Couples Counseling Therapists in Bristol, VA

Photo of Kristy Walker - Restorative Mind Counseling, Pllc - Kristy Walker, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Restorative Mind Counseling, Pllc - Kristy Walker
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Bristol, VA 24201
Waitlist for new clients
Are you ready to manage the stressors in your life and embrace a future filled with possibilities? Do you see your child or teen struggling, but can’t seem to connect? Relationships of all types can be challenging, yet a healthy relationship with others, and yourself can become your reality.
Today's adults and kids are more connected and busier than ever, yet also feel stuck, unfulfilled, and sometimes lonely. A busy life doesn’t always mean we feel seen and heard. Sometimes life gets messy, and we put on a happy face and tell ourselves, “I will deal with that later.” Pain and loss are realities, but there aren’t lessons in school on how to handle these truths, and our lives can turn gray. The isolation of the pandemic has magnified the importance of human connection. There's something powerful about having a witness to your life story. I would be honored to help you, or your family member find their sunlight.
Are you ready to manage the stressors in your life and embrace a future filled with possibilities? Do you see your child or teen struggling, but can’t seem to connect? Relationships of all types can be challenging, yet a healthy relationship with others, and yourself can become your reality.
Today's adults and kids are more connected and busier than ever, yet also feel stuck, unfulfilled, and sometimes lonely. A busy life doesn’t always mean we feel seen and heard. Sometimes life gets messy, and we put on a happy face and tell ourselves, “I will deal with that later.” Pain and loss are realities, but there aren’t lessons in school on how to handle these truths, and our lives can turn gray. The isolation of the pandemic has magnified the importance of human connection. There's something powerful about having a witness to your life story. I would be honored to help you, or your family member find their sunlight.
(276) 409-9083 View (276) 409-9083
Photo of Keith Alan Medeiros, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Keith Alan Medeiros
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bristol, VA 24201
I have worked with clients experiencing a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, low self esteem, family conflict, addiction issues, relationship conflict, ADHD and parenting concerns.
I believe we all should be able to live as full a life as possible, rich with positive experiences and relationships. Unfortunately, sometimes things get in the way of that goal. When this happens, we may need help getting back on track. That help can come from many forms, and this is where I may be of assistance. As a counselor for eight years working with children, adolescents, adults and families, I have developed an eclectic style utilizing evidence-based treatments including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy, Structural Family Therapy and Solution Focused Brief Therapy.
I have worked with clients experiencing a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, low self esteem, family conflict, addiction issues, relationship conflict, ADHD and parenting concerns.
I believe we all should be able to live as full a life as possible, rich with positive experiences and relationships. Unfortunately, sometimes things get in the way of that goal. When this happens, we may need help getting back on track. That help can come from many forms, and this is where I may be of assistance. As a counselor for eight years working with children, adolescents, adults and families, I have developed an eclectic style utilizing evidence-based treatments including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy, Structural Family Therapy and Solution Focused Brief Therapy.
(276) 254-8743 View (276) 254-8743
Photo of Lindsay Nicole Martinez - SpringWell Group, PsyD, Psychologist
SpringWell Group
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Bristol, VA 24201
Welcome to SpringWell Group! My name is Dr. Martinez & I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist offering comprehensive psychological testing, including Court-related evaluations. I also provide relational-focused therapy from a trauma-informed & attachment-based foundation that views secure relationship & interpersonal connection as central to healing and growth. I believe people have an innate need to be seen & are capable of remarkable growth, & that with caring support they can flourish in even the most difficult times. Services at client preferred location available for high privacy.
Welcome to SpringWell Group! My name is Dr. Martinez & I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist offering comprehensive psychological testing, including Court-related evaluations. I also provide relational-focused therapy from a trauma-informed & attachment-based foundation that views secure relationship & interpersonal connection as central to healing and growth. I believe people have an innate need to be seen & are capable of remarkable growth, & that with caring support they can flourish in even the most difficult times. Services at client preferred location available for high privacy.
(423) 441-4279 View (423) 441-4279
Photo of Ebony Griffin, LCPC
Ebony Griffin
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Bristol, VA 24201
Specialty areas include: Stress - Anxiety Disorders - Depressive Disorders -Sexual Addiction - Betrayal Trauma- Abuse recovery- Childhood trauma- Substance abuse - Grief and Loss - Women's Issues - Adolescent Concerns - Divorce adjustment -Blended family integration -Couples counseling - Parent-child relationships .
Hello, I'm Ebony with ReFocus Together Counseling Services. ReFocus means to readjust your vision. Sometimes seeing a challenge or a mental illness from a different vantage point through the guidance of a professional can be very helpful and is an important step in the process of change. Envision a life free of feeling trapped by addictions, weak boundaries, trauma, or lack of self-confidence. Imagine a life filled with more hope, joy, fulfillment, and satisfaction. These are values that you can achieve if you put the effort in. I can help your achieve your goals.
Specialty areas include: Stress - Anxiety Disorders - Depressive Disorders -Sexual Addiction - Betrayal Trauma- Abuse recovery- Childhood trauma- Substance abuse - Grief and Loss - Women's Issues - Adolescent Concerns - Divorce adjustment -Blended family integration -Couples counseling - Parent-child relationships .
Hello, I'm Ebony with ReFocus Together Counseling Services. ReFocus means to readjust your vision. Sometimes seeing a challenge or a mental illness from a different vantage point through the guidance of a professional can be very helpful and is an important step in the process of change. Envision a life free of feeling trapped by addictions, weak boundaries, trauma, or lack of self-confidence. Imagine a life filled with more hope, joy, fulfillment, and satisfaction. These are values that you can achieve if you put the effort in. I can help your achieve your goals.
(301) 307-5513 View (301) 307-5513
Photo of Laura Pritchard-Compton, MEd, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Laura Pritchard-Compton
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd, MSW
Verified Verified
Bristol, VA 24201
No matter your relationship desires, I am eager to help you lead a more satisfying and fulfilling sex life.
I believe that every person is equipped with the inner wisdom and strength to heal themselves, I merely have the honor of being with you as you find (again or for the first time) your inner wisdom and strength to become your truest self. I desire to be with you in your aching dilemmas ultimately inviting you to a space of freedom, hope and expansive love. My therapeutic approach includes person-centered, solution-focused, and strengths-based therapy, with a particular emphasis on mindfulness. Through calm observation and awareness, I strive to cultivate a therapeutic space that is inclusive, curious, compassionate and healing.
No matter your relationship desires, I am eager to help you lead a more satisfying and fulfilling sex life.
I believe that every person is equipped with the inner wisdom and strength to heal themselves, I merely have the honor of being with you as you find (again or for the first time) your inner wisdom and strength to become your truest self. I desire to be with you in your aching dilemmas ultimately inviting you to a space of freedom, hope and expansive love. My therapeutic approach includes person-centered, solution-focused, and strengths-based therapy, with a particular emphasis on mindfulness. Through calm observation and awareness, I strive to cultivate a therapeutic space that is inclusive, curious, compassionate and healing.
(276) 881-1361 View (276) 881-1361
Photo of Crysta Dunkerly, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Crysta Dunkerly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bristol, VA 24202
The #1 predictor of success in therapy is the relationship with the therapist.
Whether seeking therapy or Clinical Supervision the the learning/ change process doesn't have to be complicated/ unpleasant. "Not sure what to do"? "Need someone to talk to"? Who doesn't? An objective unbiased outside view on anything can be helpful for anyone/ any situation- am I right? Your comfort comes first! I have the skills, experience, and tools to help you with whatever you need or help you figure out what it is you even need. Feel free to reach out to me even to discuss what therapy is about and how it works if it is something you never tried or even thought you could. We're in this together if you'll have me along
The #1 predictor of success in therapy is the relationship with the therapist.
Whether seeking therapy or Clinical Supervision the the learning/ change process doesn't have to be complicated/ unpleasant. "Not sure what to do"? "Need someone to talk to"? Who doesn't? An objective unbiased outside view on anything can be helpful for anyone/ any situation- am I right? Your comfort comes first! I have the skills, experience, and tools to help you with whatever you need or help you figure out what it is you even need. Feel free to reach out to me even to discuss what therapy is about and how it works if it is something you never tried or even thought you could. We're in this together if you'll have me along
(423) 822-8371 View (423) 822-8371
Photo of Connie Faye Ihle, MA, NCC
Connie Faye Ihle
Resident in Counseling, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bristol, VA 24202
We all want to live our best lives but sometimes we just don't know where to begin. At Hope and Healing Counseling Center, we offer in-person as well as remote counseling for clients in the state of Virginia. We understand the importance of being accepted, understood, and valued. No matter what you may be struggling with, please know you are not alone. In my work with you, I will meet you where you are and together, we will work to overcome current challenges and underlying issues. I work with individuals and couples, dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship challenges.
We all want to live our best lives but sometimes we just don't know where to begin. At Hope and Healing Counseling Center, we offer in-person as well as remote counseling for clients in the state of Virginia. We understand the importance of being accepted, understood, and valued. No matter what you may be struggling with, please know you are not alone. In my work with you, I will meet you where you are and together, we will work to overcome current challenges and underlying issues. I work with individuals and couples, dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship challenges.
(276) 530-8475 View (276) 530-8475
Photo of Amanda Lee - Amanda Lee Dominion Psychology And Wellness Center, MFT-Res, Pre-Licensed Professional
Amanda Lee Dominion Psychology And Wellness Center
Pre-Licensed Professional, MFT-Res
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bristol, VA 24202  (Online Only)
Openings Available July 8th, 2024! I am a Resident in Marriage and Family Therapy with a focus on Solution-Focused/Narrative Therapy. I assist individuals, couples, and families navigating through various challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, life transitions, and self-esteem concerns. Whether you're facing a particular issue or pursuing personal development, my role is to support you throughout your journey. I provide a warm, supportive, and non-judgmental environment where you can comfortably share your experiences. The stories we carry can sometimes be heavy, but I am here to help lighten the load.
Openings Available July 8th, 2024! I am a Resident in Marriage and Family Therapy with a focus on Solution-Focused/Narrative Therapy. I assist individuals, couples, and families navigating through various challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, life transitions, and self-esteem concerns. Whether you're facing a particular issue or pursuing personal development, my role is to support you throughout your journey. I provide a warm, supportive, and non-judgmental environment where you can comfortably share your experiences. The stories we carry can sometimes be heavy, but I am here to help lighten the load.
(276) 881-7119 View (276) 881-7119
Photo of Stacie Kruzinski - Lifebulb Counseling & Therapy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lifebulb Counseling & Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bristol, VA 24201
Working with us you'll get results. Because we believe you're best served by a clinician who's passionate about not only their work, but who they work with as well. That's why we started Lifebulb - We're committed to building an organization that truly allows therapists to get back to enjoying their work, so you, our client, can receive the highest quality therapy services, whether in person at one of our locations or online through telehealth. We hire only highly trained and educated, licensed clinicians dedicated to the therapy process. We're confident we can help you achieve your therapy goals.
Working with us you'll get results. Because we believe you're best served by a clinician who's passionate about not only their work, but who they work with as well. That's why we started Lifebulb - We're committed to building an organization that truly allows therapists to get back to enjoying their work, so you, our client, can receive the highest quality therapy services, whether in person at one of our locations or online through telehealth. We hire only highly trained and educated, licensed clinicians dedicated to the therapy process. We're confident we can help you achieve your therapy goals.
(276) 881-1393 View (276) 881-1393
Photo of Amy Lester, QMHP-T, LPC Intern
Amy Lester
LPC Intern, QMHP-T
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bristol, VA 24201
I am a grad student working under the supervision of a LPC. I am currently accepting new clients from all walks of life! I see children, teens, and adults. Sometimes in life, things happen that can catch us off guard, or throw us off course. Whether these things are expected, or unexpected, it would be a great privilege for me to be able to help you navigate through these situations. My mission is to provide a safe place where all clients will feel welcome and safe no matter their background or beliefs.
I am a grad student working under the supervision of a LPC. I am currently accepting new clients from all walks of life! I see children, teens, and adults. Sometimes in life, things happen that can catch us off guard, or throw us off course. Whether these things are expected, or unexpected, it would be a great privilege for me to be able to help you navigate through these situations. My mission is to provide a safe place where all clients will feel welcome and safe no matter their background or beliefs.
(276) 445-8965 View (276) 445-8965
Photo of Sabrina Guinn, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sabrina Guinn
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bristol, VA 24201
I'm currently accepting new clients! We all struggle with finding just the right balance in our lives. Maybe anxiety, depression, and outside stressors are keeping you from feeling present in your life. Maybe significant events from your past are intruding in your thoughts and hijacking your present experience. Perhaps your marriage is suffering and the two of you are having difficulty in finding compromise and balance. If you want to work on developing a real, dynamic, and balanced life, I can help you to find a path forward to achieving the reality that you want.
I'm currently accepting new clients! We all struggle with finding just the right balance in our lives. Maybe anxiety, depression, and outside stressors are keeping you from feeling present in your life. Maybe significant events from your past are intruding in your thoughts and hijacking your present experience. Perhaps your marriage is suffering and the two of you are having difficulty in finding compromise and balance. If you want to work on developing a real, dynamic, and balanced life, I can help you to find a path forward to achieving the reality that you want.
(276) 208-8386 View (276) 208-8386
Photo of Amir Cotton, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amir Cotton
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Bristol, VA 24201
Hello there,My name is Amir Cotton, and I’m one of the counselors at Breakthrough Counselling LLC. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Licensed Substance Abuse Treatment Practitioner in the state of Virginia. I am also a National Certified Counselor, a Certified Clinical Mental Counselor, and a Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor. I also have a Master’s Degree in Professional Counseling and over 12 years of experience working in the mental health field. I have experience treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, addiction, bipolar, and adjustment disorders.
Hello there,My name is Amir Cotton, and I’m one of the counselors at Breakthrough Counselling LLC. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Licensed Substance Abuse Treatment Practitioner in the state of Virginia. I am also a National Certified Counselor, a Certified Clinical Mental Counselor, and a Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor. I also have a Master’s Degree in Professional Counseling and over 12 years of experience working in the mental health field. I have experience treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, addiction, bipolar, and adjustment disorders.
(757) 750-9800 View (757) 750-9800
Photo of Erin R Jurich-Finney - Finneys Incorporated, PsyD, Psychologist
Finneys Incorporated
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Bristol, VA 24201
I like helping people who are going through a rough patch and need a little extra help to get through. This can be kids, adults, and whole families. While the people who need my help are not feeling so great when they first come in, I am so happy to help them through the tough times and see them come out on the other side feeling like themselves again, and perhaps even stronger.
I like helping people who are going through a rough patch and need a little extra help to get through. This can be kids, adults, and whole families. While the people who need my help are not feeling so great when they first come in, I am so happy to help them through the tough times and see them come out on the other side feeling like themselves again, and perhaps even stronger.
(276) 663-4716 View (276) 663-4716
Photo of Cindy Addison (Formerly Griffith), LPC, LMFT, CSAT, Author, Speaker, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cindy Addison (Formerly Griffith)
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMFT, CSAT, Author, Speaker
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bristol, VA 24201
Cindy believes humans are physical, mental, emotional, sexual and spiritual beings thus the goal of therapy is to obtain health in all areas of one's being. I believe a client takes the first step to healing as soon as the counseling appointment is made. It's a privilege to observe transformation in a client on the road to hope and healing by focusing on the strengths from within the client. It is exciting to watch a couple go from the brink of divorce to a marriage better than ever.
Cindy believes humans are physical, mental, emotional, sexual and spiritual beings thus the goal of therapy is to obtain health in all areas of one's being. I believe a client takes the first step to healing as soon as the counseling appointment is made. It's a privilege to observe transformation in a client on the road to hope and healing by focusing on the strengths from within the client. It is exciting to watch a couple go from the brink of divorce to a marriage better than ever.
(276) 300-4422 View (276) 300-4422
Photo of Victoria Evans-Fulton - Family Refuge Center of Southwest Virginia , PhD, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Family Refuge Center of Southwest Virginia
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Bristol, VA 24201
Welcome to the Family Refuge Center of Southwest Virginia, where individuals and their families find support, resources, and healing. We specialize in providing short-term services aimed at addressing immediate concerns and fostering positive change within an individual's life or within their family dynamics. Our team of experienced counselors is dedicated to guiding families through challenges, offering practical strategies, and empowering them to navigate life's complexities together.
Welcome to the Family Refuge Center of Southwest Virginia, where individuals and their families find support, resources, and healing. We specialize in providing short-term services aimed at addressing immediate concerns and fostering positive change within an individual's life or within their family dynamics. Our team of experienced counselors is dedicated to guiding families through challenges, offering practical strategies, and empowering them to navigate life's complexities together.
(276) 566-0862 View (276) 566-0862
Photo of Jodie Marie Henderson, LPCMHSP, (TEMP), Pre-Licensed Professional
Jodie Marie Henderson
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPCMHSP, (TEMP)
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bristol, VA 24201
I welcome all individuals on the path of exploration and healing, including children, teens, and adults. I have a passion for helping others and provide a trusting, non-judgmental, and safe space for others to tell their stories, slay their demons, and achieve their goals. We will work together at your pace on what is important to you. We will collaborate to address immediate symptoms and concerns as well as the underlying causes of the challenges you face, regardless of how insurmountable they may feel now.
I welcome all individuals on the path of exploration and healing, including children, teens, and adults. I have a passion for helping others and provide a trusting, non-judgmental, and safe space for others to tell their stories, slay their demons, and achieve their goals. We will work together at your pace on what is important to you. We will collaborate to address immediate symptoms and concerns as well as the underlying causes of the challenges you face, regardless of how insurmountable they may feel now.
(423) 818-9791 View (423) 818-9791
Photo of Christin Long - Pathways to Wellness Counseling , LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Pathways to Wellness Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bristol, VA 24201
NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS!!! Do you feel like you have tried everything and it still isn't working? Are you tired of existing in life and not fully living life? Do you feel stuck, depressed, or anxious? I provide a safe, non-judgmental atmosphere so you can feel free to express your needs and work together on a plan that best fits your needs. I have worked in emergency crisis services, crisis management services, and trauma for years and this has brought with it the experience to be able to quickly meet and address your immediate needs and then work toward addressing the long-term needs.
NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS!!! Do you feel like you have tried everything and it still isn't working? Are you tired of existing in life and not fully living life? Do you feel stuck, depressed, or anxious? I provide a safe, non-judgmental atmosphere so you can feel free to express your needs and work together on a plan that best fits your needs. I have worked in emergency crisis services, crisis management services, and trauma for years and this has brought with it the experience to be able to quickly meet and address your immediate needs and then work toward addressing the long-term needs.
(276) 597-4092 View (276) 597-4092
Photo of Joshua Blackburn, MA, LPC, MHSP, Temp, Counselor
Joshua Blackburn
Counselor, MA, LPC, MHSP, Temp
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bristol, VA 24201
You want more than just feeling better - you want to create a better life for yourself and those you love - but you're stuck. You want to get closer to who and how you want to be. You've tried everything you can think of and you still feel bad - physically, spiritually, mentally. What would you be doing if anxiety, panic, sadness, lack of motivation, anger, or confusion wasn't standing in your way? If difficult conversations happened without ending in a blow up, shut down, or disconnection - could life be better together?
You want more than just feeling better - you want to create a better life for yourself and those you love - but you're stuck. You want to get closer to who and how you want to be. You've tried everything you can think of and you still feel bad - physically, spiritually, mentally. What would you be doing if anxiety, panic, sadness, lack of motivation, anger, or confusion wasn't standing in your way? If difficult conversations happened without ending in a blow up, shut down, or disconnection - could life be better together?
(423) 210-4631 View (423) 210-4631
Photo of Amy L Justice, MA, LPC, ADHD, CCSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amy L Justice
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ADHD, CCSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bristol, VA 24201  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I work with individuals over 18 and couples.
My passion is to help people overcome feeling "stuck" in unhealthy patterns by facilitating real, healthy changes through self-discovery and practical applications. I am a good "first" therapist for people who are a little afraid of therapy. I have extensive experience working with first responders, military personnel and veterans. It is not just about talking, it is about assessing how life has affected us and developing tools to live a valued life going forward.
I work with individuals over 18 and couples.
My passion is to help people overcome feeling "stuck" in unhealthy patterns by facilitating real, healthy changes through self-discovery and practical applications. I am a good "first" therapist for people who are a little afraid of therapy. I have extensive experience working with first responders, military personnel and veterans. It is not just about talking, it is about assessing how life has affected us and developing tools to live a valued life going forward.
(910) 507-2329 View (910) 507-2329

Online Therapists

Photo of Erica Force, PhD, CMPC, Psychologist
Erica Force
Psychologist, PhD, CMPC
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22207  (Online Only)
Performance anxiety, mental skills in sport, injury recovery, adolescent athletes, elite athletes, women's issues, infertility, anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, and relationship problems are among the many areas I can help with.
My passion is helping adults and adolescents achieve well-being and balance. As a licensed psychologist, I offer traditional counseling services. I specialize in sport psychology, adolescent & elite athletes, women's issues, & EMDR. As a CMPC & registered Sport Psychologist with the U.S. Olympic Committee, I offer services for adults & adolescents, and have the privilege of working with athletes from youth to professional and Olympic/elite. As a psychologist, I am licensed in multiple states (District ofColumbia, Virginia, Maryland, Texas, Colorado, and Florida) and able to offer services nationwide.
Performance anxiety, mental skills in sport, injury recovery, adolescent athletes, elite athletes, women's issues, infertility, anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, and relationship problems are among the many areas I can help with.
My passion is helping adults and adolescents achieve well-being and balance. As a licensed psychologist, I offer traditional counseling services. I specialize in sport psychology, adolescent & elite athletes, women's issues, & EMDR. As a CMPC & registered Sport Psychologist with the U.S. Olympic Committee, I offer services for adults & adolescents, and have the privilege of working with athletes from youth to professional and Olympic/elite. As a psychologist, I am licensed in multiple states (District ofColumbia, Virginia, Maryland, Texas, Colorado, and Florida) and able to offer services nationwide.
(202) 915-1850 View (202) 915-1850
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.