Couples Counseling Therapists in Manila, UT

Photo of Jesse P. Higgins, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jesse P. Higgins
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Manila, UT 84046
I have extensive education and experience in working with individuals, couples, and families as Certified Family Life Educator.
I work to meet the unique needs of the Uintah Basin by offering flexible scheduling including evenings and internet video services. I specialize in overcoming difficult personal and relationship problems, including problems related to trauma, sexuality, and addiction. As a researcher on parenting and adolescent development, I also study how parents can most effectively influence their adolescents to become their best selves. I am also experienced in managing adolescent self-harm behaviors and suicidal thoughts.
I have extensive education and experience in working with individuals, couples, and families as Certified Family Life Educator.
I work to meet the unique needs of the Uintah Basin by offering flexible scheduling including evenings and internet video services. I specialize in overcoming difficult personal and relationship problems, including problems related to trauma, sexuality, and addiction. As a researcher on parenting and adolescent development, I also study how parents can most effectively influence their adolescents to become their best selves. I am also experienced in managing adolescent self-harm behaviors and suicidal thoughts.
(435) 790-6377 View (435) 790-6377
Photo of Louise P Warburton, CSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Louise P Warburton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSW
Verified Verified
Manila, UT 84046
I specialize in treating trauma, relationship problems, depression, anxiety, and behavior issues in children and adults.
We heal through connections and attachment with others. I aim to create a safe place to build meaningful connections and heal from trauma and emotional pain using evidence-based treatments. Everyone deserves to be valued, respected, and have a healthy connection to another human being. We cannot heal alone, and together, we are strong and unstoppable.
I specialize in treating trauma, relationship problems, depression, anxiety, and behavior issues in children and adults.
We heal through connections and attachment with others. I aim to create a safe place to build meaningful connections and heal from trauma and emotional pain using evidence-based treatments. Everyone deserves to be valued, respected, and have a healthy connection to another human being. We cannot heal alone, and together, we are strong and unstoppable.
(435) 219-5873 View (435) 219-5873

Online Therapists

Photo of Megan Perry, MA, CMHC, LCPC, Counselor
Megan Perry
Counselor, MA, CMHC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Heber City, UT 84032
I have experience working with anxiety, panic attacks, social anxiety, OCD, self esteem, depression, mood regulation, life transitions, grief, trauma, relationship problems/boundary setting.
I offer counseling to individuals via Telehealth. I would love to be a part of your journey, helping you identify strengths and areas that need a new perspective with fresh eyes. I want to help you create new systems that allow you to live more authentically and effectively. You are the expert in your life and I happen to have some good tools and coping skills I can give you - so you don’t have to reinvent the wheel. I want to empower you to live the life you want by reflecting in a safe space and getting comfortable with small doses of challenge.
I have experience working with anxiety, panic attacks, social anxiety, OCD, self esteem, depression, mood regulation, life transitions, grief, trauma, relationship problems/boundary setting.
I offer counseling to individuals via Telehealth. I would love to be a part of your journey, helping you identify strengths and areas that need a new perspective with fresh eyes. I want to help you create new systems that allow you to live more authentically and effectively. You are the expert in your life and I happen to have some good tools and coping skills I can give you - so you don’t have to reinvent the wheel. I want to empower you to live the life you want by reflecting in a safe space and getting comfortable with small doses of challenge.
(385) 786-8710 View (385) 786-8710
Photo of Tracy Washington, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tracy Washington
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Heber City, UT 84032
I am passionate about helping people heal, improve connection with others, transition through difficult life changes, find hope, meaning, and purpose, and achieve better overall health and well-being. I used a strengths- and attachment-based approach that is personalized to each client’s individual preferences and needs. I specialize in trauma, relationships, attachment, depression, and anxiety. I mainly work with adults and couples.
I am passionate about helping people heal, improve connection with others, transition through difficult life changes, find hope, meaning, and purpose, and achieve better overall health and well-being. I used a strengths- and attachment-based approach that is personalized to each client’s individual preferences and needs. I specialize in trauma, relationships, attachment, depression, and anxiety. I mainly work with adults and couples.
(435) 292-4981 View (435) 292-4981
Photo of Max Gale, PsyD, Psychologist
Max Gale
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Park City, UT 84098
Each week I work with couples, adults, teens and parents to navigate life more effectively.
Satisfaction and happiness with yourself and the relationships that surround you are often what a client finds troubling them underneath the stress of life. Sometimes you feel alone in this stress, sometimes you feel surrounded by others though they don't really know you, and other times you have a handle on most things but just can't sustain feeling satisfied and happy with what you have. Finding yourself looking through therapist profiles, this profile, means you are on the path of change. Next step, set an appointment with the therapist that feels right and has skills and experience to actively guide you on a path of change.
Each week I work with couples, adults, teens and parents to navigate life more effectively.
Satisfaction and happiness with yourself and the relationships that surround you are often what a client finds troubling them underneath the stress of life. Sometimes you feel alone in this stress, sometimes you feel surrounded by others though they don't really know you, and other times you have a handle on most things but just can't sustain feeling satisfied and happy with what you have. Finding yourself looking through therapist profiles, this profile, means you are on the path of change. Next step, set an appointment with the therapist that feels right and has skills and experience to actively guide you on a path of change.
(435) 252-9906 View (435) 252-9906
Photo of Jessica Dell, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Dell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Park City, UT 84098  (Online Only)
I believe the therapeutic relationship is one of the most valuable tools to promote positive changes.
In order to provide unique and individualized care, I offer a multitude of services such as individual therapy, family therapy, couples counseling, and group therapy. I am licensed to treat clients in both Florida and Utah and I believe in alternative ways of conducting therapy based on the needs of my clients. I have spent the vast majority of my career supporting and counseling clients facing issues ranging from eating disorders and addictions, couples/family conflict, and mood disorders.
I believe the therapeutic relationship is one of the most valuable tools to promote positive changes.
In order to provide unique and individualized care, I offer a multitude of services such as individual therapy, family therapy, couples counseling, and group therapy. I am licensed to treat clients in both Florida and Utah and I believe in alternative ways of conducting therapy based on the needs of my clients. I have spent the vast majority of my career supporting and counseling clients facing issues ranging from eating disorders and addictions, couples/family conflict, and mood disorders.
(801) 872-9058 View (801) 872-9058
Photo of Dr. Katie Grace MacElveen, PhD, LCMHC, Counselor
Dr. Katie Grace MacElveen
Counselor, PhD, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Park City, UT 84098  (Online Only)
I have training in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), the most well-researched/successful form of couple/ relationship therapy.
We experience difficulties. We are all worthy of love and belonging. I provide a safe haven, a supportive non-judgmental place to grow and heal. I enjoy sharing the journey as motivated individuals and couples release patterns which no longer serve them, while discovering their strengths, resilience, goals, and, new ways of being and sharing. Sometimes, we need to acknowledge our limitations and reach for help to find our way. I am here for clients as they explore feelings and needs, and discover paths to more vibrant, connected lives ~ while making changes, or being with "what is" with new perspectives.
I have training in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), the most well-researched/successful form of couple/ relationship therapy.
We experience difficulties. We are all worthy of love and belonging. I provide a safe haven, a supportive non-judgmental place to grow and heal. I enjoy sharing the journey as motivated individuals and couples release patterns which no longer serve them, while discovering their strengths, resilience, goals, and, new ways of being and sharing. Sometimes, we need to acknowledge our limitations and reach for help to find our way. I am here for clients as they explore feelings and needs, and discover paths to more vibrant, connected lives ~ while making changes, or being with "what is" with new perspectives.
(385) 215-8672 View (385) 215-8672
Photo of Susanna Carlson, LCSW, CST, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susanna Carlson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CST
Verified Verified
Park City, UT 84060  (Online Only)
Relationship transitions can be difficult to navigate on your own.
I am dedicated to providing meaningful VIRTUAL psychotherapy and counseling. As an established and experienced therapist, I treat adults, as well as adolescents, and create a compassionate and judgment-free space for you to explore your most intimate challenges. I am an AASECT Certified Sex Therapist who has first-hand experience with the transformative power of therapy and the meaningful ways it can heal and repair your relationships as well as create lasting intimacy. EMDR Trained.
Relationship transitions can be difficult to navigate on your own.
I am dedicated to providing meaningful VIRTUAL psychotherapy and counseling. As an established and experienced therapist, I treat adults, as well as adolescents, and create a compassionate and judgment-free space for you to explore your most intimate challenges. I am an AASECT Certified Sex Therapist who has first-hand experience with the transformative power of therapy and the meaningful ways it can heal and repair your relationships as well as create lasting intimacy. EMDR Trained.
(310) 620-9785 View (310) 620-9785
Photo of Patty Martinez, CMHC, Counselor
Patty Martinez
Counselor, CMHC
Verified Verified
Park City, UT 84098
I also have experience in Family and Couples therapy, Individual therapy, as well as mental health issues related to Mood and Drug and Alcohol disorders.
Hello! I'm Patty Martinez. I'm from Utah. I love the outdoors and enjoy the peace nature can bring. I also authentically enjoy working with people that are ready to make changes in their life. We all have our own expectation of what happiness and being normal all are. I'm not here to tell you what those are or to judge you for what you believe your joy or happiness is. However if there are parts of your life you'd like to change or would like to feel differently about through therapy I would like to help. At this time I am not working with any health insurance companies. I do work with HSA and take most credit cards and cash
I also have experience in Family and Couples therapy, Individual therapy, as well as mental health issues related to Mood and Drug and Alcohol disorders.
Hello! I'm Patty Martinez. I'm from Utah. I love the outdoors and enjoy the peace nature can bring. I also authentically enjoy working with people that are ready to make changes in their life. We all have our own expectation of what happiness and being normal all are. I'm not here to tell you what those are or to judge you for what you believe your joy or happiness is. However if there are parts of your life you'd like to change or would like to feel differently about through therapy I would like to help. At this time I am not working with any health insurance companies. I do work with HSA and take most credit cards and cash
(385) 332-8453 View (385) 332-8453
Photo of Shannon Smietana Boxley, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Shannon Smietana Boxley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Park City, UT 84098
Waitlist for new clients
My couples and family work includes the relationship span.
With regards to therapy, I tend to think in terms of months, not years. My role is to help clients get on a track that will lead to resolution of whatever brings them to therapy. I do not look for pathology or blame; rather, I try to help people build on their strengths. I also try to help individuals develop strategies and identify resources that work best for their unique situation.
My couples and family work includes the relationship span.
With regards to therapy, I tend to think in terms of months, not years. My role is to help clients get on a track that will lead to resolution of whatever brings them to therapy. I do not look for pathology or blame; rather, I try to help people build on their strengths. I also try to help individuals develop strategies and identify resources that work best for their unique situation.
(435) 571-0844 View (435) 571-0844
Photo of Phillip Candland, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Phillip Candland
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Vernal, UT 84078
I have empathy and compassion for couples that feel disconnected or are struggling.
Thank you for making yourself and your relationship a priority. I'm honored to join you in exploring greater compassion, understanding, and connection in your relationship. I strive to provide a comfortable, safe and nurturing setting where your story is heard and your feelings are validated. With me you’ll find no judgment, only compassion. Together we’ll gently unravel the emotions that lie hidden beneath the surface, and understand the complexities of your experiences. We'll create a space where vulnerability becomes safe, communication is comfortable, trust is rebuilt, connections are established and love is strengthened.
I have empathy and compassion for couples that feel disconnected or are struggling.
Thank you for making yourself and your relationship a priority. I'm honored to join you in exploring greater compassion, understanding, and connection in your relationship. I strive to provide a comfortable, safe and nurturing setting where your story is heard and your feelings are validated. With me you’ll find no judgment, only compassion. Together we’ll gently unravel the emotions that lie hidden beneath the surface, and understand the complexities of your experiences. We'll create a space where vulnerability becomes safe, communication is comfortable, trust is rebuilt, connections are established and love is strengthened.
(435) 236-2931 View (435) 236-2931
Photo of Donn Peters, PsyD, Psychologist
Donn Peters
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Park City, UT 84098
While each person's situation is unique, especially as to exactly what has broken down, I work with couples to help them understand what it is that has broken down and therefore how to resolve the issues that bring misunderstanding and conflict to their lives.
In 30+ years as a couples therapist, I've helped many couples work through problems to create the kind of partnership they truly want. Most couples tell me that they want to feel connected with their partner again; to stop the 'same old arguments' from cycling over and over; to stop living like roommates; to end the painful silences; to feel heard and understood; and to feel hopeful, and happy again.
While each person's situation is unique, especially as to exactly what has broken down, I work with couples to help them understand what it is that has broken down and therefore how to resolve the issues that bring misunderstanding and conflict to their lives.
In 30+ years as a couples therapist, I've helped many couples work through problems to create the kind of partnership they truly want. Most couples tell me that they want to feel connected with their partner again; to stop the 'same old arguments' from cycling over and over; to stop living like roommates; to end the painful silences; to feel heard and understood; and to feel hopeful, and happy again.
(435) 610-1995 View (435) 610-1995
Photo of Cheryl Valley McBride - Heber Valley Healing, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heber Valley Healing
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Heber City, UT 84032
I love the resilience of the human spirit! My name is Cheryl McBride, LCSW, and my passion is helping those struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, eating disorders, and other mental health issues. I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and families. I love seeing people realize their true identity and potential, and empowering them to heal and make positive changes in their lives. My approach is kind and supportive, yet encouraging to those I work with in taking personal responsibility to assist their progress during the therapeutic and change process.
I love the resilience of the human spirit! My name is Cheryl McBride, LCSW, and my passion is helping those struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, eating disorders, and other mental health issues. I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and families. I love seeing people realize their true identity and potential, and empowering them to heal and make positive changes in their lives. My approach is kind and supportive, yet encouraging to those I work with in taking personal responsibility to assist their progress during the therapeutic and change process.
(435) 246-7819 View (435) 246-7819
Photo of Nicole Vobora, LCMHC, Counselor
Nicole Vobora
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Park City, UT 84060
Therapy can be hard work but the outcome can be life-changing for individuals and couples.
I specialize in individual and couples therapy, with a focus on Christian counseling, however, I work with clients of all faiths and beliefs. I integrate Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), and the Gottman Method to provide comprehensive, compassionate care. My goal is to help you navigate life's challenges, improve relationships, and achieve personal growth, all within a supportive and faith-respecting environment. Let's work together to create positive, lasting change in your life.
Therapy can be hard work but the outcome can be life-changing for individuals and couples.
I specialize in individual and couples therapy, with a focus on Christian counseling, however, I work with clients of all faiths and beliefs. I integrate Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), and the Gottman Method to provide comprehensive, compassionate care. My goal is to help you navigate life's challenges, improve relationships, and achieve personal growth, all within a supportive and faith-respecting environment. Let's work together to create positive, lasting change in your life.
(435) 441-4006 View (435) 441-4006
Photo of Dr. Jacqueline Hyde - Jacqueline Hyde Psy.D., PsyD, CMHC, Counselor
Jacqueline Hyde Psy.D.
Counselor, PsyD, CMHC
Verified Verified
Park City, UT 84098
My clinical training and experience has prepared me to work with couples, adults, adolescents, and children.
"I offer an integrated, creative approach to psychotherapy focusing on the unique needs, interests and vitality of each of my clients.I am dedicated to processes that help individuals discover new solutions to difficult life challenges and achieve important life dreams and goals. I am committed to nonjudgmental, optimistic, realistic approaches. As no single method suits everyone, my own approach draws from energy and positive psychology, attachment theory, humanistic, existential, and depth psychology. I offer Solution-Focused Brief Therapies as well as long term continuous care. We can meet in my private office or get outside for alternative settings such as hiking, walking, snowshoeing, etc.
My clinical training and experience has prepared me to work with couples, adults, adolescents, and children.
"I offer an integrated, creative approach to psychotherapy focusing on the unique needs, interests and vitality of each of my clients.I am dedicated to processes that help individuals discover new solutions to difficult life challenges and achieve important life dreams and goals. I am committed to nonjudgmental, optimistic, realistic approaches. As no single method suits everyone, my own approach draws from energy and positive psychology, attachment theory, humanistic, existential, and depth psychology. I offer Solution-Focused Brief Therapies as well as long term continuous care. We can meet in my private office or get outside for alternative settings such as hiking, walking, snowshoeing, etc.
(435) 659-2656 View (435) 659-2656
Photo of Anika Prows, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Anika Prows
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Heber City, UT 84032
My theoretical foundations include aspects of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Narrative Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and Gottman Method Couples Therapy.
Sometimes life throws us for a loop–we get into an unexpected situation, a loved one passes away, our relationships are fraught with contention–and we feel stuck. When this happens, you don’t have to figure everything out alone. Loneliness and isolation make things worse. When clients work collaboratively with me, I help them find hope, move elegantly through life’s obstacles, and rekindle their passions. I work with a variety of presenting problems, including anxiety, depression, couple and family issues, step-family issues, and parent-child relational issues.
My theoretical foundations include aspects of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Narrative Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and Gottman Method Couples Therapy.
Sometimes life throws us for a loop–we get into an unexpected situation, a loved one passes away, our relationships are fraught with contention–and we feel stuck. When this happens, you don’t have to figure everything out alone. Loneliness and isolation make things worse. When clients work collaboratively with me, I help them find hope, move elegantly through life’s obstacles, and rekindle their passions. I work with a variety of presenting problems, including anxiety, depression, couple and family issues, step-family issues, and parent-child relational issues.
(385) 787-6023 View (385) 787-6023
Photo of Michelle Kelly, LCMHC, LPCC, Counselor
Michelle Kelly
Counselor, LCMHC, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Park City, UT 84098
I work exclusively with highly motivated individuals, couples+ and the LGBTQIA+ community.
Your past & your present don't define you. You can heal. You can evolve. You can thrive. Your unique experience matters! Hi, I’m Michelle Kelly, founder of POW Therapy. I’m committed to assisting you in achieving sustained healing, optimal wellness & joyful authenticity within yourself, your relationships & the energy you bring to the world. You deserve to feel safe, comfortable, confident, inspired & free to be you!
I work exclusively with highly motivated individuals, couples+ and the LGBTQIA+ community.
Your past & your present don't define you. You can heal. You can evolve. You can thrive. Your unique experience matters! Hi, I’m Michelle Kelly, founder of POW Therapy. I’m committed to assisting you in achieving sustained healing, optimal wellness & joyful authenticity within yourself, your relationships & the energy you bring to the world. You deserve to feel safe, comfortable, confident, inspired & free to be you!
(435) 254-4168 View (435) 254-4168
Photo of Wendy M Troxel, PhD, CBSM, Psychologist
Wendy M Troxel
Psychologist, PhD, CBSM
Verified Verified
Park City, UT 84098
Waitlist for new clients
Using cognitive-behavioral techniques, instead of medications, I help clients achieve good quality, restful sleep, which can improve overall physical and mental health and relationship health.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist and author of “Sharing the Covers: Every Couple’s Guide to Better Sleep. I am a certified behavioral sleep medicine specialist, with over 15 years of clinical experience and specialty training in sleep medicine. I provide cognitive-behavioral treatment for sleep problems and disorders. My work has been featured by major news outlets, including WSJ, NY Times, ABC News, and National Geographic, and my TEDx talk on adolescent sleep has been viewed over 2 million times. I am passionate about helping people improve sleep to improve their productivity, health, and well-being.
Using cognitive-behavioral techniques, instead of medications, I help clients achieve good quality, restful sleep, which can improve overall physical and mental health and relationship health.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist and author of “Sharing the Covers: Every Couple’s Guide to Better Sleep. I am a certified behavioral sleep medicine specialist, with over 15 years of clinical experience and specialty training in sleep medicine. I provide cognitive-behavioral treatment for sleep problems and disorders. My work has been featured by major news outlets, including WSJ, NY Times, ABC News, and National Geographic, and my TEDx talk on adolescent sleep has been viewed over 2 million times. I am passionate about helping people improve sleep to improve their productivity, health, and well-being.
(435) 441-4324 View (435) 441-4324
Photo of Liza Sanderson, PsyD, CMHC, NCSP, NCC, LPC, Counselor
Liza Sanderson
Counselor, PsyD, CMHC, NCSP, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Kamas, UT 84036  (Online Only)
I have certifications in DBT, EMDR, Trauma Focused Therapy, MRT, Evaluations, Domestic Violence, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Gottman Couples Therapy, Addictions, and PlayTherapy.
As a mental health counselor, it has always been my privilege to work alongside clients. I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship and the connection that derives our humanity. Each individual has such a personal experience in which their life has been based. I believe in meeting clients where they are at, working toward personal goals, tailoring interventions to meet these needs, and challenging individuals to make changes that ultimately lead to the development of a life in which they feel they can thrive.
I have certifications in DBT, EMDR, Trauma Focused Therapy, MRT, Evaluations, Domestic Violence, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Gottman Couples Therapy, Addictions, and PlayTherapy.
As a mental health counselor, it has always been my privilege to work alongside clients. I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship and the connection that derives our humanity. Each individual has such a personal experience in which their life has been based. I believe in meeting clients where they are at, working toward personal goals, tailoring interventions to meet these needs, and challenging individuals to make changes that ultimately lead to the development of a life in which they feel they can thrive.
(801) 666-2524 View (801) 666-2524
Photo of Jared D Froerer, MEd, LMHC, Counselor
Jared D Froerer
Counselor, MEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Park City, UT 84098
I have had the opportunity to help countless couples become aware of, and avoid common mistakes and obstacles that might be preventing them from developing a really healthy relationship! I look forward to hearing from you and helping you achieve your goals of a healthy relationship.
Are you thinking about taking your relationship to the next level but want to make sure you and your significant other are on a path that will result in a strong and lasting relationship? I am a strong believer in pre-marital / pre-commitment counseling and education! Relationships should not be complicated and difficult IF both parties involved are willing to abide by proven principles that will result in a healthy long-term relationship. I specialize in both pre-marital and regular couples counseling with many years of experience helping couples develop healthy relationship dynamics that will help their relationship thrive!
I have had the opportunity to help countless couples become aware of, and avoid common mistakes and obstacles that might be preventing them from developing a really healthy relationship! I look forward to hearing from you and helping you achieve your goals of a healthy relationship.
Are you thinking about taking your relationship to the next level but want to make sure you and your significant other are on a path that will result in a strong and lasting relationship? I am a strong believer in pre-marital / pre-commitment counseling and education! Relationships should not be complicated and difficult IF both parties involved are willing to abide by proven principles that will result in a healthy long-term relationship. I specialize in both pre-marital and regular couples counseling with many years of experience helping couples develop healthy relationship dynamics that will help their relationship thrive!
(385) 832-7222 View (385) 832-7222

See more therapy options for Manila

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.