How to Choose a Couples Therapist: Everything You Need to Know

Are you and your partner struggling to see eye to eye? Couples therapy can be a great resource. In fact, 97% of couples said they had “more effective tools” to use going forward after attending therapy.

Going to therapy can be hard for many people. However, couples therapy can prove helpful, as it’s a safe place to express yourself and work through your issues.

Once you decide to go to therapy, it’s time to choose the right provider. This guide will tell you everything you need to know about how to choose a couples therapist. Continue reading so you know what to look out for.

Ask About Experience

The first thing you want to ask about is the provider’s experience. You’ll want to work with a therapist that specializes in couples therapy.

Every couple is different, so don’t be afraid to ask if they’ve had experience working with other couples similar to you and your partner.

No matter what your partnership looks like, it’s best to have an inclusive practitioner. A good therapist will respect you and your partner regardless of your gender, race, sexual orientation, and beliefs.

Interview Your Therapist

Before you choose a couple’s therapist, it’s crucial that you also take the time to interview them.

During your first appointment, the therapist is going to ask you a few questions to get to know you. You should do the same.

Below is a list of questions that you may want to ask your therapist.

What percentage of your clients are couples?
Do you ever recommend divorce?
What does a typical session look like?
What percentage of couples improve after therapy with you?

Inquire About the Cost

When choosing a couples therapist, it’s important to talk about the cost. Setting a budget can be hard, especially if you and your partner are having trouble communicating, but it’s a crucial aspect.

Take your time comparing therapy costs and check with your insurance company as well. Therapy isn’t usually cheap; however, it’s worth a try and will likely be less expensive than a divorce.

Putting yourself in debt for therapy can cause even more issues, so don’t avoid the topic with your partner or your therapist.

Scheduling

It can be hard to get your schedule to line up, especially if you have children and are trying to co-parent while you’re not living together. You’ll want to find a therapist that has a schedule that works with yours.

Couples therapy is only beneficial if both parents are present, so talking about scheduling at the beginning is key. Weekly therapy sessions may be ideal depending on your situation.

If that is the case, consider a therapist that has a generous cancellation policy. Often, there is a fee for not showing up or canceling at the last minute.

Choose a Couples Therapist

There are many options for therapists, so take your time finding the right one for you and your partner. Reading client reviews, comparing costs, and asking lots of questions will make the process much easier.

If you are searching for licensed couples counseling in California, contact us for a free consultation! We can help you choose a couples therapist so you can get started mending and healing your relationship.

Honor Your Emotions is a therapy & counseling practice in Dublin, CA and serves the East Bay Area including Pleasanton, San Ramon, Livermore and Danville.

More Posts About Couples Counseling: