Couples Counseling Therapists in Onondaga County, NY

Photo of Kristin Platt, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristin Platt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Syracuse, NY 13210
Waitlist for new clients
You're not quite sure what happened or how you got here. Feeling stuck or experiencing life on repeat is frustrating. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker passionate about providing quality therapy that provides you with a safe, collaborative space to learn about yourself and grow yourself. I have over 10 years of experience in the field working with individuals, families and couples and am always seeking opportunities to grow and expand my own knowledge base.  I am passionate about assisting clients in navigating past traumas, life transitions and present symptoms that are interfering with where you want to be in your life.
You're not quite sure what happened or how you got here. Feeling stuck or experiencing life on repeat is frustrating. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker passionate about providing quality therapy that provides you with a safe, collaborative space to learn about yourself and grow yourself. I have over 10 years of experience in the field working with individuals, families and couples and am always seeking opportunities to grow and expand my own knowledge base.  I am passionate about assisting clients in navigating past traumas, life transitions and present symptoms that are interfering with where you want to be in your life.
(315) 400-4580 View (315) 400-4580
Photo of Sara Stockon - Aisling Marriage and Family Therapy, PLLC, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Aisling Marriage and Family Therapy, PLLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I specialize in working with couples and individuals that want to improve their emotional and physical intimacy.
As a practice, we are a multidisciplinary team of Clinicians with varying educational degrees, licensees, and areas of expertise. Supervised by Sara Stockton, LMFT, MA, this group practice is systemically and relational trained to provide specialized treatment including individual, play, family therapy, couples therapy, substance abuse treatment, intimacy and affair treatment, Mindfulness Based Therapy, psychological testing and medication management. Our clinical work is founded on a belief in the healing potential of the therapeutic relationship and the importance of providing a safe environment for all of our clients.
I specialize in working with couples and individuals that want to improve their emotional and physical intimacy.
As a practice, we are a multidisciplinary team of Clinicians with varying educational degrees, licensees, and areas of expertise. Supervised by Sara Stockton, LMFT, MA, this group practice is systemically and relational trained to provide specialized treatment including individual, play, family therapy, couples therapy, substance abuse treatment, intimacy and affair treatment, Mindfulness Based Therapy, psychological testing and medication management. Our clinical work is founded on a belief in the healing potential of the therapeutic relationship and the importance of providing a safe environment for all of our clients.
(315) 367-3054 View (315) 367-3054
Photo of Kristine Anne Kinsella Zettler - Kristine Anne Kinsella Zettler - Telehealth Svcs, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kristine Anne Kinsella Zettler - Telehealth Svcs
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NY 13066  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I offer gentle, client-focused therapeutic services where your needs are honored as we process through your most pressing concerns. I have an eclectic approach, with a strong focus on anxiety, trauma and depression. I work with individuals, couples and families in a supportive, sensitive and compassionate way that supports your dignity and autonomy. I invite you to be an agent of your own healing process and to incorporate other methods of wellness that fit for you. I celebrate your individuality while recognizing the importance of the greater systems that impact you; your family, community, work life and spiritual observances.
I offer gentle, client-focused therapeutic services where your needs are honored as we process through your most pressing concerns. I have an eclectic approach, with a strong focus on anxiety, trauma and depression. I work with individuals, couples and families in a supportive, sensitive and compassionate way that supports your dignity and autonomy. I invite you to be an agent of your own healing process and to incorporate other methods of wellness that fit for you. I celebrate your individuality while recognizing the importance of the greater systems that impact you; your family, community, work life and spiritual observances.
(315) 400-4584 View (315) 400-4584
Photo of Ashley Anne King - Ashley King, LCSW _ Ashley Anne Wellness, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ashley King, LCSW _ Ashley Anne Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Syracuse, NY 13203  (Online Only)
I am a Certified Imago Relationship Therapist and Gottman Method Couples Therapist.
I have openings for new couples NOW! I am passionate about all things “ relationship.” I believe that we are in relationship to everything, all the time. The trouble is that no one teaches us how to DO relationships well. We need to learn about what makes the patterns in our relationship heathy or harmful. Each of us has the power to grow our relationships into something beautiful. I am here to teach you HOW! I have spent many years researching and studying what makes relationships last, what makes them grow and what makes them end. I am determined to help guide you and your partner to your highest relationship potential possible.
I am a Certified Imago Relationship Therapist and Gottman Method Couples Therapist.
I have openings for new couples NOW! I am passionate about all things “ relationship.” I believe that we are in relationship to everything, all the time. The trouble is that no one teaches us how to DO relationships well. We need to learn about what makes the patterns in our relationship heathy or harmful. Each of us has the power to grow our relationships into something beautiful. I am here to teach you HOW! I have spent many years researching and studying what makes relationships last, what makes them grow and what makes them end. I am determined to help guide you and your partner to your highest relationship potential possible.
(680) 208-2257 View (680) 208-2257
Photo of Jim Feinberg - Jim Feinberg LCSW-r CH.t, LCSW-R, CHT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jim Feinberg LCSW-r CH.t
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, CHT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Syracuse, NY 13206
I treat individuals, couples and families.
Are you feeling down? Living with HIV/AIDS? Are you facing challenges as an LBGT person? Are you struggling with substances? Are you grieving the loss of a loved one? Sense of self? Are you and your intimate partner having difficulties in your relationship? Are people telling you you are not the same person they know? I have 26 years of experience in working with LGBTQIA issues, people with HIV/AIDS, Grief/Loss, Substance Abuse, Mental Health issues, Depression, Anxiety, Individual/ Couples therapy. I work in conjunction with you , to be forthcoming, find your strengths and maximize the benefits of therapy. In person appts only.
I treat individuals, couples and families.
Are you feeling down? Living with HIV/AIDS? Are you facing challenges as an LBGT person? Are you struggling with substances? Are you grieving the loss of a loved one? Sense of self? Are you and your intimate partner having difficulties in your relationship? Are people telling you you are not the same person they know? I have 26 years of experience in working with LGBTQIA issues, people with HIV/AIDS, Grief/Loss, Substance Abuse, Mental Health issues, Depression, Anxiety, Individual/ Couples therapy. I work in conjunction with you , to be forthcoming, find your strengths and maximize the benefits of therapy. In person appts only.
(718) 412-8126 View (718) 412-8126
Photo of Rachel J Gillespie, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rachel J Gillespie
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Manlius, NY 13104
I use my gifts of compassion, insight, discernment, and engagement to bring about healing and restoration to the broken hearted and encourage a process of positive change in the lives of individuals, couples, and families.
"You cannot change or heal what you do not acknowledge." (Unknown) I believe in utilizing therapy as an opportunity to assist individuals, couples, and families in acknowledging and overcoming barriers to healing and change. I create an authentic, collaborative and non-judgmental therapeutic space where clients are able to address areas in life that aren't working (anxiety, anger, depression, low self-esteem, relationships, painful experiences); to explore and resolve the internal and relational barriers that limits healing and personal growth; and to create an action plan that empowers clients to live out their full potential.
I use my gifts of compassion, insight, discernment, and engagement to bring about healing and restoration to the broken hearted and encourage a process of positive change in the lives of individuals, couples, and families.
"You cannot change or heal what you do not acknowledge." (Unknown) I believe in utilizing therapy as an opportunity to assist individuals, couples, and families in acknowledging and overcoming barriers to healing and change. I create an authentic, collaborative and non-judgmental therapeutic space where clients are able to address areas in life that aren't working (anxiety, anger, depression, low self-esteem, relationships, painful experiences); to explore and resolve the internal and relational barriers that limits healing and personal growth; and to create an action plan that empowers clients to live out their full potential.
(315) 514-3540 View (315) 514-3540
Photo of Susan Hart Presley, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan Hart Presley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Syracuse, NY 13206  (Online Only)
I treat anxiety, depression, narcissism, couples, adults and more with science and care. I focus on comfort, precision and thoroughness to strengthen the dynamics and boundaries of life, event and issue strategies. Learn specific skills and understand how education, career, boundaries and justice combine to express themselves into human behavior and thought. All ages, experiences, education and careers, individual, marriage, family, career, sport, and court. Decades as a therapist, teacher, coach, and in investigation and research. Best performance outcomes in a diversity of settings and factors. CBT if desired. Private.
I treat anxiety, depression, narcissism, couples, adults and more with science and care. I focus on comfort, precision and thoroughness to strengthen the dynamics and boundaries of life, event and issue strategies. Learn specific skills and understand how education, career, boundaries and justice combine to express themselves into human behavior and thought. All ages, experiences, education and careers, individual, marriage, family, career, sport, and court. Decades as a therapist, teacher, coach, and in investigation and research. Best performance outcomes in a diversity of settings and factors. CBT if desired. Private.
(315) 302-1750 View (315) 302-1750
Photo of Malia Rogers, MS, MA, MHC-LP
Malia Rogers
MS, MA, MHC-LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Liverpool, NY 13090  (Online Only)
I believe that every human is the expert of their own story and strive to empower clients to take on an active and collaborative role within the therapeutic relationship.
As a neurodivergent, queer, fat therapist, I understand the importance of finding your people and providing reciprocity by bringing my authentic self into the therapy space as I would hope my clients feel safe to do. I do not believe in the oppressive concept of ‘normal’ and work to model the vulnerable act of unmasking in a judgment-free environment. I am conversational and work to weave therapeutic techniques and concepts into our dialogues in an accessible way. I continually emphasize my clients’ autonomy over how sessions are conducted and support them in identifying their needs and evolving goals in the work.
I believe that every human is the expert of their own story and strive to empower clients to take on an active and collaborative role within the therapeutic relationship.
As a neurodivergent, queer, fat therapist, I understand the importance of finding your people and providing reciprocity by bringing my authentic self into the therapy space as I would hope my clients feel safe to do. I do not believe in the oppressive concept of ‘normal’ and work to model the vulnerable act of unmasking in a judgment-free environment. I am conversational and work to weave therapeutic techniques and concepts into our dialogues in an accessible way. I continually emphasize my clients’ autonomy over how sessions are conducted and support them in identifying their needs and evolving goals in the work.
(315) 666-3118 View (315) 666-3118
Photo of Michele D McMahon, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michele D McMahon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Syracuse, NY 13206
It is a joy and an honor to work with individuals who come with the hope of finding a place of comfort and safety, a place where they can begin to explore their emotional needs while using the therapy relationship as a platform for this journey. As a provider in the mental health field for over 20 years, I work to offer this relationship and feel that those who make this challenging step are courageous people who work to heal themselves and in response, bring this good work and its results into all the relationships in their life. It is a wonderful journey for those that allow me to stand beside.
It is a joy and an honor to work with individuals who come with the hope of finding a place of comfort and safety, a place where they can begin to explore their emotional needs while using the therapy relationship as a platform for this journey. As a provider in the mental health field for over 20 years, I work to offer this relationship and feel that those who make this challenging step are courageous people who work to heal themselves and in response, bring this good work and its results into all the relationships in their life. It is a wonderful journey for those that allow me to stand beside.
(315) 562-0734 View (315) 562-0734
Photo of Katherine S. Hyatt - Branches of Growth Mental Health Counseling, PLLC, LMHC, NCC, RYT, Counselor
Branches of Growth Mental Health Counseling, PLLC
Counselor, LMHC, NCC, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Relationships can be one of the biggest blessings and also one of the biggest stresses in your life. It's amazing how quickly life can get in the way of our relationships and cause chaos in our lives. We have obligations, responsibilities and demands that we have to keep up with, while putting in work to create a successful relationship. It can be exhausting at times and things can fall apart quickly. Therapy can be helpful for not just the couple or family, but the individual. This profile is for a group practice.
Relationships can be one of the biggest blessings and also one of the biggest stresses in your life. It's amazing how quickly life can get in the way of our relationships and cause chaos in our lives. We have obligations, responsibilities and demands that we have to keep up with, while putting in work to create a successful relationship. It can be exhausting at times and things can fall apart quickly. Therapy can be helpful for not just the couple or family, but the individual. This profile is for a group practice.
(315) 415-0308 View (315) 415-0308
Photo of Amudalat Fola Lasisi - R&R Therapy Services, LMHC, NCC, CASAC-T
R&R Therapy Services
LMHC, NCC, CASAC-T
Verified Verified
Liverpool, NY 13090
At Restore and Renew Therapy Services, therapy is a collaborative relationship between you and your therapist. Treatment will move at your pace and your therapist will provide a holistic approach, treating the whole person/system and not just the symptom. You will work to resolve ways to improve your overall wellness by engaging in custom interventions best suited for your needs.
At Restore and Renew Therapy Services, therapy is a collaborative relationship between you and your therapist. Treatment will move at your pace and your therapist will provide a holistic approach, treating the whole person/system and not just the symptom. You will work to resolve ways to improve your overall wellness by engaging in custom interventions best suited for your needs.
(315) 677-7330 View (315) 677-7330
Photo of Judith S Huober, MA, MS, LP-MHC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Judith S Huober
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MS, LP-MHC
Verified Verified
Syracuse, NY 13214  (Online Only)
I'm honored to partner with you to co-construct and fulfill that promise.
Are you looking to heal? To change? To accept challenges and cope with grace? Become more well balanced, enjoy life and relationships more, flourish in your chosen path? I welcome individuals and families coping with issues of aging such as chronic/progressive illness, pain, and cognitive changes; as well as those with trauma, ambiguous loss and disenfranchised grief; stress, depression and anxiety. I will be a witness, a listener, a partner and a guide as you use self-awareness, self-compassion, wisdom and intentionality to learn and cope with the practical and emotional tasks and challenges of your life with heart, mind and soul.
I'm honored to partner with you to co-construct and fulfill that promise.
Are you looking to heal? To change? To accept challenges and cope with grace? Become more well balanced, enjoy life and relationships more, flourish in your chosen path? I welcome individuals and families coping with issues of aging such as chronic/progressive illness, pain, and cognitive changes; as well as those with trauma, ambiguous loss and disenfranchised grief; stress, depression and anxiety. I will be a witness, a listener, a partner and a guide as you use self-awareness, self-compassion, wisdom and intentionality to learn and cope with the practical and emotional tasks and challenges of your life with heart, mind and soul.
(315) 284-8647 View (315) 284-8647
Photo of Susan Hartman Brenizer, MA, LMFT, NY, Marriage & Family Therapist
Susan Hartman Brenizer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, NY
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NY 13066
All aspects of couples' experience of marital distress, as well as the "strength building" of "conflict resolution", and "communication skills".
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Clinical Fellow, AAMFT with 40+ years experience. Special expertise in working with couples, and individual adults. Training in psychodynamic therapy, systems' and behavioral therapy. Extensive expertise: couples therapy, depression, grief, loss, trauma, abuse and affair recovery, and divorce recovery. Columnist for "Syracuse Post Standard" newspaper "Shrink Rap", 2007- 2014. Featured in PBS Documentary entitled "Pain Runs Deep: Relationship Violence". Interview on NPR, WCNY, and "Brides" Magazine, 2023 and 2024. Recently inducted into Marquis "Who's Who in America", March 2024.
All aspects of couples' experience of marital distress, as well as the "strength building" of "conflict resolution", and "communication skills".
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Clinical Fellow, AAMFT with 40+ years experience. Special expertise in working with couples, and individual adults. Training in psychodynamic therapy, systems' and behavioral therapy. Extensive expertise: couples therapy, depression, grief, loss, trauma, abuse and affair recovery, and divorce recovery. Columnist for "Syracuse Post Standard" newspaper "Shrink Rap", 2007- 2014. Featured in PBS Documentary entitled "Pain Runs Deep: Relationship Violence". Interview on NPR, WCNY, and "Brides" Magazine, 2023 and 2024. Recently inducted into Marquis "Who's Who in America", March 2024.
View
Photo of Caitlyn Lipschitz, MA, LPMFT
Caitlyn Lipschitz
MA, LPMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
East Syracuse, NY 13057  (Online Only)
I specialize in anxiety, relationship issues, infidelity, coping skills, boundary setting, self-exploration, LGBTQIA+ affirming care, and ADHD.
I believe therapy should empower you to invest in yourself, helping you become the person you aspire to be or accept who you are right now. Whether you’re an individual, child, adolescent, couple, or part of a family, my goal is to support your journey toward healthier relationships, personal growth, and acceptance. Change happens when we deepen our understanding of ourselves and the patterns that hold us back. I create a safe and supportive space for this exploration, guiding you toward meaningful transformation.
I specialize in anxiety, relationship issues, infidelity, coping skills, boundary setting, self-exploration, LGBTQIA+ affirming care, and ADHD.
I believe therapy should empower you to invest in yourself, helping you become the person you aspire to be or accept who you are right now. Whether you’re an individual, child, adolescent, couple, or part of a family, my goal is to support your journey toward healthier relationships, personal growth, and acceptance. Change happens when we deepen our understanding of ourselves and the patterns that hold us back. I create a safe and supportive space for this exploration, guiding you toward meaningful transformation.
(315) 903-7583 View (315) 903-7583
Photo of Anna Pavia, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anna Pavia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
East Syracuse, NY 13057
I am a licensed Clinical Social Worker who works with adolescents, adults and families. I have extensive experience working with a variety of psychological issues, including, depression, anxiety, adjustment/ relationship issues, loss/grief, medical/chronic illness, trauma-related distress, low self esteem, anger management and disordered eating. I believe that an integrative approach is crucial when working with my clients and primarily utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing along with being certified as a Mental Health Integrative Medicine Provider.
I am a licensed Clinical Social Worker who works with adolescents, adults and families. I have extensive experience working with a variety of psychological issues, including, depression, anxiety, adjustment/ relationship issues, loss/grief, medical/chronic illness, trauma-related distress, low self esteem, anger management and disordered eating. I believe that an integrative approach is crucial when working with my clients and primarily utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing along with being certified as a Mental Health Integrative Medicine Provider.
(315) 658-6275 View (315) 658-6275
Photo of Sheila O'Donnell, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sheila O'Donnell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Camillus, NY 13031  (Online Only)
I have over 20 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families.
Therapy can be a beneficial tool to help manage various challenges throughout the course of our lives. Learning skills to successfully overcome challenges and manage strong emotions is important for us all. Whether it be anxiety, depression, grief, or stress, the opportunity to have someone listen and help guide us through, is invaluable.
I have over 20 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families.
Therapy can be a beneficial tool to help manage various challenges throughout the course of our lives. Learning skills to successfully overcome challenges and manage strong emotions is important for us all. Whether it be anxiety, depression, grief, or stress, the opportunity to have someone listen and help guide us through, is invaluable.
(315) 915-2523 View (315) 915-2523
Photo of Michelle Fiorelli, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Fiorelli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Camillus, NY 13031  (Online Only)
The therapy process is guided by the development of a therapeutic relationship and the ability to build trust.
Are you struggling to manage the challenges that life throws at you and/or the emotions that you experience? I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience providing individual, family and group therapy. My approach to therapy is person centered, strength based and solution focused. Learning new ways to cope with and regulate emotions, shift negative thought patterns and/or communicate effectively will result in improved mood, physical health and overall well being.
The therapy process is guided by the development of a therapeutic relationship and the ability to build trust.
Are you struggling to manage the challenges that life throws at you and/or the emotions that you experience? I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience providing individual, family and group therapy. My approach to therapy is person centered, strength based and solution focused. Learning new ways to cope with and regulate emotions, shift negative thought patterns and/or communicate effectively will result in improved mood, physical health and overall well being.
(315) 961-8541 View (315) 961-8541
Photo of Bonnie Dekin, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Bonnie Dekin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baldwinsville, NY 13027  (Online Only)
Now accepting new clients! Welcome! Let's collaborate and discover new potential and new strategies for life. Whether you are having feelings of anxiety, sadness, fears and worries, couple or family relationship issues I am here to help. I have advanced training to help you and your partner heal and reconnect. In addition, I offer clinical Emotionally Focused Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy. I work from an integrative/systemic perspective while considering Attachment Theory as it relates to all aspects of being human. I consider your unique perspectives and culture as we work together to help you heal.
Now accepting new clients! Welcome! Let's collaborate and discover new potential and new strategies for life. Whether you are having feelings of anxiety, sadness, fears and worries, couple or family relationship issues I am here to help. I have advanced training to help you and your partner heal and reconnect. In addition, I offer clinical Emotionally Focused Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy. I work from an integrative/systemic perspective while considering Attachment Theory as it relates to all aspects of being human. I consider your unique perspectives and culture as we work together to help you heal.
(315) 757-3580 View (315) 757-3580
Photo of Natalie Gordon, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Natalie Gordon
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Syracuse, NY 13206
Waitlist for new clients
I see therapy as providing an emotionally safe place for clients to reflect on whatever they are experiencing, to feel understood, and to receive help identifying ways to feel more settled internally and more able to manage life problems assertively. I have worked for over 40 years with clients from all kinds of circumstances and with a wide range of relationship and mental health difficulties. Whether they are seeking brief or long-term therapy, alone or with a partner or family members, I welcome clients of all ages.
I see therapy as providing an emotionally safe place for clients to reflect on whatever they are experiencing, to feel understood, and to receive help identifying ways to feel more settled internally and more able to manage life problems assertively. I have worked for over 40 years with clients from all kinds of circumstances and with a wide range of relationship and mental health difficulties. Whether they are seeking brief or long-term therapy, alone or with a partner or family members, I welcome clients of all ages.
(315) 364-0960 View (315) 364-0960
Photo of Karrie Damm - CNY Marriage & Family Therapy Place, PLLC, LMFTs, Marriage & Family Therapist
CNY Marriage & Family Therapy Place, PLLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFTs
Verified Verified
A Marriage & Family Therapist is a mental health professional trained in psychotherapy and family systems, and is licensed to assess and treat mental health, relationship and emotional disorders within the context of marriage, couple, family and other systems in which the person is imbedded.
Individuals, couples, and families who are struggling with relational difficulties which contribute to depression, anxiety or other emotional difficulties would benefit the most from seeing a therapist at the CNY Marriage & Family Therapy Place.
A Marriage & Family Therapist is a mental health professional trained in psychotherapy and family systems, and is licensed to assess and treat mental health, relationship and emotional disorders within the context of marriage, couple, family and other systems in which the person is imbedded.
Individuals, couples, and families who are struggling with relational difficulties which contribute to depression, anxiety or other emotional difficulties would benefit the most from seeing a therapist at the CNY Marriage & Family Therapy Place.
(315) 216-7823 View (315) 216-7823
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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.