Couples Counseling Therapists in Eugene, OR

Photo of Charles Allen - Serenity Mental Health, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Serenity Mental Health
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eugene, OR 97401  (Online Only)
Our team is experienced in a variety of evidenced based techniques for both couples and individuals.
Accepting New Clients‭‭ Serenity Mental Health is an independent practice of caring Mental Health Professionals who understand that life’s challenges can be daunting and that people deserve quality mental health care that addresses their individual needs. Together, with a member of our licensed professional staff we will develop a plan to address hardships in a supportive and compassionate manner.
Our team is experienced in a variety of evidenced based techniques for both couples and individuals.
Accepting New Clients‭‭ Serenity Mental Health is an independent practice of caring Mental Health Professionals who understand that life’s challenges can be daunting and that people deserve quality mental health care that addresses their individual needs. Together, with a member of our licensed professional staff we will develop a plan to address hardships in a supportive and compassionate manner.
(541) 399-8911 View (541) 399-8911
Photo of Monica J Olsen, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Monica J Olsen
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Eugene, OR 97401
I specialize in relationship issues, especially associated with grief, loss, conflict and anger.
Are you experiencing less satisfaction in your relationships with family and friends? Are your thoughts about yourself and others creating feelings of stress or sadness? Perhaps you are looking to achieve a more rewarding, peaceful life for your self. Sometimes taking care of yourself means reaching out for the help you need. You can create a more joyful life. Call me for a telephone consultation. There is no cost for this benefit. Your happiness does matter.
I specialize in relationship issues, especially associated with grief, loss, conflict and anger.
Are you experiencing less satisfaction in your relationships with family and friends? Are your thoughts about yourself and others creating feelings of stress or sadness? Perhaps you are looking to achieve a more rewarding, peaceful life for your self. Sometimes taking care of yourself means reaching out for the help you need. You can create a more joyful life. Call me for a telephone consultation. There is no cost for this benefit. Your happiness does matter.
(541) 275-6617 View (541) 275-6617
Photo of Terri Ellen Spreitzer - Bridges Community Health, LMFT, LPC, LCSW, PMHNP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Bridges Community Health
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC, LCSW, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Eugene, OR 97401
Bridges Community Health is a growing therapy and prescribing collective serving Lane County, Eugene/Springfield and Cottage Grove. We provide therapy and medication management services. We are here to help you set and meet your goals. We provide individual, family, teen, play and couples therapy. We work hard to be available to you and to set your initial appointment in a quick and timely manner. We offer both in person and teletherapy sessions. We have immediate openings at this time. We understand the stressors you are facing today and want to help you succeed in making positive and lasting change.
Bridges Community Health is a growing therapy and prescribing collective serving Lane County, Eugene/Springfield and Cottage Grove. We provide therapy and medication management services. We are here to help you set and meet your goals. We provide individual, family, teen, play and couples therapy. We work hard to be available to you and to set your initial appointment in a quick and timely manner. We offer both in person and teletherapy sessions. We have immediate openings at this time. We understand the stressors you are facing today and want to help you succeed in making positive and lasting change.
(541) 359-3717 x1 View (541) 359-3717 x1
Photo of Dr. T. Dawson Woodrum, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. T. Dawson Woodrum
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Eugene, OR 97401  (Online Only)
These include life transitions (grief, life-threatening health diagnoses, career, retirement), identity (gender, sexuality), relationship discord (family, intimate partners), and trauma (complex and chronic).
Do want to want to live authentically with yourself and others? Has something happened that makes you question your core beliefs and values? My primary goal is to understand you as to want to be understood - without rigid diagnoses or other labels. We will work together to fully understand who you have been, who you are in the present, and who you aspire to be. We will also consider how your current beliefs may be based on long-held assumptions and are no longer your own. Ultimately, good therapy will free up your capacity to consider new choices that are more closely aligned with your own values and goals.
These include life transitions (grief, life-threatening health diagnoses, career, retirement), identity (gender, sexuality), relationship discord (family, intimate partners), and trauma (complex and chronic).
Do want to want to live authentically with yourself and others? Has something happened that makes you question your core beliefs and values? My primary goal is to understand you as to want to be understood - without rigid diagnoses or other labels. We will work together to fully understand who you have been, who you are in the present, and who you aspire to be. We will also consider how your current beliefs may be based on long-held assumptions and are no longer your own. Ultimately, good therapy will free up your capacity to consider new choices that are more closely aligned with your own values and goals.
(541) 920-1595 View (541) 920-1595
Photo of Thomas Veeman, LMFT-A , MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Thomas Veeman
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMFT-A , MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eugene, OR 97401
Hello! My name is Thomas, and I have returned to my true passion in therapy after a decade as an entrepreneur and corporate leadership trainer. In life, the strategies that worked to survive a past context often block the flow of happiness in our present lives. I work with couples, families, and individuals to help unlock that joyful, present-moment version of ourselves. My toolbox draws from Narrative Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotion-Focused Therapy, and especially Internal Family Systems.
Hello! My name is Thomas, and I have returned to my true passion in therapy after a decade as an entrepreneur and corporate leadership trainer. In life, the strategies that worked to survive a past context often block the flow of happiness in our present lives. I work with couples, families, and individuals to help unlock that joyful, present-moment version of ourselves. My toolbox draws from Narrative Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotion-Focused Therapy, and especially Internal Family Systems.
(458) 236-1857 View (458) 236-1857
Photo of Abby Tuttle-Shamblin, MEd, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Abby Tuttle-Shamblin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MEd, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Eugene, OR 97405
I specialize in a wide range of Women's Issues including Pregnancy, Postpartum Women and Couples, Relationship Issues, Child-free Women, Women Survivors, and more.
All of us face experiences in our lives where we can benefit from the support and connection that therapy provides. Scientific evidence demonstrates that a strong and consistent therapeutic relationship is restorative, healing and emotionally regulating. As a therapist, I believe in connecting with clients, human-to-human, and I regularly feel a deep sense of understanding for those with whom I work. There is so much noise around us that it is often difficult for us to hear our own truth. I offer a compassionate, heart-centered space to help you to deeply trust your own inner strength and core values.
I specialize in a wide range of Women's Issues including Pregnancy, Postpartum Women and Couples, Relationship Issues, Child-free Women, Women Survivors, and more.
All of us face experiences in our lives where we can benefit from the support and connection that therapy provides. Scientific evidence demonstrates that a strong and consistent therapeutic relationship is restorative, healing and emotionally regulating. As a therapist, I believe in connecting with clients, human-to-human, and I regularly feel a deep sense of understanding for those with whom I work. There is so much noise around us that it is often difficult for us to hear our own truth. I offer a compassionate, heart-centered space to help you to deeply trust your own inner strength and core values.
(541) 625-1168 View (541) 625-1168
Photo of Lisa Griffin - Griffin & Associated Practitioners, Licensed Professional Counselor
Griffin & Associated Practitioners
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Eugene, OR 97401
Our practice was created to provide a quality space for individuals to connect with a counselor surrounding self-care, healing, change, & to find ways to access more joy. We want you, as our clients, to feel that in this space you are welcomed with positive, energetic, non-judgmental practitioners that are trained to help you access your core, grounded, & healthy self. Our team provides individual, couples, & family counseling for ages 6 through the last years of life. It is our hope that through this work you will be led to healing, change, & abundant joy.
Our practice was created to provide a quality space for individuals to connect with a counselor surrounding self-care, healing, change, & to find ways to access more joy. We want you, as our clients, to feel that in this space you are welcomed with positive, energetic, non-judgmental practitioners that are trained to help you access your core, grounded, & healthy self. Our team provides individual, couples, & family counseling for ages 6 through the last years of life. It is our hope that through this work you will be led to healing, change, & abundant joy.
(541) 526-7780 View (541) 526-7780
Photo of August J. Smith, BA, QMHA-R, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
August J. Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, BA, QMHA-R
Verified Verified
Eugene, OR 97404
My clinical interests include sex therapy, psychosomatic education, intimate partner violence, trauma processing, and sexuality.
I view therapy as having the ability to assist clients in unlocking the innate internal resources needed to promote individual and systemic growth, leading to meaningful change. I implore a liberatory approach by analyzing the client’s context within the systems theory framework and the effects of interpersonal interactions on the client. I aim to provide a safe and inclusive therapeutic environment to support client’s mental health regardless of cultural or personal identities such as race, gender, or sexual orientation.
My clinical interests include sex therapy, psychosomatic education, intimate partner violence, trauma processing, and sexuality.
I view therapy as having the ability to assist clients in unlocking the innate internal resources needed to promote individual and systemic growth, leading to meaningful change. I implore a liberatory approach by analyzing the client’s context within the systems theory framework and the effects of interpersonal interactions on the client. I aim to provide a safe and inclusive therapeutic environment to support client’s mental health regardless of cultural or personal identities such as race, gender, or sexual orientation.
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Photo of Anna Gularte, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Anna Gularte
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Eugene, OR 97401  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Anna works as an LMFT with couples and individuals at Cedar Moon Therapy. She sees each person as a whole, and considers their unique perspectives, cultures, identities, and contexts in all aspects of experience. She is collaborative, strengths-based, and humanistic approach. There are many ways of healing, and Anna keeps an open, curious mind about how that can look differently for people relative to what challenges and nurtures them. Whatever stage of life you are in, Anna is looking forward to joining you and having a nuanced, experiential, and perspective-sharing approach.
Anna works as an LMFT with couples and individuals at Cedar Moon Therapy. She sees each person as a whole, and considers their unique perspectives, cultures, identities, and contexts in all aspects of experience. She is collaborative, strengths-based, and humanistic approach. There are many ways of healing, and Anna keeps an open, curious mind about how that can look differently for people relative to what challenges and nurtures them. Whatever stage of life you are in, Anna is looking forward to joining you and having a nuanced, experiential, and perspective-sharing approach.
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Photo of Ashley Higgins, MS, LMFT-A, Pre-Licensed Professional
Ashley Higgins
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
Eugene, OR 97402  (Online Only)
As a trauma-informed therapist, I view anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and other areas of therapeutic work with attention to past experience.
People often begin counseling when it's too hard to stay the same. Even though seeking help can seem like a sign of weakness, it’s not an indicator of failure. Whatever the reason you’re searching for a therapist today, it takes courage to notice that reason within yourself and reach out for support. Maybe you’re ready to shift patterns in close relationships, or you’re ready to build a better relationship with yourself. Acknowledging distress is a chance to create meaningful change in your life.
As a trauma-informed therapist, I view anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and other areas of therapeutic work with attention to past experience.
People often begin counseling when it's too hard to stay the same. Even though seeking help can seem like a sign of weakness, it’s not an indicator of failure. Whatever the reason you’re searching for a therapist today, it takes courage to notice that reason within yourself and reach out for support. Maybe you’re ready to shift patterns in close relationships, or you’re ready to build a better relationship with yourself. Acknowledging distress is a chance to create meaningful change in your life.
(541) 229-0933 View (541) 229-0933
Photo of Kyla Wetherell, CSWA, MSW, MFA
Kyla Wetherell
Clinical Social Work Associate, CSWA, MSW, MFA
Verified Verified
Eugene, OR 97401
Whether you are struggling with relationship difficulties, past trauma, or depression/anxiety, therapy is a space for you to feel fully heard and understood, to process painful events in the presence of someone who attunes to you and explores with you, and to find your own truths, meaning, and direction. I am active, direct, and authentic in sessions, while also holding a lot of faith that your own answers will come into view as we move obstacles out of the way. I am passionate about working relationally in the here-and-now, as I've found it offers the most immediate path toward healing.
Whether you are struggling with relationship difficulties, past trauma, or depression/anxiety, therapy is a space for you to feel fully heard and understood, to process painful events in the presence of someone who attunes to you and explores with you, and to find your own truths, meaning, and direction. I am active, direct, and authentic in sessions, while also holding a lot of faith that your own answers will come into view as we move obstacles out of the way. I am passionate about working relationally in the here-and-now, as I've found it offers the most immediate path toward healing.
(458) 777-5986 View (458) 777-5986
Photo of Morgan S Barber, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Morgan S Barber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Eugene, OR 97405  (Online Only)
I completed a year long post graduate training with the Couples Institute, Level 1 training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy and have been trained in Hakomi Psychotherapy through the Hakomi Institute of Oregon.
7/24 Accepting clients with Trillium OHP and PacificSource commerciaI. I provide counseling to couples and individuals to effectively address the troubles they are having in their relationships and personal lives. Areas of significant experience counseling people include; relationships, interpersonal growth (assertiveness and providing understanding) decision making, intimacy, anxiety, and life transitions. I provide an individually tailored and collaborative approach unique to each person. In doing so, I draw from an array of counseling theories and techniques to incorporate what is effective and embraced by each individual.
I completed a year long post graduate training with the Couples Institute, Level 1 training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy and have been trained in Hakomi Psychotherapy through the Hakomi Institute of Oregon.
7/24 Accepting clients with Trillium OHP and PacificSource commerciaI. I provide counseling to couples and individuals to effectively address the troubles they are having in their relationships and personal lives. Areas of significant experience counseling people include; relationships, interpersonal growth (assertiveness and providing understanding) decision making, intimacy, anxiety, and life transitions. I provide an individually tailored and collaborative approach unique to each person. In doing so, I draw from an array of counseling theories and techniques to incorporate what is effective and embraced by each individual.
(541) 305-7739 View (541) 305-7739
Photo of Gail Keller, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gail Keller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eugene, OR 97405
CHILD, ADOLESCENT, ADULT, AND FAMILY SPECIALIST: Anxiety, Anger, Depression, Relationship Issues, Behavior Problems, Trauma, PTSD, Grief and Loss, Adoption, and Christian Counseling. As a therapist, I draw on a broad palette of treatment modalities that enables me to select the most suitable therapeutic techniques for each one of my clients. Some of the therapies that have proven most successful in my work with children, adolescents, and adults: Cognitive-Behavior Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Art Therapy, Play Therapy, and Narrative Therapy.
CHILD, ADOLESCENT, ADULT, AND FAMILY SPECIALIST: Anxiety, Anger, Depression, Relationship Issues, Behavior Problems, Trauma, PTSD, Grief and Loss, Adoption, and Christian Counseling. As a therapist, I draw on a broad palette of treatment modalities that enables me to select the most suitable therapeutic techniques for each one of my clients. Some of the therapies that have proven most successful in my work with children, adolescents, and adults: Cognitive-Behavior Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Art Therapy, Play Therapy, and Narrative Therapy.
(541) 233-0274 View (541) 233-0274
Photo of Laurel Becker, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Laurel Becker
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Eugene, OR 97401
I am currently accepting new clients! I work with teens, adults, and couples. I believe that counseling can provide a safe place to explore ourselves and our world in new and positive ways. The struggles of life can feel overwhelming at times, and having someone to journey through these challenges with allows for hope and growth, ultimately building a roadmap toward a more content and fulfilling life. It is an honor to be a part of each client's personal journey of restoration and freedom.
I am currently accepting new clients! I work with teens, adults, and couples. I believe that counseling can provide a safe place to explore ourselves and our world in new and positive ways. The struggles of life can feel overwhelming at times, and having someone to journey through these challenges with allows for hope and growth, ultimately building a roadmap toward a more content and fulfilling life. It is an honor to be a part of each client's personal journey of restoration and freedom.
(458) 235-4741 View (458) 235-4741
Photo of Charlotte McKernan-O'Brien, LMFT, MS, PACT-II, Marriage & Family Therapist
Charlotte McKernan-O'Brien
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS, PACT-II
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Eugene, OR 97405
Are you feeling lonely? insecure? disconnected? depressed? Are you experiencing conflict? intimacy problems? pre-marital jitters? I work with couples and individuals with a variety of difficulties from many different backgrounds.
Life and relationships can be difficult to navigate, worsened by the pressures we put on ourselves to be perfect. Often, anxiety, depression, and external demands create roadblocks to our happiness/ success and even create problems in our relationships. I help people like you learn to conquer their inner bully and create healthy, clear boundaries so you can experience the most meaningful and engaging relationships possible. I will help you will gain insight into why you work the way you do and develop strategies to live a more purposeful, balanced life. In addition to individual growth therapy, I also provide couples therapy.
Are you feeling lonely? insecure? disconnected? depressed? Are you experiencing conflict? intimacy problems? pre-marital jitters? I work with couples and individuals with a variety of difficulties from many different backgrounds.
Life and relationships can be difficult to navigate, worsened by the pressures we put on ourselves to be perfect. Often, anxiety, depression, and external demands create roadblocks to our happiness/ success and even create problems in our relationships. I help people like you learn to conquer their inner bully and create healthy, clear boundaries so you can experience the most meaningful and engaging relationships possible. I will help you will gain insight into why you work the way you do and develop strategies to live a more purposeful, balanced life. In addition to individual growth therapy, I also provide couples therapy.
(970) 620-9365 View (970) 620-9365
Photo of Laura Clegg, LCSW, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laura Clegg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
Eugene, OR 97401
I also developed a passion for dissociative disorders and their relationship to trauma, stress, and neurodiversity.
Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the state of Oregon and have been practicing since 2019. Prior to this, I earned my certification as an Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC I) in 2014 while working with unhoused folks in a shelter in Corvallis setting providing wrap-around services to mandated and self-referred clients in addictions and domestic violence intervention. I grew up in Oakland CA, and for those who have never been, social justice and social welfare are constantly relevant topics in education and in passing
I also developed a passion for dissociative disorders and their relationship to trauma, stress, and neurodiversity.
Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the state of Oregon and have been practicing since 2019. Prior to this, I earned my certification as an Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC I) in 2014 while working with unhoused folks in a shelter in Corvallis setting providing wrap-around services to mandated and self-referred clients in addictions and domestic violence intervention. I grew up in Oakland CA, and for those who have never been, social justice and social welfare are constantly relevant topics in education and in passing
(458) 230-5917 View (458) 230-5917
Photo of Keyonna S McCulloch, CWSA, MSW
Keyonna S McCulloch
Clinical Social Work Associate, CWSA, MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Eugene, OR 97405
I believe having a strong relationship with parents and providing support and direction is key.
My passion comes from helping people grow internally as well as external. I believe in meeting people where they are and equipping them with the tools they need to connect with insight and peace. I strive to create a space that feels safe where this work can be done. I believe that each one of us has the capacity to heal and experience health and wholeness. I enjoy working with people from diverse backgrounds especially those looking to use faith integration in practice. I also enjoy working with individuals who are struggling with depression and anxiety in particular kids and youth. I utilize a strengths-based approach in practice.
I believe having a strong relationship with parents and providing support and direction is key.
My passion comes from helping people grow internally as well as external. I believe in meeting people where they are and equipping them with the tools they need to connect with insight and peace. I strive to create a space that feels safe where this work can be done. I believe that each one of us has the capacity to heal and experience health and wholeness. I enjoy working with people from diverse backgrounds especially those looking to use faith integration in practice. I also enjoy working with individuals who are struggling with depression and anxiety in particular kids and youth. I utilize a strengths-based approach in practice.
(458) 224-1860 View (458) 224-1860
Photo of Cynthia Roberts - Attachement Based Counseling, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Attachement Based Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Eugene, OR 97404
I specialize in Attachment, trauma (complex childhood and single incidence), Couples, postpartum depression and anxiety, chronic illness, anxiety, panic, and grief.
What I hear most often from clients are, "I've been to other therapists, and you are different. This feels like I'm changing!" When you are with me, you will know that 100% of my attuned attention is with you. I pay attention to what you say, how you say it, what your body movement tells me, and what your history tells me. If you are seeking support for yourself for inner healing from trauma (all sorts), Attachment wounding, Post Narcissistic Abuse Recovery, postpartum depression or anxiety, chronic illness, anxiety, panic, grief, life transitions, or you are in a relationship that needs support, contact me.
I specialize in Attachment, trauma (complex childhood and single incidence), Couples, postpartum depression and anxiety, chronic illness, anxiety, panic, and grief.
What I hear most often from clients are, "I've been to other therapists, and you are different. This feels like I'm changing!" When you are with me, you will know that 100% of my attuned attention is with you. I pay attention to what you say, how you say it, what your body movement tells me, and what your history tells me. If you are seeking support for yourself for inner healing from trauma (all sorts), Attachment wounding, Post Narcissistic Abuse Recovery, postpartum depression or anxiety, chronic illness, anxiety, panic, grief, life transitions, or you are in a relationship that needs support, contact me.
(541) 402-4348 View (541) 402-4348
Photo of Amaelo C Ezeonwuka - Living Well Counseling, LPC
Living Well Counseling
LPC
Verified Verified
Eugene, OR 97401  (Online Only)
I encourage individuals and couples to consider the idea of living a life that is truly genuine and that makes them happy.
My name is Amaelo Ezeonwuka, I’m a therapist that focuses on Individual, marriage and family therapy. Everyone has the potential to make positive changes in their lives. Making those changes is more likely when you find a therapist who is empathetic and authentic-someone with whom you can connect and trust. I am trained in a variety of supported psychological treatments. Although many of these therapeutic techniques are highly structured, I take an individualized approach to understand my clients, viewing each client as unique with personal life experiences belonging only to you.
I encourage individuals and couples to consider the idea of living a life that is truly genuine and that makes them happy.
My name is Amaelo Ezeonwuka, I’m a therapist that focuses on Individual, marriage and family therapy. Everyone has the potential to make positive changes in their lives. Making those changes is more likely when you find a therapist who is empathetic and authentic-someone with whom you can connect and trust. I am trained in a variety of supported psychological treatments. Although many of these therapeutic techniques are highly structured, I take an individualized approach to understand my clients, viewing each client as unique with personal life experiences belonging only to you.
(541) 859-3615 View (541) 859-3615
Photo of Paul Bolle, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Paul Bolle
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Eugene, OR 97401
If you are experiencing a frustratingly familiar cycle in life or with your relationship, I encourage you to reach out in whichever way is easiest---email, phone or text---and see if we can start creating something new and healthier for yourself. It is truly comforting to have a safe place where you can be heard, where you can begin to have hope for more consistent and secure connection. Our immediate focus would be on making your daily life and relationships more manageable. We then would work together identifying unsatisfying patterns and exploring more successful ways to say and get what you need.
If you are experiencing a frustratingly familiar cycle in life or with your relationship, I encourage you to reach out in whichever way is easiest---email, phone or text---and see if we can start creating something new and healthier for yourself. It is truly comforting to have a safe place where you can be heard, where you can begin to have hope for more consistent and secure connection. Our immediate focus would be on making your daily life and relationships more manageable. We then would work together identifying unsatisfying patterns and exploring more successful ways to say and get what you need.
(541) 378-6911 View (541) 378-6911
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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.