Couples Counseling Therapists in Greenville, SC

Photo of Angelica Means, LISW-CP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Angelica Means
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenville, SC 29609
I understand the importance of a therapeutic relationship built on trust and established in a safe, healing environment.
Are you struggling with anxiety and depression? Is your mental health affecting your work, marriage, and friendships? I know the decision to seek counseling can be difficult, but just taking the first step toward better mental health is a step toward healing. I provide psychotherapy to individuals struggling to make sense of their emotions and who want to learn how to manage them better. I firmly believe that you have the ability and strength to make a positive life change.
I understand the importance of a therapeutic relationship built on trust and established in a safe, healing environment.
Are you struggling with anxiety and depression? Is your mental health affecting your work, marriage, and friendships? I know the decision to seek counseling can be difficult, but just taking the first step toward better mental health is a step toward healing. I provide psychotherapy to individuals struggling to make sense of their emotions and who want to learn how to manage them better. I firmly believe that you have the ability and strength to make a positive life change.
(864) 387-4719 View (864) 387-4719
Photo of Brittney L Clow - Counseling Services Of Greenville, MSSA, LISW-CP, S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Counseling Services Of Greenville
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSA, LISW-CP, S
Verified Verified
Greenville, SC 29615
We are a multifaceted, family-owned, therapeutic counseling practice serving Greenville, SC. We are a group of professionals with a wide variety of experience and expertise, ready to assist individuals, couples and families. Our therapists have experience in a multitude of fields including Trauma Therapy, Premarital Counseling, Relationship Counseling, Adolescent Difficulties, Mood Disorders, Family Relationships, and other concerns. We are open to all belief systems and orientations. We provide a variety of counseling techniques and interventions to best fit your need and preferences.
We are a multifaceted, family-owned, therapeutic counseling practice serving Greenville, SC. We are a group of professionals with a wide variety of experience and expertise, ready to assist individuals, couples and families. Our therapists have experience in a multitude of fields including Trauma Therapy, Premarital Counseling, Relationship Counseling, Adolescent Difficulties, Mood Disorders, Family Relationships, and other concerns. We are open to all belief systems and orientations. We provide a variety of counseling techniques and interventions to best fit your need and preferences.
(864) 274-0338 View (864) 274-0338
Photo of Lisa Rivers - Greenville Couples Therapy, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Greenville Couples Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Greenville, SC 29607
At GVL Couples Therapy you have access to an expert team of Licensed Therapists with diverse backgrounds and counseling styles, who are specifically trained in Marriage and Family Therapy.
Have you and your partner lost your spark? In the beginning, you felt seen and heard. Now, you find yourselves in a pattern of negativity, blocked communication, and disconnection. You wonder…Will my partner and I ever reconnect emotionally and/or physically? You want to feel closeness again but fear and doubt weigh heavily on your heart and mind. Couples therapy is a safe space to strengthen your communication, embrace vulnerability together, and rediscover deep connection no matter the season (dating, premarital, marital, second marriage) or constellation (traditional, open, LGTBQ, secular, religious) of your relationship.
At GVL Couples Therapy you have access to an expert team of Licensed Therapists with diverse backgrounds and counseling styles, who are specifically trained in Marriage and Family Therapy.
Have you and your partner lost your spark? In the beginning, you felt seen and heard. Now, you find yourselves in a pattern of negativity, blocked communication, and disconnection. You wonder…Will my partner and I ever reconnect emotionally and/or physically? You want to feel closeness again but fear and doubt weigh heavily on your heart and mind. Couples therapy is a safe space to strengthen your communication, embrace vulnerability together, and rediscover deep connection no matter the season (dating, premarital, marital, second marriage) or constellation (traditional, open, LGTBQ, secular, religious) of your relationship.
(864) 514-4643 View (864) 514-4643
Livewell Consulting & Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Greenville, SC 29607  (Online Only)
I work with adults, teens, couples and groups contending with life transitions, depression, anxiety, relational issues and more.
Navigating through life’s many challenges can be hard; as a result, you might feel overwhelmed, emotionally unstable and hopeless with no interest or desire to fully engage in life as you once did. You may wonder and even question if it’s possible to feel joy again. Therapy works! I believe it is possible to regain a new and better version of yourself by showing up for you, being honest with yourself and doing the work while in engage in therapy. I am a License Professional Counselor with over 20 yrs of experience in both inpatient and outpatient mental and behavioral health. I have been in private practice since 2017.
I work with adults, teens, couples and groups contending with life transitions, depression, anxiety, relational issues and more.
Navigating through life’s many challenges can be hard; as a result, you might feel overwhelmed, emotionally unstable and hopeless with no interest or desire to fully engage in life as you once did. You may wonder and even question if it’s possible to feel joy again. Therapy works! I believe it is possible to regain a new and better version of yourself by showing up for you, being honest with yourself and doing the work while in engage in therapy. I am a License Professional Counselor with over 20 yrs of experience in both inpatient and outpatient mental and behavioral health. I have been in private practice since 2017.
(864) 513-9506 View (864) 513-9506
Photo of Elena Eugenia Corral, MSW, LISW-CP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elena Eugenia Corral
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenville, SC 29607
In my work with couples, I use Gottman method combined with Rogerian and Internal Family system approach to assist the couples in resolving gridlocks in their daily lives.
If you are reading this, you probably never knew or forgot how special you really are. You can discover this! I am a therapist with 22 years of post graduate experience working with children, adolescents, adults, elderlies, couples, parents, and families. I am specialized in assisting children and adults who suffered traumatic experiences alleviate their inner suffering through the use of Internal Family Systems model, combined with psychodynamic theory, mindfulness, and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. And very unique lately: mindfulness groups for teenagers to assist in coping with overwhelming emotions.
In my work with couples, I use Gottman method combined with Rogerian and Internal Family system approach to assist the couples in resolving gridlocks in their daily lives.
If you are reading this, you probably never knew or forgot how special you really are. You can discover this! I am a therapist with 22 years of post graduate experience working with children, adolescents, adults, elderlies, couples, parents, and families. I am specialized in assisting children and adults who suffered traumatic experiences alleviate their inner suffering through the use of Internal Family Systems model, combined with psychodynamic theory, mindfulness, and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. And very unique lately: mindfulness groups for teenagers to assist in coping with overwhelming emotions.
(864) 507-2369 View (864) 507-2369
Photo of John Simpson Kilgo III - John Kilgo - Olive Tree Counseling, LPC, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor
John Kilgo - Olive Tree Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS
Verified Verified
Greenville, SC 29615
Often times our lives and relationships don't go according to our plans. We have problems with our past, not connecting or understanding relationships, how others have hurt us, or how to navigate the difficulty of finances. These situations are just a few that could require some additional help. You are not alone in this. In fact, most individuals and couples can relate to these experiences. Assistance can come in many forms, including the client central focus that Olive Tree Counseling strives to accomplish.
Often times our lives and relationships don't go according to our plans. We have problems with our past, not connecting or understanding relationships, how others have hurt us, or how to navigate the difficulty of finances. These situations are just a few that could require some additional help. You are not alone in this. In fact, most individuals and couples can relate to these experiences. Assistance can come in many forms, including the client central focus that Olive Tree Counseling strives to accomplish.
(864) 207-4897 View (864) 207-4897
Photo of Lori D Blackman, LISW-CP, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lori D Blackman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-CP, LCSW
Verified Verified
Greenville, SC 29607
I have many years experience working with adults and children suffering from depression, anxiety, OCD, anger issues, trauma, and abuse. I have also worked in the field of drug and alcohol addiction. After my graduate studies, my primary focus and training was working with children suffering from ADHD, ODD, depression, and anxiety. I used behavioral management coupled with parenting strategies to improve the overall parent/child relationship. I gained incredible knowledge and insight regarding chronic pain as well as grief and loss while working with the elderly population through home health care and hospice.
I have many years experience working with adults and children suffering from depression, anxiety, OCD, anger issues, trauma, and abuse. I have also worked in the field of drug and alcohol addiction. After my graduate studies, my primary focus and training was working with children suffering from ADHD, ODD, depression, and anxiety. I used behavioral management coupled with parenting strategies to improve the overall parent/child relationship. I gained incredible knowledge and insight regarding chronic pain as well as grief and loss while working with the elderly population through home health care and hospice.
(864) 263-2743 View (864) 263-2743
Photo of Samuel D Smithyman, PhD, Psychologist
Samuel D Smithyman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Greenville, SC 29607
I work with adults, couples and families.
I am a licensed, clinical psychologist with over thirty years of experience. I was in private practice in Beverly Hills, CA for over twenty-five years. I am licensed in California and in South Carolina, where I currently reside. My orientation is primarily psychodynamic and informed by contemporary psychoanalytic theory. I combine this depth approach to psychotherapy with a strong background and belief in cognitive-behavioral interventions. I am dedicated to providing the highest quality of professional care, with compassion, acceptance and sensitivity. I tailor my treatment approach to the needs of the individual.
I work with adults, couples and families.
I am a licensed, clinical psychologist with over thirty years of experience. I was in private practice in Beverly Hills, CA for over twenty-five years. I am licensed in California and in South Carolina, where I currently reside. My orientation is primarily psychodynamic and informed by contemporary psychoanalytic theory. I combine this depth approach to psychotherapy with a strong background and belief in cognitive-behavioral interventions. I am dedicated to providing the highest quality of professional care, with compassion, acceptance and sensitivity. I tailor my treatment approach to the needs of the individual.
(864) 345-8183 View (864) 345-8183
Photo of Caroline Allison, LMFT-A, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Caroline Allison
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenville, SC 29609
If you are interested in addressing relationship issues, processing loss, or finding growth in life transitions please reach out (call, text, or email) to connect for a free 15 minute phone consultation.
We search for therapy when we're in the in-between, when we find ourselves stuck in liminal space between where we came from and where we want to be. My name is Caroline Allison (she/her) and I'm a licensed marriage & family therapy associate in Greenville, SC. I work with both individuals and couples who are seeking therapy to address issues in their relationships, have experienced loss, or are working through life transitions.
If you are interested in addressing relationship issues, processing loss, or finding growth in life transitions please reach out (call, text, or email) to connect for a free 15 minute phone consultation.
We search for therapy when we're in the in-between, when we find ourselves stuck in liminal space between where we came from and where we want to be. My name is Caroline Allison (she/her) and I'm a licensed marriage & family therapy associate in Greenville, SC. I work with both individuals and couples who are seeking therapy to address issues in their relationships, have experienced loss, or are working through life transitions.
(864) 528-4859 View (864) 528-4859
Photo of Hanann Morris, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Hanann Morris
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Greenville, SC 29601  (Online Only)
I use IFS therapy to help individuals and couples navigate past trauma, relationship challenges, life transitions, faith crises, religious trauma, explore their sexuality/gender, and heal from abuse.
My method is one of complete acceptance and validation. I care deeply about each of my clients and will work with you to find solutions to all your challenges. I create a safe, neutral environment for my clients to explore their innermost thoughts, experiences, and emotions without judgment or shame.
I use IFS therapy to help individuals and couples navigate past trauma, relationship challenges, life transitions, faith crises, religious trauma, explore their sexuality/gender, and heal from abuse.
My method is one of complete acceptance and validation. I care deeply about each of my clients and will work with you to find solutions to all your challenges. I create a safe, neutral environment for my clients to explore their innermost thoughts, experiences, and emotions without judgment or shame.
(864) 727-2963 View (864) 727-2963
Photo of Dr. Carissma Hughes Valentine, LCSW-S, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Carissma Hughes Valentine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, LICSW
Verified Verified
Greenville, SC 29611  (Online Only)
Whether you're dealing with anxiety, relationship issues, or a major life transition, I provide a compassionate, non-judgmental space to explore your thoughts and emotions.
Dr. Carissma Hughes Valentine, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker-Supervisor (LCSW-S) in Texas & Licensed Independent Social Worker-CP (LICSW) in South Carolina. (Dr. Hughes only accepts Self-pay in South Carolina and is currently working on paneling with insurance). She holds specialized certifications in Depression & Mood Disorder Treatment, ADHD Specialty provider and Clinical Trauma (CCTP-II). With experience spanning diverse groups including the LGBTQ community, Military Veterans, and hospice care, Dr. Hughes takes a person-centered therapeutic approach. She specializes in treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, and complex trauma.
Whether you're dealing with anxiety, relationship issues, or a major life transition, I provide a compassionate, non-judgmental space to explore your thoughts and emotions.
Dr. Carissma Hughes Valentine, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker-Supervisor (LCSW-S) in Texas & Licensed Independent Social Worker-CP (LICSW) in South Carolina. (Dr. Hughes only accepts Self-pay in South Carolina and is currently working on paneling with insurance). She holds specialized certifications in Depression & Mood Disorder Treatment, ADHD Specialty provider and Clinical Trauma (CCTP-II). With experience spanning diverse groups including the LGBTQ community, Military Veterans, and hospice care, Dr. Hughes takes a person-centered therapeutic approach. She specializes in treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, and complex trauma.
(864) 402-8916 View (864) 402-8916
Photo of Jim Spearman, PhD, LPC, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jim Spearman
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Greenville, SC 29615
Spearman offers counseling for individuals and couples.
My goal as a therapist/counselor is to help you clarify ways that your life can be more fulfilling and content. It is often difficult for us to sort out solutions to issues that on the surface seem simple, but in real life can be crippling, disorienting and sources of conflict.
Spearman offers counseling for individuals and couples.
My goal as a therapist/counselor is to help you clarify ways that your life can be more fulfilling and content. It is often difficult for us to sort out solutions to issues that on the surface seem simple, but in real life can be crippling, disorienting and sources of conflict.
(864) 432-9562 View (864) 432-9562
Photo of Jennifer Edris, LPC, LMFT, CACI, MAC, LAC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jennifer Edris
Marriage & Family Therapist, LPC, LMFT, CACI, MAC, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenville, SC 29615
Areas of Treatment: Marriage, Divorce, Anger Management Addiction, Coping Skills, Family Conflict, Infertility, Anxiety, Career Counseling, Depression, Parenting, Relationship Issues, Sleep Problems.
River Falls Counseling provides professional psychological services for adolescents, adults, couples, and families seeking help. Competent licensed and certified therapist with a variety of specializations Conveniently located in Greenville off of Roper Mtn. Rd. and I-85 We accept Blue Cross Blue Shield and most EAP plans Flexible hours (day and evenings) Sliding scale for those in need
Areas of Treatment: Marriage, Divorce, Anger Management Addiction, Coping Skills, Family Conflict, Infertility, Anxiety, Career Counseling, Depression, Parenting, Relationship Issues, Sleep Problems.
River Falls Counseling provides professional psychological services for adolescents, adults, couples, and families seeking help. Competent licensed and certified therapist with a variety of specializations Conveniently located in Greenville off of Roper Mtn. Rd. and I-85 We accept Blue Cross Blue Shield and most EAP plans Flexible hours (day and evenings) Sliding scale for those in need
(864) 907-4443 View (864) 907-4443
Photo of Gina M Beck, LCSW, LISW-CP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gina M Beck
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
Greenville, SC 29605
Throughout 30+ years of practice, my specialties include: issues related to transitional life stages in childhood, late adolescence, young adulthood, new parenthood, step parenthood, menopausal changes, adoption home studies, bariatric surgery consultation, college counseling, psycho-education, collaborative divorce coaching, and relationship re-framing.
While we are increasingly more connected to others via technology, we oftentimes feel less connected in our relationships. My desire is to assist you in developing genuine and authentic relationships with others and yourself. I passionately focus on this goal within the context of our individual therapeutic relationship. I promote positive change for you and your relationships by creating a reality based and positive approach to improvement in mood, behavior, and life balance. Together we accomplish this through interpersonal discussion and support with the integration of personal mission statements and goal orientation to oneself and to others.
Throughout 30+ years of practice, my specialties include: issues related to transitional life stages in childhood, late adolescence, young adulthood, new parenthood, step parenthood, menopausal changes, adoption home studies, bariatric surgery consultation, college counseling, psycho-education, collaborative divorce coaching, and relationship re-framing.
While we are increasingly more connected to others via technology, we oftentimes feel less connected in our relationships. My desire is to assist you in developing genuine and authentic relationships with others and yourself. I passionately focus on this goal within the context of our individual therapeutic relationship. I promote positive change for you and your relationships by creating a reality based and positive approach to improvement in mood, behavior, and life balance. Together we accomplish this through interpersonal discussion and support with the integration of personal mission statements and goal orientation to oneself and to others.
(985) 863-4301 View (985) 863-4301
Photo of Robin E Finley, EdS, LMFT, CSTIP, CFNC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Robin E Finley
Marriage & Family Therapist, EdS, LMFT, CSTIP, CFNC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Greenville, SC 29615
I am passionate about assisting couples with mismatched sexual desire, betrayal trauma, and conflict, including difficult co-parenting.
I continue to feel privileged when individuals and couples allow me to assist in achieving their desired goals. Seeking support often feels so vulnerable and overwhelming. I strive to create a safe space for exploring your experiences. I thrive on teaching my patients lasting problem solving skills. Frame of Mind Psychiatry, LLP emphasizes that patients are of utmost importance. Patients deserve to be heard, yet often patients report being "Dismissed by trusted providers." We exist to change that! Patient satisfaction is non-negotiable; it's important to discover if I am a good fit for your clinical goals.
I am passionate about assisting couples with mismatched sexual desire, betrayal trauma, and conflict, including difficult co-parenting.
I continue to feel privileged when individuals and couples allow me to assist in achieving their desired goals. Seeking support often feels so vulnerable and overwhelming. I strive to create a safe space for exploring your experiences. I thrive on teaching my patients lasting problem solving skills. Frame of Mind Psychiatry, LLP emphasizes that patients are of utmost importance. Patients deserve to be heard, yet often patients report being "Dismissed by trusted providers." We exist to change that! Patient satisfaction is non-negotiable; it's important to discover if I am a good fit for your clinical goals.
(864) 477-2364 View (864) 477-2364
Photo of Steve Bielby - Bielby Counseling, LLC, ThM, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bielby Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, ThM, LPC
Verified Verified
Greenville, SC 29607
Counseling is more about the client-therapist relationship than it is about a particular theory or technique.
Life can become especially difficult at times, to the point that your best efforts are not making a difference. Your point of concern may be with mental health, relationship or family, job or career, marriage, athletic performance, or spiritual life. You need more than pat answers. What you want is the opportunity to be heard in a safe, confidential place. What you long for is to be understood, and to discover what will help bring about improvement, restoration, and transformation.
Counseling is more about the client-therapist relationship than it is about a particular theory or technique.
Life can become especially difficult at times, to the point that your best efforts are not making a difference. Your point of concern may be with mental health, relationship or family, job or career, marriage, athletic performance, or spiritual life. You need more than pat answers. What you want is the opportunity to be heard in a safe, confidential place. What you long for is to be understood, and to discover what will help bring about improvement, restoration, and transformation.
(864) 528-9846 View (864) 528-9846
Photo of Sara Cato, MS, LPC, LAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sara Cato
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LAC
Verified Verified
Greenville, SC 29601  (Online Only)
I strive to build the therapeutic relationship at the first meeting so that my clients feel comfortable.
My passion is to help others from all walks of life with their personal stressors and to empower them to make positive lifestyle changes. My goal is to help others see and reach their full potential.
I strive to build the therapeutic relationship at the first meeting so that my clients feel comfortable.
My passion is to help others from all walks of life with their personal stressors and to empower them to make positive lifestyle changes. My goal is to help others see and reach their full potential.
(843) 314-5093 View (843) 314-5093
Photo of Terry T. Molnar, PhD, Psychologist
Terry T. Molnar
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Greenville, SC 29601  (Online Only)
Research shows that the quality and character of the relationship between therapist and the client is the most important and powerful aspect of the process.
I have over 30 years of experience working with a variety of people and problems. I provide relationship coaching for couples with relationship issues, blended families, establishing effect communication and personal growth and develop . When I work with individuals, I facilitate the development of an understanding of the person and what brought them to my office that leads to effective ways of making their lives work better. When I work with couples, I focus on assisting in the development of communication and mutual problem solving skills. When I work with families, I focus on family structure, roles and patterns of interaction.
Research shows that the quality and character of the relationship between therapist and the client is the most important and powerful aspect of the process.
I have over 30 years of experience working with a variety of people and problems. I provide relationship coaching for couples with relationship issues, blended families, establishing effect communication and personal growth and develop . When I work with individuals, I facilitate the development of an understanding of the person and what brought them to my office that leads to effective ways of making their lives work better. When I work with couples, I focus on assisting in the development of communication and mutual problem solving skills. When I work with families, I focus on family structure, roles and patterns of interaction.
(864) 365-2986 View (864) 365-2986
Photo of Heather N Shures, MEd, EdS, LPC-A, NCC
Heather N Shures
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MEd, EdS, LPC-A, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenville, SC 29607
I have immediate openings for individual and couples counseling sessions, and I am eager to walk alongside you as you work towards your goals.
Are you seeking a safe space to explore your innermost thoughts and feelings? As a therapist, I specialize in working with individuals and couples on self-esteem, identity, communication, boundary-setting, and cultivating healthy relationships. My passion lies in supporting LGBTQIA+ individuals, those in polyamorous relationships, service industry professionals, and self-identified 'people pleasers.
I have immediate openings for individual and couples counseling sessions, and I am eager to walk alongside you as you work towards your goals.
Are you seeking a safe space to explore your innermost thoughts and feelings? As a therapist, I specialize in working with individuals and couples on self-esteem, identity, communication, boundary-setting, and cultivating healthy relationships. My passion lies in supporting LGBTQIA+ individuals, those in polyamorous relationships, service industry professionals, and self-identified 'people pleasers.
(864) 712-7130 View (864) 712-7130
Photo of Kathryn Short - Reedy River Counseling Associates Eating Disorders
Reedy River Counseling Associates Eating Disorders
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenville, SC 29609
Our mission is to provide compassionate and evidence-based treatment to individuals who are struggling with eating disorders, feeding disorders, and other mental health issues. We believe that every person deserves to have a well-balanced and maintainable relationship with food and their body. We strive to create a safe and non-judgmental environment where our clients can explore their feelings, thoughts, and behaviors around food and their body. Our approach is holistic and we believe in also addressing the underlying issues.
Our mission is to provide compassionate and evidence-based treatment to individuals who are struggling with eating disorders, feeding disorders, and other mental health issues. We believe that every person deserves to have a well-balanced and maintainable relationship with food and their body. We strive to create a safe and non-judgmental environment where our clients can explore their feelings, thoughts, and behaviors around food and their body. Our approach is holistic and we believe in also addressing the underlying issues.
(864) 606-3461 View (864) 606-3461
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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.