Couples Counseling Therapists in McLean, VA

Photo of Makon Fardis, MD, PhD, Psychologist
Makon Fardis
Psychologist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
McLean, VA 22102
I specialize in couples and family therapy.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist working with couples, adults, and families. It is my belief that a warm and compassionate environment in therapy, in conjunction with problem solving and a growth-oriented attitude lead to better quality of life. The goal is to understand the thought and behavior patterns that can damage one's happiness and create problems in relating to others; and to replace them with healthier ones. My therapy services address issues ranging from stress and anxiety to depression, anger, relationship and communication problems, self-esteem, identity, and grief/loss.
I specialize in couples and family therapy.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist working with couples, adults, and families. It is my belief that a warm and compassionate environment in therapy, in conjunction with problem solving and a growth-oriented attitude lead to better quality of life. The goal is to understand the thought and behavior patterns that can damage one's happiness and create problems in relating to others; and to replace them with healthier ones. My therapy services address issues ranging from stress and anxiety to depression, anger, relationship and communication problems, self-esteem, identity, and grief/loss.
(202) 656-8936 View (202) 656-8936
Photo of Eric McClerren, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Eric McClerren
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McLean, VA 22101
It's the same part of you that has an idea of the kind of spouse, parent, or co-worker you want to be.
Historically, you've succeeded at just about everything you do. But whether you are a senior executive, a professional athlete, or a stay-at-home mom, we all eventually hit a wall. The anxiety becomes intense enough that we think others are starting to notice. The depression gets harder to beat on our own. Someone uses the word "addiction" for the first time. We all want to excel at work and feel connected at home, but sometimes we just feel stuck.
It's the same part of you that has an idea of the kind of spouse, parent, or co-worker you want to be.
Historically, you've succeeded at just about everything you do. But whether you are a senior executive, a professional athlete, or a stay-at-home mom, we all eventually hit a wall. The anxiety becomes intense enough that we think others are starting to notice. The depression gets harder to beat on our own. Someone uses the word "addiction" for the first time. We all want to excel at work and feel connected at home, but sometimes we just feel stuck.
(571) 200-7750 View (571) 200-7750
Photo of Caroline Strunk, LPC, MEd, Licensed Professional Counselor
Caroline Strunk
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McLean, VA 22102
Although I am passionate about empowering clients of all ages and backgrounds to lead healthier, happier lives, I specialize in the following areas: women’s issues, relationship and sexuality issues, career exploration/development, emotional abuse, counseling teens.
Therapy is a chance to slow down and step into a safe, confidential space away from the external world to explore your inner one. To sit in a quiet room with another human being who is unconditionally kind but honest, and also trained to recognize patterns of unhealthy behavior, irrational thinking, and the invisible blocks that keep you from being the best version of yourself. I invite you to begin your counseling journey with me and start this process of untangling emotional knots and using these insights to make positive changes in your life.
Although I am passionate about empowering clients of all ages and backgrounds to lead healthier, happier lives, I specialize in the following areas: women’s issues, relationship and sexuality issues, career exploration/development, emotional abuse, counseling teens.
Therapy is a chance to slow down and step into a safe, confidential space away from the external world to explore your inner one. To sit in a quiet room with another human being who is unconditionally kind but honest, and also trained to recognize patterns of unhealthy behavior, irrational thinking, and the invisible blocks that keep you from being the best version of yourself. I invite you to begin your counseling journey with me and start this process of untangling emotional knots and using these insights to make positive changes in your life.
(571) 350-3250 View (571) 350-3250
Kathleen Salyer
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McLean, VA 22101  (Online Only)
Over the years I've worked with adults (including parents), adolescents and children with problems ranging from anxiety, panic, anger, depression, relationship difficulties, work/school related issues, to children with behavioral issues. It has been my privilege to help people work through their problems and overcome or rise above them. With children I often find it helpful to assist parents in addressing inattention, distractibility, disobedience, disrespect,, social difficulties and underachievement. Adolescents may have similar issues or may just need someone they feel comfortable to talk to about their concerns.
Over the years I've worked with adults (including parents), adolescents and children with problems ranging from anxiety, panic, anger, depression, relationship difficulties, work/school related issues, to children with behavioral issues. It has been my privilege to help people work through their problems and overcome or rise above them. With children I often find it helpful to assist parents in addressing inattention, distractibility, disobedience, disrespect,, social difficulties and underachievement. Adolescents may have similar issues or may just need someone they feel comfortable to talk to about their concerns.
(703) 734-1393 View (703) 734-1393
Photo of Mary Carlough - Healing By Design LLC, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Healing By Design LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
McLean, VA 22102
Taking that first step towards seeking support and selecting the right therapist can be daunting. If you're looking to work with a warm, compassionate and effective therapist I welcome you to learn more about me, my therapeutic approaches and practice. My goal is to provide a safe, supportive therapeutic space in which you can share your feelings, gain insight, and learn strategies to cope with loss, life transitions, relationship difficulties, addiction, depression, anxiety, ADHD, failure to launch, family or work challenges. I provide individual, couples, family and group therapy. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, DBT, EAP &
Taking that first step towards seeking support and selecting the right therapist can be daunting. If you're looking to work with a warm, compassionate and effective therapist I welcome you to learn more about me, my therapeutic approaches and practice. My goal is to provide a safe, supportive therapeutic space in which you can share your feelings, gain insight, and learn strategies to cope with loss, life transitions, relationship difficulties, addiction, depression, anxiety, ADHD, failure to launch, family or work challenges. I provide individual, couples, family and group therapy. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, DBT, EAP &
(571) 946-8517 View (571) 946-8517
Photo of Jennifer Lager, PsyD, Psychologist
Jennifer Lager
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
McLean, VA 22101
I have extensive training in couples therapy through the Gottman Institute.
I'm a Clinical Psychologist with 20+ years of experience. I work in a collaborative manner and creating a safe space for you explore your thoughts/feelings/experiences is of utmost importance to me. Through therapy, we work on changing longstanding counter-productive behavior patterns and reinforcing areas of strength. By doing this, you can have more rewarding relationships and a more fulfilling life. I keep current on treatments for issues such as mood disorders, ADHD, and relationship issues. I encourage use of exercise and mindfulness to improve mental health. If interested, please talk to me about walking during sessions.
I have extensive training in couples therapy through the Gottman Institute.
I'm a Clinical Psychologist with 20+ years of experience. I work in a collaborative manner and creating a safe space for you explore your thoughts/feelings/experiences is of utmost importance to me. Through therapy, we work on changing longstanding counter-productive behavior patterns and reinforcing areas of strength. By doing this, you can have more rewarding relationships and a more fulfilling life. I keep current on treatments for issues such as mood disorders, ADHD, and relationship issues. I encourage use of exercise and mindfulness to improve mental health. If interested, please talk to me about walking during sessions.
(703) 594-1913 View (703) 594-1913
Photo of Reyna Rice, LPC, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Reyna Rice
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McLean, VA 22101
I strive to create a healthy therapeutic relationship with each individual, couple, and family in order to help you achieve your personal growth so that you can improve your overall quality of life.
Sometimes life can seem overwhelming and managing multiple responsibilities can create feelings of stress. Changes in life can be wanted; however, how to start the change process may not be clear. My style is to use the therapeutic process to create a safe space for clients to explore thoughts and feelings in order to gain a deeper understanding of their personal needs. My approach combines different therapeutic models to help clients draw on their strengths to obtain their goals.
I strive to create a healthy therapeutic relationship with each individual, couple, and family in order to help you achieve your personal growth so that you can improve your overall quality of life.
Sometimes life can seem overwhelming and managing multiple responsibilities can create feelings of stress. Changes in life can be wanted; however, how to start the change process may not be clear. My style is to use the therapeutic process to create a safe space for clients to explore thoughts and feelings in order to gain a deeper understanding of their personal needs. My approach combines different therapeutic models to help clients draw on their strengths to obtain their goals.
(571) 470-5422 View (571) 470-5422
Photo of Dr. Shushan Campbell, PhD , LCP, Psychologist
Dr. Shushan Campbell
Psychologist, PhD , LCP
Verified Verified
McLean, VA 22102
Dr. Campbell is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who works with children (9 and up), adolescents, and adults. Dr. Campbell has over a decade of experience providing therapy (individual, couples, and family therapy), psychological evaluations, and psychological assessments. Dr. Campbell specializes in a broad range of psychological and behavioral issues that are of clinical concern; areas of focus include Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Neurodevelopmental Disorders (ADHD, Learning Disabilities, Autism), Grief and Loss, PTSD, and other life challenges.
Dr. Campbell is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who works with children (9 and up), adolescents, and adults. Dr. Campbell has over a decade of experience providing therapy (individual, couples, and family therapy), psychological evaluations, and psychological assessments. Dr. Campbell specializes in a broad range of psychological and behavioral issues that are of clinical concern; areas of focus include Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Neurodevelopmental Disorders (ADHD, Learning Disabilities, Autism), Grief and Loss, PTSD, and other life challenges.
(571) 378-5874 View (571) 378-5874
Photo of Pearl Zurich, PsyD, Psychologist
Pearl Zurich
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
McLean, VA 22101
So many of us present a high-functioning face to the world, but our inner lives tell a different story. Depression, anxiety, and other issues are natural byproducts of the stressful lives we lead. I work with adults, teens (16 and older), couples, and families, ranging from adolescents facing developmental struggles to stay-at-home parents and Beltway professionals. As a native Northern Virginian, I can relate to the challenges of living in this frenetic environment. My previous military and consulting experience give me an understanding of issues that busy professionals deal with like self-care and work-life balance.
So many of us present a high-functioning face to the world, but our inner lives tell a different story. Depression, anxiety, and other issues are natural byproducts of the stressful lives we lead. I work with adults, teens (16 and older), couples, and families, ranging from adolescents facing developmental struggles to stay-at-home parents and Beltway professionals. As a native Northern Virginian, I can relate to the challenges of living in this frenetic environment. My previous military and consulting experience give me an understanding of issues that busy professionals deal with like self-care and work-life balance.
(703) 293-5016 View (703) 293-5016
Photo of Stella Breytman - Stella Breytman, Sex Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CST, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stella Breytman, Sex Therapist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CST
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
McLean, VA 22101  (Online Only)
I am passionate about empowering you and feel a great sense of joy seeing the progress that you will make! I am incredibly grateful, privileged, and honored to have you as my client; alone or with your partner(s).
Immediate availability! Are you looking to improve your sex life, intimacy issues, or your relationship overall? Studies have linked sexual satisfaction to overall happiness, relationship satisfaction, and quality/longevity of life. As a Certified Sex Therapist with a completed PhD in sexology, I have the unique background to tailor sex therapy to focus on your experience and improve a wide range of sexual issues.
I am passionate about empowering you and feel a great sense of joy seeing the progress that you will make! I am incredibly grateful, privileged, and honored to have you as my client; alone or with your partner(s).
Immediate availability! Are you looking to improve your sex life, intimacy issues, or your relationship overall? Studies have linked sexual satisfaction to overall happiness, relationship satisfaction, and quality/longevity of life. As a Certified Sex Therapist with a completed PhD in sexology, I have the unique background to tailor sex therapy to focus on your experience and improve a wide range of sexual issues.
(571) 540-7580 View (571) 540-7580
Photo of Patrick D Ryan, MA, LPC
Patrick D Ryan
Mental Health Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
McLean, VA 22101
Specialties Include: ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Substance Abuse, Risk Assessment, Grief and Loss, Sports Performance, Life Transitions, Anger Management, Family Therapy, Couples Therapy, Coping Skills, Parent Coaching, Behavioral Issues, School Transitions.
I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC) that specializes in helping patients overcome issues related to anxiety, depression, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), substance use disorders, family conflict and grief. I also have a special interest and experience helping adults, young adults, and high school students struggling with life transitions (college, adulthood etc.), performance and relationships. Whether working with adolescents, school-age children, or adults, I look forward to working with you and helping you and/or a loved one emerge from any life obstacles or issues.
Specialties Include: ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Substance Abuse, Risk Assessment, Grief and Loss, Sports Performance, Life Transitions, Anger Management, Family Therapy, Couples Therapy, Coping Skills, Parent Coaching, Behavioral Issues, School Transitions.
I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC) that specializes in helping patients overcome issues related to anxiety, depression, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), substance use disorders, family conflict and grief. I also have a special interest and experience helping adults, young adults, and high school students struggling with life transitions (college, adulthood etc.), performance and relationships. Whether working with adolescents, school-age children, or adults, I look forward to working with you and helping you and/or a loved one emerge from any life obstacles or issues.
(703) 457-8279 View (703) 457-8279
Photo of Lenore M Bookheim, PhD, MA, Psychologist
Lenore M Bookheim
Psychologist, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
McLean, VA 22101
We all find ourselves from time to time in need of guidance, expertise, and support from someone we trust. Engaging in treatment with a professional is at times the most efficient way of addressing what is not working. I offer individual, couples and family, consultation and/or psychotherapy with the goal of helping people get to a place in their lives where they can thrive.
We all find ourselves from time to time in need of guidance, expertise, and support from someone we trust. Engaging in treatment with a professional is at times the most efficient way of addressing what is not working. I offer individual, couples and family, consultation and/or psychotherapy with the goal of helping people get to a place in their lives where they can thrive.
(703) 831-6189 View (703) 831-6189
Photo of Maria Foley, PsyD, Psychologist
Maria Foley
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
McLean, VA 22101  (Online Only)
Whether the issue be a history of trauma or abuse, an eating disorder or a long standing problem with your weight, a difficult relationship or difficulty coping with the current pandemic crisis, successful therapy can help you rediscover your capacity to experience joy in your life.
It can be a difficult decision to seek help when your life is feeling off track or stuck in patterns that are not serving you. Particularly in our current climate of increased anxiety and rising levels of depression, it’s crucial that you have a sense of comfort and emotional safety with the person with whom you work to explore the issues that confront you. I implement an individualized course of therapy for each client using a combination of psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral and relational techniques. I offer a free consultation in order for us to decide if I might be a good fit for you.
Whether the issue be a history of trauma or abuse, an eating disorder or a long standing problem with your weight, a difficult relationship or difficulty coping with the current pandemic crisis, successful therapy can help you rediscover your capacity to experience joy in your life.
It can be a difficult decision to seek help when your life is feeling off track or stuck in patterns that are not serving you. Particularly in our current climate of increased anxiety and rising levels of depression, it’s crucial that you have a sense of comfort and emotional safety with the person with whom you work to explore the issues that confront you. I implement an individualized course of therapy for each client using a combination of psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral and relational techniques. I offer a free consultation in order for us to decide if I might be a good fit for you.
(703) 348-9263 View (703) 348-9263
Photo of Valia Shoja, MA
Valia Shoja
Resident in Counseling, MA
Verified Verified
McLean, VA 22101  (Online Only)
I also enjoy working with couples and families building healthier and more secure relationships.
I am a resident Counselor at Wellness Through Counseling, located in McLean, VA. I am passionate about helping my clients heal and grow. My mission is to assist people understand themselves and their challenges more effectively. I strongly believe that my clients are experts of their desired path in life. I strive to create a safe space that allows you to process your thoughts and feelings. Through a trusting and collaborative therapeutic relationship, we will work together to explore your strengths and resilience for living a fulfilling life and reaching your potential.
I also enjoy working with couples and families building healthier and more secure relationships.
I am a resident Counselor at Wellness Through Counseling, located in McLean, VA. I am passionate about helping my clients heal and grow. My mission is to assist people understand themselves and their challenges more effectively. I strongly believe that my clients are experts of their desired path in life. I strive to create a safe space that allows you to process your thoughts and feelings. Through a trusting and collaborative therapeutic relationship, we will work together to explore your strengths and resilience for living a fulfilling life and reaching your potential.
(571) 998-1325 View (571) 998-1325
Photo of Carly Moody, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Carly Moody
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
McLean, VA 22102  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and families.
I have vast experience working with children, adolescents, and the family system as an entire. I enjoy working with couples and marriage counseling, whether it is premarital counseling or helping couples transition from one life-cycle to the next. A few areas of specialty include trauma-informed care, addressing depression or anxiety in individuals, ADHD or Autism diagnoses, or helping others find their purpose in life.
I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and families.
I have vast experience working with children, adolescents, and the family system as an entire. I enjoy working with couples and marriage counseling, whether it is premarital counseling or helping couples transition from one life-cycle to the next. A few areas of specialty include trauma-informed care, addressing depression or anxiety in individuals, ADHD or Autism diagnoses, or helping others find their purpose in life.
(571) 520-7643 View (571) 520-7643
Photo of Kimberly Brooks Mazella - Mixed Orientation Marriages in VA FL and VT, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mixed Orientation Marriages in VA FL and VT
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
McLean, VA 22101
I will partner with you to sort out your mixed-orientation marriage and help you design your path forward.
Has your spouse come out as LGBT? Or are you married and living a closeted LGBT life? It's an extremely painful & challenging situation on either side of the equation. Here's the good news--I can help. I'm Kim Mazella, and I work with people every day who find themselves in mixed-orientation marriages and are navigating their new reality. Having experienced a MOM myself many years ago gives me a unique understanding, with compassion for both partners who find themselves in this difficult space. Whether you decide to make it work or go your separate ways, I can help you traverse the journey and come out on the other side.
I will partner with you to sort out your mixed-orientation marriage and help you design your path forward.
Has your spouse come out as LGBT? Or are you married and living a closeted LGBT life? It's an extremely painful & challenging situation on either side of the equation. Here's the good news--I can help. I'm Kim Mazella, and I work with people every day who find themselves in mixed-orientation marriages and are navigating their new reality. Having experienced a MOM myself many years ago gives me a unique understanding, with compassion for both partners who find themselves in this difficult space. Whether you decide to make it work or go your separate ways, I can help you traverse the journey and come out on the other side.
(703) 348-9845 View (703) 348-9845
Photo of Brenna Chirby, PsyD, Psychologist
Brenna Chirby
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
McLean, VA 22101
I specialize in treating mood disorders, anxiety disorders, relationship/family issues, trauma, and sport psychology (performance enhancement, injury recovery, etc.
I provide individual and couples psychotherapy to adults and adolescents. I use an integration of various treatment modalities within a psychodynamic framework, providing my clients with the flexibility of treatment specific techniques while maintaining a focus on the therapeutic relationship and treatment alliance. Having healthy, positive relationships is integral to all aspects of our lives. I treat clients with mild to severe disorders and work in collaborative relationships with psychiatrists when medications are needed.
I specialize in treating mood disorders, anxiety disorders, relationship/family issues, trauma, and sport psychology (performance enhancement, injury recovery, etc.
I provide individual and couples psychotherapy to adults and adolescents. I use an integration of various treatment modalities within a psychodynamic framework, providing my clients with the flexibility of treatment specific techniques while maintaining a focus on the therapeutic relationship and treatment alliance. Having healthy, positive relationships is integral to all aspects of our lives. I treat clients with mild to severe disorders and work in collaborative relationships with psychiatrists when medications are needed.
(703) 957-7541 View (703) 957-7541
Photo of Aneesha Perkins, PsyD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Aneesha Perkins
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
McLean, VA 22102  (Online Only)
As your clinician, we will work together collaboratively in this process, from communication challenges, friendship/ relationship conflict, rejection, and generational patterns to unresolved childhood issues.
The fulfillment that you’re hoping to experience requires a journey of healing that starts with you taking the first step - and deep healing starts within. The difficulties that life brings can truly bog you down, preventing you from being the healthiest version of yourself.
As your clinician, we will work together collaboratively in this process, from communication challenges, friendship/ relationship conflict, rejection, and generational patterns to unresolved childhood issues.
The fulfillment that you’re hoping to experience requires a journey of healing that starts with you taking the first step - and deep healing starts within. The difficulties that life brings can truly bog you down, preventing you from being the healthiest version of yourself.
(571) 517-2798 View (571) 517-2798
Photo of Brian Jacobs, LPC, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brian Jacobs
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
McLean, VA 22101
I place great value and emphasis on building our relationship so that you feel safe enough to enact the changes you wish make.
My treatment approach combines the latest advances in Western neuroscience with evidence-based mindfulness practices rooted in Eastern philosophies. I primarily utilize two complementary modalities - Experiential Dynamic Therapy (EDT) and Internal Family Systems (IFS). These are evidenced based and trauma-informed treatments that aim to address the root causes of psychological suffering rather than simply addressing the outlying symptoms.
I place great value and emphasis on building our relationship so that you feel safe enough to enact the changes you wish make.
My treatment approach combines the latest advances in Western neuroscience with evidence-based mindfulness practices rooted in Eastern philosophies. I primarily utilize two complementary modalities - Experiential Dynamic Therapy (EDT) and Internal Family Systems (IFS). These are evidenced based and trauma-informed treatments that aim to address the root causes of psychological suffering rather than simply addressing the outlying symptoms.
(571) 451-0218 View (571) 451-0218
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry McLean
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
McLean, VA 22101
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.
(571) 604-6761 View (571) 604-6761
1
...
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.