Couples Counseling Therapists in Albany, OR

Photo of John C. Caster, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
John C. Caster
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Albany, OR 97321
Some of the ways these experiences manifest include anxiety, depression, chronic illness, and relationship struggles, etc.
I am currently welcoming new clients, both individuals and couples. Going to a counselor or therapist when you are feeling sad, anxious, overwhelmed, depressed, or simply out of sorts should be as normal as going to the doctor when you have the flu. I see myself partnering with you in a therapeutic relationship as guide and counselor, providing empathy and compassion as we explore issues and concerns, together, along the way. My approach is holistic, based upon the impact of the mind-body connection on well-being. My work background includes ten years as a teacher and twelve years as a hospice medical social worker.
Some of the ways these experiences manifest include anxiety, depression, chronic illness, and relationship struggles, etc.
I am currently welcoming new clients, both individuals and couples. Going to a counselor or therapist when you are feeling sad, anxious, overwhelmed, depressed, or simply out of sorts should be as normal as going to the doctor when you have the flu. I see myself partnering with you in a therapeutic relationship as guide and counselor, providing empathy and compassion as we explore issues and concerns, together, along the way. My approach is holistic, based upon the impact of the mind-body connection on well-being. My work background includes ten years as a teacher and twelve years as a hospice medical social worker.
(541) 230-7064 View (541) 230-7064
Photo of Rosa Elena Plascencia, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rosa Elena Plascencia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Albany, OR 97321
I believe that individuals and couples can find solutions to survive job stress, reduce personality differences, manage jealously, and control issues to improve communication.
Are you feeling overwhelmed or facing a difficult transition in your life? I provide counseling to individuals and couples. I specialize in working on couple’s relationship issues and individuals wanting to bring harmony and stability into their lives. I am a licensed social worker with more than 10 years of experience working with couples and families. Con mucho gusto atiendo a las familias que hablan español.
I believe that individuals and couples can find solutions to survive job stress, reduce personality differences, manage jealously, and control issues to improve communication.
Are you feeling overwhelmed or facing a difficult transition in your life? I provide counseling to individuals and couples. I specialize in working on couple’s relationship issues and individuals wanting to bring harmony and stability into their lives. I am a licensed social worker with more than 10 years of experience working with couples and families. Con mucho gusto atiendo a las familias que hablan español.
(458) 218-7626 View (458) 218-7626
Photo of Alisa Mattiazzi - Allie Mattiazzi, LICSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Allie Mattiazzi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Albany, OR 97321  (Online Only)
My first goals when meeting new clients are to celebrate their readiness for change, acknowledge the beginning of our new therapeutic relationship, and set up a working dynamic where mutual trust and respect set the stage.
Life can be challenging sometimes and focusing time on yourself can be a rare treat. That's what therapy is all about...YOU and the goals YOU set. I am solution-focused and Cognitive Behavioral and Narrative Therapies act as a foundation; Internal Family Systems, DBT, and psychodynamic theories provide some of my favorite therapy Ideas and tools. Through our work together, we will explore the changes you want to make and the best way to make those changes. I believe in you!
My first goals when meeting new clients are to celebrate their readiness for change, acknowledge the beginning of our new therapeutic relationship, and set up a working dynamic where mutual trust and respect set the stage.
Life can be challenging sometimes and focusing time on yourself can be a rare treat. That's what therapy is all about...YOU and the goals YOU set. I am solution-focused and Cognitive Behavioral and Narrative Therapies act as a foundation; Internal Family Systems, DBT, and psychodynamic theories provide some of my favorite therapy Ideas and tools. Through our work together, we will explore the changes you want to make and the best way to make those changes. I believe in you!
(253) 263-1852 View (253) 263-1852
Photo of Ariana Kyte, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ariana Kyte
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Albany, OR 97321
You have probably read some books, listened to podcasts but are tired of not seeing results or feel that nothing is changing. Perhaps you're dealing with anxiety or depression, maybe it’s your family, or thoughts and habits. Maybe it’s a disappointing relationship or the lack of relationship. Maybe you have no idea what it is and that’s why you’re here! I help individuals and couples grow in personal insight and skills that translate into a more enriching life and more enriching relationships with those around us.
You have probably read some books, listened to podcasts but are tired of not seeing results or feel that nothing is changing. Perhaps you're dealing with anxiety or depression, maybe it’s your family, or thoughts and habits. Maybe it’s a disappointing relationship or the lack of relationship. Maybe you have no idea what it is and that’s why you’re here! I help individuals and couples grow in personal insight and skills that translate into a more enriching life and more enriching relationships with those around us.
(541) 348-7817 View (541) 348-7817
Photo of Melissa Demers - Seeking Solace LLC, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Seeking Solace LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Albany, OR 97322  (Online Only)
As a systemic therapist, I work with couples and families to resolve relational conflict, increase effective communication, create a more equitable bond, and enhance intimacy.
I know how hard it can be to make that first call or to find the right therapist for you. If you're struggling or just need someone to talk to, I would be happy to spend some time sorting through whatever is troubling you. I welcome folx from all walks of life and who are dealing with various mental health concerns. I want to work alongside you, exploring your strengths and values to help you better cope with life's ups and downs. I use an integrated approach to help you achieve your goals.
As a systemic therapist, I work with couples and families to resolve relational conflict, increase effective communication, create a more equitable bond, and enhance intimacy.
I know how hard it can be to make that first call or to find the right therapist for you. If you're struggling or just need someone to talk to, I would be happy to spend some time sorting through whatever is troubling you. I welcome folx from all walks of life and who are dealing with various mental health concerns. I want to work alongside you, exploring your strengths and values to help you better cope with life's ups and downs. I use an integrated approach to help you achieve your goals.
(541) 243-5894 View (541) 243-5894
Photo of Marcy Elliott, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Marcy Elliott
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Albany, OR 97321
Are you struggling with a relationship? Feeling anxious, stuck or depressed about life challenges? Want to feel better? There are many different aspects of a person's life that play a role in who they are and how they function. Whatever the issue, I will provide a safe, non-judgmental, collaborative therapy environment where you can feel supported, experience hope, healing and growth.
Are you struggling with a relationship? Feeling anxious, stuck or depressed about life challenges? Want to feel better? There are many different aspects of a person's life that play a role in who they are and how they function. Whatever the issue, I will provide a safe, non-judgmental, collaborative therapy environment where you can feel supported, experience hope, healing and growth.
(541) 293-1259 View (541) 293-1259
Photo of Juergen Weissschuh - Albany Riverside Counseling, MA, LPC, Counselor
Albany Riverside Counseling
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Albany, OR 97321
I work with individuals and couples starting from age 11. A key part of therapy is becoming aware of our blind spots and understanding why we feel or act in certain ways. My approach begins with getting to know you, understanding your background, and addressing your concerns.
I work with individuals and couples starting from age 11. A key part of therapy is becoming aware of our blind spots and understanding why we feel or act in certain ways. My approach begins with getting to know you, understanding your background, and addressing your concerns.
(541) 827-8850 View (541) 827-8850
Photo of Dr. Jeffrey C Johnson, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Jeffrey C Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Albany, OR 97321
I also work with Couples, families, and have significant experience with first responders and military veterans (having been both myself).
Have you been feeling overwhelmed or have you lost motivation? Have you been through trauma? Does ADHD or Autism impact your day to day function? You may have tried to find your own ways to cope and have just run out of ideas. Reaching out for counseling can be challenging, and I get that. Maybe you are skeptical that counseling is the right place for you. I believe that everyone is capable of changing their lives for the better.
I also work with Couples, families, and have significant experience with first responders and military veterans (having been both myself).
Have you been feeling overwhelmed or have you lost motivation? Have you been through trauma? Does ADHD or Autism impact your day to day function? You may have tried to find your own ways to cope and have just run out of ideas. Reaching out for counseling can be challenging, and I get that. Maybe you are skeptical that counseling is the right place for you. I believe that everyone is capable of changing their lives for the better.
(458) 236-5519 View (458) 236-5519
Photo of Adrian C Mcbroom, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Adrian C Mcbroom
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Albany, OR 97321
I enjoy working with individuals, and I am passionate about helping couples find their way to deep intimacy.
I believe our capacity to connect, both with ourselves and with those we love is vital to our happiness. When we are in a state of disconnection, we can feel anxious, isolated, empty, and depressed. I get this, and feel its my job to provide a safe place where you can trust, feel respected and cared for, in the process of therapy. I understand its difficult to feel worried, discouraged, and overwhelmed by everyday challenges. We all have suffered in silence, waiting for things to get better, because seeking help may seem too scary....I want to help.
I enjoy working with individuals, and I am passionate about helping couples find their way to deep intimacy.
I believe our capacity to connect, both with ourselves and with those we love is vital to our happiness. When we are in a state of disconnection, we can feel anxious, isolated, empty, and depressed. I get this, and feel its my job to provide a safe place where you can trust, feel respected and cared for, in the process of therapy. I understand its difficult to feel worried, discouraged, and overwhelmed by everyday challenges. We all have suffered in silence, waiting for things to get better, because seeking help may seem too scary....I want to help.
(541) 360-8746 View (541) 360-8746
Photo of Tina Taylor, RN, MS
Tina Taylor
RN, MS
Verified Verified
Albany, OR 97321  (Online Only)
Couples can be seen both jointly and individually.
OCT. 2024: OPEN to new clients. Would you like more balance, peace, understanding, health and happiness in your life and relationships? Better communication? Tired of guilt, blame, confusion, and tension? I want to help you move forward and to find more satisfaction, connection, and fun. Complete respect, safety, and confidentiality are assured. LGBTQIA+ super-comfy, also transitioning, and psychoactives support / harm reduction. (Apologies: Insurance not accepted.) Starting in January 2025, in-person sessions will again be an option; currently, all online via Zoom (which works great!).
Couples can be seen both jointly and individually.
OCT. 2024: OPEN to new clients. Would you like more balance, peace, understanding, health and happiness in your life and relationships? Better communication? Tired of guilt, blame, confusion, and tension? I want to help you move forward and to find more satisfaction, connection, and fun. Complete respect, safety, and confidentiality are assured. LGBTQIA+ super-comfy, also transitioning, and psychoactives support / harm reduction. (Apologies: Insurance not accepted.) Starting in January 2025, in-person sessions will again be an option; currently, all online via Zoom (which works great!).
(458) 224-3583 View (458) 224-3583
Photo of Dawn Sutro, MEd, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dawn Sutro
Marriage & Family Therapist, MEd, LMFT
Verified Verified
Albany, OR 97321  (Online Only)
I am specifically trained in working with individuals, couples, young children, foster children, teens/young adults, and military families.
My name is Dawn Sutro and I have been working with families in Oregon for 18 years. I am trained as a Marriage and Family Therapist and I have worked with people at many ages and stages of their lives. I have a particularly extensive background working with individuals, couples, families, and children. I also have 14 years experience working with military families and veterans. I have worked with children and their families in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I utilize various therapy techniques, such as CBT, DBT, and Family Systems.
I am specifically trained in working with individuals, couples, young children, foster children, teens/young adults, and military families.
My name is Dawn Sutro and I have been working with families in Oregon for 18 years. I am trained as a Marriage and Family Therapist and I have worked with people at many ages and stages of their lives. I have a particularly extensive background working with individuals, couples, families, and children. I also have 14 years experience working with military families and veterans. I have worked with children and their families in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I utilize various therapy techniques, such as CBT, DBT, and Family Systems.
(541) 241-7317 View (541) 241-7317
Photo of Barbara Balowitz, MSW, LCSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Barbara Balowitz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Albany, OR 97321  (Online Only)
I specialize in depression, anxiety, and relationship issues.
I can help you feel better if you are experiencing depression, stress, anxiety or relationship problems. If you are struggling to make your life work for you or in a life transition, I will work with you to improve the quality of your life and to achieve your goals.
I specialize in depression, anxiety, and relationship issues.
I can help you feel better if you are experiencing depression, stress, anxiety or relationship problems. If you are struggling to make your life work for you or in a life transition, I will work with you to improve the quality of your life and to achieve your goals.
(503) 567-2446 View (503) 567-2446
Photo of Christopher S. Elgin, MA, LPC, CADCI, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christopher S. Elgin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CADCI
Verified Verified
Albany, OR 97321
In my practice I provide individual counseling, family counseling, and relationship counseling.
I have been working in the field since 1998 and have been in private practice since 2002. My experience is with a broad spectrum of physical, mental, and emotional difficulties. In private practice I do work with people in a traditional therapeutic setting, but I offer other methods that have been effective with clients who have not been receptive to other treatment.
In my practice I provide individual counseling, family counseling, and relationship counseling.
I have been working in the field since 1998 and have been in private practice since 2002. My experience is with a broad spectrum of physical, mental, and emotional difficulties. In private practice I do work with people in a traditional therapeutic setting, but I offer other methods that have been effective with clients who have not been receptive to other treatment.
(541) 246-9190 View (541) 246-9190
Photo of Sam HW Sappington - Sam H.W. Sappington, PhD, PhD, Psychologist
Sam H.W. Sappington, PhD
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Albany, OR 97321
Waitlist for new clients
I see both individual clients and couples.
Over the years I see that I am very well-suited to work with clients who are experiencing a major life transition. These include changes in relationship status, employment, health, sexual/ gender identity, as well as retirement/aging concerns. While transitions can bring new opportunities, such changes also come with an array of losses, endings and goodbyes. Transitions can generate challenging symptoms, including a sense of grieving, starting over and/or confronting the unknown. Life can lead one to a place where it pushes you to explore your personality and life choices, and make new sense of your life experiences.
I see both individual clients and couples.
Over the years I see that I am very well-suited to work with clients who are experiencing a major life transition. These include changes in relationship status, employment, health, sexual/ gender identity, as well as retirement/aging concerns. While transitions can bring new opportunities, such changes also come with an array of losses, endings and goodbyes. Transitions can generate challenging symptoms, including a sense of grieving, starting over and/or confronting the unknown. Life can lead one to a place where it pushes you to explore your personality and life choices, and make new sense of your life experiences.
(541) 507-0203 View (541) 507-0203
Photo of Amanda Orton, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Amanda Orton
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Albany, OR 97321
Depending on the needs of my clients, I practice a variety of therapeutic orientations which may include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person centered therapy, Gottman couples work and PREPARE/ENRICH curriculum.
I am not accepting new couples at this time. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, it is my desire to help clients experiencing anxiety or depression, learn ways to not only cope, but overcome. I enjoy assisting clients learn healthier communication and conflict resolution skills, and concurrently learn how to cope with life stressors better. I strive to help my clients gain a better understanding of themselves, and their problematic and possibly self destructive patterns. Sometimes just a new perspective on an old problem can help propel us toward making healthy changes in our lives.
Depending on the needs of my clients, I practice a variety of therapeutic orientations which may include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person centered therapy, Gottman couples work and PREPARE/ENRICH curriculum.
I am not accepting new couples at this time. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, it is my desire to help clients experiencing anxiety or depression, learn ways to not only cope, but overcome. I enjoy assisting clients learn healthier communication and conflict resolution skills, and concurrently learn how to cope with life stressors better. I strive to help my clients gain a better understanding of themselves, and their problematic and possibly self destructive patterns. Sometimes just a new perspective on an old problem can help propel us toward making healthy changes in our lives.
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Photo of Christopher E Buck - Stepping Stones Individual/Relationship Counseling, DMin, ThM, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Stepping Stones Individual/Relationship Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, DMin, ThM, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Albany, OR 97321
Treatment specialization includes: Anxiety, Panic, Relationship Problems, Divorce, Grief and Loss, Pre-marital, Work and Career issues, Stress Management, Attachment, Parenting, Conflict Resolution, Life Transitions, Couples Communication.
Are you at a point in your life you just want to give up? I am convinced there is HOPE in your circumstances. You can reach an optimum state of mental health. I employ an eclectic approach with a strong reliance on both cognitive-behavioral and emotion focused modalities. Within you there lies a myriad history of life circumstance, cultural influence, spiritual richness, and challenge that has formed who you are. Walking along with each individual, couple or family, it is my privilege to explore life together, to hear your story, and to design a plan that allows for the optimum life experience. There is HOPE!
Treatment specialization includes: Anxiety, Panic, Relationship Problems, Divorce, Grief and Loss, Pre-marital, Work and Career issues, Stress Management, Attachment, Parenting, Conflict Resolution, Life Transitions, Couples Communication.
Are you at a point in your life you just want to give up? I am convinced there is HOPE in your circumstances. You can reach an optimum state of mental health. I employ an eclectic approach with a strong reliance on both cognitive-behavioral and emotion focused modalities. Within you there lies a myriad history of life circumstance, cultural influence, spiritual richness, and challenge that has formed who you are. Walking along with each individual, couple or family, it is my privilege to explore life together, to hear your story, and to design a plan that allows for the optimum life experience. There is HOPE!
(503) 743-6209 View (503) 743-6209
Photo of Melissa Chamberlin, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Melissa Chamberlin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Albany, OR 97321
The therapeutic relationship must respect orientation / preference, race, ethnicity, culture, values, beliefs, practices, & intentions.
I use an Integrated Holistic Mind-Body Approach: Neurocounseling, Positive Psychology, Somatic Psychotherapy, Neurotherapy bio-feedback, CBT, etc. I work with clients to develop individual treatment action plans to resolve difficulties, address challenges, & focus on achieving their goals. I specialize in Anxiety, Stress, Trauma, Depression, Grief & Loss; Relationship Dynamics, Communication Skills; Life Coaching; Career Direction; Transition Management. I help with knowledge & understanding, forming new behaviors, overcoming barriers, healing & development, & creating positive healthy relationships.
The therapeutic relationship must respect orientation / preference, race, ethnicity, culture, values, beliefs, practices, & intentions.
I use an Integrated Holistic Mind-Body Approach: Neurocounseling, Positive Psychology, Somatic Psychotherapy, Neurotherapy bio-feedback, CBT, etc. I work with clients to develop individual treatment action plans to resolve difficulties, address challenges, & focus on achieving their goals. I specialize in Anxiety, Stress, Trauma, Depression, Grief & Loss; Relationship Dynamics, Communication Skills; Life Coaching; Career Direction; Transition Management. I help with knowledge & understanding, forming new behaviors, overcoming barriers, healing & development, & creating positive healthy relationships.
(541) 705-3175 View (541) 705-3175
Photo of David Jackson - Friends of the Family, MS, MAMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Friends of the Family
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MAMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Albany, OR 97321
In addition to professional counseling, we offer FREE and low-cost relationship education workshops, marriage mentoring, and premarital counseling (fofm.
Friends of the Family (FOFM) is a nonprofit organization that offers top-quality counseling services for children, teens, adults, couples, and families. Thanks to the generous support of donors, we can offer affordable out-of-pocket rates on a Sliding Fee Scale. We also bill certain insurance companies directly. Our Counseling Team includes Sherry Doggett (LMFT), Holly Berry (LCSW), and Professional Counselor Associates Alicia Deal (M.A.) and Kara Oyer (M.A.). See pictures below and read more about each counselor on our website (fofm.org).
In addition to professional counseling, we offer FREE and low-cost relationship education workshops, marriage mentoring, and premarital counseling (fofm.
Friends of the Family (FOFM) is a nonprofit organization that offers top-quality counseling services for children, teens, adults, couples, and families. Thanks to the generous support of donors, we can offer affordable out-of-pocket rates on a Sliding Fee Scale. We also bill certain insurance companies directly. Our Counseling Team includes Sherry Doggett (LMFT), Holly Berry (LCSW), and Professional Counselor Associates Alicia Deal (M.A.) and Kara Oyer (M.A.). See pictures below and read more about each counselor on our website (fofm.org).
(458) 214-2406 View (458) 214-2406
Photo of Sherry Doggett, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sherry Doggett
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Albany, OR 97321
I work with adolescents, adults, couples, and families to uncover the patterns hindering you and to create healing connections.
Life is both beautiful and broken at times. You deserve to live full, free, and whole. So often we unintentionally get stuck in patterns we do not understand that affect our view of who we are and our relationships with the people we love the most. I believe we are wired for connection--both broken and restored in the context of relationships. Together we will work toward a healing story with new directions. I have special interests and experience in couples therapy, military family life, betrayal trauma, anxiety, grief, and spiritual hurts and questions.
I work with adolescents, adults, couples, and families to uncover the patterns hindering you and to create healing connections.
Life is both beautiful and broken at times. You deserve to live full, free, and whole. So often we unintentionally get stuck in patterns we do not understand that affect our view of who we are and our relationships with the people we love the most. I believe we are wired for connection--both broken and restored in the context of relationships. Together we will work toward a healing story with new directions. I have special interests and experience in couples therapy, military family life, betrayal trauma, anxiety, grief, and spiritual hurts and questions.
(541) 283-0522 View (541) 283-0522
Photo of Rebecca Snyder Ahnsdotter, MSW, CSWA, QMHP-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebecca Snyder Ahnsdotter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, CSWA, QMHP-R
Verified Verified
Albany, OR 97321
Waitlist for new clients
Each client-therapist relationship is unique, and as your therapist I will work to provide compassionate care tailored to your specific set of needs and therapeutic goals, utilizing my training in EMDR, psychedelic integration, internal family systems, acceptance and commitment, attachment, and trauma-informed therapies, as well as mindfulness practices.
When you walk through my office door you will be greeted with warmth and compassion. Whether you are overwhelmed by life and it’s varying demands and disappointments, or struggling through a life transition, devastating loss, work or relationship stress or conflict, I will provide a safe, empathetic space for you as we explore your personal history and background as well as your inner and outer worlds in search of greater understanding, awareness and acceptance. I believe everyone holds a deep, abiding source of internal strength, wisdom, and hope, and I will walk alongside you as we uncover these peace-giving resources together.
Each client-therapist relationship is unique, and as your therapist I will work to provide compassionate care tailored to your specific set of needs and therapeutic goals, utilizing my training in EMDR, psychedelic integration, internal family systems, acceptance and commitment, attachment, and trauma-informed therapies, as well as mindfulness practices.
When you walk through my office door you will be greeted with warmth and compassion. Whether you are overwhelmed by life and it’s varying demands and disappointments, or struggling through a life transition, devastating loss, work or relationship stress or conflict, I will provide a safe, empathetic space for you as we explore your personal history and background as well as your inner and outer worlds in search of greater understanding, awareness and acceptance. I believe everyone holds a deep, abiding source of internal strength, wisdom, and hope, and I will walk alongside you as we uncover these peace-giving resources together.
(541) 209-5844 View (541) 209-5844
1
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.