8686
Photo of Terry Tucker, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Terry Tucker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hillsborough, NC 27278  (Online Only)
Life is not meant to journey alone. After 34 years of working in mental health, I have come to realize that compassion, understanding, guidance and acceptance are the keys to a successful therapeutic relationship. I have worked with clients experiencing many different challenges - trauma, sexual abuse, life transitions, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, psychosis, marriage issues, isolation and loneliness and chronic physical conditions. Whatever you are currently experiencing, I will seek to support you, serve and guide you on your unique path to healing and awareness.
Life is not meant to journey alone. After 34 years of working in mental health, I have come to realize that compassion, understanding, guidance and acceptance are the keys to a successful therapeutic relationship. I have worked with clients experiencing many different challenges - trauma, sexual abuse, life transitions, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, psychosis, marriage issues, isolation and loneliness and chronic physical conditions. Whatever you are currently experiencing, I will seek to support you, serve and guide you on your unique path to healing and awareness.
(828) 475-9332 View (828) 475-9332
Photo of Dr. Sophia Walder-Hoge, PsyD, HSP-P, Psychologist
Dr. Sophia Walder-Hoge
Psychologist, PsyD, HSP-P
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
I welcome the inclusion of individual interests and experiences and support the development of a strong therapeutic relationship.
As a licensed psychologist, I provide therapy with children, families, teens, and adults experiencing a variety of challenges, including ADHD, self-esteem, interpersonal and relational difficulties, anxiety and mood disorders, major life transitions, behavioral/conduct issues, and developmental disorders/ASD. My approach to therapy emphasizes a humanist, strengths-based, and trauma-informed style. I strive to support growth, self-understanding, and adaptive skill-building in an open and nonjudgmental space.
I welcome the inclusion of individual interests and experiences and support the development of a strong therapeutic relationship.
As a licensed psychologist, I provide therapy with children, families, teens, and adults experiencing a variety of challenges, including ADHD, self-esteem, interpersonal and relational difficulties, anxiety and mood disorders, major life transitions, behavioral/conduct issues, and developmental disorders/ASD. My approach to therapy emphasizes a humanist, strengths-based, and trauma-informed style. I strive to support growth, self-understanding, and adaptive skill-building in an open and nonjudgmental space.
(984) 265-2176 View (984) 265-2176
Photo of Leslie Stevens - Congruence Counseling Group, MEd, LCMHC, Counselor
Congruence Counseling Group
Counselor, MEd, LCMHC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Carrboro, NC 27510
We provide individual, couples, and family therapy for a community of adolescents and adults with an eye towards inclusion and equity.
Congruence Counseling Group is currently accepting new clients. We are happy to provide space for you to approach life with curiosity and awareness. We listen to the wisdom in your story and try to reflect that wisdom back to you. We care deeply about our clients and feel honored when you allow us to walk beside you on your journey. We provide a safe therapeutic space that speaks to a variety of experiences. Our trained clinicians include mental health counselors, social workers, and interns who specialize in a myriad of mental health issues and use specific modalities to help clients reach their goals.
We provide individual, couples, and family therapy for a community of adolescents and adults with an eye towards inclusion and equity.
Congruence Counseling Group is currently accepting new clients. We are happy to provide space for you to approach life with curiosity and awareness. We listen to the wisdom in your story and try to reflect that wisdom back to you. We care deeply about our clients and feel honored when you allow us to walk beside you on your journey. We provide a safe therapeutic space that speaks to a variety of experiences. Our trained clinicians include mental health counselors, social workers, and interns who specialize in a myriad of mental health issues and use specific modalities to help clients reach their goals.
(804) 506-3648 View (804) 506-3648
Photo of Brittany Bate, PhD, Psychologist
Brittany Bate
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27514  (Online Only)
Are you a member of the LGBTQIA+ community and seeking a therapist who "just gets it?" Are you tired of feeling alone, scared, or unsupported as you navigate various changes, challenges, or identities? Has pandemic stress and grief has gotten to be too much? Are you stressed or concerned with one or more relationships?Perhaps you and your partner(s) have found yourself in a difficult cycle you are struggling to break, leaving y'all feeling disconnected and unsatisfied? If you answered yes to any of these, then you've made the right choice by being here. And I know this is hard, but you're brave. Just being here shows that!
Are you a member of the LGBTQIA+ community and seeking a therapist who "just gets it?" Are you tired of feeling alone, scared, or unsupported as you navigate various changes, challenges, or identities? Has pandemic stress and grief has gotten to be too much? Are you stressed or concerned with one or more relationships?Perhaps you and your partner(s) have found yourself in a difficult cycle you are struggling to break, leaving y'all feeling disconnected and unsatisfied? If you answered yes to any of these, then you've made the right choice by being here. And I know this is hard, but you're brave. Just being here shows that!
(919) 849-8018 View (919) 849-8018
Photo of Molly Sweetser, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Molly Sweetser
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
I believe that the therapeutic relationship can offer a safer space to feel understood and to explore patterns that may be getting in the way of living an authentic and meaningful life.
Reaching out for help can be a daunting experience, and an important step towards growth and healing. It is an honor to be invited into your journey. I have experience working with adolescents and adults in individual and relationship therapy. My approach is relational, psychodynamic, and collaborative and rooted in the possibility of transformation. Together we can be curious about how your past experiences and relationships shape the present, and help you move into greater aliveness and deeper connection to self and others.
I believe that the therapeutic relationship can offer a safer space to feel understood and to explore patterns that may be getting in the way of living an authentic and meaningful life.
Reaching out for help can be a daunting experience, and an important step towards growth and healing. It is an honor to be invited into your journey. I have experience working with adolescents and adults in individual and relationship therapy. My approach is relational, psychodynamic, and collaborative and rooted in the possibility of transformation. Together we can be curious about how your past experiences and relationships shape the present, and help you move into greater aliveness and deeper connection to self and others.
(919) 298-8865 View (919) 298-8865
Photo of Steven Clemens - Triangle Wellness Counseling, PLLC, MEd, NCC, LPC, MSA, Counselor
Triangle Wellness Counseling, PLLC
Counselor, MEd, NCC, LPC, MSA
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Carrboro, NC 27510
I am a licensed professional counselor practicing in Orange County, North Carolina. I have extensive experience assisting families and couples with marital discord, behavioral issues, communication breakdowns, and parent-child conflict. My goal is to empower each one of my client's by creating a non-judgmental therapeutic environment that respects their dignity and self-worth. Please access my website where you can find my availability and choose a time that is convenient for you (steven-clemens.clientsecure.me).
I am a licensed professional counselor practicing in Orange County, North Carolina. I have extensive experience assisting families and couples with marital discord, behavioral issues, communication breakdowns, and parent-child conflict. My goal is to empower each one of my client's by creating a non-judgmental therapeutic environment that respects their dignity and self-worth. Please access my website where you can find my availability and choose a time that is convenient for you (steven-clemens.clientsecure.me).
(919) 374-2359 View (919) 374-2359
Photo of Beatrice Parker - Bea Well, MSW
Bea Well
LCSW Associate, MSW
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
Within this therapeutic approach, we focus on the importance of developing your self esteem for the purpose of creating a healthy relationship with self, others & context.
Life is full of challenges and sometimes we arrive at a point where we can no longer navigate it alone. At Bea We’ll, we are curiously co-creating the life you want and deserve. I invite you to reimagine counseling as a place for more than crisis intervention and as a place to receive holistic care. I offer a safe space to dream, explore, revisit, dive deep and an opportunity to connect with yourself. Once you begin to heal your spirit, mind and body, you will create more JOY. The joy you create serves as a grounding force to propel you into the lifestyle you want. Ademas, atiendo personas que hablan Español, a sus órdenes.
Within this therapeutic approach, we focus on the importance of developing your self esteem for the purpose of creating a healthy relationship with self, others & context.
Life is full of challenges and sometimes we arrive at a point where we can no longer navigate it alone. At Bea We’ll, we are curiously co-creating the life you want and deserve. I invite you to reimagine counseling as a place for more than crisis intervention and as a place to receive holistic care. I offer a safe space to dream, explore, revisit, dive deep and an opportunity to connect with yourself. Once you begin to heal your spirit, mind and body, you will create more JOY. The joy you create serves as a grounding force to propel you into the lifestyle you want. Ademas, atiendo personas que hablan Español, a sus órdenes.
(984) 400-0763 View (984) 400-0763
Photo of Francesca Nicole Morfesis, MA, LPA, HSP-PA, Psychological Associate
Francesca Nicole Morfesis
Psychological Associate, MA, LPA, HSP-PA
Verified Verified
Carrboro, NC 27510
I have also studied and incorporate Inner Relationship Focusing (similar to IFS).
My love is helping people learn to navigate the terrain of the body and to find the wisdom and freedom of feeling and ‘sensing’ as ways of knowing and healing. This domain is difficult to navigate alone - We live in a time when our nervous systems are deeply taxed and carry significant trauma, and in which the cultural resources for healing have been repressed or lost under the weight of systems of oppression. I want to help you find your way back to a sense of wholeness by listening to your innate wisdom. Please note- I only accept clients who have some form of contemplative practice because it creates a foundation for our work!
I have also studied and incorporate Inner Relationship Focusing (similar to IFS).
My love is helping people learn to navigate the terrain of the body and to find the wisdom and freedom of feeling and ‘sensing’ as ways of knowing and healing. This domain is difficult to navigate alone - We live in a time when our nervous systems are deeply taxed and carry significant trauma, and in which the cultural resources for healing have been repressed or lost under the weight of systems of oppression. I want to help you find your way back to a sense of wholeness by listening to your innate wisdom. Please note- I only accept clients who have some form of contemplative practice because it creates a foundation for our work!
(919) 759-5384 View (919) 759-5384
Photo of Rachel E. Coleman, MS/EdS, LCMHCA, NCC
Rachel E. Coleman
MS/EdS, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
Waitlist for new clients
I believe therapy is a collaborative process and view the therapeutic relationship as foundational to the entire experience.
Limited evening and weekend availability! Thank you for visiting my page. Choosing a therapist can be a big decision, so I'd love to talk with you to see if I can be a resource in your journey towards reaching your goals. I work with individuals seeking support for anxiety, depression, stress, career planning/development, and trauma. I also offer relationship therapy for both couples and various partnership agreements. I view my work through a social justice lens and practice cultural humility to create a space that is welcoming to all clients.
I believe therapy is a collaborative process and view the therapeutic relationship as foundational to the entire experience.
Limited evening and weekend availability! Thank you for visiting my page. Choosing a therapist can be a big decision, so I'd love to talk with you to see if I can be a resource in your journey towards reaching your goals. I work with individuals seeking support for anxiety, depression, stress, career planning/development, and trauma. I also offer relationship therapy for both couples and various partnership agreements. I view my work through a social justice lens and practice cultural humility to create a space that is welcoming to all clients.
(919) 372-4553 View (919) 372-4553
Photo of Sylvia Ward Graves, MA, LCMHCA, Counselor
Sylvia Ward Graves
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27514  (Online Only)
I enjoy fostering healthy exploration for adults, adolescents, and couples processing issues of differentiation, self-esteem, anxiety, family of origin, relational health, spirituality, and more.
I approach counseling with the belief that I encounter every client in the middle of a story. Within these stories, individuals are influenced by their relational contexts and histories––therefore, what they have been through is worth exploring. At the same time, I believe all are active agents in their present and future––I seek to empower clients toward change while fostering awareness of what has shaped them. In the context of safety, individuals are able to begin embracing agency and taking new risks which might otherwise feel inaccessible or overwhelming. Through these new risks, freedom and growth is possible.
I enjoy fostering healthy exploration for adults, adolescents, and couples processing issues of differentiation, self-esteem, anxiety, family of origin, relational health, spirituality, and more.
I approach counseling with the belief that I encounter every client in the middle of a story. Within these stories, individuals are influenced by their relational contexts and histories––therefore, what they have been through is worth exploring. At the same time, I believe all are active agents in their present and future––I seek to empower clients toward change while fostering awareness of what has shaped them. In the context of safety, individuals are able to begin embracing agency and taking new risks which might otherwise feel inaccessible or overwhelming. Through these new risks, freedom and growth is possible.
(919) 873-4564 View (919) 873-4564
Photo of Sara E Rosenquist - DrSara, PhD, ABPP, Psychologist
DrSara
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27514  (Online Only)
Whether you're struggling with infertility, sexual dysfunction, or navigating changes in your relationship, DrSara is here to listen, understand, and guide you towards solutions that work for you.
Are you facing challenges with your sexual or reproductive health? You're not alone. DrSara understands the sensitive and deeply personal nature of these issues. My mission is to provide compassionate support and effective solutions to help you regain control of your sexual health and family building.
Whether you're struggling with infertility, sexual dysfunction, or navigating changes in your relationship, DrSara is here to listen, understand, and guide you towards solutions that work for you.
Are you facing challenges with your sexual or reproductive health? You're not alone. DrSara understands the sensitive and deeply personal nature of these issues. My mission is to provide compassionate support and effective solutions to help you regain control of your sexual health and family building.
(336) 815-5812 View (336) 815-5812
Photo of Bob Testen, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bob Testen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27517  (Online Only)
Are you feeling anxious or depressed? Are you having difficulties with mood swings or are you unhappy in your relationships? Are you lonely or having uncertainties with your life choices? Are you having challenges at home, school, or at work? If so, give me a call for a free consultation, or to schedule an appointment. I meet with individuals, couples, and families to move towards a more productive and satisfying life. I often work with undergraduate and graduate students, as well as academic and healthcare professionals. Call today for a free phone consultation: (919) 240-0203
Are you feeling anxious or depressed? Are you having difficulties with mood swings or are you unhappy in your relationships? Are you lonely or having uncertainties with your life choices? Are you having challenges at home, school, or at work? If so, give me a call for a free consultation, or to schedule an appointment. I meet with individuals, couples, and families to move towards a more productive and satisfying life. I often work with undergraduate and graduate students, as well as academic and healthcare professionals. Call today for a free phone consultation: (919) 240-0203
(919) 694-6822 View (919) 694-6822
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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.