Couples Counseling Therapists in Lynchburg, VA

Photo of Sarit Johnson, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarit Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lynchburg, VA 24502  (Online Only)
Most importantly I partner with you to help you get what you want out of therapy and tailor treatment to your goals.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and am committed to partnering with individuals and couples as they navigate the challenges of life. I work virtually with clients in Alabama, Virginia and North Carolina. Therapy creates a unique space for evaluating where you are and how you got there. Couples can learn what the patterns are that keep them stuck and how to move out of those patterns. Through our therapeutic relationship we can uncover what needs to shift in order to get you where you want to be. Therapy has the power to help you be the best version of yourself and your relationship be the best that it can be.
Most importantly I partner with you to help you get what you want out of therapy and tailor treatment to your goals.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and am committed to partnering with individuals and couples as they navigate the challenges of life. I work virtually with clients in Alabama, Virginia and North Carolina. Therapy creates a unique space for evaluating where you are and how you got there. Couples can learn what the patterns are that keep them stuck and how to move out of those patterns. Through our therapeutic relationship we can uncover what needs to shift in order to get you where you want to be. Therapy has the power to help you be the best version of yourself and your relationship be the best that it can be.
(434) 425-8849 View (434) 425-8849
Photo of Lora Dudley, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lora Dudley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lynchburg, VA 24504  (Online Only)
Leanne seeks to establish a caring and therapeutic relationship with you in order to assist in building on your strengths to assist you in meeting and living your best life.
Lora "Leanne" Dudley is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who has over 10 years of experience in providing clinical assessment and therapeutic care to adults and couples seeking assistance with depression/anxiety, trauma, life transitions, and post-traumatic stress. Leanne completed her Master of Social Work (MSW) at Radford University.
Leanne seeks to establish a caring and therapeutic relationship with you in order to assist in building on your strengths to assist you in meeting and living your best life.
Lora "Leanne" Dudley is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who has over 10 years of experience in providing clinical assessment and therapeutic care to adults and couples seeking assistance with depression/anxiety, trauma, life transitions, and post-traumatic stress. Leanne completed her Master of Social Work (MSW) at Radford University.
(434) 505-5094 View (434) 505-5094
Photo of Karly VanHorn, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Karly VanHorn
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Lynchburg, VA 24502
I strive to foster a sense of safety and genuineness within the counseling relationship and the space.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia. I am passionate about working with children, adolescents, teens, young adults and families struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, behavioral issues, mood disorders, daily life stressors, self-esteem, identity development and self-concept issues. Additionally, enjoy working with at-risk youth and children and adolescents in foster care.
I strive to foster a sense of safety and genuineness within the counseling relationship and the space.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia. I am passionate about working with children, adolescents, teens, young adults and families struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, behavioral issues, mood disorders, daily life stressors, self-esteem, identity development and self-concept issues. Additionally, enjoy working with at-risk youth and children and adolescents in foster care.
(434) 252-2570 View (434) 252-2570
Photo of Dani Stefan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dani Stefan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Lynchburg, VA 24502  (Online Only)
I am Air Force veteran and a military spouse of 20 years which has given me a good understanding of the dynamics and strain that military service adds to life challenges.
Have you ever felt overwhelmed, or frustrated as you try to balance day to day life, new stressors, or navigate relationships? I am able to work with you to identify coping strategies and techniques to help you feel more balanced, confident, and in control. I enjoy working with adults and teens and have a special place in my heart for veterans and active duty service members. I am experienced in mental health, substance abuse, overcoming childhood trauma, and grief/bereavement counseling for individuals or families. I enjoy being able to meet a person and help them identify thier internal strenghtns and gifts as they navigate unreso
I am Air Force veteran and a military spouse of 20 years which has given me a good understanding of the dynamics and strain that military service adds to life challenges.
Have you ever felt overwhelmed, or frustrated as you try to balance day to day life, new stressors, or navigate relationships? I am able to work with you to identify coping strategies and techniques to help you feel more balanced, confident, and in control. I enjoy working with adults and teens and have a special place in my heart for veterans and active duty service members. I am experienced in mental health, substance abuse, overcoming childhood trauma, and grief/bereavement counseling for individuals or families. I enjoy being able to meet a person and help them identify thier internal strenghtns and gifts as they navigate unreso
(434) 595-4767 View (434) 595-4767
Photo of Lisa Taylor - Lisa Taylor ~ Life Design Network, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lisa Taylor ~ Life Design Network
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Lynchburg, VA 24502
Lisa Taylor’s Life Design Network, specializes in counseling individuals of various backgrounds, including children, adolescents, and adults. Services Provided: Individual Counseling Family Counseling Parent-Child Relationship Counseling Couples Counseling Parenting Anger Management Workshops Consulting and Clinical Supervision to LMHP-Residents Issues: Anger Management Anxiety Bipolar Disorder Depression Emotional Disturbance Family Conflict Grief Life Transitions Parent-Child Relationship Issues Peer Relationship Issues.
Lisa Taylor’s Life Design Network, specializes in counseling individuals of various backgrounds, including children, adolescents, and adults. Services Provided: Individual Counseling Family Counseling Parent-Child Relationship Counseling Couples Counseling Parenting Anger Management Workshops Consulting and Clinical Supervision to LMHP-Residents Issues: Anger Management Anxiety Bipolar Disorder Depression Emotional Disturbance Family Conflict Grief Life Transitions Parent-Child Relationship Issues Peer Relationship Issues.
(434) 885-0062 View (434) 885-0062
Photo of Kimberly Plourde - Thriveworks Counseling & Child Therapy Lynchburg, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Thriveworks Counseling & Child Therapy Lynchburg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Lynchburg, VA 24504
We offer individual counseling, psychiatry/medication management (virtual only), family counseling, couples therapy/marriage counseling, and child & teen therapy.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
We offer individual counseling, psychiatry/medication management (virtual only), family counseling, couples therapy/marriage counseling, and child & teen therapy.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
(434) 443-6808 View (434) 443-6808
Photo of Anita Stoudmire, Licensed Professional Counselor
Anita Stoudmire
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Lynchburg, VA 24502  (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Anita Stoudmire and I am a licensed professional therapist who specializes in couples therapy as well as individual therapy. I enjoy helping people to become their best selves and improve their relationships. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as well as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy with most of my individual clients. I am trained in the Gottman Method for couples therapy and I am a certified Seven Principles Workshop leader. I believe we all have the ability to change and grow, especially if we have the compassion, guidance and unconditional positive regard that a good therapist can bring.
Hello! My name is Anita Stoudmire and I am a licensed professional therapist who specializes in couples therapy as well as individual therapy. I enjoy helping people to become their best selves and improve their relationships. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as well as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy with most of my individual clients. I am trained in the Gottman Method for couples therapy and I am a certified Seven Principles Workshop leader. I believe we all have the ability to change and grow, especially if we have the compassion, guidance and unconditional positive regard that a good therapist can bring.
(434) 533-9112 View (434) 533-9112
Photo of Shannon Walsh, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shannon Walsh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Lynchburg, VA 24502  (Online Only)
I provide a caring and empathetic relationship with you to guide and achieve new goals and increase self-esteem.
I am a Licensed Social Worker (LCSW) in the state of Virginia with more than 14 years of experience working with adults and children seeking help with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, grief and loss, women’s issues, relationship/martial issues, life transitions, foster care and adoption, addiction, self-injurious behaviors, and suicidal thoughts. I completed her Bachelor's degree in Psychology and received her Master’s degree in Social Work. I utilize a cognitive behavioral (CBT) approach to encourage self-expression, inspiration, and understanding to meet the needs of individuals and couples.
I provide a caring and empathetic relationship with you to guide and achieve new goals and increase self-esteem.
I am a Licensed Social Worker (LCSW) in the state of Virginia with more than 14 years of experience working with adults and children seeking help with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, grief and loss, women’s issues, relationship/martial issues, life transitions, foster care and adoption, addiction, self-injurious behaviors, and suicidal thoughts. I completed her Bachelor's degree in Psychology and received her Master’s degree in Social Work. I utilize a cognitive behavioral (CBT) approach to encourage self-expression, inspiration, and understanding to meet the needs of individuals and couples.
(434) 478-3586 View (434) 478-3586
Photo of Stephanie Messerly, MA, LMFT, LPC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Stephanie Messerly
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
Lynchburg, VA 24502
Stephanie's 10 years in the mental health field has given her the opportunity to serve and counsel individuals, couples, and families working through depression, anxiety, marital stress, trauma, family strain, self harm, and suicidal ideation. She has worked on hospital psychiatric units and outpatient offices. She is trained as a facilitator in the premarital/marital assessment tools and education from SYMBIS, PREPARE/ENRICH, and Level I Gottman Training. She is trained in EMDR and uses it with clients working through trauma. Stephanie is also an AAMFT supervisor candidate who supervises students and residents.
Stephanie's 10 years in the mental health field has given her the opportunity to serve and counsel individuals, couples, and families working through depression, anxiety, marital stress, trauma, family strain, self harm, and suicidal ideation. She has worked on hospital psychiatric units and outpatient offices. She is trained as a facilitator in the premarital/marital assessment tools and education from SYMBIS, PREPARE/ENRICH, and Level I Gottman Training. She is trained in EMDR and uses it with clients working through trauma. Stephanie is also an AAMFT supervisor candidate who supervises students and residents.
(434) 595-3734 View (434) 595-3734
Natalie Irvine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Lynchburg, VA 24502  (Online Only)
I also work with couples providing couples therapy to help with appropriate communication, setting healthy boundaries, problem solving and developing healthy coping skills.
I specialize in working with individuals who experience symptoms related to depression, anxiety, PTSD, and bipolar disorder. I assist clients in developing healthy coping skills, learning their triggers, warning signs, grounding techniques, and problem solving skills. I work with individuals in learning how to appropriately communicate their needs and wants daily, how to better manage their frustrations and anger daily, and learn to set healthy boundaries for themselves.
I also work with couples providing couples therapy to help with appropriate communication, setting healthy boundaries, problem solving and developing healthy coping skills.
I specialize in working with individuals who experience symptoms related to depression, anxiety, PTSD, and bipolar disorder. I assist clients in developing healthy coping skills, learning their triggers, warning signs, grounding techniques, and problem solving skills. I work with individuals in learning how to appropriately communicate their needs and wants daily, how to better manage their frustrations and anger daily, and learn to set healthy boundaries for themselves.
(434) 505-8469 View (434) 505-8469
Photo of Pamela Pierce, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Pamela Pierce
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Lynchburg, VA 24504  (Online Only)
Pamela Pierce is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who specializes in treating anxiety, depression, anger, and behavioral issues in youth and adults. She has 9 years of experience working with at-risk adolescents and adults with severe mental illness in a behavioral health setting. Pamela has worked with individuals and couples in a private practice setting for 2 years. She has a passion for collaboratively assisting individuals working through their anxiety, depression, and anger. It is Pamela's experience that behavioral issues tend to stem from an underlying issue.
Pamela Pierce is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who specializes in treating anxiety, depression, anger, and behavioral issues in youth and adults. She has 9 years of experience working with at-risk adolescents and adults with severe mental illness in a behavioral health setting. Pamela has worked with individuals and couples in a private practice setting for 2 years. She has a passion for collaboratively assisting individuals working through their anxiety, depression, and anger. It is Pamela's experience that behavioral issues tend to stem from an underlying issue.
(434) 505-4907 View (434) 505-4907
Photo of Catherine Medina, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Catherine Medina
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lynchburg, VA 24504
Hi! My name is Catherine Medina, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker practicing in Virginia. My goal is to assist people in living their most fulfilling life by resolving the issues that stand in their way. I have extensive clinical training and experience, and I am excited to make a positive difference in your life! I primarily work with adults and couples. I have extensive experience with adults of all ages and with newlyweds as well as people in long-term relationships. My experience is primarily in treating mood, anxiety, trauma, self-esteem, and relationship issues.
Hi! My name is Catherine Medina, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker practicing in Virginia. My goal is to assist people in living their most fulfilling life by resolving the issues that stand in their way. I have extensive clinical training and experience, and I am excited to make a positive difference in your life! I primarily work with adults and couples. I have extensive experience with adults of all ages and with newlyweds as well as people in long-term relationships. My experience is primarily in treating mood, anxiety, trauma, self-esteem, and relationship issues.
(757) 690-2136 View (757) 690-2136
Photo of Dr. Mike Takacs, PhD, EdS, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Mike Takacs
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, EdS, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Lynchburg, VA 24502
Our first session focuses on this, ensuring the therapeutic relationship feels right, and setting goals.
From day one I seek to help clients reach autonomy through treatment. Counseling, for the majority of individuals, is not something that should last a lifetime. Focusing on your goals, identifying barriers to progress, and seeking how to sustain the progress you have made is my philosophy.
Our first session focuses on this, ensuring the therapeutic relationship feels right, and setting goals.
From day one I seek to help clients reach autonomy through treatment. Counseling, for the majority of individuals, is not something that should last a lifetime. Focusing on your goals, identifying barriers to progress, and seeking how to sustain the progress you have made is my philosophy.
(434) 337-3708 View (434) 337-3708
Photo of Sierra Williams, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sierra Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Lynchburg, VA 24502  (Online Only)
My area of interest includes Anxiety, Depression, Self-esteem, Relationship Issues, Conflict Resolution, Anger Management, Grief & Loss, Substance Abuse, Trauma, Teens, Young Adults, Family Conflict, Parent Coaching, and Christian Counseling.
I am a Licensed professional counselor. I provide therapy for individuals in the state of Virginia and Texas. I offer tele health (Virtual) sessions. I utilize Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, Strength Based Therapy, motivational interviewing, Solution Focused Therapy, and Multisystemic therapy.
My area of interest includes Anxiety, Depression, Self-esteem, Relationship Issues, Conflict Resolution, Anger Management, Grief & Loss, Substance Abuse, Trauma, Teens, Young Adults, Family Conflict, Parent Coaching, and Christian Counseling.
I am a Licensed professional counselor. I provide therapy for individuals in the state of Virginia and Texas. I offer tele health (Virtual) sessions. I utilize Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, Strength Based Therapy, motivational interviewing, Solution Focused Therapy, and Multisystemic therapy.
(434) 595-5842 View (434) 595-5842
Photo of Suzanne E. Mikkelson, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Suzanne E. Mikkelson
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lynchburg, VA 24502
I consider it a privilege to partner in your healing journey toward a place of restoration and hope compatible with your faith in God.
As a Christian therapist, I have provided faith-integrated marriage and family therapy to individuals, couples, and families for nearly 30 years, but my current clinical focus is treating the impact of trauma using Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). You may be in a place of pain or emotional reactivity because of deep childhood injuries, exposure to combat, or the impact of secondary trauma from your work as a medical provider, a first responder, a pastor, or a missionary. I would be honored to hear your story and help you process through your experiences to a place of peacefulness and renewed hope.
I consider it a privilege to partner in your healing journey toward a place of restoration and hope compatible with your faith in God.
As a Christian therapist, I have provided faith-integrated marriage and family therapy to individuals, couples, and families for nearly 30 years, but my current clinical focus is treating the impact of trauma using Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). You may be in a place of pain or emotional reactivity because of deep childhood injuries, exposure to combat, or the impact of secondary trauma from your work as a medical provider, a first responder, a pastor, or a missionary. I would be honored to hear your story and help you process through your experiences to a place of peacefulness and renewed hope.
(434) 661-2885 View (434) 661-2885
Photo of Amanda Otey Hall, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amanda Otey Hall
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Lynchburg, VA 24504
She believes that empathy, understanding, and empowerment are important tools in a therapeutic relationship.
Amanda Otey-Hall is currently a Resident in Professional Counseling with 5 years of experience working with families and individuals in Virginia. She uses an insight-based approach to work towards managing anxiety, depression, stress, relationship/familial issues, and life transitions.
She believes that empathy, understanding, and empowerment are important tools in a therapeutic relationship.
Amanda Otey-Hall is currently a Resident in Professional Counseling with 5 years of experience working with families and individuals in Virginia. She uses an insight-based approach to work towards managing anxiety, depression, stress, relationship/familial issues, and life transitions.
(434) 597-3801 View (434) 597-3801
Photo of Danielle Smith, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Danielle Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Lynchburg, VA 24504  (Online Only)
Danielle Smith is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with years of experience in the mental health field. She is passionate about helping adolescents, adults, and couples address their unique challenges and live more fulfilled lives. Danielle specializes in trauma, PTSD, C-PTSD, depression, anxiety, grief, relationship issues, and substance misuse.
Danielle Smith is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with years of experience in the mental health field. She is passionate about helping adolescents, adults, and couples address their unique challenges and live more fulfilled lives. Danielle specializes in trauma, PTSD, C-PTSD, depression, anxiety, grief, relationship issues, and substance misuse.
(434) 595-5649 View (434) 595-5649
Photo of Simone Garrison, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Simone Garrison
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lynchburg, VA 24503  (Online Only)
Do you just want a break or feel like running away from it all? Are you struggling to just keep it all together? If that sounds like you, you've come to the right place. My name is Simone and I have over 14 years of experience working with children, adults, couples, and military veterans. I have a special interest and training in working with POC, Maternal Health including Post Partum Depression and Anxiety, Parenting and Family Conflict, Cultural and/or Career Identity Crisis ex. Individuals struggling with intersecting identities such as faith and sexuality. Please Note: I am not accepting couples' referrals at this time.
Do you just want a break or feel like running away from it all? Are you struggling to just keep it all together? If that sounds like you, you've come to the right place. My name is Simone and I have over 14 years of experience working with children, adults, couples, and military veterans. I have a special interest and training in working with POC, Maternal Health including Post Partum Depression and Anxiety, Parenting and Family Conflict, Cultural and/or Career Identity Crisis ex. Individuals struggling with intersecting identities such as faith and sexuality. Please Note: I am not accepting couples' referrals at this time.
(804) 636-3965 View (804) 636-3965
Photo of Bryan John Prinzivalli, MA, LPC, ACS, LMFT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bryan John Prinzivalli
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ACS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lynchburg, VA 24504
Having worked extensively with children, adolescents and their families, I would say my ideal client is pre-teen to adult working through behavioral struggles including impulse control, defiance, hyperactivity, etc. I work closely with and honor the family unit and also work with couples, relationship and marriage counseling for the betterment of that unit. I also have worked with and specialize in treatment of dual diagnosis, particularly when addictive behaviors are a primary concern. Being trained in ASAM criteria I also work with additive behaviors in both adolescent and adults.
Having worked extensively with children, adolescents and their families, I would say my ideal client is pre-teen to adult working through behavioral struggles including impulse control, defiance, hyperactivity, etc. I work closely with and honor the family unit and also work with couples, relationship and marriage counseling for the betterment of that unit. I also have worked with and specialize in treatment of dual diagnosis, particularly when addictive behaviors are a primary concern. Being trained in ASAM criteria I also work with additive behaviors in both adolescent and adults.
(434) 478-1721 View (434) 478-1721
Photo of Robyn Flint, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Robyn Flint
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
Lynchburg, VA 24502
I love helping children & families dealing with relationship struggles, past trauma, abuse, ADHD, spiritual matters, anxiety, & depression.
Counseling is a person-centered approach to healing, & it takes courage to seek out help when you feel like circumstances aren't going your way. My approach to helping people is to recognize individual strengths that can help them affect positive change in their lives. I am passionate about watching my clients thrive and succeed in reaching their goals in life, & am just a tool to help guide & encourage them when the path doesn't seem as straight as they planned. It's about people helping people and that's the vision that I have for myself.
I love helping children & families dealing with relationship struggles, past trauma, abuse, ADHD, spiritual matters, anxiety, & depression.
Counseling is a person-centered approach to healing, & it takes courage to seek out help when you feel like circumstances aren't going your way. My approach to helping people is to recognize individual strengths that can help them affect positive change in their lives. I am passionate about watching my clients thrive and succeed in reaching their goals in life, & am just a tool to help guide & encourage them when the path doesn't seem as straight as they planned. It's about people helping people and that's the vision that I have for myself.
(434) 788-9618 View (434) 788-9618
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.