Photo of Leslie Fleming, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Leslie Fleming
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Edmonds, WA 98020
Waitlist for new clients
Areas of Specialization: couples; sexual assault, domestic violence, trauma recovery; traumatic brain injury; LGBTQ and sexuality issues; poly and kink friendly; chronic and terminal illness; spiritual crisis; death and dying/grief and loss; personal growth, self-awareness, fulfillment.
I offer a unique, holistic approach to transformational healing and growth through a weaving of shamanism, psychotherapy, and coaching. I am direct, compassionate, and intuitive in working with clients, offering deep integrity, fortitude, and over 3 decades of shamanic practice supporting journeys of healing, personal mastery, and authenticity. The transformational work of embodying who you truly are and why you are here is a beautiful, challenging journey of embracing and integrating all of who you are with deep compassion and fierce love. A journey I invite you to take and am honored to support.
Areas of Specialization: couples; sexual assault, domestic violence, trauma recovery; traumatic brain injury; LGBTQ and sexuality issues; poly and kink friendly; chronic and terminal illness; spiritual crisis; death and dying/grief and loss; personal growth, self-awareness, fulfillment.
I offer a unique, holistic approach to transformational healing and growth through a weaving of shamanism, psychotherapy, and coaching. I am direct, compassionate, and intuitive in working with clients, offering deep integrity, fortitude, and over 3 decades of shamanic practice supporting journeys of healing, personal mastery, and authenticity. The transformational work of embodying who you truly are and why you are here is a beautiful, challenging journey of embracing and integrating all of who you are with deep compassion and fierce love. A journey I invite you to take and am honored to support.
(206) 745-6238 View (206) 745-6238
Photo of Melissa Lozito - Empowering Minds PLLC, DSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Empowering Minds PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Edmonds, WA 98026  (Online Only)
My passion is to empower others to build self-confidence through therapy. Through self-confidence, you can learn how to care for yourself in ways that help you grow using self-compassion and maintain your mental health.
My passion is to empower others to build self-confidence through therapy. Through self-confidence, you can learn how to care for yourself in ways that help you grow using self-compassion and maintain your mental health.
(425) 528-8960 View (425) 528-8960

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Paul Clark LaFond, MS, MEd, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Paul Clark LaFond
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, MEd, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lynnwood, WA 98036
I am passionately committed to helping you with issues of loss, sadness, anger, anxiety, depression, addiction, PTSD, trauma, and relationship problems. I am comfortable working with preteens, teens, young and older adults, couples, and families. I offer you a warm, safe nonjudgmental space in which you and I can work together to discover tools which will enable you to build more authentic joyful connections and intimacy with yourself and within your interpersonal relationships. I draw from a wide variety of theories, techniques, and approaches that will enable you to move deliberately and comfortably towards your goals.
I am passionately committed to helping you with issues of loss, sadness, anger, anxiety, depression, addiction, PTSD, trauma, and relationship problems. I am comfortable working with preteens, teens, young and older adults, couples, and families. I offer you a warm, safe nonjudgmental space in which you and I can work together to discover tools which will enable you to build more authentic joyful connections and intimacy with yourself and within your interpersonal relationships. I draw from a wide variety of theories, techniques, and approaches that will enable you to move deliberately and comfortably towards your goals.
(360) 207-2554 View (360) 207-2554
Photo of Barb A. Anderson, MA, LMHC, PLLC, Counselor
Barb A. Anderson
Counselor, MA, LMHC, PLLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mountlake Terrace, WA 98043  (Online Only)
My areas of focus include trauma, relationship and communication issues, mindfulness, depression/anxiety, grief & loss, transitional and aging issues, and women’s issues such as self-esteem, postpartum depression, parenting, and relationship strain.
My aim is to help those clients who want to use therapy for insight, self-exploration, healing and personal growth. My theoretical approach is holistic and relational, which means - together, we can explore the ways in which your personal history and learned habits may still be influencing your emotions, coping patterns and behaviors -- ultimately affecting your sense of self. Together we’ll sort out your feelings so that you can more fluidly access your innate capacity for compassionate self-care. I encourage a mindfulness focus to engage your “in-the-moment” experience. Our therapeutic connection can serve as a rich resource.
My areas of focus include trauma, relationship and communication issues, mindfulness, depression/anxiety, grief & loss, transitional and aging issues, and women’s issues such as self-esteem, postpartum depression, parenting, and relationship strain.
My aim is to help those clients who want to use therapy for insight, self-exploration, healing and personal growth. My theoretical approach is holistic and relational, which means - together, we can explore the ways in which your personal history and learned habits may still be influencing your emotions, coping patterns and behaviors -- ultimately affecting your sense of self. Together we’ll sort out your feelings so that you can more fluidly access your innate capacity for compassionate self-care. I encourage a mindfulness focus to engage your “in-the-moment” experience. Our therapeutic connection can serve as a rich resource.
(425) 225-4519 View (425) 225-4519
Photo of Frances Murphy, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Frances Murphy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lynnwood, WA 98036
If you are struggling in your daily life with symptoms of anxiety, depression, relationship issues, conflict, grief and loss, stress or PTSD or you’re burnt out at work, We can partner to help you figure out a way to honor your true nature, effectively communicate, gain clarity and the skills you need to thrive in your life.
We all have the ability to change, learn and grow. We are not born with skills, throughout our life we gain many coping mechanisms, but some of those are born out of survival, fear or toxic family dynamics and might make it challenging to navigate in relationships or during life’s transitions. For many this leads to experiencing a variety of symptoms. Life can also throw us some big curveballs that feel impossible to adjust to. I believe with assistance anyone can process the past, heal, build coping skills and cultivate a mindset that is needed to create a life that is enjoyable. I utilize DBT and EMDR to aid you in your journey.
If you are struggling in your daily life with symptoms of anxiety, depression, relationship issues, conflict, grief and loss, stress or PTSD or you’re burnt out at work, We can partner to help you figure out a way to honor your true nature, effectively communicate, gain clarity and the skills you need to thrive in your life.
We all have the ability to change, learn and grow. We are not born with skills, throughout our life we gain many coping mechanisms, but some of those are born out of survival, fear or toxic family dynamics and might make it challenging to navigate in relationships or during life’s transitions. For many this leads to experiencing a variety of symptoms. Life can also throw us some big curveballs that feel impossible to adjust to. I believe with assistance anyone can process the past, heal, build coping skills and cultivate a mindset that is needed to create a life that is enjoyable. I utilize DBT and EMDR to aid you in your journey.
(425) 600-3081 View (425) 600-3081
Photo of Katie Roskilly, MS, LMHCA, Counselor
Katie Roskilly
Counselor, MS, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lynnwood, WA 98036  (Online Only)
I utilize skills and techniques from CBT and DBT alongside Gottman-style work in relationship sessions.
Life can be isolating at times. This is especially true when you add in ADHD, PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, chronic illness, and Queerness, cultural, and relationship issues. We hold so many identities and struggles that influence who we are and how we move through our place in the world. It is essential to find yourself among those identities and move into the whole version of yourself that finds comfort in the here and now. This includes finding your community and support through all that life throws at us.
I utilize skills and techniques from CBT and DBT alongside Gottman-style work in relationship sessions.
Life can be isolating at times. This is especially true when you add in ADHD, PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, chronic illness, and Queerness, cultural, and relationship issues. We hold so many identities and struggles that influence who we are and how we move through our place in the world. It is essential to find yourself among those identities and move into the whole version of yourself that finds comfort in the here and now. This includes finding your community and support through all that life throws at us.
(425) 521-6691 View (425) 521-6691
Photo of Joshua Matthew Neal, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Joshua Matthew Neal
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103
I work with individual adults, and couples. I specialize in relationship issues, work stress, and spiritual or existential concerns. I provide therapy for a broad range of issues including: anxiety, depression, grief, self-esteem, adjustment, and family issues. My approach is person centered, and client driven. This involves open conversation that is candid, and collaborative. I strive to provide a nonjudgmental, caring environment to support the goals you define.
I work with individual adults, and couples. I specialize in relationship issues, work stress, and spiritual or existential concerns. I provide therapy for a broad range of issues including: anxiety, depression, grief, self-esteem, adjustment, and family issues. My approach is person centered, and client driven. This involves open conversation that is candid, and collaborative. I strive to provide a nonjudgmental, caring environment to support the goals you define.
(206) 488-0486 View (206) 488-0486
Photo of Justine Joslyn, MA
Justine Joslyn
MA
Verified Verified
Shoreline, WA 98133  (Online Only)
Hello! Since 2006, I have helped couples & families resolve stuck dynamics with communication & connection skills. I also assist individuals recover from depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction & ADHD/ADD, with support through transitions such as divorce, loss, abuse recovery & existential or spiritual awakening. My style is flexible and tailored to your preferences, balancing compassion with real results. You'll also learn how to re-connect to your with your wise inner guidance, and replace negative ego chatter with empowering narratives that inspire smart, bold moves with your career, creativity & relationships.
Hello! Since 2006, I have helped couples & families resolve stuck dynamics with communication & connection skills. I also assist individuals recover from depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction & ADHD/ADD, with support through transitions such as divorce, loss, abuse recovery & existential or spiritual awakening. My style is flexible and tailored to your preferences, balancing compassion with real results. You'll also learn how to re-connect to your with your wise inner guidance, and replace negative ego chatter with empowering narratives that inspire smart, bold moves with your career, creativity & relationships.
(360) 946-0941 View (360) 946-0941
Photo of Debiruth Stanford, LMHC, CDWF, CEQP
Debiruth Stanford
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, CDWF, CEQP
Verified Verified
Kirkland, WA 98034
I love having smart, motivated people in the room, whether as individuals, couples, or extended, 'chosen,' and alternative families.
Welcoming the Smart and Unusual - Counseling and coaching services tailored to people ready for "Life, Version 2.0." Tired of the doldrums? Together, we can discover and extinguish patterns that keep you from moving forward. Feel stuck? Out of sync? Let's resolve issues of self-esteem and life purpose and neutralize traumatic experiences and anxiety that hold you back from having the life you want and deserve. Want to retool so that you can take your next steps towards personal stardom? Why not rewrite the outdated scripts and programs that keep you from moving forward and getting great results?
I love having smart, motivated people in the room, whether as individuals, couples, or extended, 'chosen,' and alternative families.
Welcoming the Smart and Unusual - Counseling and coaching services tailored to people ready for "Life, Version 2.0." Tired of the doldrums? Together, we can discover and extinguish patterns that keep you from moving forward. Feel stuck? Out of sync? Let's resolve issues of self-esteem and life purpose and neutralize traumatic experiences and anxiety that hold you back from having the life you want and deserve. Want to retool so that you can take your next steps towards personal stardom? Why not rewrite the outdated scripts and programs that keep you from moving forward and getting great results?
(425) 329-8249 View (425) 329-8249
Photo of Arynn Prescott, MA, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Arynn Prescott
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98107  (Online Only)
I support individuals, couples, and mother-daughter duos with a strength-based, relational, and emotion-focused approach.
Somehow, a longing, block, or pain led you to seek support. This could be ongoing self-doubt, a painful relationship pattern, past trauma, or so much is happening that life feels unmanageable. Together, we can unearth deeper understanding, change, and connection in your life. I often see relationships as especially powerful and challenging places for growth, so I offer support to reconnect with yourself or your partner, lower relationship anxiety, manage anger, rebuild trust and intimacy, heal after loss or a breakup, or untangle emotional patterns that keep you from fully living. You don't have to carry stress or anxiety alone.
I support individuals, couples, and mother-daughter duos with a strength-based, relational, and emotion-focused approach.
Somehow, a longing, block, or pain led you to seek support. This could be ongoing self-doubt, a painful relationship pattern, past trauma, or so much is happening that life feels unmanageable. Together, we can unearth deeper understanding, change, and connection in your life. I often see relationships as especially powerful and challenging places for growth, so I offer support to reconnect with yourself or your partner, lower relationship anxiety, manage anger, rebuild trust and intimacy, heal after loss or a breakup, or untangle emotional patterns that keep you from fully living. You don't have to carry stress or anxiety alone.
(253) 243-3240 View (253) 243-3240
Photo of Emily Rich, MS, LMFT, MedFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Emily Rich
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, MedFT
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Shoreline, WA 98133  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and families affected by trauma, relationship challenges, and/or eating disorders/food and body issues. Many of my clients are looking for healing around stressful or traumatic life experiences that have led to brilliant but sometimes "stuck" survival strategies. Others are seeking to find peace and freedom with food and body struggles. Some may be struggling with relationships, communication, and boundaries. Though these are my areas of expertise, I work with a wide variety of clients and needs and am happy to explore if I am the right fit for you.
I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and families affected by trauma, relationship challenges, and/or eating disorders/food and body issues. Many of my clients are looking for healing around stressful or traumatic life experiences that have led to brilliant but sometimes "stuck" survival strategies. Others are seeking to find peace and freedom with food and body struggles. Some may be struggling with relationships, communication, and boundaries. Though these are my areas of expertise, I work with a wide variety of clients and needs and am happy to explore if I am the right fit for you.
(206) 488-0758 View (206) 488-0758
Photo of Carie Winchell - Carie Winchell , LMHC, Counselor
Carie Winchell
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98107  (Online Only)
As a journey therapist, I am most passionate about celebrating the vision of who one can become. My work is exploratory and creative. Together we will become curious about how you can creatively express yourself and expand. My work bridges the emotional, physical, spiritual and energetic realms/bodies. I'm a best fit for couples/individuals who are well enough to be in the mystery of transformation and exploration while ruthlesly journeying for the treasure, their greatness. My core intention is to support you on a journey toward Joy, Clarity, and Personal Empowerment. Mentoring is available as well.
As a journey therapist, I am most passionate about celebrating the vision of who one can become. My work is exploratory and creative. Together we will become curious about how you can creatively express yourself and expand. My work bridges the emotional, physical, spiritual and energetic realms/bodies. I'm a best fit for couples/individuals who are well enough to be in the mystery of transformation and exploration while ruthlesly journeying for the treasure, their greatness. My core intention is to support you on a journey toward Joy, Clarity, and Personal Empowerment. Mentoring is available as well.
(206) 429-4852 View (206) 429-4852
Photo of Georgia Faye Grammer, LMFT, MEd, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Georgia Faye Grammer
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MEd, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98113
I'm a Certified IFS Therapist (Level 2), trained in IFIO (Intimacy from the Inside Out- IFS for couples), Treating Internalized Oppression, Psychodynamic-Relational, attachment-focused & neurodiversity affirmative therapies.
Accepting clients. To survive in a traumatized, ego-centric culture filled with counterfeit images, we pay a steep price - trauma & pain in our disconnected bodies, loneliness & broken-heartedness in our relationships, an unmet longing for passionate, meaningful engagement with the world. Crisis, illness, pain, suffering & despair become the catalyst for change, awakening our yearning for a more courageous, authentic, embodied life. Speaking to us through symptoms, grief, images, longings, dreams- the soul calls- beckoning us into the unknown, asking us to surrender what no longer serves us. I help people navigate this wilderness.
I'm a Certified IFS Therapist (Level 2), trained in IFIO (Intimacy from the Inside Out- IFS for couples), Treating Internalized Oppression, Psychodynamic-Relational, attachment-focused & neurodiversity affirmative therapies.
Accepting clients. To survive in a traumatized, ego-centric culture filled with counterfeit images, we pay a steep price - trauma & pain in our disconnected bodies, loneliness & broken-heartedness in our relationships, an unmet longing for passionate, meaningful engagement with the world. Crisis, illness, pain, suffering & despair become the catalyst for change, awakening our yearning for a more courageous, authentic, embodied life. Speaking to us through symptoms, grief, images, longings, dreams- the soul calls- beckoning us into the unknown, asking us to surrender what no longer serves us. I help people navigate this wilderness.
(425) 906-3976 View (425) 906-3976
Photo of Laura Eastwick, LCSW, LICSW, Counselor
Laura Eastwick
Counselor, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lynnwood, WA 98036  (Online Only)
Life comes with challenges; at times it feels like they keep piling on, making it difficult not to become overwhelmed. This overwhelm can be magnified when we feel as if we’re facing hardship alone. Powerlessness to make a meaningful difference, despite our best efforts, can be disheartening. During these times the weight of our burdens seem unbearable; the path forward unclear. You don't have to navigate this alone. As your therapist, I'll meet you where you are using a trauma-informed, neurobiologically based approach to help you understand how your brain works, challenge unhelpful thoughts, and build skills for managing distress.
Life comes with challenges; at times it feels like they keep piling on, making it difficult not to become overwhelmed. This overwhelm can be magnified when we feel as if we’re facing hardship alone. Powerlessness to make a meaningful difference, despite our best efforts, can be disheartening. During these times the weight of our burdens seem unbearable; the path forward unclear. You don't have to navigate this alone. As your therapist, I'll meet you where you are using a trauma-informed, neurobiologically based approach to help you understand how your brain works, challenge unhelpful thoughts, and build skills for managing distress.
(425) 475-2625 View (425) 475-2625
Photo of Scott Jeffrey Alpert - Basic Steps Mental Health, PsyD, MFT, CDP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Basic Steps Mental Health
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, MFT, CDP
Verified Verified
Everett, WA 98204
Having issues with generalized anxiety and substance use in the past, I believe that the people who have been there and recovered are the best guides. The formula I use is applying love to hurt. When we find the root cause of Addiction and mood disorders and treat it with compassion, amazing results can be found. I have proven this when I worked at the first Mental Health Urgent Care. I also have extensive experience with trauma, since I am an abuse survivor. I mix and match 10 different therapy approaches in an effort to treat the whole person. Each person is unique and obtains a treatment plan suited to them.
Having issues with generalized anxiety and substance use in the past, I believe that the people who have been there and recovered are the best guides. The formula I use is applying love to hurt. When we find the root cause of Addiction and mood disorders and treat it with compassion, amazing results can be found. I have proven this when I worked at the first Mental Health Urgent Care. I also have extensive experience with trauma, since I am an abuse survivor. I mix and match 10 different therapy approaches in an effort to treat the whole person. Each person is unique and obtains a treatment plan suited to them.
(425) 312-6413 View (425) 312-6413
Photo of Prof. Audrey Tice, Doula, BA, MA, LMHCA, LMFTA, Counselor
Prof. Audrey Tice
Counselor, Doula, BA, MA, LMHCA, LMFTA
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98115  (Online Only)
What the mind can conceive it can achieve. Attend sessions to process your feelings, thoughts and concerns. Accomplish your goals. Create your personal Tranquil Space to practice Mindfulness. Feel better!
What the mind can conceive it can achieve. Attend sessions to process your feelings, thoughts and concerns. Accomplish your goals. Create your personal Tranquil Space to practice Mindfulness. Feel better!
(206) 222-5258 View (206) 222-5258
Photo of Jewel M Peot, LICSW, PhD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jewel M Peot
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, PhD
Verified Verified
Woodinville, WA 98072  (Online Only)
Exhale. Inhale. Repeat. Simple things help us focus while the perspective of another gently reminds us who we really are. As a provider of mental health services for over 40 years and a middle-aged woman, I am able to provide insight through my professional and personal experience. Therapeutic techniques are based in heartfelt mindfulness specific to your individual needs. I believe everyone has inherent and intuitive desires towards positive emotional and physical health, my job is only to remind you of what you already know.
Exhale. Inhale. Repeat. Simple things help us focus while the perspective of another gently reminds us who we really are. As a provider of mental health services for over 40 years and a middle-aged woman, I am able to provide insight through my professional and personal experience. Therapeutic techniques are based in heartfelt mindfulness specific to your individual needs. I believe everyone has inherent and intuitive desires towards positive emotional and physical health, my job is only to remind you of what you already know.
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Photo of Renee Jones - Whole Beings Counseling & Consultation LLC, MA, CDP, LMHCA, Counselor
Whole Beings Counseling & Consultation LLC
Counselor, MA, CDP, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103  (Online Only)
Welcome to counseling; to be helpful lets regain access to inner wisdom for self advocacy through review of your strength base building practices by use of expressive arts therapy (life has been your stage), explore dreams (Adlerian therapies), explore play& traumas to connect with your inner child/teen or find your inner parent, track sensations with the mind, body and spirit for grounding purposes in our sessions. Welcome and thank you for adding me to your search!
Welcome to counseling; to be helpful lets regain access to inner wisdom for self advocacy through review of your strength base building practices by use of expressive arts therapy (life has been your stage), explore dreams (Adlerian therapies), explore play& traumas to connect with your inner child/teen or find your inner parent, track sensations with the mind, body and spirit for grounding purposes in our sessions. Welcome and thank you for adding me to your search!
(206) 207-4683 View (206) 207-4683
Photo of Tracy Hahn - Seattle Mind & Body Therapy P.L.L.C., MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Seattle Mind & Body Therapy P.L.L.C.
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98115
My therapeutic approach provides support and practical feedback in order to help clients effectively address personal life challenges. I integrate complementary methodologies and techniques to offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each client. With compassion and understanding, I work with each individual to help them build on their strengths and attain the personal growth they are committed to accomplishing. My focus in treatment is examining perceptions and judgements, exploring thoughts and feeling and advocating on behalf of your intentions for counseling.
My therapeutic approach provides support and practical feedback in order to help clients effectively address personal life challenges. I integrate complementary methodologies and techniques to offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each client. With compassion and understanding, I work with each individual to help them build on their strengths and attain the personal growth they are committed to accomplishing. My focus in treatment is examining perceptions and judgements, exploring thoughts and feeling and advocating on behalf of your intentions for counseling.
(206) 745-0989 View (206) 745-0989
Photo of Paley Burlin, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Paley Burlin
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98117  (Online Only)
I specialize in helping men who struggle with isolation, feelings of anxiety and depression, blocks to intimacy, addiction to pornography, lack of male friends, a feeling of being lost or without a deep sense of purpose, or feeling numb and disconnected from life. As men, we are socialized to keep everything to ourselves, which makes it hard for us to admit when we're lonely and hurting and in need of support. Many of us grew up with fathers that were either absent, abusive, or detached from us emotionally, leaving us without a respectable model of masculinity and without much inspiration or direction in our lives.
I specialize in helping men who struggle with isolation, feelings of anxiety and depression, blocks to intimacy, addiction to pornography, lack of male friends, a feeling of being lost or without a deep sense of purpose, or feeling numb and disconnected from life. As men, we are socialized to keep everything to ourselves, which makes it hard for us to admit when we're lonely and hurting and in need of support. Many of us grew up with fathers that were either absent, abusive, or detached from us emotionally, leaving us without a respectable model of masculinity and without much inspiration or direction in our lives.
(206) 208-7344 View (206) 208-7344
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.