Couples Counseling Therapists in Los Alamos County, NM

Photo of Michelle Wilde, MA, LPCC, LMT, Counselor
Michelle Wilde
Counselor, MA, LPCC, LMT
Verified Verified
Los Alamos, NM 87544
Couples counseling is emotionally focused relationship therapy.
Do you sometimes wonder if past incidents like sexual assault/abuse, dysfunctional family, accident/illness or chronic stress are impacting your current life, emotions and relationships, even if you've already worked through the shock of it? Are you seeking to become more connected with your body in a healthy way? My focus is on releasing trauma, depression, anxiety and the emotional components of chronic conditions from the mind and body to facilitate healing using a holistic and integrative approach.
Couples counseling is emotionally focused relationship therapy.
Do you sometimes wonder if past incidents like sexual assault/abuse, dysfunctional family, accident/illness or chronic stress are impacting your current life, emotions and relationships, even if you've already worked through the shock of it? Are you seeking to become more connected with your body in a healthy way? My focus is on releasing trauma, depression, anxiety and the emotional components of chronic conditions from the mind and body to facilitate healing using a holistic and integrative approach.
(505) 431-6659 View (505) 431-6659
Photo of Paige Pierson - Desert Sky Therapy Services, LLC-Paige Pierson, MS, LPC, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Desert Sky Therapy Services, LLC-Paige Pierson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Alamos, NM 87544
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in trauma-focused adult therapy issues ranging from marriage/ couples therapy, anxiety, depression, PTSD, abuse, family conflict, and the addiction cycle.
Hello! Thank you for reaching out and taking the first step. It’s my goal to assist my clients while they're working toward a healthier, happier life. I work with my clients to find a mindful approach through the acceptance of patterns of thoughts and beliefs. I feel it's important to provide support while trying to answer life's big questions. A person's thoughts, beliefs, and attitudes can directly affect their feelings and behaviors whether that be a result of learned responses or a trauma response. I'm happy you've decided to reach out! Please visit my waitlist to add your info; www.desertskytherapy.com
I specialize in trauma-focused adult therapy issues ranging from marriage/ couples therapy, anxiety, depression, PTSD, abuse, family conflict, and the addiction cycle.
Hello! Thank you for reaching out and taking the first step. It’s my goal to assist my clients while they're working toward a healthier, happier life. I work with my clients to find a mindful approach through the acceptance of patterns of thoughts and beliefs. I feel it's important to provide support while trying to answer life's big questions. A person's thoughts, beliefs, and attitudes can directly affect their feelings and behaviors whether that be a result of learned responses or a trauma response. I'm happy you've decided to reach out! Please visit my waitlist to add your info; www.desertskytherapy.com
(505) 309-3266 View (505) 309-3266
Photo of Janet Saxe - Santa Fe Center For Relationship Wellbeing, LISW, MS, SpEd, IMHIII, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Santa Fe Center For Relationship Wellbeing
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, MS, SpEd, IMHIII
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Alamos, NM 87544
I'm a Level-III Gottman Couples Therapist.
I help couples regain love, find shared meaning and improve ability to listen and be heard. Additionally, the transition to parenthood, while longed for, can place huge strains on relationships. Being a parent brings up unresolved feelings of all kinds from one's own childhood that may interfere with being the parent you want to be. I help parents and children feel good about their families. My goal is to help parents find greater competence and confidence to recognize and respond to their children's fundamental needs.
I'm a Level-III Gottman Couples Therapist.
I help couples regain love, find shared meaning and improve ability to listen and be heard. Additionally, the transition to parenthood, while longed for, can place huge strains on relationships. Being a parent brings up unresolved feelings of all kinds from one's own childhood that may interfere with being the parent you want to be. I help parents and children feel good about their families. My goal is to help parents find greater competence and confidence to recognize and respond to their children's fundamental needs.
(575) 218-7764 View (575) 218-7764
Photo of Melinda L. Walker, MA, LPCC, CRS, BCPC, Counselor
Melinda L. Walker
Counselor, MA, LPCC, CRS, BCPC
Verified Verified
Los Alamos, NM 87544
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Solution Focused Therapist working with individuals and couples. I have been in practice for 28 years. In my Solution Focused approach, a person looks at the issues/areas of life that need to be changed, and what habits, behaviors, actions and choices keep perpetuating these issues in your life or relationships. We look at when these issues are resolved, what will be different? What will you notice now that these issues are no longer on the emotional property of your life? What will others notice? What has stopped you in the past?
I am a Solution Focused Therapist working with individuals and couples. I have been in practice for 28 years. In my Solution Focused approach, a person looks at the issues/areas of life that need to be changed, and what habits, behaviors, actions and choices keep perpetuating these issues in your life or relationships. We look at when these issues are resolved, what will be different? What will you notice now that these issues are no longer on the emotional property of your life? What will others notice? What has stopped you in the past?
(505) 819-3294 View (505) 819-3294
Photo of Inessa Mil'berg, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Inessa Mil'berg
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Los Alamos, NM 87544
If you are a couple or a family facing challenges with connection, communication, intimacy, navigating complex issues, or transitioning into new life stages, I am here to offer my support. With years of experience working with couples and families, I have had the privilege of training under some of the most renowned therapists in the country. I find great fulfillment in the challenge and ultimate satisfaction of helping individuals and families restore their relationships and rediscover joy. Whether you prefer regular weekly sessions or seek more intensive support for urgent concerns, I am committed to accompanying you on your path.
If you are a couple or a family facing challenges with connection, communication, intimacy, navigating complex issues, or transitioning into new life stages, I am here to offer my support. With years of experience working with couples and families, I have had the privilege of training under some of the most renowned therapists in the country. I find great fulfillment in the challenge and ultimate satisfaction of helping individuals and families restore their relationships and rediscover joy. Whether you prefer regular weekly sessions or seek more intensive support for urgent concerns, I am committed to accompanying you on your path.
(505) 357-1238 View (505) 357-1238
Photo of Carolyn Burns, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Carolyn Burns
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Alamos, NM 87544
Do you sometimes feel alone and sad even with friends and family? Together, we can explore these feelings, transform them, and increase vitality. We will unravel issues that may be causing suffering or isolation; such as depression and anxiety, loss and grief, trauma, or substance abuse. We will face the dragons of suffering together, and unleash your wise and intuitive self to become empowered and embodied. Our work will allow you to remove the barriers to an emotionally close and satisfying relationship with yourself and others. This allows for a greater sense of joy & aliveness.
Do you sometimes feel alone and sad even with friends and family? Together, we can explore these feelings, transform them, and increase vitality. We will unravel issues that may be causing suffering or isolation; such as depression and anxiety, loss and grief, trauma, or substance abuse. We will face the dragons of suffering together, and unleash your wise and intuitive self to become empowered and embodied. Our work will allow you to remove the barriers to an emotionally close and satisfying relationship with yourself and others. This allows for a greater sense of joy & aliveness.
(505) 926-2017 View (505) 926-2017
Photo of Louis Bernstein, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Louis Bernstein
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Los Alamos, NM 87544
Therapy provides you the tools, the understandings, and the way to create the healthy and supportive relationship that you deserve.
Your intimate relationship can be one of the most important sources of joy, satisfaction and fulfillment in your life. However, issues may arise which upset that original harmony, and if left unaddressed, lead to a negative pattern of quarreling, difficult communication, and a loss of connection, trust and intimacy. In some cases, this negative spiral can further lead to depression, substance/behavioral addictions, or even an affair. I can provide you with the effective tools for identifying, addressing and resolving those challenging issues, and help you co-create a renewed sense of connection, intimacy and sacred partnership.
Therapy provides you the tools, the understandings, and the way to create the healthy and supportive relationship that you deserve.
Your intimate relationship can be one of the most important sources of joy, satisfaction and fulfillment in your life. However, issues may arise which upset that original harmony, and if left unaddressed, lead to a negative pattern of quarreling, difficult communication, and a loss of connection, trust and intimacy. In some cases, this negative spiral can further lead to depression, substance/behavioral addictions, or even an affair. I can provide you with the effective tools for identifying, addressing and resolving those challenging issues, and help you co-create a renewed sense of connection, intimacy and sacred partnership.
(925) 202-2982 View (925) 202-2982
Photo of Richard Wilson, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Richard Wilson
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Alamos, NM 87544
I enjoy working and developing a therapeutic relationship with people that are struggling in their life whether it's with depression, anger, trauma, anxiety, relationships or even a sense that something needs to change. It's within that struggle that the spark of hope resides and I see it as my job to help people focus on their future, their strengths and successes and then begin to rediscover the hope and power to begin to shape their future and their lives.
I enjoy working and developing a therapeutic relationship with people that are struggling in their life whether it's with depression, anger, trauma, anxiety, relationships or even a sense that something needs to change. It's within that struggle that the spark of hope resides and I see it as my job to help people focus on their future, their strengths and successes and then begin to rediscover the hope and power to begin to shape their future and their lives.
(505) 819-3938 View (505) 819-3938
Photo of Gretchen Wachs, LPCC, MA, EMDR, Counselor
Gretchen Wachs
Counselor, LPCC, MA, EMDR
Verified Verified
Los Alamos, NM 87544
I work with individuals, couples and families.
The depth of relationship, confidence and trust you build with your therapist is fundamental to the work of therapy. I am here to support and guide you in a process of discovery and wellness, helping you to build strength and clarity, overcome obstacles and develop skillful and creative ways to be in relationship and live well and authentically. My approach is eclectic, I offer EMDR and trauma focused therapy, depth psychology and expressive therapies. Our work together will help you heal from pain, trauma and abuse, relieve anxiety and depression, and work through relationship issues, life transitions and creative blocks.
I work with individuals, couples and families.
The depth of relationship, confidence and trust you build with your therapist is fundamental to the work of therapy. I am here to support and guide you in a process of discovery and wellness, helping you to build strength and clarity, overcome obstacles and develop skillful and creative ways to be in relationship and live well and authentically. My approach is eclectic, I offer EMDR and trauma focused therapy, depth psychology and expressive therapies. Our work together will help you heal from pain, trauma and abuse, relieve anxiety and depression, and work through relationship issues, life transitions and creative blocks.
(505) 431-6428 View (505) 431-6428
Photo of Mark Louis Boschelli, LPCC, LADAC, ACS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mark Louis Boschelli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LPCC, LADAC, ACS
Verified Verified
Los Alamos, NM 87544
I am specifically trained in clinical supervision, providing behavioral health (mental health and substance abuse) counseling to adults, couples and families in a wide range of problems.
Welcome to my practice. I received my Masters degree in Counseling Psychology in 1985 from Illinois State University, and pursuing my doctorate in Counseling Education at the University of New Mexico. In 1985, I started my professional psychology career in Illinois on one of the first crisis hotline linked mobile psychiatric crisis intervention teams in the nation. It was awarded the National Award for Significant Achievement in the Field of Psychiatry from the American Psychiatric Association. I am a behavioral health clinical director for Presbyterian Medical Services specializing in Assertive Community Treatment and psychiatric Mobile Crisis Response.
I am specifically trained in clinical supervision, providing behavioral health (mental health and substance abuse) counseling to adults, couples and families in a wide range of problems.
Welcome to my practice. I received my Masters degree in Counseling Psychology in 1985 from Illinois State University, and pursuing my doctorate in Counseling Education at the University of New Mexico. In 1985, I started my professional psychology career in Illinois on one of the first crisis hotline linked mobile psychiatric crisis intervention teams in the nation. It was awarded the National Award for Significant Achievement in the Field of Psychiatry from the American Psychiatric Association. I am a behavioral health clinical director for Presbyterian Medical Services specializing in Assertive Community Treatment and psychiatric Mobile Crisis Response.
(505) 322-6720 View (505) 322-6720
Photo of James Hunt, PhD, LPCC, Counselor
James Hunt
Counselor, PhD, LPCC
Verified Verified
Los Alamos, NM 87544
Change and impermanence are the great constants in our lives. If you are in a time of transition, and are experiencing symptoms such as depression, anxiety, health issues, or relationship concerns, I would like to meet with you. I hold a Ph.D.in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in depth psychology. I bring a psychodynamic and relational perspective to consultations with adults of all ages. With mindfulness and compassion, we create together a safe and confidential alliance for exploration of old limitations and emerging possibilities.
Change and impermanence are the great constants in our lives. If you are in a time of transition, and are experiencing symptoms such as depression, anxiety, health issues, or relationship concerns, I would like to meet with you. I hold a Ph.D.in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in depth psychology. I bring a psychodynamic and relational perspective to consultations with adults of all ages. With mindfulness and compassion, we create together a safe and confidential alliance for exploration of old limitations and emerging possibilities.
(505) 369-3942 View (505) 369-3942
Photo of Ellen J Shabshai Fox, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ellen J Shabshai Fox
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Alamos, NM 87544  (Online Only)
The therapeutic relationship between us is paramount as I tune into you and facilitate your healing process.
I welcome clients who seek therapy in order to change behaviors, relationships, or careers that are unsatisfying, and those who wish to unleash their creative energies - in the arts, business, academia, in parenting, and partnership. I especially enjoy clients who are questioning their relationship with addictive substances and are ready to take positive action. I have a warm and engaging style that my cients enjoy. I also specialize in healing the trauma of equestrian accidents.
The therapeutic relationship between us is paramount as I tune into you and facilitate your healing process.
I welcome clients who seek therapy in order to change behaviors, relationships, or careers that are unsatisfying, and those who wish to unleash their creative energies - in the arts, business, academia, in parenting, and partnership. I especially enjoy clients who are questioning their relationship with addictive substances and are ready to take positive action. I have a warm and engaging style that my cients enjoy. I also specialize in healing the trauma of equestrian accidents.
(505) 484-2860 View (505) 484-2860
Photo of James Kuzava, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
James Kuzava
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Alamos, NM 87544
I have been a practicing psychotherapist since 1982. I have worked in a variety of settings and am comfortable treating individuals, couples, and families. I especially enjoy working with older adolescents/young adults struggling with self-identity issues that can include co-occurring disorders. Strong background in treating substance use disorders. I also specialize in anger related issues with concomitant mood disorders.
I have been a practicing psychotherapist since 1982. I have worked in a variety of settings and am comfortable treating individuals, couples, and families. I especially enjoy working with older adolescents/young adults struggling with self-identity issues that can include co-occurring disorders. Strong background in treating substance use disorders. I also specialize in anger related issues with concomitant mood disorders.
(505) 796-6423 View (505) 796-6423
Photo of Holly Davis Borrero, MS, LPCC, LMFT, LMHC, Counselor
Holly Davis Borrero
Counselor, MS, LPCC, LMFT, LMHC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Los Alamos, NM 87545  (Online Only)
My hope is that my supportive, non-judgmental, warm, and direct approach to treatment will allow you (your partner and family) to feel welcome, understood, and safe to speak about the issues impacting your lives and relationships.
I am an Individual, Marriage/Couple, and Family therapist offering evidence-based tele-health "Zoom" counseling sessions for New Mexicans and Washingtonians. My focus on resilience invites clients to utilize and develop their own internal strengths. As they begin to build skills, resolve conflict, improve communication, address challenges in their relationships, and reduce symptoms like anxiety and depression, many of my clients heal emotional trauma, relieve angst, find hope, and ultimately flourish.
My hope is that my supportive, non-judgmental, warm, and direct approach to treatment will allow you (your partner and family) to feel welcome, understood, and safe to speak about the issues impacting your lives and relationships.
I am an Individual, Marriage/Couple, and Family therapist offering evidence-based tele-health "Zoom" counseling sessions for New Mexicans and Washingtonians. My focus on resilience invites clients to utilize and develop their own internal strengths. As they begin to build skills, resolve conflict, improve communication, address challenges in their relationships, and reduce symptoms like anxiety and depression, many of my clients heal emotional trauma, relieve angst, find hope, and ultimately flourish.
(206) 944-6548 View (206) 944-6548
Photo of Katelyn Kollinzas, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Katelyn Kollinzas
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Alamos, NM 87544
I specialize in working with couples and individuals who are experiencing interpersonal relationship challenges.
When we feel heard, seen, and understood, healing and growth are possible. I am here to create a safe space for you, or you and your partner, to explore and work with the struggles that are leading you to seek therapy. Most of us enter into partnership with the best intentions; we want to feel mutually satisfied, secure and supported in our relationship. After some time, old patterns take hold and we can find ourselves feeling disconnected, confused, or insecure in relationship. Therapy can help you get unstuck by offering an experience of being supported in ways that are uniquely tailored to help the growth of you and your partner.
I specialize in working with couples and individuals who are experiencing interpersonal relationship challenges.
When we feel heard, seen, and understood, healing and growth are possible. I am here to create a safe space for you, or you and your partner, to explore and work with the struggles that are leading you to seek therapy. Most of us enter into partnership with the best intentions; we want to feel mutually satisfied, secure and supported in our relationship. After some time, old patterns take hold and we can find ourselves feeling disconnected, confused, or insecure in relationship. Therapy can help you get unstuck by offering an experience of being supported in ways that are uniquely tailored to help the growth of you and your partner.
(505) 391-2924 View (505) 391-2924
Photo of Felicia Cocq-Rasmussen, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Felicia Cocq-Rasmussen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Los Alamos, NM 87544
I have always been fascinated by human behavior and the human condition. I would like to specialize in neurodiversity, complex trauma, and self-esteem. I am a firm believer in creating accommodations and striving for self-compassion and acceptance. I believe that we as humans are wired for connection. At times unhealthy relationships are all we know. I enjoy working with couples as I believe that making a commitment to another human is one of the most vulnerable things we do in our lives. I strive to help my clients and couples develop a strong sense of self to foster healthy, reliable, and trustworthy relationships.
I have always been fascinated by human behavior and the human condition. I would like to specialize in neurodiversity, complex trauma, and self-esteem. I am a firm believer in creating accommodations and striving for self-compassion and acceptance. I believe that we as humans are wired for connection. At times unhealthy relationships are all we know. I enjoy working with couples as I believe that making a commitment to another human is one of the most vulnerable things we do in our lives. I strive to help my clients and couples develop a strong sense of self to foster healthy, reliable, and trustworthy relationships.
(505) 405-1086 View (505) 405-1086
Photo of Marcy Reda, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marcy Reda
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Alamos, NM 87544
I have extensive experience and affinity with LGBTQ and gender-queer people, and welcome individuals and couples from all walks of life.
I help individuals and couples better understand, trust, and communicate their emotions, needs, and longings. Our emotions, even the painful ones, provide us with important information about what we need and where we should be headed. At times we dismiss our own inner wisdom in an attempt to fit in, keep the peace, or protect ourselves from hurt, but we then miss out on creating the life and relationships we desire. I strongly believe that people heal and grow best in connection with others, and therapy provides the security and compassion necessary to make new discoveries about yourself that can lead to positive change.
I have extensive experience and affinity with LGBTQ and gender-queer people, and welcome individuals and couples from all walks of life.
I help individuals and couples better understand, trust, and communicate their emotions, needs, and longings. Our emotions, even the painful ones, provide us with important information about what we need and where we should be headed. At times we dismiss our own inner wisdom in an attempt to fit in, keep the peace, or protect ourselves from hurt, but we then miss out on creating the life and relationships we desire. I strongly believe that people heal and grow best in connection with others, and therapy provides the security and compassion necessary to make new discoveries about yourself that can lead to positive change.
(505) 302-3875 View (505) 302-3875
Photo of David Gilbreath Barton, PhD, MA, LPCC, Counselor
David Gilbreath Barton
Counselor, PhD, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Alamos, NM 87544
The most important part of any psychotherapy is the relationship.
If you feel unsupported—or suffer from grief, anxiety, depression, or trauma — I offer professional help in a warm and safe environment. I have a wide and eclectic background and specialize in working with individuals who want a depth psychology that gets at the root of their issues. I see psychotherapy as a partnership, a mutual effort towards healing the psyche as well as a search for vitality, renewal and meaning. My orientation to psychotherapy is based on the simple understanding that the psyche, like the body, will heal itself if we create the right conditions for change to occur.
The most important part of any psychotherapy is the relationship.
If you feel unsupported—or suffer from grief, anxiety, depression, or trauma — I offer professional help in a warm and safe environment. I have a wide and eclectic background and specialize in working with individuals who want a depth psychology that gets at the root of their issues. I see psychotherapy as a partnership, a mutual effort towards healing the psyche as well as a search for vitality, renewal and meaning. My orientation to psychotherapy is based on the simple understanding that the psyche, like the body, will heal itself if we create the right conditions for change to occur.
(505) 295-2689 View (505) 295-2689
Photo of Michele Wolf, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michele Wolf
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Alamos, NM 87544
As a marriage and family therapist, I work to co-create a supportive, secure, and genuine relationship where you feel safe and challenged to grow.
I believe in your capacity to heal and create the life you really want. I support this work of change by helping create new and transformational experiences, allowing you to overcome outdated patterns and build a future rooted in your authentic self. Even traumatic experiences can be healed through a felt sense of safety and trust and exploration of patterns and behaviors that limits our authentic self.
As a marriage and family therapist, I work to co-create a supportive, secure, and genuine relationship where you feel safe and challenged to grow.
I believe in your capacity to heal and create the life you really want. I support this work of change by helping create new and transformational experiences, allowing you to overcome outdated patterns and build a future rooted in your authentic self. Even traumatic experiences can be healed through a felt sense of safety and trust and exploration of patterns and behaviors that limits our authentic self.
(505) 588-6725 View (505) 588-6725
Photo of Mallory Hemerlein, LCSW, RYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mallory Hemerlein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Alamos, NM 87544  (Online Only)
Welcome, I'm so glad you're here! I specialize in working with people who have experienced trauma & support people who are moving through life's transitions. Many of my clients may be experiencing anxiety, depression, addictive behaviors, substance use, or relationship issues. It's my honor to provide affirming care to LGBTQIA+ folks. I am fluent in ASL can offer services to Deaf or HoH clients in their native language. I am certified in two trauma treatments, Reconsolidation of Traumatic Memories (RTM) & Compassionate Inquiry. Both are aimed to remind you of your wholeness beyond the traumatic experiences.
Welcome, I'm so glad you're here! I specialize in working with people who have experienced trauma & support people who are moving through life's transitions. Many of my clients may be experiencing anxiety, depression, addictive behaviors, substance use, or relationship issues. It's my honor to provide affirming care to LGBTQIA+ folks. I am fluent in ASL can offer services to Deaf or HoH clients in their native language. I am certified in two trauma treatments, Reconsolidation of Traumatic Memories (RTM) & Compassionate Inquiry. Both are aimed to remind you of your wholeness beyond the traumatic experiences.
(505) 370-3180 View (505) 370-3180
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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.