Couples Counseling Therapists in Vermont

Photo of Theressa Harrigan, MS, JD, LCMHC, Counselor
Theressa Harrigan
Counselor, MS, JD, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Bradford, VT 05033  (Online Only)
My clients (adults & couples) are in life transitions, suffering from depression, anxiety, trauma & recent losses.
Over the last several years, we have all learned a great deal about our values. We have learned what we do and do not want out of life and our relationships. What is important is much clearer than before. Therapy can help navigate the way to that new life and to healthier relationships. I work with adults and couples of all ages with an emphasis on providing uncomplicated tools and communication skills strongly supported by research. Many clients struggle to stand up for themselves. I can teach that! Client sessions include humor, as it is a coping skill available to all of us.
My clients (adults & couples) are in life transitions, suffering from depression, anxiety, trauma & recent losses.
Over the last several years, we have all learned a great deal about our values. We have learned what we do and do not want out of life and our relationships. What is important is much clearer than before. Therapy can help navigate the way to that new life and to healthier relationships. I work with adults and couples of all ages with an emphasis on providing uncomplicated tools and communication skills strongly supported by research. Many clients struggle to stand up for themselves. I can teach that! Client sessions include humor, as it is a coping skill available to all of us.
(802) 454-3144 View (802) 454-3144
Photo of John Roberts, MA, LCMHC, Counselor
John Roberts
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burlington, VT 05401
I believe that our mental health 'symptoms' are often our psyche's way of calling us to a different way of living. Each struggle in our lives is an opportunity for self-awareness and personal growth. Through many years of experience, I have developed an integrated approach utilizing the best practices in the field of psychotherapy. My approach adapts to the uniqueness of each individual and their own personal story, beliefs and interests. The foundation of my work is the development of a meaningful, trusting relationship with my clients.
I believe that our mental health 'symptoms' are often our psyche's way of calling us to a different way of living. Each struggle in our lives is an opportunity for self-awareness and personal growth. Through many years of experience, I have developed an integrated approach utilizing the best practices in the field of psychotherapy. My approach adapts to the uniqueness of each individual and their own personal story, beliefs and interests. The foundation of my work is the development of a meaningful, trusting relationship with my clients.
(802) 328-0327 View (802) 328-0327
Photo of Kerri Macon, MA, CMHC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kerri Macon
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, CMHC
Verified Verified
Shelburne, VT 05482  (Online Only)
There are times in our lives when our repetitive and unexamined emotional experiences can cloud our ability to see our lives with clarity. Through a supportive and strong counseling relationship, we can gain valuable insights into our hearts and minds to make meaningful changes in our actions, thoughts, and behaviors. Through these changes, we can relieve suffering within ourselves and in our relationships and uncover the untapped joy in life. If you are suffering, I invite you to reach out. I would be honored to provide a safe, non-judgmental space to support your journey through the challenges you face.
There are times in our lives when our repetitive and unexamined emotional experiences can cloud our ability to see our lives with clarity. Through a supportive and strong counseling relationship, we can gain valuable insights into our hearts and minds to make meaningful changes in our actions, thoughts, and behaviors. Through these changes, we can relieve suffering within ourselves and in our relationships and uncover the untapped joy in life. If you are suffering, I invite you to reach out. I would be honored to provide a safe, non-judgmental space to support your journey through the challenges you face.
(802) 402-4892 View (802) 402-4892
Photo of Wesley Wolter, MS, MA, LCMHC , LADC, RYT500, Counselor
Wesley Wolter
Counselor, MS, MA, LCMHC , LADC, RYT500
Verified Verified
Fairlee, VT 05045
Hello, I am currently offering vid/tele counseling and in-person psychotherapy. I have 15 years of mental health experience and created Milldale Farm Ctr4Wellness. I focus on developing a safe and trusting relationship offering alternative approach’s through empowering you and your greatest qualities to navigate addictions, trauma and other mental health issues, for all people of all ages. I specialize in treating trauma related challenges through offering EMDR, IFS,specific mind/body therapies, holistic wellness, breath-work and soon psycadelic psychotherapy. Look forward to meeting the amazing you and being of service.
Hello, I am currently offering vid/tele counseling and in-person psychotherapy. I have 15 years of mental health experience and created Milldale Farm Ctr4Wellness. I focus on developing a safe and trusting relationship offering alternative approach’s through empowering you and your greatest qualities to navigate addictions, trauma and other mental health issues, for all people of all ages. I specialize in treating trauma related challenges through offering EMDR, IFS,specific mind/body therapies, holistic wellness, breath-work and soon psycadelic psychotherapy. Look forward to meeting the amazing you and being of service.
(802) 613-0309 View (802) 613-0309
Photo of Pam Steeg, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Pam Steeg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
I use a model of couples therapy called Emotionally Focused Therapy- which is shown by research to help people feel more connected to and supported by their partner; and to reduce conflicts.
I have been in the mental health field for over 30 years and love what I do. Using a collaborative and holistic approach - I help individuals who are struggling with anxiety, life stressors and depressed moods; and with couples of many different relationship statuses. I enjoy helping people to build on their strengths and values; and to learn healthier tools for coping with the challenges that life can bring you and your loved ones. I am also practiced in mindfulness meditation and love to help my clients incorporate mindfulness into their daily lives.
I use a model of couples therapy called Emotionally Focused Therapy- which is shown by research to help people feel more connected to and supported by their partner; and to reduce conflicts.
I have been in the mental health field for over 30 years and love what I do. Using a collaborative and holistic approach - I help individuals who are struggling with anxiety, life stressors and depressed moods; and with couples of many different relationship statuses. I enjoy helping people to build on their strengths and values; and to learn healthier tools for coping with the challenges that life can bring you and your loved ones. I am also practiced in mindfulness meditation and love to help my clients incorporate mindfulness into their daily lives.
(802) 277-3276 View (802) 277-3276
Photo of David O'Leary, MA, Psychologist
David O'Leary
Psychologist, MA
Verified Verified
Waitlist for new clients
I have recently implemented Feedback-Informed Treatment (FIT) — using measures to solicit feedback about progress and the quality of the therapeutic relationship.
As of November 2024, I am maintaining a wait-list. Thank you for visiting my profile. I am a Psychologist-Master in private practice in Essex, Vt, I use a person-centered approach to psychotherapy, and treat a range of mental health issues. I provide in-person sessions at my Essex office, with off-street free parking and a private waiting area. I also offer video sessions using secure software. I look forward to speaking with you if you are interested in finding out more about my practice.
I have recently implemented Feedback-Informed Treatment (FIT) — using measures to solicit feedback about progress and the quality of the therapeutic relationship.
As of November 2024, I am maintaining a wait-list. Thank you for visiting my profile. I am a Psychologist-Master in private practice in Essex, Vt, I use a person-centered approach to psychotherapy, and treat a range of mental health issues. I provide in-person sessions at my Essex office, with off-street free parking and a private waiting area. I also offer video sessions using secure software. I look forward to speaking with you if you are interested in finding out more about my practice.
(802) 328-9181 View (802) 328-9181
Photo of Zhena Dickinson Hadar, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Zhena Dickinson Hadar
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Mount Holly, VT 05758  (Online Only)
My approach enables clients to better understand their individual, relationship and familial "default" patterns and build upon their personal strengths to develop effective and beneficial ways of being, thinking and feeling.
I am an experienced therapist who welcomes individuals and couples who want to find relief and overcome barriers that prevent them from feeling fulfilled. I specialize in working with anxiety, panic disorders, depression, grief, chronic illness, relationship difficulties, parenting challenges, career stress, self-esteem issues as well as trauma.
My approach enables clients to better understand their individual, relationship and familial "default" patterns and build upon their personal strengths to develop effective and beneficial ways of being, thinking and feeling.
I am an experienced therapist who welcomes individuals and couples who want to find relief and overcome barriers that prevent them from feeling fulfilled. I specialize in working with anxiety, panic disorders, depression, grief, chronic illness, relationship difficulties, parenting challenges, career stress, self-esteem issues as well as trauma.
(203) 463-4848 View (203) 463-4848
Photo of Dr. Matthew Tansey, PhD, LCMHC, Counselor
Dr. Matthew Tansey
Counselor, PhD, LCMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Montpelier, VT 05602
I help clients feel less anxious and more authentic in their relationships. I believe that many people experience struggle in their lives as a result of growing distant from their emotional compasses. I work with individual clients and couples to reconnect with these aspects of their experiences.
I help clients feel less anxious and more authentic in their relationships. I believe that many people experience struggle in their lives as a result of growing distant from their emotional compasses. I work with individual clients and couples to reconnect with these aspects of their experiences.
(802) 441-6482 View (802) 441-6482
Photo of Steven Olaf Langehough - Getting Back On Track Counseling / Langehough, PhD, LADC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Getting Back On Track Counseling / Langehough
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, PhD, LADC
Verified Verified
Burlington, VT 05408
I strive to assist individuals, couples, and families in growing past challenges and now moving forward with their lives focusing on strengths, resilience, and a desire to achieve internal peace that passes human understanding.
Getting Back On Track Counseling offers multiple decades of familiarity with the issues of substance abuse, faith, marriage & pre-marriage, relationships, military member & family pre-/post-deployment, suicide, trauma, post-traumatic stress, blended families, and stress management. GBOTC strives to assist individuals, couples, and families in moving forward with a strength-based focus. Specialized training includes Addiction Treatment in Military & Veteran Culture, Clinical Supervision in the Addiction Profession, Strong Bonds (marital/significant other/family relationships), and PTSD/trauma resiliency.
I strive to assist individuals, couples, and families in growing past challenges and now moving forward with their lives focusing on strengths, resilience, and a desire to achieve internal peace that passes human understanding.
Getting Back On Track Counseling offers multiple decades of familiarity with the issues of substance abuse, faith, marriage & pre-marriage, relationships, military member & family pre-/post-deployment, suicide, trauma, post-traumatic stress, blended families, and stress management. GBOTC strives to assist individuals, couples, and families in moving forward with a strength-based focus. Specialized training includes Addiction Treatment in Military & Veteran Culture, Clinical Supervision in the Addiction Profession, Strong Bonds (marital/significant other/family relationships), and PTSD/trauma resiliency.
(802) 992-1610 View (802) 992-1610
Photo of Mary Cleary Lewis - Dr. Mary Cleary Lewis, MA, PsyaD, CAGS, Licensed Psychoanalyst
Dr. Mary Cleary Lewis
Licensed Psychoanalyst, MA, PsyaD, CAGS
Verified Verified
Brattleboro, VT 05301
I have a special interest in working with people who are involved in challenging relationship issues.
I am a psychoanalytically trained psychotherapist whose primary focus is on developing a relationship of trust between therapist and client that is essential to the healing process. I put a strong emphasis on the importance of the client's comfort in the room both physically and emotionally. Although I encourage my clients to say everything, I also think their instincts regarding when and how much they want to share should be respected. Respecting the boundaries and privacy of my clients is something I regard as the foundation of a good therapeutic relationship.
I have a special interest in working with people who are involved in challenging relationship issues.
I am a psychoanalytically trained psychotherapist whose primary focus is on developing a relationship of trust between therapist and client that is essential to the healing process. I put a strong emphasis on the importance of the client's comfort in the room both physically and emotionally. Although I encourage my clients to say everything, I also think their instincts regarding when and how much they want to share should be respected. Respecting the boundaries and privacy of my clients is something I regard as the foundation of a good therapeutic relationship.
(802) 659-4626 View (802) 659-4626
Photo of Penélope Williams, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Penélope Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Burlington, VT 05401  (Online Only)
I’ve served children, youth, couples, and families and continue to! Over the years I have gained specialized skills to integrate the body into the work of healing so that all of you is included.
Openings for private pay clients, evening, afternoon, and daytime. You, your teen, or your partnership are feeling overwhelmed trying to cope with the demands of daily life. You don’t have the supports you need to consistently enjoy your life. Instead, you feel anxious and down, not knowing how to truly take care of yourself or help your teen to thrive. You may be dealing with medical needs that are complex or that you’re not getting answers for and it’s impacting your quality of life. Your relationships are suffering, you feel isolated and stuck. You know you want a change but where to turn? How to begin?
I’ve served children, youth, couples, and families and continue to! Over the years I have gained specialized skills to integrate the body into the work of healing so that all of you is included.
Openings for private pay clients, evening, afternoon, and daytime. You, your teen, or your partnership are feeling overwhelmed trying to cope with the demands of daily life. You don’t have the supports you need to consistently enjoy your life. Instead, you feel anxious and down, not knowing how to truly take care of yourself or help your teen to thrive. You may be dealing with medical needs that are complex or that you’re not getting answers for and it’s impacting your quality of life. Your relationships are suffering, you feel isolated and stuck. You know you want a change but where to turn? How to begin?
(802) 222-0436 View (802) 222-0436
Photo of Kristin Mitchell - Kristin Mitchell, LCSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristin Mitchell, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Middlebury, VT 05753
It's often difficult to reach out for help when you most need it, and it can be hard to speak with someone you've never met about personal issues. On the other hand, it can be easier to do with a person who is a trained, neutral professional. I can be objective and understanding in a way that well-meaning friends and family often cannot. My work with couples, individual adults including seniors, or the younger population, begins in a friendly, professional manner whereby we move towards knowing each other better. A rapport between us is essential in accomplishing our work.
It's often difficult to reach out for help when you most need it, and it can be hard to speak with someone you've never met about personal issues. On the other hand, it can be easier to do with a person who is a trained, neutral professional. I can be objective and understanding in a way that well-meaning friends and family often cannot. My work with couples, individual adults including seniors, or the younger population, begins in a friendly, professional manner whereby we move towards knowing each other better. A rapport between us is essential in accomplishing our work.
(802) 526-2067 View (802) 526-2067
Photo of Jonna Tufts, MA, CAGS, LMHC, Counselor
Jonna Tufts
Counselor, MA, CAGS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wolcott, VT 05680  (Online Only)
I offer sessions for older adolescents, adults, and couples.
It takes courage to reckon with some of the most private, honest, scary, and hopeful places within you. Effective support during these times can be transformational. You may want to discover new ways of being in the world, your skin, and your life that feel authentic, and alive. Or, you may be wanting relief from painful relationship patterns, anger, grief, fear, self-criticism, “stuckness” or addiction. My clients often find my approach feels both comfortable and challenging, and facilitates greater self-love and empowerment. I hold a license in Mental Health Counseling, CAGS in Expressive Arts, and am IFS trained.
I offer sessions for older adolescents, adults, and couples.
It takes courage to reckon with some of the most private, honest, scary, and hopeful places within you. Effective support during these times can be transformational. You may want to discover new ways of being in the world, your skin, and your life that feel authentic, and alive. Or, you may be wanting relief from painful relationship patterns, anger, grief, fear, self-criticism, “stuckness” or addiction. My clients often find my approach feels both comfortable and challenging, and facilitates greater self-love and empowerment. I hold a license in Mental Health Counseling, CAGS in Expressive Arts, and am IFS trained.
(617) 899-0418 View (617) 899-0418
Photo of Karen Hastings, LCSW, MSW, BSW, AAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karen Hastings
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, BSW, AAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Milton, VT 05468  (Online Only)
I also consider it an honor to help others deepen into a relationship with themselves (and others) in order to create a vision for moving forward in life that feels right.
Sometimes on our journey we need an objective guide. I can help you manage problems involving "big feelings” that otherwise overwhelm. If your goal is to start getting new results for old recurring problems we can do that with compassion and curiosity. It is important to explore our personal history to understand why we think or behave the ways we currently do. While personal growth isn't always painless, you don't have to be alone in the process if you have a therapist who will commit to the process along side of you. I can help you gain new perspectives that will get you to solve problems effectively.
I also consider it an honor to help others deepen into a relationship with themselves (and others) in order to create a vision for moving forward in life that feels right.
Sometimes on our journey we need an objective guide. I can help you manage problems involving "big feelings” that otherwise overwhelm. If your goal is to start getting new results for old recurring problems we can do that with compassion and curiosity. It is important to explore our personal history to understand why we think or behave the ways we currently do. While personal growth isn't always painless, you don't have to be alone in the process if you have a therapist who will commit to the process along side of you. I can help you gain new perspectives that will get you to solve problems effectively.
(480) 470-9590 View (480) 470-9590
Photo of Dr. Jennifer L. Cantor, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Jennifer L. Cantor
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
White River Junction, VT 05001  (Online Only)
As a clinical psychologist & psychoanalyst with close to 30 yrs of clinical experience, I have the training & perspective to help you get to the bottom of your issues & navigate life's challenges with deeper self-awareness & fulfillment. Whether you are caught in painful relationship dynamics, struggling with self-esteem or identity issues, or wrestling with the troubled world in which we live, you will find me to be a highly perceptive, sincere & compassionate presence dedicated to understanding you & facilitating your healing & growth. I also offer EMDR for entrenched patterns. Tele-therapy only.
As a clinical psychologist & psychoanalyst with close to 30 yrs of clinical experience, I have the training & perspective to help you get to the bottom of your issues & navigate life's challenges with deeper self-awareness & fulfillment. Whether you are caught in painful relationship dynamics, struggling with self-esteem or identity issues, or wrestling with the troubled world in which we live, you will find me to be a highly perceptive, sincere & compassionate presence dedicated to understanding you & facilitating your healing & growth. I also offer EMDR for entrenched patterns. Tele-therapy only.
(802) 499-2087 View (802) 499-2087
Photo of Dr. Richelle Dadian, PsyD, LP, CST, Psychologist
Dr. Richelle Dadian
Psychologist, PsyD, LP, CST
Verified Verified
Charlotte, VT 05445  (Online Only)
As an experienced sex and relationship therapist, I believe that we can connect deeply in our sexuality and relationships.
​​You've been experiencing sexual issues recently or maybe even for some time. You may be experiencing erectile difficulties or pain during sex. You’ve tried everything you’ve found on the internet but still, it's not working how you want. It's frustrating, isolating, infuriating, and confusing. It may even be difficult to remember a time when things didn’t feel this way. But now, you’re ready for some relief. You’re ready to break the pattern and have your body and brain on the same page. You're ready for a more fulfilled sex life. And most of all, you’re ready to feel more connected in your sexuality!
As an experienced sex and relationship therapist, I believe that we can connect deeply in our sexuality and relationships.
​​You've been experiencing sexual issues recently or maybe even for some time. You may be experiencing erectile difficulties or pain during sex. You’ve tried everything you’ve found on the internet but still, it's not working how you want. It's frustrating, isolating, infuriating, and confusing. It may even be difficult to remember a time when things didn’t feel this way. But now, you’re ready for some relief. You’re ready to break the pattern and have your body and brain on the same page. You're ready for a more fulfilled sex life. And most of all, you’re ready to feel more connected in your sexuality!
(305) 363-7677 View (305) 363-7677
Photo of Hollie Hurewitz - Hollie Hurewitz, MACP, MA, Psychologist
Hollie Hurewitz, MACP
Psychologist, MA
Verified Verified
Burlington, VT 05401
I have enjoyed helping people with stress, anxiety, depression, abuse (emotional, physical, sexual), addiction/alcoholism in the family, couples, self-esteem, dissociation, and attachment issues. I offer EVIDENCE BASED PSYCHOTHERAPY to individuals, couples and groups as a licensed psychologist since 1991. Expertise: INTERNAL FAMILY SYSTEMS THERAPY (IFS), PHASE ORIENTED TRAUMA TREATMENT, EMDR, 12 STEP work. My Aussie, Smudge works with me. She can be a source of comfort and kindness. I would be happy to speak with you. Outside of work, I am a mom and wife; artist and gardener; meditator, and do my own psychotherapy.
I have enjoyed helping people with stress, anxiety, depression, abuse (emotional, physical, sexual), addiction/alcoholism in the family, couples, self-esteem, dissociation, and attachment issues. I offer EVIDENCE BASED PSYCHOTHERAPY to individuals, couples and groups as a licensed psychologist since 1991. Expertise: INTERNAL FAMILY SYSTEMS THERAPY (IFS), PHASE ORIENTED TRAUMA TREATMENT, EMDR, 12 STEP work. My Aussie, Smudge works with me. She can be a source of comfort and kindness. I would be happy to speak with you. Outside of work, I am a mom and wife; artist and gardener; meditator, and do my own psychotherapy.
(802) 992-8268 View (802) 992-8268
Photo of Molly Katherine Leach, LCSW, MEd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Molly Katherine Leach
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MEd
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rutland, VT 05701  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
In psychotherapy, I view the therapeutic relationship above all else. I enjoy working with adults, couples, and families. I practice traditional and holistic therapeutic modalities with an expertise in sexual health concerns. I also have training in trauma, addictions, and general mental health recovery.
In psychotherapy, I view the therapeutic relationship above all else. I enjoy working with adults, couples, and families. I practice traditional and holistic therapeutic modalities with an expertise in sexual health concerns. I also have training in trauma, addictions, and general mental health recovery.
(802) 755-3297 View (802) 755-3297
Photo of Thomas Mock, LICSW, ACSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Thomas Mock
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, ACSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Saint Albans, VT 05478
Choosing a therapist for yourself or loved one can be a difficult task. A true "Master" of the healing arts is one who has spent years learning, practicing, and refining their skills as a healer. Individuals, couples and families first entering into the therapeutic relationship often feel overwhelmed, confused, anxious and vulnerable. They need to feel safe by knowing that they are truly being heard and respected. They also need to trust that their therapist has sufficient experience to patiently guide them thru the process of self discovery on their path to wellness and feeling whole, perhaps for the first time in their life.
Choosing a therapist for yourself or loved one can be a difficult task. A true "Master" of the healing arts is one who has spent years learning, practicing, and refining their skills as a healer. Individuals, couples and families first entering into the therapeutic relationship often feel overwhelmed, confused, anxious and vulnerable. They need to feel safe by knowing that they are truly being heard and respected. They also need to trust that their therapist has sufficient experience to patiently guide them thru the process of self discovery on their path to wellness and feeling whole, perhaps for the first time in their life.
(802) 278-0404 View (802) 278-0404
Photo of Jane Beaumont Snyder, MA, LCMHC, Counselor
Jane Beaumont Snyder
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Burlington, VT 05401  (Online Only)
My history of working with children, teens, adults, couples and families allows me to work sensitively with both unique individual needs as well as systemic dynamics.
I see a state of imbalance in the world that affects all beings and brings out our collective and individual defenses. These intersect with trauma, relationship issues, fear, anxiety, grief, and depression to create patterns of disharmony within our lives and our dynamics with others. Whatever brings you to therapy, I believe that therapy can help ease the burden. I see therapy as a process of co-creatively and compassionately tending to threads of discord that have become intransigent, freeing new pathways of thinking, feeling, and being. With time and attention, therapy can help cultivate and strengthen an inner balance.
My history of working with children, teens, adults, couples and families allows me to work sensitively with both unique individual needs as well as systemic dynamics.
I see a state of imbalance in the world that affects all beings and brings out our collective and individual defenses. These intersect with trauma, relationship issues, fear, anxiety, grief, and depression to create patterns of disharmony within our lives and our dynamics with others. Whatever brings you to therapy, I believe that therapy can help ease the burden. I see therapy as a process of co-creatively and compassionately tending to threads of discord that have become intransigent, freeing new pathways of thinking, feeling, and being. With time and attention, therapy can help cultivate and strengthen an inner balance.
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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.