Ask any marriage or couples therapist and they likely agree that most couples believe that they just need to learn to communicate better.  Couples benefit more when they consider the complexity of their relationship when picking a therapist.  For example, some therapists have more experience helping couples who have been remarried or who have been through AA.  Here is a list of  a few possibilities to consider

• Family challenges (arguing, not being heard, forgiveness, past, issues,etc)
• Relationship issues related to Asperger’s and ADD/ADHD
• Relationship problem related personality disorders
• Sexual problems
• Broken relationships
• Affairs
• Communication problems
• Divorce/Separation
• Ambivalence in relationship
• Addictions
• Eating disorders
• Step children
• long distance relationships
• military families
• history of trauma, abuse or violence
• differences in cultures
• role of faith in relationship

There are also therapists with specialized training

CSI  Couples Sensitive Individual Therapy (trained to respect the partner even when only one member of the partnership is seeking help)

Discernment Counseling (for couples contemplating separating or divorce where one or both is ambivilant or lost all hope)

Hopeful Spouse Therapy (for partners who are alone in saving their relationship)

Crisis couples

Many therapists offer free consultation.  Think of the consultation as more than agreeing on a fee for services and a date to meet.  It is a chance to ask questions and find a the best “fit” for you and your partner.