What can I expect if decide to seek couples or marriage counselling?

In couples counselling, the therapist views the “relationship” from the perspective of each partner. During the first session, the therapist will conduct an assessment of the difficulties you and your partner are experiencing. After this session, we usually recommend that each partner attend an individual session. These individual sessions help you and your therapist to get a deeper understanding of what each person’s individuals needs are in the relationship. Once the individual sessions are complete, you can resume attending sessions with your partner; collaborative goals of treatment will be established and treatment will move forward until the issues presented have been addressed.

How long will it take to see improvements in my relationship?

It is important to understand that couples or marriage counselling, like individual counselling, is a process. The time spent in counselling will depend on the issues presented. It is not uncommon for couples to feel immediate improvement in their relationship after their first session. However, long-standing changes in a relationship may take a minimum of 8-10 sessions.

I think it may be too late to save my relationship. Can couples or marriage counselling still help?

Don’t give up, therapy can still help. You may feel like there is no hope for your relationship but with commitment and motivation, “lost cause” couples can still make transformative changes.

What is the success rate of couples counselling?

According to Psychology Today, 90% of couples who go through EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy) significantly improve their relationship. With 70-75% of couples no longer fitting the criteria for relationship distress. That said, each counselling session will be individual based on the couple and their challenges.

How do I know if it is working?

You will notice a change in how you begin to handle yourself in complex situations. This could be a subtle change in how you view the situation or how you react to it. These subtle changes can be immediate, while for others may take some time to see them in practice.

Should we each have our own therapist?

Working as a couple is just as important as working individually. When we work on ourselves we open up the possibility of seeing thing differently with new perspectives and reactions. Evaluating each individuals role in the overall picture can help piece together misunderstanding and differences, while establishing a level of accountability.

Couples & Marriage Counseling

Build Stronger Relationships With Expert Guidance

NO WAIT LIST | Insurance accepted

Reconnect. Heal. Grow Together.

Every relationship faces challenges. Whether you’re navigating communication issues, trust concerns, or feeling emotionally disconnected, McDowall Integrative Psychology & Healthcare provides evidence-based couples counselling and marriage therapy tailored to your needs.

We help couples across Toronto and Canada rediscover emotional intimacy, improve communication, and work through conflict in a safe, supportive space.

When to Seek Couples or Marriage Counselling

You don’t need to wait until things fall apart. Therapy can be a powerful tool for both prevention and repair. Consider couples therapy if you’re experiencing:

What to Expect in Therapy

At McDowall, our licensed couples therapists use proven methods such as the Gottman Method and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) to help you and your partner

Why Couples Trust McDowall

Helping couples reconnect, grow, and heal with care.

In-Person & Virtual Sessions Available

Our couples counselling in Toronto is available both at our clinic and online across Ontario and Canada. With flexible scheduling and secure video sessions, support is always within reach.

How it works

Getting started with couples therapy is easy & supportive.

Book a Free 15-Minute Consultation

Schedule a confidential call to discuss your relationship concerns. with the right licensed therapist.

Start Your First Session Virtually Or In-Person

Meet virtually or in-person with your therapist. You’ll explore what’s happening in your relationship.

Continue with Personalized Support

With ongoing sessions tailored to your relationship, you’ll explore your strengths & challenges.

Support

FAQs

Have questions or concerns?

How do I know if couples therapy is right for us?

Couples therapy isn’t only for relationships in crisis. It can help you and your partner strengthen communication, rebuild trust, or navigate life changes like parenting, moving, or career shifts. If you’ve been feeling disconnected or stuck in unhelpful patterns, therapy can provide the support and tools you need.

What happens in a couples therapy session?

Each session is a safe, supportive space where you and your partner work with a trained therapist. Together, you’ll explore relationship dynamics, improve communication, and learn strategies to resolve conflict, rebuild intimacy, and strengthen your bond.

How long does couples therapy usually take?

It depends on your goals as a couple. Some partners see improvements in a few sessions, while others continue therapy longer to work through deeper challenges. Your therapist will discuss a plan tailored to your relationship after the first session.

Is couples therapy covered by insurance?

Yes, often. If you see a registered psychologist or psychotherapist, sessions may be covered by your extended health benefits. Coverage depends on your plan, so it’s best to confirm with your insurance provider in advance.

Can we do couples therapy virtually?

Yes. We offer both in-person and secure online sessions. Virtual therapy makes it easier to fit into your schedule and gives you access to experienced therapists across Ontario and beyond.

Virtual Couples & Marriage Counseling Across Ontario

Our couples counselling in Toronto is available both at our clinic and virtual across Ontario. With flexible scheduling and secure video sessions, support is always within reach.

Couples & Marriage Counseling

NO WAIT LIST | Insurance accepted

Reconnect. Heal. Grow Together.

When to Seek Couples or Marriage Counselling

Frequent arguments or miscommunication

Emotional distance or disconnection

Infidelity, betrayal, or trust issues

Differences in parenting styles or values

Struggles with intimacy and physical connection

Transition stress (new baby, moving, career changes)

Wanting to strengthen your bond or prepare for marriage