Couples Counseling Therapists in Philadelphia, PA
Evergreen Counseling and Psychological Associates
Psychologist, PsyD, PhD, LCSW, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19118
Waitlist for new clients
Our clinicians have training, certification in CBT, Short Term Psychodynamic, Mindfulness, EMDR, Family Therapy (Systems, Structural), and Couples Therapy, Autism Evaluation and Diagnosis, educational testing and full battery psychological assessment for children and adults.
We welcome you to Evergreen! We are a private practice group of compassionate and skilled Clinical Psychologists, Clinical Social Workers, Licensed Professional Counselors in Chestnut Hill, Philadelphia. We understand it's not easy to open up to someone you don't know, but we strive to make your experience as easy and comfortable as possible. We are here to support you, to help develop workable solutions, and to improve overall health and well-being. We know that change and happiness are possible. You don't have to struggle; help is available. Our office staff are here and want to hear from you.
Our clinicians have training, certification in CBT, Short Term Psychodynamic, Mindfulness, EMDR, Family Therapy (Systems, Structural), and Couples Therapy, Autism Evaluation and Diagnosis, educational testing and full battery psychological assessment for children and adults.
We welcome you to Evergreen! We are a private practice group of compassionate and skilled Clinical Psychologists, Clinical Social Workers, Licensed Professional Counselors in Chestnut Hill, Philadelphia. We understand it's not easy to open up to someone you don't know, but we strive to make your experience as easy and comfortable as possible. We are here to support you, to help develop workable solutions, and to improve overall health and well-being. We know that change and happiness are possible. You don't have to struggle; help is available. Our office staff are here and want to hear from you.
Katrina Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19102 (Online Only)
I have worked with individuals and couples with a wide range of concerns, such as: depression, anxiety, work/school stress, relationship issues, grief and loss, career challenges, past and current trauma, and abuse.
Hi, I’m Katrina! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and have been practicing for over 10 years. I help people who are overwhelmed, stressed, struggling with relationships, or dealing with a life transition or change (experiencing loss, changing jobs, starting college, etc.). I have extensive experience working with adolescents and young adults, but happily work with clients of all ages. My counseling style is empathic and encouraging. I believe that in most situations, everyone does the best that they can with what they have – moments that don’t go well tell us where help is needed or what skills we can build to help next time.
I have worked with individuals and couples with a wide range of concerns, such as: depression, anxiety, work/school stress, relationship issues, grief and loss, career challenges, past and current trauma, and abuse.
Hi, I’m Katrina! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and have been practicing for over 10 years. I help people who are overwhelmed, stressed, struggling with relationships, or dealing with a life transition or change (experiencing loss, changing jobs, starting college, etc.). I have extensive experience working with adolescents and young adults, but happily work with clients of all ages. My counseling style is empathic and encouraging. I believe that in most situations, everyone does the best that they can with what they have – moments that don’t go well tell us where help is needed or what skills we can build to help next time.
Rachel Sims
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103 (Online Only)
Please reach out to Rachel if you could benefit from this therapeutic relationship.
Rachel Sims is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Pennsylvania with experience working alongside people to better manage mental health struggles, change unhealthy behaviors, improve relationships and live present and connected lives. She has experience working with adults and adolescents struggling with substance abuse, depression, anxiety, trauma, and relationship issues. Rachel completed her Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology and Addictions Counseling and Masters of Arts Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Indiana Wesleyan University.
Please reach out to Rachel if you could benefit from this therapeutic relationship.
Rachel Sims is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Pennsylvania with experience working alongside people to better manage mental health struggles, change unhealthy behaviors, improve relationships and live present and connected lives. She has experience working with adults and adolescents struggling with substance abuse, depression, anxiety, trauma, and relationship issues. Rachel completed her Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology and Addictions Counseling and Masters of Arts Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Indiana Wesleyan University.
I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship and believe a sturdy foundation, one rooted in trust and a lack of judgement, allows for long lasting change.
I am currently accepting new clients in two practice settings- my individual private practice as well as through Rittenhouse Psychological Services. Please read a descriptions below regarding each setting and, should I feel like a good fit for you and you want to connect, please let me know which setting you are interested in. Recently, I also offer parent coaching and am a Good Inside certified parent coach. If reaching out about parenting work, please note in your email. I see folks for therapy virtually and in-person in Philadelphia, virtually in the states of PA and NY, and offer parenting coaching throughout the country.
I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship and believe a sturdy foundation, one rooted in trust and a lack of judgement, allows for long lasting change.
I am currently accepting new clients in two practice settings- my individual private practice as well as through Rittenhouse Psychological Services. Please read a descriptions below regarding each setting and, should I feel like a good fit for you and you want to connect, please let me know which setting you are interested in. Recently, I also offer parent coaching and am a Good Inside certified parent coach. If reaching out about parenting work, please note in your email. I see folks for therapy virtually and in-person in Philadelphia, virtually in the states of PA and NY, and offer parenting coaching throughout the country.
My professional experience includes providing therapy in a myriad of forms to patients from all walks of life, though my specialty is working with youth, couples and families.
Everyone has a story and it is my privilege to be invited into yours. My unique blend of warmth and tenacity set me apart as a therapist and allow me to work with clients towards meaningful change. I value the relationships I form with clients and my goal is to make everyone I work with feel safe, respected and accepted for who they are. My practice is shaped by a combination of formal education and hands-on experience, including training in psychoanalysis, couples counseling, ExRP, play therapy and family therapy.
My professional experience includes providing therapy in a myriad of forms to patients from all walks of life, though my specialty is working with youth, couples and families.
Everyone has a story and it is my privilege to be invited into yours. My unique blend of warmth and tenacity set me apart as a therapist and allow me to work with clients towards meaningful change. I value the relationships I form with clients and my goal is to make everyone I work with feel safe, respected and accepted for who they are. My practice is shaped by a combination of formal education and hands-on experience, including training in psychoanalysis, couples counseling, ExRP, play therapy and family therapy.
I work with individuals struggling with issues related to anxiety, depression, stress management, self-esteem, relationship difficulties and personal development.
Welcome! Between relationships, work, family, friends, goals, and obligations, life can get overwhelming sometimes. If only we could flip a switch or wave a magic wand and all of our problems and stresses could disappear...with that not being an option, you may be wondering where to start and how to navigate it all? I am here to help you find the best ways to do just that. We can work together in finding how you can best manage everything on your plate, enjoy life, and meet your goals.
I work with individuals struggling with issues related to anxiety, depression, stress management, self-esteem, relationship difficulties and personal development.
Welcome! Between relationships, work, family, friends, goals, and obligations, life can get overwhelming sometimes. If only we could flip a switch or wave a magic wand and all of our problems and stresses could disappear...with that not being an option, you may be wondering where to start and how to navigate it all? I am here to help you find the best ways to do just that. We can work together in finding how you can best manage everything on your plate, enjoy life, and meet your goals.
I support all genders, orientations, and relationship styles.
Hi, I'm Joanne! I work with folks who are experiencing uncertainty about their relationships or feel unmotivated at work or unsatisfied in their lifestyle. People that are navigating change, exploring their identity or purpose, and building sincere relationships. Those that are interested in breaking familial patterns and doing something different and meaningful with their lives. The world can be so soul-crushing sometimes, causing us to feel shame over their identities, desires, or behaviors. Understanding our identities or behaviors releases shame, builds self-confidence, and allows for true sustained change.
I support all genders, orientations, and relationship styles.
Hi, I'm Joanne! I work with folks who are experiencing uncertainty about their relationships or feel unmotivated at work or unsatisfied in their lifestyle. People that are navigating change, exploring their identity or purpose, and building sincere relationships. Those that are interested in breaking familial patterns and doing something different and meaningful with their lives. The world can be so soul-crushing sometimes, causing us to feel shame over their identities, desires, or behaviors. Understanding our identities or behaviors releases shame, builds self-confidence, and allows for true sustained change.
Queen Village Therapy Group
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19147 (Online Only)
My ideal client struggles with unstable relationships, constant emotional ups and downs, and self-destructive behavior. They face insecurity, fear of abandonment, and intense mood swings, leading to strained personal and professional connections. They need emotional regulation, self-worth, and healthier relationship dynamics. Their goals are stability, self-understanding, and improved interactions, seeking these changes for inner peace, fulfilling relationships, and a balanced life. Through therapy, they aim to break destructive patterns, build resilience, and create a supportive network.
My ideal client struggles with unstable relationships, constant emotional ups and downs, and self-destructive behavior. They face insecurity, fear of abandonment, and intense mood swings, leading to strained personal and professional connections. They need emotional regulation, self-worth, and healthier relationship dynamics. Their goals are stability, self-understanding, and improved interactions, seeking these changes for inner peace, fulfilling relationships, and a balanced life. Through therapy, they aim to break destructive patterns, build resilience, and create a supportive network.
Maggie Blackburn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19146 (Online Only)
Together we use the therapeutic relationship to explore your emotions, thoughts, and situations that come up in your life that have you replaying past scenarios, second-guessing, or avoiding.
You have noticed for a while that when you are around other people you take things personally, you don’t feel confident, you second guess yourself or find yourself replaying different situations you’ve been in over and over again. You aren’t “anti-social”, in fact you really want to BE social, but every time an opportunity comes up for you to do something you either need someone else to go with you or you talk yourself out of going. It has been a long time since you have been on a date or had what felt like a healthy relationship. You are starting to think that you will never find someone.
Together we use the therapeutic relationship to explore your emotions, thoughts, and situations that come up in your life that have you replaying past scenarios, second-guessing, or avoiding.
You have noticed for a while that when you are around other people you take things personally, you don’t feel confident, you second guess yourself or find yourself replaying different situations you’ve been in over and over again. You aren’t “anti-social”, in fact you really want to BE social, but every time an opportunity comes up for you to do something you either need someone else to go with you or you talk yourself out of going. It has been a long time since you have been on a date or had what felt like a healthy relationship. You are starting to think that you will never find someone.
Diana Wolovnick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19102
I specialize in mood disorders (such as depression, anxiety and bipolar disorder), relationship and peer issues, grief and loss and stressful life transitions.
Often people find themselves to be stuck or unhappy and they don't know how they got there. Or maybe there is a specific problem you're dealing with and you need an outside perspective and unbiased help working through it and getting back to a more comfortable and productive place. Sometimes it's helpful to just have a safe space to share what's going on inside your head. I consider therapy a natural and helpful extension of your regular daily life. My hope is that sessions with me are conversations and explorations into what you think about and what you want for yourself and your relationships.
I specialize in mood disorders (such as depression, anxiety and bipolar disorder), relationship and peer issues, grief and loss and stressful life transitions.
Often people find themselves to be stuck or unhappy and they don't know how they got there. Or maybe there is a specific problem you're dealing with and you need an outside perspective and unbiased help working through it and getting back to a more comfortable and productive place. Sometimes it's helpful to just have a safe space to share what's going on inside your head. I consider therapy a natural and helpful extension of your regular daily life. My hope is that sessions with me are conversations and explorations into what you think about and what you want for yourself and your relationships.
Crystal Somerville
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19107 (Online Only)
Crystal seeks to establish a strong, therapeutic relationship with you in order to assist in building on your strengths and better collaborate with you towards meeting your goals.
Crystal Somerville is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 20 years of experience in various mental health settings, including in-home therapy services, crisis, mobile therapy, and outpatient services, as well as residential boot camp for gang members/juvenile offenders from inner city Philadelphia, Delaware, and Maryland. Crystal works with families, couples, adults, and adolescent clients seeking help in managing issues related to attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), anger, trauma, depression, anxiety, bipolar, adjustment, panic disorders, behavioral issues, and self-injurious behaviors.
Crystal seeks to establish a strong, therapeutic relationship with you in order to assist in building on your strengths and better collaborate with you towards meeting your goals.
Crystal Somerville is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 20 years of experience in various mental health settings, including in-home therapy services, crisis, mobile therapy, and outpatient services, as well as residential boot camp for gang members/juvenile offenders from inner city Philadelphia, Delaware, and Maryland. Crystal works with families, couples, adults, and adolescent clients seeking help in managing issues related to attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), anger, trauma, depression, anxiety, bipolar, adjustment, panic disorders, behavioral issues, and self-injurious behaviors.
15 Second Videos
Crystal Somerville
Shelly Zhou
Rachel Smith
Sloane Ferenchak
Thriveworks Philadelphia Counseling and Life Coach
Rachel Brookland
The Counselor's Heart Therapeutic Services
Kara Lacey
Grace Bella Harman
Vithusha Selvavelautham Specializing In Children Of Immigrants
John Moletress LPC - Couples & Partners Therapy
Shoshana Trager
Courtney Davey
Courtney Douds
Lighthouse Psychotherapy Services
Pedro Molteni
Jessica Fleeger
Nate Schlingmann
Carrie Askin
River Wards Wellness Collective
Anna Elisabeth Herman
All of You Therapy, LLC
Maia Rosser
Liora Schneider
Phil Gardner
Helping Wind Wellness, LLC
Adalina East
Sean Avellini
David Koppisch
Elizabeth Merrell
TeenaTalk, LLC
Courtney Marcellus
Jordan Marisa Roe
Erinn Hoel
Erica Schommer
Thriveworks Counseling Psychiatry Philadelphia
Saudia S Bickley
Anjé McLish - Couples Sex Non-Monogamy
Natasha Taffet
Sara Burth
Maria Beatty
Sarah Kincaid
Justin Mendoza
Max St. John
Nikki Walter
Lucy Baber
Betterment of Mind, therapy with Cristina Aicher
James Wadley
Ruth Conviser
Impower Counseling Center, LLC
I work with adults with depression and anxiety, and couples.
I’m currently focusing on using improvisational comedy techniques in my work. See below for plans to begin a therapy group using improv principles! Overall, I pride myself in tailoring my therapeutic approach to each client. My goal is to be as open as possible with my clients in continuing to look at why a specific treatment modality is being used. Transparency is an especially important part of the process. I also enjoy using humor as a way to build therapeutic rapport and as a tool for healing through self-empowerment.
I work with adults with depression and anxiety, and couples.
I’m currently focusing on using improvisational comedy techniques in my work. See below for plans to begin a therapy group using improv principles! Overall, I pride myself in tailoring my therapeutic approach to each client. My goal is to be as open as possible with my clients in continuing to look at why a specific treatment modality is being used. Transparency is an especially important part of the process. I also enjoy using humor as a way to build therapeutic rapport and as a tool for healing through self-empowerment.
Soul Transformation LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, MDiv, CTCP, CAMS-I
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19144 (Online Only)
My mission as a therapist is to provide a skilled, safe, confidential, trusting, nonjudgmental space to transform the lives of individuals, couples, and families.
There are many reasons you may be seeking therapy — marital and familial conflict, grief & loss, anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, self-esteem, sexual abuse, domestic violence, or relationships are among the most common reasons. Perhaps you have asked yourself questions such as “how long will this pain last?” “when will I be good enough?” “how can I learn to love myself” “Why me?’ "How do I get out?" I want you to know you are not alone! Together we can explore your needs. You want to be happy, let's explore the barriers keeping you from living the best version of you. You need tools to navigate life, let's create a road map.
My mission as a therapist is to provide a skilled, safe, confidential, trusting, nonjudgmental space to transform the lives of individuals, couples, and families.
There are many reasons you may be seeking therapy — marital and familial conflict, grief & loss, anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, self-esteem, sexual abuse, domestic violence, or relationships are among the most common reasons. Perhaps you have asked yourself questions such as “how long will this pain last?” “when will I be good enough?” “how can I learn to love myself” “Why me?’ "How do I get out?" I want you to know you are not alone! Together we can explore your needs. You want to be happy, let's explore the barriers keeping you from living the best version of you. You need tools to navigate life, let's create a road map.
Hi, I'm Julie and I'm a therapist who is passionate about working with individuals, couples, and families who are seeking to overcome challenges with anxiety, depression, grief, relationship difficulties, self-esteem, and life transitions. In therapy, I provide a space free from judgement to help you make choices that can lead to feeling more fulfilled in your life and in your relationships. As a therapist, I am warm, direct, and empathetic. Compassion and connection are integral in the therapeutic setting, and it would be my honor to be a part of your journey of self-discovery and healing.
Hi, I'm Julie and I'm a therapist who is passionate about working with individuals, couples, and families who are seeking to overcome challenges with anxiety, depression, grief, relationship difficulties, self-esteem, and life transitions. In therapy, I provide a space free from judgement to help you make choices that can lead to feeling more fulfilled in your life and in your relationships. As a therapist, I am warm, direct, and empathetic. Compassion and connection are integral in the therapeutic setting, and it would be my honor to be a part of your journey of self-discovery and healing.
Kerri Marsh
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103 (Online Only)
Kerri views therapy as a collaborative process where flexibility and communication are essential in order to help individuals and couples to achieve their highest potential.
Kerri Marsh is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) who has over 20 years of experience working with adolescents, adults and couples seeking help with depression, anxiety, life transitions, improved communication, parenting concerns, substance use and relationship issues.
Kerri views therapy as a collaborative process where flexibility and communication are essential in order to help individuals and couples to achieve their highest potential.
Kerri Marsh is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) who has over 20 years of experience working with adolescents, adults and couples seeking help with depression, anxiety, life transitions, improved communication, parenting concerns, substance use and relationship issues.
Laura Rathsmill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19103
As an EMDR-trained individual, relationship, and sex therapist with a masters in both Social Work and Human Sexuality, I work alongside clients to provide growth and healing using my unique skillset and a healthy dose of humor. I help couples navigate sexual concerns, communication issues, resentment, jealousy, and affairs. Additionally, I support couples and polycules around ethical nonmonogamy. I also use my knowledge as a sex therapist to aid individuals in navigating a range of sexuality-related challenges, including sexual dysfunction, gender, identity, desire, sexual trauma, and shame.
As an EMDR-trained individual, relationship, and sex therapist with a masters in both Social Work and Human Sexuality, I work alongside clients to provide growth and healing using my unique skillset and a healthy dose of humor. I help couples navigate sexual concerns, communication issues, resentment, jealousy, and affairs. Additionally, I support couples and polycules around ethical nonmonogamy. I also use my knowledge as a sex therapist to aid individuals in navigating a range of sexuality-related challenges, including sexual dysfunction, gender, identity, desire, sexual trauma, and shame.
Natasha Metzger
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19103
I carry this holistic approach into relationship and sex therapy work by layering in communication technique, skill building around connection, safety, security, trust, and vulnerability, exploration of individual and relational wants, needs, limits, and expectations, and a lot of practice!.
Do you have trouble knowing what you want or asking for it? Do your feelings seem overwhelming at times? Do you find yourself giving in to avoid conflict or banging your emotional head against a wall? Do you find that your behavior and values sometimes don't align? Are you frustrated or disappointed by the lack of physical and emotional connection with the people closest to you? Are you and your partner concerned by your differing levels of sexual desire? Do you feel stuck and lethargic or that your thoughts spiral out of your control? Do you want to develop insight and create change in your own life? If so, let's talk!
I carry this holistic approach into relationship and sex therapy work by layering in communication technique, skill building around connection, safety, security, trust, and vulnerability, exploration of individual and relational wants, needs, limits, and expectations, and a lot of practice!.
Do you have trouble knowing what you want or asking for it? Do your feelings seem overwhelming at times? Do you find yourself giving in to avoid conflict or banging your emotional head against a wall? Do you find that your behavior and values sometimes don't align? Are you frustrated or disappointed by the lack of physical and emotional connection with the people closest to you? Are you and your partner concerned by your differing levels of sexual desire? Do you feel stuck and lethargic or that your thoughts spiral out of your control? Do you want to develop insight and create change in your own life? If so, let's talk!
Aurelio García
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103 (Online Only)
I offer a warm therapeutic relationship grounded in the belief that we all have the innate ability to engage in healing.
Hola! I'm Aurelio. I provide IFS-informed EMDR and relationship therapy in English and Spanish for adults, including those who identify as people of color, polyam/non-monog, neurodiverse, kinky, LGBQ+, and trans/gender expansive. I also support folks exploring identities, and those healing from trauma and emotional pain. My liberation and healing are bound up with yours. I see healing as an ongoing process that we do for ourselves, our community, our ancestors, and the ones who will come after us. A process where we collectively hold space for each other, tend to our wounds, laugh, and strengthen our capacity to survive and thrive.
I offer a warm therapeutic relationship grounded in the belief that we all have the innate ability to engage in healing.
Hola! I'm Aurelio. I provide IFS-informed EMDR and relationship therapy in English and Spanish for adults, including those who identify as people of color, polyam/non-monog, neurodiverse, kinky, LGBQ+, and trans/gender expansive. I also support folks exploring identities, and those healing from trauma and emotional pain. My liberation and healing are bound up with yours. I see healing as an ongoing process that we do for ourselves, our community, our ancestors, and the ones who will come after us. A process where we collectively hold space for each other, tend to our wounds, laugh, and strengthen our capacity to survive and thrive.
Noel Diorio
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103 (Online Only)
Chrysalis Psychotherapy for Women specializes in treating professional women interested in understanding themselves better to improve their relationships, change unhealthy patterns and ultimately discover their highest potential. I specialize in working with individuals who struggle with self-injury (cutting, burning and picking of skin) self-esteem issues, anger, trauma, anxiety, depression, and couples counseling. I help clients to develop cognitive behavioral tools in combination with relaxation techniques to help manage symptoms, expand functioning and develop new strategies for moving forward in their lives. I am also an AAMFT approved supervisor offering case consultation and supervision to therapists working towards licensure.
Chrysalis Psychotherapy for Women specializes in treating professional women interested in understanding themselves better to improve their relationships, change unhealthy patterns and ultimately discover their highest potential. I specialize in working with individuals who struggle with self-injury (cutting, burning and picking of skin) self-esteem issues, anger, trauma, anxiety, depression, and couples counseling. I help clients to develop cognitive behavioral tools in combination with relaxation techniques to help manage symptoms, expand functioning and develop new strategies for moving forward in their lives. I am also an AAMFT approved supervisor offering case consultation and supervision to therapists working towards licensure.
Green Oak Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19147
As Licensed Professional Counselors, we have experience in many challenging settings with a variety of age groups and cultures. We have provided individual and family counseling in outpatient clinics, school based counseling, correctional facilities, hospitalization programs, and intensive outpatient programs. We have worked in depth with children, adolescents, young adults as well as adults. We have experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, OCD, eating disorders, substance use, relationship issues, grief and loss, as well as several other areas.
As Licensed Professional Counselors, we have experience in many challenging settings with a variety of age groups and cultures. We have provided individual and family counseling in outpatient clinics, school based counseling, correctional facilities, hospitalization programs, and intensive outpatient programs. We have worked in depth with children, adolescents, young adults as well as adults. We have experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, OCD, eating disorders, substance use, relationship issues, grief and loss, as well as several other areas.
See more therapy options for Philadelphia
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.