COUPLES THERAPY in Columbia, SC

Couples Therapy in Columbia, SC

It happened again last night. Communication just. isn’t. working. You try to express your needs, but your partner shuts down or gets defensive, leaving you feeling unheard and overwhelmed. The connection you once loved feels strained, leaving both of you frustrated. Neither knows how to bridge that gap. It’s exhausting when nothing changes despite your efforts.

Why Can't You Get on the Same Page? 

Couple turned away from each other, Couples Counseling in Columbia, SC

It’s common for one partner to want to talk things through and one partner to shut down in the face of conflict, thinking that giving space or avoiding the issue will resolve it. But in reality, it often just postpones the problem, leaving the other partner feeling even more isolated and stuck. Both partners feel misunderstood, like they’re doing their best but just can’t seem to get on the same page. The emotional toll of feeling unheard, misunderstood, and disconnected can really wear you down over time. Whether it's feeling overwhelmed with responsibilities or not getting the support needed, these kinds of patterns can feel like a never-ending loop.

You've Waited, Tried, and Keep Hoping Things Will Get Better... 

It feels like you've been stuck in this loop for so long. Research shows that couples wait an average of six years before seeking help after they know there is a problem. And, that is usually because couples are trying to figure this all out on their own. The problem- nobody teaches us how to do relationships in a sustainable way. In the year(s) you've been struggling, waiting, and hoping- what kind of toll has it taken on you both physically, emotionally, relationally, and sexually? 

It doesn't have to be this way. 

There is support, a way to heal and rediscover how to truly listen and be heard. It's possible to turn things around, to break the cycle of miscommunication and start a new chapter of deeper connection where both partners feel seen, supported, and loved. You don’t have to do this alone.

Hi, I’m Danielle, a Couples Counselor in Columbia, SC. 

Danielle Allen, Couples Counselor in Columbia, SC

I help partners learn to communicate in a way that fosters understanding and empathy. I help couples create space where they can express their needs honestly and directly, while also staying regulated during difficult conversations. This helps both partners feel heard and valued, while ensuring that conflict doesn’t escalate into reactivity or silence. We practice together in session so that in real life, you can handle conflicts in a way that strengthens your connection. It’s not about fixing each other, it’s about learning new ways to work through challenges together.

Real Skills to Make Real Change

I also help couples understand how emotions live in the body. This awareness allows you to recognize emotional reactions in the moment, giving you the tools to stay grounded and connected, even during the toughest conversations. When partners start using these new skills, they often experience transformational changes, not just in their relationship, but in other areas of their lives too—at work, with parenting, and in their own peace of mind. The result is a more fulfilling, connected life that carries over far beyond the walls of your relationship.

Let's Get Started with Couples Counseling Today

Couple cuddling by candlelight overlooking the Columbia, SC

Let’s get started with couple’s counseling today!

If you’re ready to break free from patterns of distance, frustration and defensiveness, I invite you to call me today at 864-978-6658 for a free 15-minute consultation. Together, we can start building the kind of connected relationship you both deserve.

 

Schedule a Free Consult for Couple’s Counseling Today

Frequently Asked Questions about Couples Counseling in Columbia, SC

  • My sense is that most therapists in Columbia charge a range of $125-$250 for an hour of couples therapy. This is highly dependent on the amount of training and supervised practice a clinician has. Working with couples is a specialization and takes much time, energy and resources to be well trained in.

  • Gosh, that’s a tough one to answer! Many couples complete a round of couples therapy and I don’t hear from them again. For others, I might hear from them after a chunk of time if they’ve hit another bump in the road. It’s important for me to let you know that in our work together, I routinely ask for feedback from you (both briefly at the end of sessions and more in-depth every few months). If we are not getting what you want in session, we will adjust. And if a referral to a therapist who practices a different model of couples therapy is indicated, I’ve got a strong network of colleagues I can refer you to.

  • One that has extensive training and supervision in practicing couples therapy. A good couples therapist has the skills, working knowledge of a good road map and emotional tolerance/capacity to elicit, hold, regulate and make space for each partner’s thoughts, feelings and perceptions - usually while a high level of distress is felt by both partners. It takes a lot of nuanced training for a couples therapist to learn how to validate one partner without invalidating the other partner, for instance. I often describe my role as being an emotional sherpa - I help couples traverse emotional danger safely.

  • You may experience anxiety and distress if you choose to participate in couples therapy. But odds are, you are likely already feeling a lot of anxiety and distress at home. Working with a well trained couples therapist can help you feel less alone in the distress.