Couples Counseling Therapists in New London, NH

Photo of Pete Afflerbach, MA, LCMHC, Counselor
Pete Afflerbach
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New London, NH 03257
At our offices in New London, Hanover, Claremont, and Plymouth, NH, we offer comprehensive, specialized strengths-based services for children, adolescents, adults, couples and families.
Pete has more than 15 years of experience as a teacher and counselor. Pete approaches his work from a systems perspective and his areas of interest include working with adolescents, individuals and families struggling with addiction, and couples. He also works with individuals of all ages to help them explore their beliefs and how those beliefs affect their present selves. Regardless of the root of symptoms, exploring how we think about ourselves and the world around us and working to replace the behaviors and beliefs that no longer serve us often help us get unstuck and move forward to achieving our goals.
At our offices in New London, Hanover, Claremont, and Plymouth, NH, we offer comprehensive, specialized strengths-based services for children, adolescents, adults, couples and families.
Pete has more than 15 years of experience as a teacher and counselor. Pete approaches his work from a systems perspective and his areas of interest include working with adolescents, individuals and families struggling with addiction, and couples. He also works with individuals of all ages to help them explore their beliefs and how those beliefs affect their present selves. Regardless of the root of symptoms, exploring how we think about ourselves and the world around us and working to replace the behaviors and beliefs that no longer serve us often help us get unstuck and move forward to achieving our goals.
(603) 392-7876 View (603) 392-7876
Photo of Ashley Williams, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ashley Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New London, NH 03257
I have advanced training and specialization in couples work- Gottman levels 1-3, EFT externship and core skills, and a yearlong certificate in the Developmental model from the Couples Therapy Institute.
Therapy for couples and individuals with anxiety in MA and NH. Your relationship is on the rocks. One of you feels alone and misunderstood, the other just wants the fighting to stop. You’ve tried so much to change this relationship and nothing is working. You try to bring up things to your partner in a neutral way but it inevitably spirals into a conflict and before you know it you’re back in that same awful place of disconnection that seems to happen over and over again without resolution. You’re told you’re being too critical, too defensive, not listening enough. You feel like you are constantly walking on eggshells.
I have advanced training and specialization in couples work- Gottman levels 1-3, EFT externship and core skills, and a yearlong certificate in the Developmental model from the Couples Therapy Institute.
Therapy for couples and individuals with anxiety in MA and NH. Your relationship is on the rocks. One of you feels alone and misunderstood, the other just wants the fighting to stop. You’ve tried so much to change this relationship and nothing is working. You try to bring up things to your partner in a neutral way but it inevitably spirals into a conflict and before you know it you’re back in that same awful place of disconnection that seems to happen over and over again without resolution. You’re told you’re being too critical, too defensive, not listening enough. You feel like you are constantly walking on eggshells.
(603) 665-0387 View (603) 665-0387
Photo of Jim Esposito, MA, LCMHC, NCC, Counselor
Jim Esposito
Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New London, NH 03257
At our offices in New London, Hanover, Claremont, and Plymouth, NH, we offer comprehensive, specialized strengths-based services for children, adolescents, adults, couples and families.
Jim brings to Counseling Associates over 30 years of experience in the mental health field working with children and adults in both outpatient and residential settings. Jim specializes in working with children, adolescents, and families, and has extensive experience in the area of behavioral problems and school issues. Jim's practice also includes consultation to schools.
At our offices in New London, Hanover, Claremont, and Plymouth, NH, we offer comprehensive, specialized strengths-based services for children, adolescents, adults, couples and families.
Jim brings to Counseling Associates over 30 years of experience in the mental health field working with children and adults in both outpatient and residential settings. Jim specializes in working with children, adolescents, and families, and has extensive experience in the area of behavioral problems and school issues. Jim's practice also includes consultation to schools.
(603) 421-6561 View (603) 421-6561
Photo of Doug Wenger, LICSW, CCATP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Doug Wenger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CCATP
Verified Verified
New London, NH 03257  (Online Only)
I've worked with adolescents through school and emotional challenges, guided college students through self-discovery, and helped adults of all ages, with various challenges of their own and couples with diverse complexities.
I am a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional, with over 15 years of experience in the clinical field, I've had the privilege of working with a diverse range of clients. My core belief is that every individual possesses a unique narrative, a tapestry of experiences, emotions, and desires that shape their aspirations for life. Whether you seek a compassionate ear to share your thoughts, to process life-changing events, to discover a deeper sense of self and happiness, or to navigate the complexities of relationships, I'm committed to guiding you towards greater well-being and happiness.
I've worked with adolescents through school and emotional challenges, guided college students through self-discovery, and helped adults of all ages, with various challenges of their own and couples with diverse complexities.
I am a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional, with over 15 years of experience in the clinical field, I've had the privilege of working with a diverse range of clients. My core belief is that every individual possesses a unique narrative, a tapestry of experiences, emotions, and desires that shape their aspirations for life. Whether you seek a compassionate ear to share your thoughts, to process life-changing events, to discover a deeper sense of self and happiness, or to navigate the complexities of relationships, I'm committed to guiding you towards greater well-being and happiness.
(603) 207-2274 View (603) 207-2274
Photo of Skyler Dietzman, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Skyler Dietzman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New London, NH 03257  (Online Only)
I am passionate about working with individuals with chronic stress, anxiety, self-doubt, burn out, and relationship difficulties. My clients are often experiencing major life shifts/changes. They are people pleasers, caregivers, helpers and highly sensitive individuals who want to improve how they feel but have trouble prioritizing themselves. They want to uncover the hidden version of their best self and are ready to build confidence, practice self-compassion, improve their relationships and put their needs first.
I am passionate about working with individuals with chronic stress, anxiety, self-doubt, burn out, and relationship difficulties. My clients are often experiencing major life shifts/changes. They are people pleasers, caregivers, helpers and highly sensitive individuals who want to improve how they feel but have trouble prioritizing themselves. They want to uncover the hidden version of their best self and are ready to build confidence, practice self-compassion, improve their relationships and put their needs first.
(954) 799-5778 View (954) 799-5778
Photo of Theodore M. Austin, PsyD, Psychologist
Theodore M. Austin
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
New London, NH 03257
I work with older adolescents, adults, and couples.
Seeking out help for a problem that you can’t solve on your own is one of life’s more difficult – and brave – first steps. In my capacity as a clinical psychologist, I have witnessed so many people make transformational changes in overcoming depression, trauma, anxiety, and the problems that arise from both personal history and current difficulties. By tailoring the way I work to meet your specific and unique needs, we can, together, work toward both healing and expanding emergent capacities for positive change.
I work with older adolescents, adults, and couples.
Seeking out help for a problem that you can’t solve on your own is one of life’s more difficult – and brave – first steps. In my capacity as a clinical psychologist, I have witnessed so many people make transformational changes in overcoming depression, trauma, anxiety, and the problems that arise from both personal history and current difficulties. By tailoring the way I work to meet your specific and unique needs, we can, together, work toward both healing and expanding emergent capacities for positive change.
(603) 262-3419 View (603) 262-3419
Photo of Stuart Scott - Pioneer Spirit Counseling, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Pioneer Spirit Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
New London, NH 03257
I believe that men are faced with conflicting expectations in our society that can lead them to feel frustrated, misunderstood and isolated. They are expected to be strong yet gentle, fierce yet sensitive, protective but not overbearing. Sometimes men get stuck in one role and cannot transition to another as the situation changes. My goal is to coach you on developing new strategies for addressing these issues and to help you break destructive patterns. While I focus on men's issues, all of my experience and techniques work with people in all walks of life and lifestyles.
I believe that men are faced with conflicting expectations in our society that can lead them to feel frustrated, misunderstood and isolated. They are expected to be strong yet gentle, fierce yet sensitive, protective but not overbearing. Sometimes men get stuck in one role and cannot transition to another as the situation changes. My goal is to coach you on developing new strategies for addressing these issues and to help you break destructive patterns. While I focus on men's issues, all of my experience and techniques work with people in all walks of life and lifestyles.
(833) 956-8539 View (833) 956-8539
Photo of Lara Pirro Jancetic, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lara Pirro Jancetic
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
New London, NH 03257
Not accepting new clients
I offer a focused biopsychosocial approach on each individual, couple or a family's presenting concern or desire for treatment. I place attention on medical as well as psychological concerns as I see them to be interconnected. I work with a systemic understanding of the individual. That is, I understand the individual to be a part of a system of relationships that includes family members, partners, colleagues, their social connections, culture and spiritual or faith-based practices. I studied meditation and mindfulness and apply them to my practice when applicable.
I offer a focused biopsychosocial approach on each individual, couple or a family's presenting concern or desire for treatment. I place attention on medical as well as psychological concerns as I see them to be interconnected. I work with a systemic understanding of the individual. That is, I understand the individual to be a part of a system of relationships that includes family members, partners, colleagues, their social connections, culture and spiritual or faith-based practices. I studied meditation and mindfulness and apply them to my practice when applicable.
(603) 606-9257 View (603) 606-9257

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Jacqueline Cruz Sanchez, MS, HB, MA, LMFT
Jacqueline Cruz Sanchez
MS, HB, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Newport, NH 03773  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with the adult population. I work with adults in any stages of their life. I work with different types of mental health issues and therapeutic modalities. I help many individuals embark in their therapeutic journey; I work with individuals who are dealing with issues that affect them physically, emotionally and mentally. I would like help clients determine why they are experiencing their life challenges, develop goals and actions to resolve their issues.
I enjoy working with the adult population. I work with adults in any stages of their life. I work with different types of mental health issues and therapeutic modalities. I help many individuals embark in their therapeutic journey; I work with individuals who are dealing with issues that affect them physically, emotionally and mentally. I would like help clients determine why they are experiencing their life challenges, develop goals and actions to resolve their issues.
(877) 447-7560 View (877) 447-7560

Online Therapists

Photo of Valerie J Mazzola, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Valerie J Mazzola
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Londonderry, NH 03053
Our counselors believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship and foster a strong alliance with our clients, ensuring they feel heard, validated, and supported throughout the process.
As the founder of Clear Balance Counseling, PLLC, I am happy to announce the opening of our new office in Londonderry, NH. My passion for helping others led me to pursue a career in mental health over 33 years ago. I have had the privilege of supporting adolescents, adults, families and couples on their journey to achieving clarity, balance, and emotional well-being. I provide a safe and nonjudgmental space for people to explore their thoughts emotions, concerns, challenges, and the underlying experiences that shape them. I believe that every individual has the strength and the ability to overcome adversity.
Our counselors believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship and foster a strong alliance with our clients, ensuring they feel heard, validated, and supported throughout the process.
As the founder of Clear Balance Counseling, PLLC, I am happy to announce the opening of our new office in Londonderry, NH. My passion for helping others led me to pursue a career in mental health over 33 years ago. I have had the privilege of supporting adolescents, adults, families and couples on their journey to achieving clarity, balance, and emotional well-being. I provide a safe and nonjudgmental space for people to explore their thoughts emotions, concerns, challenges, and the underlying experiences that shape them. I believe that every individual has the strength and the ability to overcome adversity.
(603) 490-5338 View (603) 490-5338
Photo of Nadine Thompson, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nadine Thompson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Exeter, NH 03833
I specialize in DBT, psychodynamic work, couples therapy, cross-cultural issues, post-abuse, and trauma treatment, with a focus on working effectively with women and families of color.
Empowering individuals and families to explore, reframe, and share their narratives. As a LICSW (Smith College SSW) with over 30 years of experience, I help clients overcome challenges like anxiety, depression, and relationship issues. My approach emphasizes empowerment and storytelling, building healthy coping mechanisms, and fostering communication skills. I enjoy working with adults, particularly those navigating young adulthood, mid-life transitions and couples navigating their relationships and coping with loss and inevitable change. Are you ready to start your new chapter?
I specialize in DBT, psychodynamic work, couples therapy, cross-cultural issues, post-abuse, and trauma treatment, with a focus on working effectively with women and families of color.
Empowering individuals and families to explore, reframe, and share their narratives. As a LICSW (Smith College SSW) with over 30 years of experience, I help clients overcome challenges like anxiety, depression, and relationship issues. My approach emphasizes empowerment and storytelling, building healthy coping mechanisms, and fostering communication skills. I enjoy working with adults, particularly those navigating young adulthood, mid-life transitions and couples navigating their relationships and coping with loss and inevitable change. Are you ready to start your new chapter?
(603) 810-8605 View (603) 810-8605
Photo of Judith Hatch-Orme, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Judith Hatch-Orme
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03801  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
As a couples therapist and parenting specialist, I understand family dysfunction, helping couples identify multi-generational patterns that they've inherited, creating communication impasses.
I offer counseling for adults and couples. With over 36 years of clinical experience, I'm also a parenting specialist, helping parents understand their children's behavior. As a divorce mediator, my approach is child-centered. Ongoing parental conflict increases psychological damage to children, thus by strengthening the co-parenting relationship, the parties can focus on their children's needs. If you're struggling with relational challenges, childhood trauma, divorce, & ready to make positive changes, we can work together to identify generational patterns holding you back. Telehealth only.
As a couples therapist and parenting specialist, I understand family dysfunction, helping couples identify multi-generational patterns that they've inherited, creating communication impasses.
I offer counseling for adults and couples. With over 36 years of clinical experience, I'm also a parenting specialist, helping parents understand their children's behavior. As a divorce mediator, my approach is child-centered. Ongoing parental conflict increases psychological damage to children, thus by strengthening the co-parenting relationship, the parties can focus on their children's needs. If you're struggling with relational challenges, childhood trauma, divorce, & ready to make positive changes, we can work together to identify generational patterns holding you back. Telehealth only.
(603) 476-3560 View (603) 476-3560
Photo of Jenev Caddell, PsyD, Psychologist
Jenev Caddell
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nashua, NH 03060
Waitlist for new clients
I respect you as the expert on your experience, but with my expertise as a psychologist and certified EFT therapist, I have a map that will help you connect to yourself and your partner, so that you can be stronger in love than ever.
Do you get into the same circular fights with your spouse or significant other and just can't find your way out? Questioning your relationship in general? Ready to make it work but not sure what to do? I can help.
I respect you as the expert on your experience, but with my expertise as a psychologist and certified EFT therapist, I have a map that will help you connect to yourself and your partner, so that you can be stronger in love than ever.
Do you get into the same circular fights with your spouse or significant other and just can't find your way out? Questioning your relationship in general? Ready to make it work but not sure what to do? I can help.
(646) 798-9538 View (646) 798-9538
Photo of Kathryn May, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kathryn May
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Hudson, NH 03051  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
It makes sense to get help from someone who is trained to work with relationship problems but who isn't part of your personal circle.
I offer couples guidance and tools to figure out what's not working in your relationship and how to stop your pain. I can help you discover untapped personal power you didn't even know you had, to change your experience of your relationship from helpless dissatisfaction to purposeful enjoyment. Can I wave a magic wand over your partner and transform him or her into the "perfect mate"? Of course not. but I can teach you how to develop and use your own personal strengths and resources in ways you've never imagined, to invite positive change from both of you.
It makes sense to get help from someone who is trained to work with relationship problems but who isn't part of your personal circle.
I offer couples guidance and tools to figure out what's not working in your relationship and how to stop your pain. I can help you discover untapped personal power you didn't even know you had, to change your experience of your relationship from helpless dissatisfaction to purposeful enjoyment. Can I wave a magic wand over your partner and transform him or her into the "perfect mate"? Of course not. but I can teach you how to develop and use your own personal strengths and resources in ways you've never imagined, to invite positive change from both of you.
(603) 547-9459 View (603) 547-9459
Photo of Jill Case, LPC, NCC, BC-TMH, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jill Case
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, BC-TMH, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rye, NH 03870  (Online Only)
Some reasons people come to therapy include; anger, stress, relationship issues, trauma, loss of a baby/babies to abortion, Intimacy Issues, grief, defining roles in today's culture, health issues, lack of self care, expressing and identifying emotions.
I work with individuals and couples. Often men find it difficult to identify their emotions or are unable to translate their emotional experiences into words. I can teach you to learn behaviors and skills to allow you to better express emotions such as vulnerability, intimacy struggles, and perceived weakness. It is very important to most men to feel they are respected and appreciated. Men need a safe place to express their feelings of hurt and vulnerability. These are valid and important male feelings. Men can enhance their well being by learning to identify those feelings, express them appropriately, and be respected for them.
Some reasons people come to therapy include; anger, stress, relationship issues, trauma, loss of a baby/babies to abortion, Intimacy Issues, grief, defining roles in today's culture, health issues, lack of self care, expressing and identifying emotions.
I work with individuals and couples. Often men find it difficult to identify their emotions or are unable to translate their emotional experiences into words. I can teach you to learn behaviors and skills to allow you to better express emotions such as vulnerability, intimacy struggles, and perceived weakness. It is very important to most men to feel they are respected and appreciated. Men need a safe place to express their feelings of hurt and vulnerability. These are valid and important male feelings. Men can enhance their well being by learning to identify those feelings, express them appropriately, and be respected for them.
(844) 901-1274 View (844) 901-1274
Photo of Tom Reichheld, MA, LCMHC, NCC, Counselor
Tom Reichheld
Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Durham, NH 03824
I have had the privilege of working with couples and witnessing striking growth and transformation in their relationships.
Couples and Relationship Counseling. ON-LINE VIDEO COUNSELING AVAILABLE. All of us enter marriage or a committed relationship with a dream of spending a whole life together. Many couples find themselves struggling at some point- experiencing dissatisfaction and emotional pain. Some want to work it out but don't know how. Others have reached the point where both partners want to end the marriage/ relationship. Still others are ambivalent, where one spouse is “leaning in” and the other “leaning out.” Some couples generally do well together but long to deepen their connection.
I have had the privilege of working with couples and witnessing striking growth and transformation in their relationships.
Couples and Relationship Counseling. ON-LINE VIDEO COUNSELING AVAILABLE. All of us enter marriage or a committed relationship with a dream of spending a whole life together. Many couples find themselves struggling at some point- experiencing dissatisfaction and emotional pain. Some want to work it out but don't know how. Others have reached the point where both partners want to end the marriage/ relationship. Still others are ambivalent, where one spouse is “leaning in” and the other “leaning out.” Some couples generally do well together but long to deepen their connection.
(603) 455-6152 View (603) 455-6152
Anne Converse Avery
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Durham, NH 03824
Relief comes with being understood and with workable options that feel right to you. I do therapy with individuals and couples. Currently, the practice is limited to adult women aged 25 and older, individuals who feel stress, anxiety, or depression.
Relief comes with being understood and with workable options that feel right to you. I do therapy with individuals and couples. Currently, the practice is limited to adult women aged 25 and older, individuals who feel stress, anxiety, or depression.
(603) 729-3615 View (603) 729-3615
Photo of Matthew Fowler, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Matthew Fowler
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03801
Waitlist for new clients
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. I help children, parents, and couples overcome obstacles, improve relationships, and better their lives. Starting a family can be one of the most exciting and fulfilling experiences, but when things do not go according to plan, this can be one of the biggest struggles for parents and children. I help families uncover the issues that contribute to the problem and find solutions to help you obtain the vision you always wanted for your child and your family.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. I help children, parents, and couples overcome obstacles, improve relationships, and better their lives. Starting a family can be one of the most exciting and fulfilling experiences, but when things do not go according to plan, this can be one of the biggest struggles for parents and children. I help families uncover the issues that contribute to the problem and find solutions to help you obtain the vision you always wanted for your child and your family.
(603) 531-8811 View (603) 531-8811
Photo of Laurie Diane Eckles, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laurie Diane Eckles
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Bedford, NH 03110
I initially focus on building a relationship with you and understanding your unique story.
Are you struggling with a major life transition? Perhaps you have lost lost someone significant, adopted a child, recently gone through a separation? Are you struggling because issues from your past seem to keep you from fully being the partner, parent or friend you desire to be and you don't know how to change? Or are you a Christian believer yet you struggle with anxiety, anger, and depression compounded by guilt because you "shouldn't feel like that"? You are not alone! I have helped many find hope, peace and joy even in the midst of challenging circumstances. You do not have to stay stuck!
I initially focus on building a relationship with you and understanding your unique story.
Are you struggling with a major life transition? Perhaps you have lost lost someone significant, adopted a child, recently gone through a separation? Are you struggling because issues from your past seem to keep you from fully being the partner, parent or friend you desire to be and you don't know how to change? Or are you a Christian believer yet you struggle with anxiety, anger, and depression compounded by guilt because you "shouldn't feel like that"? You are not alone! I have helped many find hope, peace and joy even in the midst of challenging circumstances. You do not have to stay stuck!
(866) 758-3941 View (866) 758-3941
Photo of Donna B. Lennon, MA, LCMHC, MLADC, CADC-ll, Counselor
Donna B. Lennon
Counselor, MA, LCMHC, MLADC, CADC-ll
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nashua, NH 03064
I invite you to learn new ways to approach your relationship with yourself & others as you discover solutions, restore hope and identify your own innate strengths.
As a dually licensed & seasoned therapist, I will partner with you to help you find solutions using evidence based approaches. Do you neglect your own needs or struggle to “let go?” Any concerns about your relationship with alcohol, drugs or food? Are you “sober” yet restless or irritable? Or a caretaker who lost sight of who you are? Navigating our inner landscape is difficult at best without professional help. Our work together will be genuine & focused on your individual needs. While some therapies can focus on pathology & take years of exploration, our primary focus is on how your life circumstances affect you here & now.
I invite you to learn new ways to approach your relationship with yourself & others as you discover solutions, restore hope and identify your own innate strengths.
As a dually licensed & seasoned therapist, I will partner with you to help you find solutions using evidence based approaches. Do you neglect your own needs or struggle to “let go?” Any concerns about your relationship with alcohol, drugs or food? Are you “sober” yet restless or irritable? Or a caretaker who lost sight of who you are? Navigating our inner landscape is difficult at best without professional help. Our work together will be genuine & focused on your individual needs. While some therapies can focus on pathology & take years of exploration, our primary focus is on how your life circumstances affect you here & now.
(833) 278-5373 View (833) 278-5373

See more therapy options for New London

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.