Couples Counseling Therapists in Roanoke, VA

Photo of Holly Humphreys - Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Roanoke, Licensed Professional Counselor
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Roanoke
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24019
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.
(540) 698-4604 View (540) 698-4604
Photo of Christina Hayes - Impact Living Services, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Impact Living Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24012
We offer individual and family therapy to various populations, including adults, teens, children, families and couples.
Are you tired of trying to handle the stresses of life alone? Do you feel like there is something holding you back from helping you reach your full potential? We believe that everyone can benefit from counseling with a skilled and caring professional. We want to help you make meaningful and extraordinary advances in your life, career, relationships, and happiness. We offer EMDR in Fairfax, Harrisonburg, and Lynchburg.
We offer individual and family therapy to various populations, including adults, teens, children, families and couples.
Are you tired of trying to handle the stresses of life alone? Do you feel like there is something holding you back from helping you reach your full potential? We believe that everyone can benefit from counseling with a skilled and caring professional. We want to help you make meaningful and extraordinary advances in your life, career, relationships, and happiness. We offer EMDR in Fairfax, Harrisonburg, and Lynchburg.
(434) 280-3093 x125 View (434) 280-3093 x125
Photo of Heather H Massey, LPC, NCC, CCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Heather H Massey
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CCMHC
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24011
I am also certified as a Prepare/Enrich Couples Therapist.
To put it bluntly, I am here for you. I want to hear about what is hurting you and stopping you from moving forward in a happy and positive way in your life. I want your input on what the problem is and what plan will work with you personally. We will gather all our information and decide on a plan of action to get you back to where you want to be as quickly as possible and develop a way to keep you there.
I am also certified as a Prepare/Enrich Couples Therapist.
To put it bluntly, I am here for you. I want to hear about what is hurting you and stopping you from moving forward in a happy and positive way in your life. I want your input on what the problem is and what plan will work with you personally. We will gather all our information and decide on a plan of action to get you back to where you want to be as quickly as possible and develop a way to keep you there.
(540) 784-1876 View (540) 784-1876
Photo of Yasmin Ramadan, Marriage & Family Therapist
Yasmin Ramadan
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24016  (Online Only)
I will first hear your story and help you discover patterns that may be causing relationship dissatisfaction.
Hi there! I truly believe creating healthier relationships is connected to your overall well being and quality of life. I focus on building healthy relationships. If you experience relationships that cause anxiety or depression and/or you feel like you can't be your authentic self in your relationships, I can help. I specialize in relationships and understand that relationships can be very fulfilling to your mental health. I offer services to both individuals and couples. If you are interested in creating healthier relationships let's work together!
I will first hear your story and help you discover patterns that may be causing relationship dissatisfaction.
Hi there! I truly believe creating healthier relationships is connected to your overall well being and quality of life. I focus on building healthy relationships. If you experience relationships that cause anxiety or depression and/or you feel like you can't be your authentic self in your relationships, I can help. I specialize in relationships and understand that relationships can be very fulfilling to your mental health. I offer services to both individuals and couples. If you are interested in creating healthier relationships let's work together!
(540) 583-4758 View (540) 583-4758
Photo of Chris Brown, LMFT, CCLS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Chris Brown
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CCLS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24012  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in marriage, relationship, individual, and family counseling.
My approach is both directive and accepting. I am a client-centered therapist. I can help solve problems that can take years to resolve on their own by teaching new skills and giving homework to practice in between sessions. At the same time I allow clients to dictate the goals, pace, and intensity of their counseling sessions. I don't fix people. I look for what is going right and help you or your relationship do more of it.
I specialize in marriage, relationship, individual, and family counseling.
My approach is both directive and accepting. I am a client-centered therapist. I can help solve problems that can take years to resolve on their own by teaching new skills and giving homework to practice in between sessions. At the same time I allow clients to dictate the goals, pace, and intensity of their counseling sessions. I don't fix people. I look for what is going right and help you or your relationship do more of it.
(540) 701-4924 View (540) 701-4924
Photo of Chanelle Henderson, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Chanelle Henderson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24016
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome! I'm Chanelle Henderson, a licensed professional counselor specializing in compassionate support for all those along life's journey. When you step into my office, I see that you are letting me into sacred ground. ​ As a counselor, my role is to provide a place so you can be brave enough to heal and grow. I will support you with cultural humility and LGBTQIA+ affirming practices so you can strengthen a deeper relationship with yourself and those closest to you. I specialize in working with those affected by traumatic experiences such as the immigration process, childhood abuse, and perinatal recovery.
Welcome! I'm Chanelle Henderson, a licensed professional counselor specializing in compassionate support for all those along life's journey. When you step into my office, I see that you are letting me into sacred ground. ​ As a counselor, my role is to provide a place so you can be brave enough to heal and grow. I will support you with cultural humility and LGBTQIA+ affirming practices so you can strengthen a deeper relationship with yourself and those closest to you. I specialize in working with those affected by traumatic experiences such as the immigration process, childhood abuse, and perinatal recovery.
(540) 253-4779 View (540) 253-4779
Photo of Megan Massett, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Megan Massett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24016
According to Charles Swindoll, “Life is ten percent what happens to you and ninety percent how you respond to it.” This quotation implies that "responding" to life is easy, doesn't it? But the truth is, life can be messy, and navigating its ups and downs can be HARD. I love supporting people in becoming empowered to feel less like a victim to life's circumstances and more like a confident, joyful, loving protagonist in the story of their lives. Whether working with individuals or couples, I do my best work with adults who feel stuck in patterns that are no longer serving them, and are looking for relief, and fast.
According to Charles Swindoll, “Life is ten percent what happens to you and ninety percent how you respond to it.” This quotation implies that "responding" to life is easy, doesn't it? But the truth is, life can be messy, and navigating its ups and downs can be HARD. I love supporting people in becoming empowered to feel less like a victim to life's circumstances and more like a confident, joyful, loving protagonist in the story of their lives. Whether working with individuals or couples, I do my best work with adults who feel stuck in patterns that are no longer serving them, and are looking for relief, and fast.
(540) 900-2849 View (540) 900-2849
Photo of Cynthia C Lissau, LPC, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cynthia C Lissau
Marriage & Family Therapist, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24015
I enjoy "MAKING LIFE & LOVE BETTER." . With my 20 plus years of experience as a relationship counselor, my goal is to provide personal counseling for individuals and couples (married or partnered). My approach incorporates a combination of traditional, contemporary and holistic counseling techniques. You will find my office to be a comfortable living-room like setting conducive to privacy, safety and relaxation. Each session is tailored to meet the special needs of the client or clients. CONFIDENTIALITY is always in place except when permission is given by the client.
I enjoy "MAKING LIFE & LOVE BETTER." . With my 20 plus years of experience as a relationship counselor, my goal is to provide personal counseling for individuals and couples (married or partnered). My approach incorporates a combination of traditional, contemporary and holistic counseling techniques. You will find my office to be a comfortable living-room like setting conducive to privacy, safety and relaxation. Each session is tailored to meet the special needs of the client or clients. CONFIDENTIALITY is always in place except when permission is given by the client.
(540) 986-4135 View (540) 986-4135
Photo of Regina Rivera, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Regina Rivera
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24012  (Online Only)
I offer individual or couples counseling.
You deserve a safe, supportive, and encouraging environment to share, explore and make progress. As your counselor, I will work diligently to meet you exactly where you are, help you feel comfortable and have a non-judgmental counseling space. You should feel validated, supported and empowered during your journey in counseling and I want to provide you with individualized treatment and care. Our collaborative relationship is of the utmost importance to me, and it is at the very foundation of our work together. I am committed to helping you feel empowered to work toward meeting your individual goals and increasing happiness.
I offer individual or couples counseling.
You deserve a safe, supportive, and encouraging environment to share, explore and make progress. As your counselor, I will work diligently to meet you exactly where you are, help you feel comfortable and have a non-judgmental counseling space. You should feel validated, supported and empowered during your journey in counseling and I want to provide you with individualized treatment and care. Our collaborative relationship is of the utmost importance to me, and it is at the very foundation of our work together. I am committed to helping you feel empowered to work toward meeting your individual goals and increasing happiness.
(540) 583-3744 View (540) 583-3744
Photo of Althea Dent, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Althea Dent
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24018
I desire to create an atmosphere that is comfortable and accepting and develop with my clients a collaborative therapeutic relationship. My primary goal is to come alongside the client and assist in managing issues that can cause one to feel stuck, overwhelmed or paralyzed while helping clients to move toward a more effective and rewarding life. I primarily use cognitive-behavioral, brief and solution focused therapies and techniques among other tools to develop an integrative approach that is tailored to each client individually. I also do work with engaged, dating and married couples using as customized couples' assessment.
I desire to create an atmosphere that is comfortable and accepting and develop with my clients a collaborative therapeutic relationship. My primary goal is to come alongside the client and assist in managing issues that can cause one to feel stuck, overwhelmed or paralyzed while helping clients to move toward a more effective and rewarding life. I primarily use cognitive-behavioral, brief and solution focused therapies and techniques among other tools to develop an integrative approach that is tailored to each client individually. I also do work with engaged, dating and married couples using as customized couples' assessment.
(540) 361-6591 View (540) 361-6591
Photo of Susan Boyes, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Susan Boyes
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24018
I focus on three key levels of expertise: transformational counseling, lifestyle counseling, and relationship counseling.
I will help you to improve communication skills, strengthen interpersonal relationships, lift depression, relieve anxiety, reduce an overload of accumulating stress, and eliminate self-sabotaging habits. I will encourage you to embrace a quality of life that includes joy, health, abundance and a LOVE for life. Individuals who acquire the skills necessary to experience personal transformation are catalysts of change for their family, friends, neighbors, co-workers, and community. I will be your therapist, teacher, and inspirational guide. I provide quality counseling services to children and adults that promotes the health, vitality and well-being of the whole person.
I focus on three key levels of expertise: transformational counseling, lifestyle counseling, and relationship counseling.
I will help you to improve communication skills, strengthen interpersonal relationships, lift depression, relieve anxiety, reduce an overload of accumulating stress, and eliminate self-sabotaging habits. I will encourage you to embrace a quality of life that includes joy, health, abundance and a LOVE for life. Individuals who acquire the skills necessary to experience personal transformation are catalysts of change for their family, friends, neighbors, co-workers, and community. I will be your therapist, teacher, and inspirational guide. I provide quality counseling services to children and adults that promotes the health, vitality and well-being of the whole person.
(540) 491-4263 View (540) 491-4263
Photo of Todd A. Gearheart, MA, LPC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Todd A. Gearheart
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24012
I am a certified Prepare-Enrich Couples Program facilitator that can provide couples therapy for couples preparing for marriage and for couples wishing to enrich their marriage.
My theoretical foundation is person-centered with a strong influence of humanistic counseling therapies such as positive psychology. My philosophy focuses attention on the present and future. I focus on goal-oriented questioning to assist a client in moving into a future-oriented direction to help the client reduce negative thinking and behaviors, increase motivation and resiliency, and become a healthier and happier, human being. I take a very holistic approach to counseling in which I focus on the integration of the mind, body, and spirit.
I am a certified Prepare-Enrich Couples Program facilitator that can provide couples therapy for couples preparing for marriage and for couples wishing to enrich their marriage.
My theoretical foundation is person-centered with a strong influence of humanistic counseling therapies such as positive psychology. My philosophy focuses attention on the present and future. I focus on goal-oriented questioning to assist a client in moving into a future-oriented direction to help the client reduce negative thinking and behaviors, increase motivation and resiliency, and become a healthier and happier, human being. I take a very holistic approach to counseling in which I focus on the integration of the mind, body, and spirit.
(540) 787-2588 View (540) 787-2588
Photo of Bobbie-jo Hurt, LPC, CSAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bobbie-jo Hurt
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CSAC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24012
If you're ready to dig into the underlying causes of your distress and do the work to heal, I'm your therapist. I'm a relaxed personality who prefers cozy sweaters over suits. I love to laugh and connect. When you come to my office, I want you feel comfortable and cared about. I focus each session on you and what your needs are. I have been working in the mental health field since 2005, working with adults/teens; providing individual therapy, couples therapy, group therapy and family therapy. I am a licensed therapist and a Certified Substance Abuse Counselor. My focus areas are relationships, anxiety, depression, addiction & trauma
If you're ready to dig into the underlying causes of your distress and do the work to heal, I'm your therapist. I'm a relaxed personality who prefers cozy sweaters over suits. I love to laugh and connect. When you come to my office, I want you feel comfortable and cared about. I focus each session on you and what your needs are. I have been working in the mental health field since 2005, working with adults/teens; providing individual therapy, couples therapy, group therapy and family therapy. I am a licensed therapist and a Certified Substance Abuse Counselor. My focus areas are relationships, anxiety, depression, addiction & trauma
(540) 696-5574 View (540) 696-5574
Photo of Jessica Conway, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jessica Conway
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24015
Waitlist for new clients
I also assist with difficult life transitions/feeling "stuck," and with relationship issues.
It's great news that you're here! My name is Jes Conway and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 20+ years of experience working with individuals and couples in a wide range of settings. Whether you are seeking to address a specific problem/situation or you are interested in taking a general personal inventory, you're acknowledging that you would like things to be different. What we often don't realize is that change requires taking action, and that in itself is a skill to learn and practice. I am excited to meet you and to see how I might be of service.
I also assist with difficult life transitions/feeling "stuck," and with relationship issues.
It's great news that you're here! My name is Jes Conway and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 20+ years of experience working with individuals and couples in a wide range of settings. Whether you are seeking to address a specific problem/situation or you are interested in taking a general personal inventory, you're acknowledging that you would like things to be different. What we often don't realize is that change requires taking action, and that in itself is a skill to learn and practice. I am excited to meet you and to see how I might be of service.
(540) 385-4584 View (540) 385-4584
Photo of Bailey Ratliff, MA, NCC
Bailey Ratliff
Resident in Counseling, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24014
I have a clinical focus in trauma (EMDR), life transitions, mood disorders, anxiety, depression, relationship counseling (Gottman level 1), and premarital counseling (SYMBIS).
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck in life? I am here to guide you on your journey to emotional well-being and personal growth. The goal is not only to alleviate symptoms; I’m here to help you create lasting, positive changes in your life. I understand that every individual is unique. Counseling sessions are tailored to your specific needs, ensuring you receive the support and strategies that work best for you. I provide telehealth counseling throughout Virginia and in-person counseling in Roanoke, Virginia.
I have a clinical focus in trauma (EMDR), life transitions, mood disorders, anxiety, depression, relationship counseling (Gottman level 1), and premarital counseling (SYMBIS).
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck in life? I am here to guide you on your journey to emotional well-being and personal growth. The goal is not only to alleviate symptoms; I’m here to help you create lasting, positive changes in your life. I understand that every individual is unique. Counseling sessions are tailored to your specific needs, ensuring you receive the support and strategies that work best for you. I provide telehealth counseling throughout Virginia and in-person counseling in Roanoke, Virginia.
(540) 453-8278 View (540) 453-8278
Photo of Heidi Ann Taylor, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Heidi Ann Taylor
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24015
Waitlist for new clients
It is my belief that growth and healing happens within the context of the therapeutic relationship.
Welcome. You have taken the first step in seeking help. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over thirty years of clinical experience. I work with adults and couples who are dealing with: anxiety, depression, relationship issues, grief, family of origin issues and codependency. I have a master's degree in Counseling from West Virginia University and am certified in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR). Additionally, I am a certified Clinical Supervisor and am open to supervising counseling residents as well as licensed professionals.
It is my belief that growth and healing happens within the context of the therapeutic relationship.
Welcome. You have taken the first step in seeking help. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over thirty years of clinical experience. I work with adults and couples who are dealing with: anxiety, depression, relationship issues, grief, family of origin issues and codependency. I have a master's degree in Counseling from West Virginia University and am certified in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR). Additionally, I am a certified Clinical Supervisor and am open to supervising counseling residents as well as licensed professionals.
(540) 253-1479 View (540) 253-1479
Photo of Zach Pennington, MA-CMHC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Zach Pennington
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA-CMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24019
My approach to therapy is person-centered and intuitive, while considering attachment style and relationship dynamics, while also encouraging the development of practical skills to improve overall quality of life and relationship.
Feeling stuck in life or relationship? As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I have completed doctoral level coursework and currently hold dual Masters’ Degrees in Marriage and Family Therapy and Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I enjoy working with individuals who may be struggling with ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Complex Trauma, and PTSD that negatively impacts personal, occupational life, family, and relationship. For the last ten years, I have built a strong reputation in our community for my ability to make meaningful and transformative connections with others.
My approach to therapy is person-centered and intuitive, while considering attachment style and relationship dynamics, while also encouraging the development of practical skills to improve overall quality of life and relationship.
Feeling stuck in life or relationship? As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I have completed doctoral level coursework and currently hold dual Masters’ Degrees in Marriage and Family Therapy and Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I enjoy working with individuals who may be struggling with ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Complex Trauma, and PTSD that negatively impacts personal, occupational life, family, and relationship. For the last ten years, I have built a strong reputation in our community for my ability to make meaningful and transformative connections with others.
(540) 390-1780 View (540) 390-1780
Photo of Kelley Ott, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kelley Ott
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24015
It is my honor to give therapy and counsel to people who carry a heavy load, especially to individuals with trauma and couples.
What would life be like if you could spend more time doing what really matters instead of just making it through the day and surviving? Have you experienced hard things in your past that still affect you today, and you wish that would change? Do you feel that sharp twinge in your chest when you think about just how far away you are from the relationships you want? If you have ever struggled with motivation, meaning, a difficult childhood, or a relationship that has lost its fire and hope, you understand how painful and gray the world can be when life isn't working.
It is my honor to give therapy and counsel to people who carry a heavy load, especially to individuals with trauma and couples.
What would life be like if you could spend more time doing what really matters instead of just making it through the day and surviving? Have you experienced hard things in your past that still affect you today, and you wish that would change? Do you feel that sharp twinge in your chest when you think about just how far away you are from the relationships you want? If you have ever struggled with motivation, meaning, a difficult childhood, or a relationship that has lost its fire and hope, you understand how painful and gray the world can be when life isn't working.
(540) 210-1529 View (540) 210-1529
Photo of Dr. Jeannie B Berger, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Jeannie B Berger
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24015
Are you feeling anxious, stressed, or stuck? Are you and your partner trapped in repetitive arguments that go nowhere? Juggling work, finances, and parenting children leaves little room to prioritize your relationship. Your emotional and physical connection suffers. You’re caught in unhealthy patterns but don’t know how to change them. Or perhaps you’re redefining your relationship with adult children or caring for aging parents. Negotiating new family roles can be challenging. You crave healthier connections with your family, but you aren’t sure where to start. Therapy provides a soothing refuge amid life's chaos.
Are you feeling anxious, stressed, or stuck? Are you and your partner trapped in repetitive arguments that go nowhere? Juggling work, finances, and parenting children leaves little room to prioritize your relationship. Your emotional and physical connection suffers. You’re caught in unhealthy patterns but don’t know how to change them. Or perhaps you’re redefining your relationship with adult children or caring for aging parents. Negotiating new family roles can be challenging. You crave healthier connections with your family, but you aren’t sure where to start. Therapy provides a soothing refuge amid life's chaos.
(540) 302-2682 View (540) 302-2682
Photo of Adrien Monti, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Adrien Monti
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24016
Waitlist for new clients
Relationships can be really hard! If you feel stuck having the same argument over and over that never goes anywhere, or if you feel more like roommates than romantic partners, please reach out. I can help you to reduce conflict, improve communication, and build connection. As a certified sex therapist, I have experience working with issues such as sexual incompatibility, desire discrepancy, performance anxiety, pain, sexual shame, and difficulty with orgasm. I help people overcome barriers so they can more freely experience confidence, intimacy, and pleasure. I offer individual and couples therapy.
Relationships can be really hard! If you feel stuck having the same argument over and over that never goes anywhere, or if you feel more like roommates than romantic partners, please reach out. I can help you to reduce conflict, improve communication, and build connection. As a certified sex therapist, I have experience working with issues such as sexual incompatibility, desire discrepancy, performance anxiety, pain, sexual shame, and difficulty with orgasm. I help people overcome barriers so they can more freely experience confidence, intimacy, and pleasure. I offer individual and couples therapy.
(540) 701-6010 View (540) 701-6010
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.