Couples Counseling Therapists in Murfreesboro, TN

Photo of Percy W. Ford - Lighthouse Counseling and Mental Health, LLC, MC, LPC, MHSP, NCC, Counselor
Lighthouse Counseling and Mental Health, LLC
Counselor, MC, LPC, MHSP, NCC
Verified Verified
Murfreesboro, TN 37128
Percy Ford, MC, LPC-MHSP, NCC established Lighthouse Correctional Counseling and Mental Health Services in 2012 to provide Individual Psychotherapy, Family Counseling, Group Therapy and Couples Counseling to offenders and their families. Mr. Ford earned a BS in Social Work from Tuskegee University in 1997 and graduated from Argosy University School of Psychology and Behavioral Sciences in 2007 with a MA in Professional Counseling.
Percy Ford, MC, LPC-MHSP, NCC established Lighthouse Correctional Counseling and Mental Health Services in 2012 to provide Individual Psychotherapy, Family Counseling, Group Therapy and Couples Counseling to offenders and their families. Mr. Ford earned a BS in Social Work from Tuskegee University in 1997 and graduated from Argosy University School of Psychology and Behavioral Sciences in 2007 with a MA in Professional Counseling.
(615) 442-7106 View (615) 442-7106
Photo of Tammy Barnes, MS, LPC-MHS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tammy Barnes
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-MHS
Verified Verified
Murfreesboro, TN 37129
I am a bit off the wall and some say a bit too open but I cannot expect someone to come and trust me with their deepest thoughts without creating a genuine therapeutic relationship.
The biggest reason many don't seek counseling is the fear of reliving the past. Forward facing trauma therapy proves you don't always have to go back to move forward. There is a different way. There is a better way. We start with the symptoms of the present. Then look at how trauma affects the brain and changes how we, think, feel, and behave here in the present. Learning how to fix and reset the brain while decreasing symptoms is our goal at Sessions of Serenity. Done at your pace, in a way that helps restore safety, creates calm and empowers the client. Your past does not have to continue robbing you of your future.
I am a bit off the wall and some say a bit too open but I cannot expect someone to come and trust me with their deepest thoughts without creating a genuine therapeutic relationship.
The biggest reason many don't seek counseling is the fear of reliving the past. Forward facing trauma therapy proves you don't always have to go back to move forward. There is a different way. There is a better way. We start with the symptoms of the present. Then look at how trauma affects the brain and changes how we, think, feel, and behave here in the present. Learning how to fix and reset the brain while decreasing symptoms is our goal at Sessions of Serenity. Done at your pace, in a way that helps restore safety, creates calm and empowers the client. Your past does not have to continue robbing you of your future.
(615) 265-6488 View (615) 265-6488
Photo of Stephanie Adams, LCSW, MAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Adams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MAC
Verified Verified
Murfreesboro, TN 37130  (Online Only)
I work with clients who are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, and relationship issues.
My work as a therapist is guided by the humanist theory that people can heal and grow if they have assistance that is genuine, empathetic, and accepting. I believe that when we accept ourselves exactly as we are, then we can find the strength to change behaviors that are not serving us. The approaches I use include EMDR, dialectic behavioral therapy (DBT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), neurobiology, motivational interviewing, positive psychology, attachment theory, and family systems theory.
I work with clients who are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, and relationship issues.
My work as a therapist is guided by the humanist theory that people can heal and grow if they have assistance that is genuine, empathetic, and accepting. I believe that when we accept ourselves exactly as we are, then we can find the strength to change behaviors that are not serving us. The approaches I use include EMDR, dialectic behavioral therapy (DBT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), neurobiology, motivational interviewing, positive psychology, attachment theory, and family systems theory.
(615) 205-8904 View (615) 205-8904
Photo of Kim Turner - Birds on a Wire Counseling, MA, NCCA, Pastoral Counselor
Birds on a Wire Counseling
Pastoral Counselor, MA, NCCA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Murfreesboro, TN 37130
Whether you struggle with anxiety, grief, depression, relationship issues, or just need someone to talk with as you struggle through life's issues , It would be an honor to walk alongside you.
Life can feel overwhelming at times. Struggles can come about through a variety of reasons; marriage, kids, work, or an unexpected crisis. They all add up to a lot of pressure and stress leaving you feeling hopeless and out of balance. Having the tools to navigate these challenges can help you feel confident and deepen your self-awareness.
Whether you struggle with anxiety, grief, depression, relationship issues, or just need someone to talk with as you struggle through life's issues , It would be an honor to walk alongside you.
Life can feel overwhelming at times. Struggles can come about through a variety of reasons; marriage, kids, work, or an unexpected crisis. They all add up to a lot of pressure and stress leaving you feeling hopeless and out of balance. Having the tools to navigate these challenges can help you feel confident and deepen your self-awareness.
(615) 547-3214 View (615) 547-3214
Photo of Corbett Hinkle, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Corbett Hinkle
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Murfreesboro, TN 37128
I work with individuals concerned with depression, life transitions, anxiety, stress, low self-esteem, disordered/binge eating, and relationship issues.
I have immense passion for helping people navigate through difficult times. Do you find yourself struggling in one or more ways? Perhaps you need a little guidance and support; I am here for you. My goal is to form a solid base of trust and a collaborative relationship with each individual I work with. I focus on empowering you while assisting you in finding healthy resolutions to issues you are facing. My therapeutic approach is holistic in nature, with emphasis on your feelings, behaviors, thoughts, and beliefs. I am committed to assisting you to build upon your existing strengths to live your best possible life.
I work with individuals concerned with depression, life transitions, anxiety, stress, low self-esteem, disordered/binge eating, and relationship issues.
I have immense passion for helping people navigate through difficult times. Do you find yourself struggling in one or more ways? Perhaps you need a little guidance and support; I am here for you. My goal is to form a solid base of trust and a collaborative relationship with each individual I work with. I focus on empowering you while assisting you in finding healthy resolutions to issues you are facing. My therapeutic approach is holistic in nature, with emphasis on your feelings, behaviors, thoughts, and beliefs. I am committed to assisting you to build upon your existing strengths to live your best possible life.
(615) 410-9837 View (615) 410-9837
Photo of Tameka L Dennis, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tameka L Dennis
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Murfreesboro, TN 37129
Tameka provides Individual, Pre-Marital and Couples Counseling.
Our journey through life can be challenging at times. Everyone needs a little support as they walk their own unique path. Allow me the opportunity to walk with you on your journey. Together, we will discover your peace. Journey to Peace Counseling offers a safe supportive atmosphere that allows clients to explore his or her own thoughts and feelings without judgment.
Tameka provides Individual, Pre-Marital and Couples Counseling.
Our journey through life can be challenging at times. Everyone needs a little support as they walk their own unique path. Allow me the opportunity to walk with you on your journey. Together, we will discover your peace. Journey to Peace Counseling offers a safe supportive atmosphere that allows clients to explore his or her own thoughts and feelings without judgment.
(615) 492-2724 View (615) 492-2724
Photo of Sherry Knox - ReNew Me Counseling Service, LLC, MEd, NCC, LPC, MHSP-S, BCTMH, Licensed Professional Counselor
ReNew Me Counseling Service, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, NCC, LPC, MHSP-S, BCTMH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Murfreesboro, TN 37130  (Online Only)
Are you ready to get clarity in some area(s) of your life? Is your life burdened with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, indecisiveness, family/relationship issues, or any other concerns? Congratulations! You have made a good decision for your life that you are ready for something better. James Baldwin wrote, "Not everything that is faced can be changed, But nothing can be changed until it is faced." Let the professionals at ReNew Me Counseling be the change agents to guide you to focus on your own personal growth.
Are you ready to get clarity in some area(s) of your life? Is your life burdened with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, indecisiveness, family/relationship issues, or any other concerns? Congratulations! You have made a good decision for your life that you are ready for something better. James Baldwin wrote, "Not everything that is faced can be changed, But nothing can be changed until it is faced." Let the professionals at ReNew Me Counseling be the change agents to guide you to focus on your own personal growth.
(629) 249-6746 View (629) 249-6746
Photo of Andrew E Savage, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Andrew E Savage
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Murfreesboro, TN 37129
With a wealth of experience, I specialize in treating a wide range of mental health challenges, such as depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, anger management, grief, couples counseling, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
As a dedicated and compassionate counselor, my approach is rooted in various therapeutic modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Positive Psychology, Person Centered Therapy, Logotherapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
With a wealth of experience, I specialize in treating a wide range of mental health challenges, such as depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, anger management, grief, couples counseling, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
As a dedicated and compassionate counselor, my approach is rooted in various therapeutic modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Positive Psychology, Person Centered Therapy, Logotherapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
(615) 471-7508 View (615) 471-7508
Photo of Breanna Bell, MA, SrLPE
Breanna Bell
MA, SrLPE
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Murfreesboro, TN 37129
I have specialized training from the Gottman Institute in Seattle Washington for couples and marriage therapy to includes gay and lesbian couples.
Are you looking for effective counseling techniques, experience and excellence in counseling? I have been practicing for 20+ years, have trained throughout those years in proven techniques including cognitive behavioral therapy, reality therapy, mindfulness and meditative therapies, positive psychology, emotional intelligence and intimacy building, and I have specialized training for marriage, couples and family therapy. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, relationship or any adjustment issue (illness/grief/loss, divorce, or any life transition) we will work together to implement known techniques that address and improve your life experience. All individuals are welcome. I do not discriminate based on any factor.
I have specialized training from the Gottman Institute in Seattle Washington for couples and marriage therapy to includes gay and lesbian couples.
Are you looking for effective counseling techniques, experience and excellence in counseling? I have been practicing for 20+ years, have trained throughout those years in proven techniques including cognitive behavioral therapy, reality therapy, mindfulness and meditative therapies, positive psychology, emotional intelligence and intimacy building, and I have specialized training for marriage, couples and family therapy. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, relationship or any adjustment issue (illness/grief/loss, divorce, or any life transition) we will work together to implement known techniques that address and improve your life experience. All individuals are welcome. I do not discriminate based on any factor.
(615) 864-9348 View (615) 864-9348
Photo of Rhonda D Johnson - Counseling & Relationship Center of Murfreesboro, LCSW, Rhonda, Johnson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Counseling & Relationship Center of Murfreesboro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, Rhonda, Johnson
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Murfreesboro, TN 37130
Relationships can be a source of great joy and comfort. When they get off track our life becomes unsettled and nothing feels right. I enjoy helping couples get back on track, solve conflicts and reclaim their connection. I do not discriminate against any individual on the basis of race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation or gender identity. I am an attentive listener and am invested in helping you get your relationship back on track.
Relationships can be a source of great joy and comfort. When they get off track our life becomes unsettled and nothing feels right. I enjoy helping couples get back on track, solve conflicts and reclaim their connection. I do not discriminate against any individual on the basis of race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation or gender identity. I am an attentive listener and am invested in helping you get your relationship back on track.
(615) 538-0274 View (615) 538-0274
Photo of Dakota Lawrence - Mind The Gap, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mind The Gap
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Murfreesboro, TN 37130
We partner with you to build meaningful connections and pathways for strength-based outcomes all through an integrative approach tailored specifically to meet YOUR needs.
Tired of "just talk" therapy? Mind the Gap offers holistic, integrative mental health practice that tailors therapy to meet your unique needs. Our team of providers are specialize in bridging the gap between mind and body. If you're wrestling with the chronic fatigue of depression, constantly waiting for the next shoe to drop, grieving the loss of life caused by chronic pain, or feel overwhelmed by your what's happening around you, we can help.
We partner with you to build meaningful connections and pathways for strength-based outcomes all through an integrative approach tailored specifically to meet YOUR needs.
Tired of "just talk" therapy? Mind the Gap offers holistic, integrative mental health practice that tailors therapy to meet your unique needs. Our team of providers are specialize in bridging the gap between mind and body. If you're wrestling with the chronic fatigue of depression, constantly waiting for the next shoe to drop, grieving the loss of life caused by chronic pain, or feel overwhelmed by your what's happening around you, we can help.
(615) 488-5601 View (615) 488-5601
Photo of Angie (Angelique) Davis, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Angie (Angelique) Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Murfreesboro, TN 37130
I have over 24 years of experience in dealing with children and families, teens, adults, and couples.
Life can be hard, and sometimes we need some extra help and support to get through those difficult times. Whether it's dealing with young children or teenagers, relationship or family issues, anxiety or depression, the challenges of college life or jobs, or the curve ball that life throws at us, it can be stressful to manage, and can be helpful to have someone outside of the situation to talk with.
I have over 24 years of experience in dealing with children and families, teens, adults, and couples.
Life can be hard, and sometimes we need some extra help and support to get through those difficult times. Whether it's dealing with young children or teenagers, relationship or family issues, anxiety or depression, the challenges of college life or jobs, or the curve ball that life throws at us, it can be stressful to manage, and can be helpful to have someone outside of the situation to talk with.
(615) 235-1628 View (615) 235-1628
Photo of Carissa Seaton, MA, MMFT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Carissa Seaton
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Murfreesboro, TN 37128
My goal is to build a strong therapeutic relationship grounded in collaboration, empathy, and trust. Committed to seeing each client as unique, I practice from a strength based and person-centered approach so you can get to your best self and experience lasting change. My clients rely on me to help make sense of the issues bringing them into therapy and also better understand how their family of origin, upbringing, and life experiences have impacted and continue to impact their mental well-being. I work with children, adolescents, teens, adults, couples, and families who may be experiencing a number of struggles or challenges.
My goal is to build a strong therapeutic relationship grounded in collaboration, empathy, and trust. Committed to seeing each client as unique, I practice from a strength based and person-centered approach so you can get to your best self and experience lasting change. My clients rely on me to help make sense of the issues bringing them into therapy and also better understand how their family of origin, upbringing, and life experiences have impacted and continue to impact their mental well-being. I work with children, adolescents, teens, adults, couples, and families who may be experiencing a number of struggles or challenges.
(615) 703-4971 View (615) 703-4971
Photo of Melanie Hayden, MSEd, LADACII, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Melanie Hayden
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MSEd, LADACII
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Murfreesboro, TN 37129
Waitlist for new clients
Through various approaches that meet your needs, we will work towards a therapeutic relationship that will compassionately empower you as the individual.
My goal is to provide you with a safe environment that will give you the opportunity to heal. I am committed to helping you navigate through life’s trials, challenges, and find resolution by treating the whole person; mind, body, and spirit.
Through various approaches that meet your needs, we will work towards a therapeutic relationship that will compassionately empower you as the individual.
My goal is to provide you with a safe environment that will give you the opportunity to heal. I am committed to helping you navigate through life’s trials, challenges, and find resolution by treating the whole person; mind, body, and spirit.
(615) 857-3367 View (615) 857-3367
Photo of Jennifer Pascual, LMSW, CSAT-C
Jennifer Pascual
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW, CSAT-C
Verified Verified
Murfreesboro, TN 37128
I offer in-person or virtual sessions for individuals, couples, and families, and open and closed groups.
I am a Licensed Master's Social Worker and have 20 years of experience with TN Department of Children's Services including extensive training, knowledge, and experience in working with children, couples, and families healing from trauma, abuse, and addiction. It is a sacred experience to hear, believe, and understand my client's experience. I enjoy working with couples and helping them gain new perspectives. Using a practical approach to behavior change, I am committed to helping my clients reach their goals for healthy minds and spirits.
I offer in-person or virtual sessions for individuals, couples, and families, and open and closed groups.
I am a Licensed Master's Social Worker and have 20 years of experience with TN Department of Children's Services including extensive training, knowledge, and experience in working with children, couples, and families healing from trauma, abuse, and addiction. It is a sacred experience to hear, believe, and understand my client's experience. I enjoy working with couples and helping them gain new perspectives. Using a practical approach to behavior change, I am committed to helping my clients reach their goals for healthy minds and spirits.
(615) 857-3860 View (615) 857-3860
Photo of Allison Hunnicutt, LMFT, CCTP, CSAT-S, CMAT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Allison Hunnicutt
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CCTP, CSAT-S, CMAT
Verified Verified
Murfreesboro, TN 37128
I have furthered my education by receiving specialized training in Addiction, Trauma, and Relationship Disorders.
In my personal and professional life, I have found one thing to be true: Life can be hard. I have a passion for supporting others in resolving pain and reclaiming fullness in life. While pain is an inevitable part of the human experience, suffering is optional. I am dedicated to helping individuals, couples, and families heal from relational and other traumas, problematic sexual behaviors, addictions, and intimacy disorders. I see men and women whose lives have spiraled out of control become desperate for help. I see brokenhearted adults and children as they learn to cope with an unstable world. My heart is to heal the broken hearted and give hope where hope was once lost.
I have furthered my education by receiving specialized training in Addiction, Trauma, and Relationship Disorders.
In my personal and professional life, I have found one thing to be true: Life can be hard. I have a passion for supporting others in resolving pain and reclaiming fullness in life. While pain is an inevitable part of the human experience, suffering is optional. I am dedicated to helping individuals, couples, and families heal from relational and other traumas, problematic sexual behaviors, addictions, and intimacy disorders. I see men and women whose lives have spiraled out of control become desperate for help. I see brokenhearted adults and children as they learn to cope with an unstable world. My heart is to heal the broken hearted and give hope where hope was once lost.
(615) 488-5389 View (615) 488-5389
Photo of Ellen K Slicker, PhD, HSP, RPT-S, Psychologist
Ellen K Slicker
Psychologist, PhD, HSP, RPT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Murfreesboro, TN 37129
Whether you are dealing with problems from a dysfunctional family of origin, women's issues, men's issues, marital issues, relationship issues, anxiety, depressed mood, ADHD, I seek clients who are willing to work to make changes in themselves through cognitive-behavioral counseling rather than those who only want others to change.
A large part of my practice centers around working with families and helping parents of children who may be having behavior problems at home or at school and working with the children and adolescents themselves. I incorporate child-centered play therapy with young children as well as Adlerian and behavioral concepts with parents. I am a licensed psychologist with Health Service Provider in Psychology credential, a Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor, and a retired MTSU professor after teaching in the Professional Counseling Program for 25+ years. In addition to helping families, I also work extensively with couples and individuals who may be experiencing a variety of problematic daily living situations.
Whether you are dealing with problems from a dysfunctional family of origin, women's issues, men's issues, marital issues, relationship issues, anxiety, depressed mood, ADHD, I seek clients who are willing to work to make changes in themselves through cognitive-behavioral counseling rather than those who only want others to change.
A large part of my practice centers around working with families and helping parents of children who may be having behavior problems at home or at school and working with the children and adolescents themselves. I incorporate child-centered play therapy with young children as well as Adlerian and behavioral concepts with parents. I am a licensed psychologist with Health Service Provider in Psychology credential, a Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor, and a retired MTSU professor after teaching in the Professional Counseling Program for 25+ years. In addition to helping families, I also work extensively with couples and individuals who may be experiencing a variety of problematic daily living situations.
(615) 763-4975 View (615) 763-4975
Photo of John Philip Rogers, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
John Philip Rogers
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Murfreesboro, TN 37128
I work with highly motivated individuals and couples who have decided they want to do something different.
How many times have you been at the end of your rope with seemingly no where to turn? How many times have you made statements like: "I have got to do something different," "I am tired of the merry-go-round," and each time with the best intentions? Many times we get stuck in the same patterns of behaviors or interactions and have no idea how to stop or change that pattern. Many times we try and try but to no avail. Well congratulations! You have taken the first step toward that change you have long wanted!
I work with highly motivated individuals and couples who have decided they want to do something different.
How many times have you been at the end of your rope with seemingly no where to turn? How many times have you made statements like: "I have got to do something different," "I am tired of the merry-go-round," and each time with the best intentions? Many times we get stuck in the same patterns of behaviors or interactions and have no idea how to stop or change that pattern. Many times we try and try but to no avail. Well congratulations! You have taken the first step toward that change you have long wanted!
(615) 379-0620 View (615) 379-0620
Photo of Melissa T. Dees, MA, LPC, MHSP, Counselor
Melissa T. Dees
Counselor, MA, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Murfreesboro, TN 37129
My experience has also taught me the irreplaceable value of a strong therapeutic relationship.
Thoreau said "There are a thousand hacking at the branches to every one striking at the root." In therapy, I believe our most valuable work is striking at the root of issues rather than hacking merely at the many branches/symptoms of the root. This latter approach often leads to resolving one manifestation of a problem only to experience new manifestations down the road. Whether the symptoms are anxiety, depression, addictions, or maladaptive relationships, it is worthwhile to examine the deeper sources of our pain. One of my primary roles will be to provide a steadfast ground of compassion, patience, and truth for your work.
My experience has also taught me the irreplaceable value of a strong therapeutic relationship.
Thoreau said "There are a thousand hacking at the branches to every one striking at the root." In therapy, I believe our most valuable work is striking at the root of issues rather than hacking merely at the many branches/symptoms of the root. This latter approach often leads to resolving one manifestation of a problem only to experience new manifestations down the road. Whether the symptoms are anxiety, depression, addictions, or maladaptive relationships, it is worthwhile to examine the deeper sources of our pain. One of my primary roles will be to provide a steadfast ground of compassion, patience, and truth for your work.
(615) 237-5870 View (615) 237-5870
Photo of Samantha Campbell, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Samantha Campbell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Murfreesboro, TN 37128
I work with individuals, families, couples, and individuals who suffer from symptoms of depression anxiety, other mood disorders, personality disorders, and thought disorders, those who suffer from trauma (i.
Accepting new clients! Every name has a story and every story is worth telling. Finding the best fit for a new therapist can be challenging and scary as you step into a place of vulnerability. We all experience challenging seasons and chapters in our lives and sometimes we need support and guidance to navigate through them. I'm passionate about helping people write their own stories, learn how to move through emotions, embrace where they are at, and gain the skills to thrive and live life abundantly.
I work with individuals, families, couples, and individuals who suffer from symptoms of depression anxiety, other mood disorders, personality disorders, and thought disorders, those who suffer from trauma (i.
Accepting new clients! Every name has a story and every story is worth telling. Finding the best fit for a new therapist can be challenging and scary as you step into a place of vulnerability. We all experience challenging seasons and chapters in our lives and sometimes we need support and guidance to navigate through them. I'm passionate about helping people write their own stories, learn how to move through emotions, embrace where they are at, and gain the skills to thrive and live life abundantly.
(615) 703-6467 View (615) 703-6467

See more therapy options for Murfreesboro

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.