Reignite Your Love with Expert Couple Counseling Near You
Find a couples counselor who speaks English.
Mariya
Christian
We did couple therapy with Maria once a week over WhatsApp video call. She was professional, on time, and made us feel comfortable, and we genuinely enjoyed the sessions. It...
Christian has truly impressed us with his expertise. We've been attending his sessions regularly and find his feedback incredibly helpful. I have already recommended him to my friends because of...
Frequently Asked Questions
Prioritise counsellors who work regularly with expats and mixed-culture relationships, and who can deliver sessions in fluent English. Check their credentials (e.g., registration with the Ordem dos Psicólogos Portugueses), approach (EFT, Gottman), and verified reviews. A brief introductory call helps assess fit, communication style, and availability.
In Lisbon, private couples counselling typically ranges from €70 to €150 per 60-90-minute session, with senior specialists charging more. Some offer packages or reduced rates. Fees are set by each counsellor, and payments are arranged directly with the provider, so confirm costs and cancellation terms in advance.
Yes. Many Lisbon therapists are English-speaking and bilingual (often Portuguese–English, with some also offering Spanish or French), which helps when partners prefer different languages. Confirm your preferred session language, availability of written materials, and whether both partners can switch languages during sessions.
Yes. Most Lisbon-based counsellors offer secure online video sessions and flexible hybrid arrangements, useful if one partner travels or lives abroad. Ask about the platform used, GDPR-compliant data handling, time-zone scheduling, and whether online sessions differ in length or pricing from in-person appointments.
Your first session usually explores your relationship history, current concerns, goals, and boundaries, and sets practicalities like frequency and fees. The counsellor explains their approach and confidentiality, then facilitates initial communication exercises. Bring key topics, preferred outcomes, and any logistical constraints to make the session focused.
Many couples notice changes within 6-12 sessions, though timelines vary with issue complexity, engagement between sessions, and scheduling. Sessions often last 60-90 minutes, weekly or fortnightly at first, tapering as progress consolidates. Discuss a review point to measure outcomes and adjust the plan.
Couples counselling in Portugal follows professional ethical codes and GDPR, so your information is kept confidential. Limited exceptions apply for immediate risk of harm or legal obligations. Ask your counsellor to explain their privacy policy, record-keeping, and how they handle individual disclosures within joint sessions.
Coverage depends on your policy. Many Portuguese health plans do not reimburse relationship counselling, while some international insurers may cover sessions with licensed psychologists; always check pre-authorisation requirements. Request detailed receipts for potential reimbursement and confirm the therapist’s credentials and NIF on invoices.
Common approaches in Lisbon include Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), the Gottman Method, integrative systemic therapy, and schema-informed work. No single method fits everyone; the best choice aligns with your goals and dynamics. Ask about training, how progress is tracked, and what between-session exercises are recommended.
Yes. Many counsellors explicitly offer LGBTQ+-affirmative and intercultural relationship support, addressing issues like identity, minority stress, language differences, and relocation pressures. When enquiring, ask about specific experience, inclusive practices (pronouns, forms), and comfort navigating cross-cultural values and communication styles.
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Dos and Don’ts to choose the right Couple counseling as an Expat
Essential dos and don’ts for finding the right couple counseling services
Look for a couple counselor who offers flexibility with scheduling appointments. This ensures you can find times that work for both you and your partner, making it easier to prioritize your sessions and keep them consistent.
Select a therapist with a strong background in couple counseling. Knowing they have the expertise can give you confidence that they can handle various issues effectively and provide valuable insights tailored to your relationship.
Opt for a counselor who tailors their methods to fit your unique needs. This signifies they are committed to understanding your relationship dynamics and can provide practical tools and exercises that resonate with both partners.
Choose a couple counselor who demonstrates strong communication skills. Look for someone who is responsive to your inquiries and confirms appointments timely, as this reflects their commitment to your counseling journey.
Find a counselor who cultivates a trusting and non-judgmental atmosphere during sessions. This comfort can significantly enhance your ability to discuss personal matters and work collaboratively on your relationship challenges.
Selecting a therapist without thorough research can lead to dissatisfaction. Ensure you read reviews and understand the therapist's approach and effectiveness before committing, as a good fit is crucial for successful couple counseling.
Avoid choosing a counselor who lacks effective communication skills. A therapist should encourage open dialogue, understand clients in their native languages, and respond promptly, as it significantly impacts the counseling experience.
Failing to consider a therapist's flexibility in scheduling can hinder progress in counseling. Ensure your chosen provider can accommodate your availability for sessions to maintain consistency and continuity in your therapy journey.
While recommendations can be helpful, don't make your choice solely based on personal referrals. Each individual’s needs vary, and it’s important to evaluate the therapist's specific qualifications and approaches that align with your goals.
Selecting the right couple counselor is a crucial step towards nurturing and strengthening your relationship. It's about finding someone who not only understands your unique dynamics but also promotes effective communication and personal growth. By adhering to these essential dos and don'ts, you pave the way for a fulfilling counseling experience that aligns with your needs and aspirations. Embrace the opportunity to enhance your relationship with a skilled professional, and remember that thoughtful choices today can lead to a more harmonious tomorrow.
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