Therapists in Olympia, WA
![Photo of Daniel Barash, MA, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9e7dcb9b-1653-4efd-9dfe-0a88324e1bac/2/320x400.jpeg)
A down-to-earth approach is often what is needed to get to the heart of the struggles in our lives... Psychospiritual growth, relationship issues and somatic (body) awareness are at the core of my working with people. I also offer communication skills to improve interpersonal or team dynamics within work environments. Together we will co-create a sacred space where the depths of your feelings and concerns can be safely explored, processed, and supported. My role will be to accompany and intuitively guide you on this unfolding, transformational journey.
A down-to-earth approach is often what is needed to get to the heart of the struggles in our lives... Psychospiritual growth, relationship issues and somatic (body) awareness are at the core of my working with people. I also offer communication skills to improve interpersonal or team dynamics within work environments. Together we will co-create a sacred space where the depths of your feelings and concerns can be safely explored, processed, and supported. My role will be to accompany and intuitively guide you on this unfolding, transformational journey.
![Photo of Carlos Castanon, LICSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d42b0cb4-df79-4394-afcf-dbb738590dab/1/320x400.jpeg)
My approach is to form a therapeutic relationship with each person I see, taking special care to note any patterns in a person's history or in the present that may be holding them back or causing unnecessary pain, conflict or suffering.
We are all complex individuals, with thoughts, feelings and behaviors that arise from our everyday experiences. Sometimes life throws us challenges that are too overwhelming to handle alone. As a trauma informed and culturally sensitive therapist, I understand the importance of allowing space and time for healing in a non-judgmental space. I am well equipped to help people across the lifespan and enjoy working with individuals, couples, and families.
My approach is to form a therapeutic relationship with each person I see, taking special care to note any patterns in a person's history or in the present that may be holding them back or causing unnecessary pain, conflict or suffering.
We are all complex individuals, with thoughts, feelings and behaviors that arise from our everyday experiences. Sometimes life throws us challenges that are too overwhelming to handle alone. As a trauma informed and culturally sensitive therapist, I understand the importance of allowing space and time for healing in a non-judgmental space. I am well equipped to help people across the lifespan and enjoy working with individuals, couples, and families.
![Photo of Catherine Thomas, MSW, MHP, LSWAIC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/86aa041e-2467-46db-804f-a498009b24ba/2/320x400.jpeg)
Catherine Thomas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, MHP, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
Olympia, WA 98501 (Online Only)
I have worked with individuals, couples, and families who have faced anxiety, depression, & behaviors that have impacted the overall living condition for over 7 years.
As an Asian American therapist, I have the unique perspective that comes with the BIPOC community and I take pride in creating a safe and judgement free environment. My "ideal" client would be someone who is willing to get out of their comfort zone to gain the life they want to enjoy and love. A client who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. I get excited when clients talk to me about the changes they want to make in their life and It excites me to see the possibility of change! Come as you are and we will navigate the rest together.
I have worked with individuals, couples, and families who have faced anxiety, depression, & behaviors that have impacted the overall living condition for over 7 years.
As an Asian American therapist, I have the unique perspective that comes with the BIPOC community and I take pride in creating a safe and judgement free environment. My "ideal" client would be someone who is willing to get out of their comfort zone to gain the life they want to enjoy and love. A client who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. I get excited when clients talk to me about the changes they want to make in their life and It excites me to see the possibility of change! Come as you are and we will navigate the rest together.
![Photo of Apryl Carlington, MA, LMHC, MHP, CMHP, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/16ec22eb-ee7c-4f9d-ba07-12f869714542/1/320x400.jpeg)
The therapeutic relationship should empower an individual to regain ownership of their life, shifting negative self-talk and other impacts of trauma; allowing for holistic healing and growth. It is my hope to actively walk alongside my client as they work to create their peace; ultimately gaining an improvement in positive self-awareness and optimism, with a side of lasting security and emotional health.
The therapeutic relationship should empower an individual to regain ownership of their life, shifting negative self-talk and other impacts of trauma; allowing for holistic healing and growth. It is my hope to actively walk alongside my client as they work to create their peace; ultimately gaining an improvement in positive self-awareness and optimism, with a side of lasting security and emotional health.
![Photo of Stevi L Stephens-Martin, LMFT, MS, MEd, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ea83003d-74f5-46c4-84dd-e89d0a8f50c1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Stevi L Stephens-Martin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS, MEd
Verified Verified
Olympia, WA 98512 (Online Only)
Are you tired of feeling lonely, misunderstood or disconnected in your relationship? Perhaps your trust is broken or you’ve reached your limit with the endless arguing. Maybe your relationship has shaken your sense of self - you don’t know who you are or what you want anymore, but you know you’re sick of how you feel. If you want to learn how to communicate effectively, heal past hurts, & find peace with your partner - if you’re ready to invest in yourself & feel confident in voicing your needs & boundaries, I’m here for you. Whether you want to repair your relationship, you’re on the fence, or you’re ready to move on, I can help.
Are you tired of feeling lonely, misunderstood or disconnected in your relationship? Perhaps your trust is broken or you’ve reached your limit with the endless arguing. Maybe your relationship has shaken your sense of self - you don’t know who you are or what you want anymore, but you know you’re sick of how you feel. If you want to learn how to communicate effectively, heal past hurts, & find peace with your partner - if you’re ready to invest in yourself & feel confident in voicing your needs & boundaries, I’m here for you. Whether you want to repair your relationship, you’re on the fence, or you’re ready to move on, I can help.
![Photo of Jennifer McGlynn - You Speak We Listen, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/29079364-629a-4af2-ba91-bb87b64e3c0a/1/320x400.jpeg)
You will not need to waste your therapy session educating me about alternative relationships, partnerships, lifestyles, and family units. I have expertise working with individuals, couples, and groups represented across all genders, identities, orientations, relationship types, chosen or blended families. I offer therapeutic support for an array of specialties such as anxiety, PTSD, depression, anxiety, chronic health conditions, spiritual trauma, family of origin trauma and more. I have experience with adoption, foster care, military, veterans, first responders & the Deaf community. I offer individual and partner(s) therapy,
You will not need to waste your therapy session educating me about alternative relationships, partnerships, lifestyles, and family units. I have expertise working with individuals, couples, and groups represented across all genders, identities, orientations, relationship types, chosen or blended families. I offer therapeutic support for an array of specialties such as anxiety, PTSD, depression, anxiety, chronic health conditions, spiritual trauma, family of origin trauma and more. I have experience with adoption, foster care, military, veterans, first responders & the Deaf community. I offer individual and partner(s) therapy,
![Photo of Mandi Maycumber, LMHC, SUDP, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/04b18083-82ac-4c2d-82ab-aa0a687c7d94/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have 11 years of experience working with adult individuals and couples utilizing cognitive, humanistic, and Gottman approaches.
If you are looking for a therapist that is discerning, solution-oriented, and individualizes their approach based on your needs... we might be a good fit! www.mandimaycumberlmhc.com
I have 11 years of experience working with adult individuals and couples utilizing cognitive, humanistic, and Gottman approaches.
If you are looking for a therapist that is discerning, solution-oriented, and individualizes their approach based on your needs... we might be a good fit! www.mandimaycumberlmhc.com
![Photo of Ryan Olav Wathne, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f7efdc9d-c45d-490d-9829-2f2b071c3bd6/3/320x400.jpeg)
Ryan Olav Wathne
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Olympia, WA 98501
I presently have two openings in my schedule for couples. If you have Premera or Kaiser insurance I encourage you to reach out and connect with me. If you have a curiosity about personal growth and healing, experience anxiety, depression, or are simply overwhelmed by the human experience at this time, talking about these things is my passion. I will support your effort to look inward and identify your strengths, understand and connect coping skills to patterns and your lived experience. I will partner with you to embrace more insight and clarity to accomplish your goals and see personal healing.
I presently have two openings in my schedule for couples. If you have Premera or Kaiser insurance I encourage you to reach out and connect with me. If you have a curiosity about personal growth and healing, experience anxiety, depression, or are simply overwhelmed by the human experience at this time, talking about these things is my passion. I will support your effort to look inward and identify your strengths, understand and connect coping skills to patterns and your lived experience. I will partner with you to embrace more insight and clarity to accomplish your goals and see personal healing.
![Photo of Lauren Waxwing - Waxwing Counseling, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7af36e04-20eb-4e8a-b7cf-8fe89024bcee/1/320x400.jpeg)
Waxwing Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Olympia, WA 98506
Waitlist for new clients
In therapy, I prioritize creating a space where clients can embrace the breadth of human emotions with compassion and respect. I view clients as the experts of their own lives and strive to foster a non-judgmental atmosphere that encourages genuine expression and creativity. My focus lies in supporting individuals and couples who are grappling with PTSD, mood disorders, anxiety, parenting challenges, and relationship issues. As a family systems therapist, I explore how external systems (such as culture and family of origin) impact us, alongside our internal attachment patterns and meaning making processes.
In therapy, I prioritize creating a space where clients can embrace the breadth of human emotions with compassion and respect. I view clients as the experts of their own lives and strive to foster a non-judgmental atmosphere that encourages genuine expression and creativity. My focus lies in supporting individuals and couples who are grappling with PTSD, mood disorders, anxiety, parenting challenges, and relationship issues. As a family systems therapist, I explore how external systems (such as culture and family of origin) impact us, alongside our internal attachment patterns and meaning making processes.
![Photo of Emilie Kromer, MA, LMHC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9b582984-f422-4851-8937-92a33829a6b8/1/320x400.png)
Emilie Kromer
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Olympia, WA 98506
Not accepting new clients
2) Family systems, to help resolve individual and/or relationship issues by changing relationship patterns.
MOVE FROM SUFFERING TO SERENE.....Whether you are distressed about career or depressed/anxious about life, I am here to help. I am a career specialist and family counselor, with a friendly, calm, open style. I converse back and forth with clients, often offering them feedback. Also, I frequently mention near-universals, ways in which other people might react to situations similar to those the client is experiencing. Clients frequently give me feedback that they feel comfortable, reassured, and understood when we meet and that they can talk easily with me. I have several special interests in my practice. They are the following:
2) Family systems, to help resolve individual and/or relationship issues by changing relationship patterns.
MOVE FROM SUFFERING TO SERENE.....Whether you are distressed about career or depressed/anxious about life, I am here to help. I am a career specialist and family counselor, with a friendly, calm, open style. I converse back and forth with clients, often offering them feedback. Also, I frequently mention near-universals, ways in which other people might react to situations similar to those the client is experiencing. Clients frequently give me feedback that they feel comfortable, reassured, and understood when we meet and that they can talk easily with me. I have several special interests in my practice. They are the following:
![Photo of Kia Gutierrez, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cca01a1f-cd2a-4f3b-8c80-35816ba17ecf/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kia Gutierrez
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Olympia, WA 98506 (Online Only)
I love couples, in the good times and the hard times, I am here to support and celebrate you. I approach marriage with a Christian worldview that makes space for your personal history with faith. I don't take sides, I am here to help you both be heard. The foundation of my practice is to work on improved communication and creating shared vision between you and your partner. I also have experience in cross-cultural relationships. If you are looking for premarital counseling, processing marital hurt, or adjusting to marriage with children- I look forward to hearing from you!
I love couples, in the good times and the hard times, I am here to support and celebrate you. I approach marriage with a Christian worldview that makes space for your personal history with faith. I don't take sides, I am here to help you both be heard. The foundation of my practice is to work on improved communication and creating shared vision between you and your partner. I also have experience in cross-cultural relationships. If you are looking for premarital counseling, processing marital hurt, or adjusting to marriage with children- I look forward to hearing from you!
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![Photo of Tracy Kenela, MA, LMHC, CRC, CEDS, ACHT, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5482b09a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Lokahi Counseling helps individuals, couples and families discover how they see themselves functioning in the world, explore their inner pain, and learn how to move toward positive, life changes.
My counseling practice is structured toward treating each person as individuals. When I treat people who struggle with eating and body image issues and related challenges with anxiety, depression and relationships, every person is treated with their own, individual needs in mind. Treatment modalities range from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mind-Body Therapy (MBCT), Energetic work using Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), Hypnotherapy and Subtle Energy work. Additionally, I provide individual, couples and family therapy for work-related support (including Career and Rehabilitation counseling) and troubled relationships.
Lokahi Counseling helps individuals, couples and families discover how they see themselves functioning in the world, explore their inner pain, and learn how to move toward positive, life changes.
My counseling practice is structured toward treating each person as individuals. When I treat people who struggle with eating and body image issues and related challenges with anxiety, depression and relationships, every person is treated with their own, individual needs in mind. Treatment modalities range from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mind-Body Therapy (MBCT), Energetic work using Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), Hypnotherapy and Subtle Energy work. Additionally, I provide individual, couples and family therapy for work-related support (including Career and Rehabilitation counseling) and troubled relationships.
![Photo of April Lee, MA, LMFT, CSOTP, MHP, CMHP, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/de42e911-4d72-48fe-9519-73ea33c90a5d/2/320x400.jpeg)
April Lee
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CSOTP, MHP, CMHP
Verified Verified
Olympia, WA 98506
Developing a therapeutic relationship that is built on mutual trust, respect, and honesty is a primary focus.
Whether a major life event that has thrown you off track, or over time you have realized that you are not where you want to be in life, therapy can help. It is common to find yourself feeling lost, unhappy, overwhelmed, or disconnected at various times in your life. Therapy can provide you with insight to find new ways of dealing with things that bring about positive changes, quicker than you realize may be possible.
Developing a therapeutic relationship that is built on mutual trust, respect, and honesty is a primary focus.
Whether a major life event that has thrown you off track, or over time you have realized that you are not where you want to be in life, therapy can help. It is common to find yourself feeling lost, unhappy, overwhelmed, or disconnected at various times in your life. Therapy can provide you with insight to find new ways of dealing with things that bring about positive changes, quicker than you realize may be possible.
![Photo of Astrid Robertson, MA, LMHC, MBA, EEM-CP](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cf7325a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Astrid Robertson
Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC, MBA, EEM-CP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Olympia, WA 98502
I am forever inspired by the resilience, innate wisdom, and healing capacity of the individuals, couples, and families with whom I work. My role in the therapy process is to facilitate the achievement of target objectives and to foster insight and skills to improve the experience of living now and into the future. With an educational background in marriage and family therapy, and specialty training in Sex Therapy, Sexuality Education, Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (attachment theory), Emotion Freedom Technique, and Eden Energy Medicine, I work across cognitive, behavioral, emotional, and energetic dimensions to achieve solid, long-term results.
I am forever inspired by the resilience, innate wisdom, and healing capacity of the individuals, couples, and families with whom I work. My role in the therapy process is to facilitate the achievement of target objectives and to foster insight and skills to improve the experience of living now and into the future. With an educational background in marriage and family therapy, and specialty training in Sex Therapy, Sexuality Education, Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (attachment theory), Emotion Freedom Technique, and Eden Energy Medicine, I work across cognitive, behavioral, emotional, and energetic dimensions to achieve solid, long-term results.
![Photo of Juanita Elizabeth Evans - Circle in a Square Counseling, MA, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c9c11a4-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Circle in a Square Counseling
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Olympia, WA 98508 (Online Only)
I am trained to work with individuals, adults, children/adolescents, child abuse and neglect, foster care, parenting, families and couples.
Many times in our lives we believe that overcoming obstacles is like attempting the impossible. We continue to feel lonely, make the same mistakes, and have the same fears, self- doubts that eventually cause us to believe that life will always be the same. Counseling can assist you in making the changes that you desire in your life. Providing you the opportunity to explore new avenues in which you might not have believed before. This journey may not be easy; however, it is one that can bring out the change you have been longing for.
I am trained to work with individuals, adults, children/adolescents, child abuse and neglect, foster care, parenting, families and couples.
Many times in our lives we believe that overcoming obstacles is like attempting the impossible. We continue to feel lonely, make the same mistakes, and have the same fears, self- doubts that eventually cause us to believe that life will always be the same. Counseling can assist you in making the changes that you desire in your life. Providing you the opportunity to explore new avenues in which you might not have believed before. This journey may not be easy; however, it is one that can bring out the change you have been longing for.
![Photo of Ray Anderson, MA, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/476cade4-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Couples counseling is my passion.
Have a relationship that's in trouble? Coping with a traumatic past? Overwhelmed by life changes? Struggling with depression, anxiety, or other emotional challenges? I have worked in the fields of psychology, education, and sociology for over 20 years. I've seen a lot in that time - from couples in crisis to veterans struggling with trauma to seniors facing grief, loss, and aging issues. I also have experience assisting youth and families involved with CPS, foster care, and the juvenile justice system.
Couples counseling is my passion.
Have a relationship that's in trouble? Coping with a traumatic past? Overwhelmed by life changes? Struggling with depression, anxiety, or other emotional challenges? I have worked in the fields of psychology, education, and sociology for over 20 years. I've seen a lot in that time - from couples in crisis to veterans struggling with trauma to seniors facing grief, loss, and aging issues. I also have experience assisting youth and families involved with CPS, foster care, and the juvenile justice system.
![Photo of Steve Williams, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43fc0071-7170-4aef-82f2-12eb09e1c4ca/2/320x400.jpeg)
Steve Williams
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Olympia, WA 98502 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Steve Williams has been in private practice for 29 years. He seeks to provide professional and respectful psychotherapy services for individuals, couples, and adolescents for issues such as: Marital Conflict/Communication, Infidelity, Couples Counseling, Divorce Recovery, Depression, and Anxiety including: OCD, Generalized, Panic, PTSD, and Social Phobia. Steve also treats Anger, Addictions, Trauma, and Childhood Abuse. He uses a direct method to provide effective interpretations and tools for developing a healthy individual self and a healthy couple closeness.
Steve Williams has been in private practice for 29 years. He seeks to provide professional and respectful psychotherapy services for individuals, couples, and adolescents for issues such as: Marital Conflict/Communication, Infidelity, Couples Counseling, Divorce Recovery, Depression, and Anxiety including: OCD, Generalized, Panic, PTSD, and Social Phobia. Steve also treats Anger, Addictions, Trauma, and Childhood Abuse. He uses a direct method to provide effective interpretations and tools for developing a healthy individual self and a healthy couple closeness.
![Photo of Misha Speck, LMHCA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7726de0c-d547-4e48-90ba-dfe5be74b5ab/1/320x400.jpeg)
Misha Speck
Counselor, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Olympia, WA 98501 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I aim to provide a collaborative relationship with my clients that's rooted in an unconditional positive regard.
I am currently accepting new clients, however I am prioritizing limited availability to specific clients. While gender and gender identities are constant themes in the transgender community, I am currently prioritizing working with transgender clients who have been actively transitioning for a number of years, and are engaged and connected with the transgender community. I am looking to work with first generation American transgender clients, indigenous and/or transgender people of color, and transgender teens.
I aim to provide a collaborative relationship with my clients that's rooted in an unconditional positive regard.
I am currently accepting new clients, however I am prioritizing limited availability to specific clients. While gender and gender identities are constant themes in the transgender community, I am currently prioritizing working with transgender clients who have been actively transitioning for a number of years, and are engaged and connected with the transgender community. I am looking to work with first generation American transgender clients, indigenous and/or transgender people of color, and transgender teens.
![Photo of Henry Phillips, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2579ea7e-55fd-47d3-9f13-366e9b68f14a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Henry Phillips
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
Olympia, WA 98502 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialized in couples work, trauma, grief and loss, and men’s issues.
Our life is a journey. The journey can present us with challenges we are unsure of how to handle. If you have ever been caught in a rainstorm you’ll know you just want to have a safe place to wait it out. Or you could want a safe way to get through the storm faster. Sometimes we just wish we had someone there to be in the storm with us so we knew we weren’t alone. You are not alone. We can experience that storm together. Therapy, just like life is a collaborative process. Together we can address the challenges you face.
I specialized in couples work, trauma, grief and loss, and men’s issues.
Our life is a journey. The journey can present us with challenges we are unsure of how to handle. If you have ever been caught in a rainstorm you’ll know you just want to have a safe place to wait it out. Or you could want a safe way to get through the storm faster. Sometimes we just wish we had someone there to be in the storm with us so we knew we weren’t alone. You are not alone. We can experience that storm together. Therapy, just like life is a collaborative process. Together we can address the challenges you face.
![Photo of Michelle Lynn Rolen - Ponderosa Counseling, PLLC, MA, MFTA, MHCA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b2b748b2-2a0d-46fc-9867-f8af56dccd9d/4/320x400.jpeg)
Ponderosa Counseling, PLLC
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, MFTA, MHCA
Verified Verified
Olympia, WA 98506
The majority of my career has been spent supporting adolescents, families and couples in a parenting role as a school counselor.
Accepting NEW Clients! I consider it a privilege to gain your trust as you share your story with me. I will work with you on your journey towards inner peace and happiness. There is no negative situation or experience through our personal work can't be improved and even in the most difficult of circumstances we can find peace and even happiness. I can help you change the way you communicate and react to interactions in your relationships and experiences in your lives. I believe when we can to turn our focus inward we can grow in new and exciting directions.
The majority of my career has been spent supporting adolescents, families and couples in a parenting role as a school counselor.
Accepting NEW Clients! I consider it a privilege to gain your trust as you share your story with me. I will work with you on your journey towards inner peace and happiness. There is no negative situation or experience through our personal work can't be improved and even in the most difficult of circumstances we can find peace and even happiness. I can help you change the way you communicate and react to interactions in your relationships and experiences in your lives. I believe when we can to turn our focus inward we can grow in new and exciting directions.
See more therapy options for Olympia
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.