Generated by All in One SEO v5.0.1.1, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site.

# Together Couples Counseling

Relational Empowerment for Couples, Risa Ganel & Associates, LLC

## Sitemaps

- [XML Sitemap](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website.

## Posts

- [Stronger Together Blog](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/blog/)
- [Marriage Communication Skills Every Couple Needs](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/marriage-communication-skills-every-couple-needs/) - In many relationships, one partner tends to collapse inward during conflict, where they are apologizing too quickly, second-guessing themselves, or trying to keep the peace. The other often takes the opposite stance, where they are explaining, correcting, or taking control of the conversation.
- [The Trap of Grandiosity in Relationships](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/the-trap-of-grandiosity-in-relationships/) - In many relationships, one partner tends to collapse inward during conflict, where they are apologizing too quickly, second-guessing themselves, or trying to keep the peace. The other often takes the opposite stance, where they are explaining, correcting, or taking control of the conversation.
- [What Is Asexuality—And What If That’s the Wrong Question?](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/what-is-asexuality-and-what-if-thats-the-wrong-question/) - Asexuality exists on a broad spectrum that includes people who may still experience romantic attraction, emotional intimacy, or occasional sexual interest under certain conditions.
- [Unhelpful Ways You Might Be Handling Conflict—And What to Do Instead](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/unhelpful-ways-you-might-be-handling-conflict-and-what-to-do-instead/) - Conflict is a part of every relationship, but how you handle it makes all the difference. Many couples fall into predictable patterns when disagreements arise, often without realizing the damage those patterns create.
- [Are Your Relationship Expectations Helping or Hurting You?](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/are-your-relationship-expectations-helping-or-hurting-you/) - Expectations exist in every relationship. They shape how you think about love, how you act toward your partner, and how you respond when things do not go as planned. Some expectations support connection and growth. Others create distance and conflict.
- [Why Expressing Emotions Is Hard for Men—And How Couples Can Work Through It](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/why-expressing-emotions-is-hard-for-men-and-how-couples-can-work-through-it/) - Emotional repression can often be a quiet killer in relationships. A partner might sense distance, feel dismissed, or notice that important conversations never reach the deeper level they need.
- [Finding Balance: A Guide to Negotiating Sexual Needs With Your Partner](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/finding-balance-a-guide-to-negotiating-sexual-needs-with-your-partner-2/) - When it comes to relationships, discussing sexual needs can often feel awkward or even uncomfortable. However, it’s an important part of healthy, intimate relationships.
- [Emotional Expression for Men: Why It Matters and How to Start](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/emotional-expression-for-men-why-it-matters-and-how-to-start/) - For generations, many men were taught that emotions should be hidden or minimized. Phrases like “toughen up,” "don't act like a girl," or “real men don't cry,” shaped how they related to their feelings.
- [How to Know It’s Time to End a Relationship—And Tips for Coping with the Loss](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/how-to-know-its-time-to-end-a-relationship-and-tips-for-coping-with-the-loss/) - Relationships take work, but sometimes, they stop being a source of support and start becoming a source of harm. Knowing when to end a relationship can feel confusing, especially when you still care about the other person and are used to them.
- [The Role of Mindfulness in Calming Relationship Tension](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/the-role-of-mindfulness-in-calming-relationship-tension/) - Conflict happens in every relationship. Sometimes it is about big issues, and sometimes it is about small things that build up over time.
- [Asexuality Explained: What It Is and What It’s Not](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/asexuality-explained-what-it-is-and-what-its-not/) - Sexuality can be confusing. Many people grow up hearing that wanting sex is normal and not wanting it means something is wrong.
- [Love, Labels, and Living Together: What Exactly Does Marriage Mean in the 21st Century?](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/love-labels-and-living-together-what-exactly-does-marriage-mean-in-the-21st-century-2/) - Marriage is an old and sacred tradition in our history. It has seen significant changes over the centuries, but today, it feels like the meaning of marriage is being redefined.
- [The Role of Social Media in Sexual Expression](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/the-role-of-social-media-in-sexual-expression-2/) - Social media has become an integral part of daily life for many people. While it offers many benefits, it also introduces challenges, particularly when it comes to sexual expression.
- [Raising Awareness, Reducing Stigma: Mental Health Awareness Month and Why It Matters](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/raising-awareness-reducing-stigma-mental-health-awareness-month-and-why-it-matters/) - Mental Health Awareness Month is an opportunity to spark a meaningful conversation about mental health, break down harmful stigmas, and offer support to those who need it.
- [5 Natural Ways to Reduce Anxiety](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/5-natural-ways-to-reduce-anxiety-2/) - Anxiety can feel overwhelming, and finding ways to manage it without relying solely on medication is a common desire for many.
- [Reigniting the Spark: Strategies for Fixing a Sexless Marriage](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/reigniting-the-spark-strategies-for-fixing-a-sexless-marriage-2/) - It is not uncommon for couples to experience periods of disconnection, especially when it comes to intimacy. A sexless marriage can lead to feelings of frustration, confusion, and loneliness.
- [Understanding the Lasting Effects of Being in a Narcissistic Relationship](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/understanding-the-lasting-effects-of-being-in-a-narcissistic-relationship-2/) - Being in a relationship with a narcissist can leave deep scars. The impact often extends far beyond the relationship itself, regardless of whether it was romantic, familial, or professional.
- [Navigating Marriage and Money: The Negative Effects of Wealth on Relationships](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/navigating-marriage-and-money-the-negative-effects-of-wealth-on-relationships-2/) - Money plays a major role in serious relationships. For many, it’s the source of stress, arguments, or even breakdowns. While it’s often said that money can solve problems, there’s another side of money that can cause real harm to a relationship.
- [What to Do When Your Partner Doesn't Make You a Priority—And Why It Matters](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/what-to-do-when-your-partner-doesnt-make-you-a-priority-and-why-it-matters-2/) - In any relationship, it is natural to want to feel valued and important. When you are in a romantic partnership, you likely expect your partner to make you a priority in their life.
- [How to Cope with the Uncertainty That Accompanies Relationships](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/how-to-cope-with-the-uncertainty-that-accompanies-relationships-2/) - Relationships bring joy, connection, and meaning, but they can also create a sense of uncertainty. When things feel unclear, it can be difficult to know what to do next.
- [6 Strategies for Maintaining Healthy Communication in Your Relationship](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/6-strategies-for-maintaining-healthy-communication-in-your-relationship/) - Are you feeling disconnected from your partner or struggling to communicate effectively? Having an open, honest conversation about your relationship can be daunting, but it's essential for maintaining a healthy partnership.
- [Digging Beneath the Surface: A Guide to Addressing a Sexless Marriage](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/digging-beneath-the-surface-a-guide-to-addressing-a-sexless-marriage/) - A sexless marriage is typically defined as a relationship where physical intimacy occurs less than 10 times per year.
- [The Myth of Unconditional Love: Why It Harms Long-Term Romantic Relationships](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/the-myth-of-unconditional-love-why-it-harms-long-term-romantic-relationships/) - In romantic relationships, "unconditional love" often appears as an ideal. However, applying this notion to adult intimate relationships is misleading and harmful. Unconditional love belongs in parent-child relationships, where it provides essential security and support as a child grows and parents provide nurturing, guidance, limits and love. In romantic partnerships, unconditional love sets up couples
- [Healing From Trauma](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/healing-from-trauma/) - Two individuals are robbed at gunpoint. One experiences overwhelming helplessness and has a hard month. But by the end of that time, he has pretty much resolved and integrated the incident into his life. The other person experiences intense rage. Years later, she is still struggling with the negative, life-changing aftermath of the trauma. As
- [The #1 Factor Blocking Happiness](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/the-1-factor-blocking-happiness/) - Lisa harbored deep resentment at her husband of 15 years, Scott (not their real names).
- [Quiz: Which Part of Your Body is Running your Relationship? Your Heart or Your Head?](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/quiz-which-part-of-your-body-is-running-your-relationship-your-heart-or-your-head/) - Love…that’s why we are in a relationship, right? Because we're in love.
- [Feeling Frustrated? Try this.](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/feeling-frustrated-try-this/) - Feeling frustrated? Frustration is often a sign of wanting to control. Read the blog to learn how to manage these feelings of frustration.
- [10 Ways to Develop Intimacy](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/10-ways-to-develop-intimacy/) - When they met, she loved how he pursued his musical passions. He loved how they could have intellectually stimulating conversations for hours.
- [The Impact of Unresolved Trauma on Relationships](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/the-impact-of-unresolved-trauma-on-relationships/) - Physicians use the word “trauma” to describe a serious injury to the physical body resulting from a sudden impact, such as an accident or a violent act. But you can also suffer emotional trauma, which can cause an equally painful wound to your sense of self as a whole, coherent being. Just like a wound
- [The Antidote to Defensiveness](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/the-antidote-to-defensiveness/) - "Every time I bring up something that bothers me, he gets defensive."
- [Normal Marital Hatred](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/normal-marital-hatred/) - Why the Stay-at-Home Order magnifies your “Normal Marital Hatred” and how you can help your marriage survive it…
- [4 Signs of Resentment in your Relationship](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/4-signs-of-resentment-in-your-relationship/) - Resentment, like cancer, begins as a small, often undetected, issue in one aspect of the relationship.
- [Are You Open to Letting Your Spouse Seduce You?](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/seduction/) - Remember when you were dating and desperately wanted the attention of your significant other?
- [Do you have a pain in the neck?](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/do-you-have-a-pain-in-the-neck-2/) - Have you ever gone to a massage therapist with horrible upper back pain? Or maybe with lower back pain?
- [8 Key Factors of Happiness](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/8-key-factors-of-happiness/) - Happiness is written into the U.S. Constitution and is so engrained as something for people to pursue that many, if not most of us, use it as a measurement to determine our success in life.
- [What's Self Esteem Got to do with Relationships?](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/whats-self-esteem-got-to-do-with-relationships/) - Our culture does not teach us how to have healthy relationships with ourselves or with others.
- [Are You Successful at Setting Boundaries?](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/are-you-successful-at-setting-boundaries/) - How do you measure if you are successful at setting boundaries with someone?
- [3 Ways Self Compassion Improves Your Relationship](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/3-ways-self-compassion-improves-your-relationship/) - When most people think of ways to improve their marriage, they likely think of being kinder to their spouse, or being more helpful around the house, or listening to their partner more and being less reactive. All of those things are helpful, but there is an important aspect of self care that will actually make
- [4 More Ways Self Compassion Can Improve Your Relationship](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/4-more-ways-self-compassion-can-improve-your-relationship/) - This hit me like a ton of bricks when I first heard it: "We think that we've set up trusting relationships with people because we're always there to help them."
- [Is marriage supposed to make us happy?](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/is-marriage-supposed-to-make-us-happy/) - I attended a wedding the other weekend and weddings always have me contemplate the work that I do.
- [It's like talking to a wall...](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/its-like-talking-to-a-wall/) - "I bring up what's bothering me and he just shuts down. All I get is silence. He won't talk to me".
- [This is how your marriage ends...](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/this-is-how-your-marriage-ends/) - Often, it's not a big bang that ends a marriage (though it certainly can be from betrayal and other significant relational traumas).
- [Are you tolerating the intolerable?](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/are-you-tolerating-the-intolerable/) - "I keep telling my husband we need to go to couples counseling but he refuses, what can I do?"
- [Why do couples stop having sex?](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/why-do-couples-stop-having-sex/) - "Why don't we have sex anymore? We used to be all over each other", John said in his first couples therapy session with his wife, Anna.
- [The Power of One](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/the-power-of-one/) - I didn’t feel like working out. That’s not unusual for me.
- [Mind Reading AND Being Considerate](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/mind-reading-and-being-considerate/) - Most of us have a habit of looking at the world through a black-and-white, this or that, either or lens at times.
- [Stop Complaining, Start Requesting ](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/stop-complaining-start-requesting/) - When couples struggle with communication issues, one of the main reasons is that they use complaints to address upsets or problems that arise.
- [Why Marriage Is More Important Than Career: Insights from David Brooks](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/why-marriage-is-more-important-than-career-insights-from-david-brooks/) - When you slow down, and look at how you spend your time, what you put the most emotional effort and energy into, what rises to the top? Let's look at how marriage can lead to a happier life according to expert David Brooks.
- [Every Couple Should Strive for this Goal](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/every-couple-should-strive-for-this-goal/) - If you're looking for a healthier relationship as a couple, here's one thing that every couple should strive for in their communication.
- [Is Your Self-Esteem Fragile?](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/is-your-self-esteem-fragile/) - Most of us struggle from time to time with low self-esteem and look for ways to feel better about ourselves. However, our solutions often lead us down the wrong path.
- [Your Unique Intimate Life: Crafting a Profound and Gratifying Connection with Your Partner](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/your-unique-intimate-life-crafting-a-profound-and-gratifying-connection-with-your-partner/) - Intimacy is an art that goes far beyond physical touch or sex. It is the beautiful fusion of truth and love.
- [10 Impactful Actions That Say “I Love You”](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/10-impactful-actions-that-say-i-love-you/) - Nothing says “I love you” to me more than when my husband plans an outing for us.
- [Working on Your Relationship - Alone](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/working-on-your-relationship-alone/) - “It takes two people to make a relationship. It takes only one to end it.” -Esther Perel This painful truth is one that can’t be denied.
- [A New Look at Selfishness](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/a-new-look-at-selfishness/) - Learn how selfishness is not always a bad thing in relationships. Finding your own voice can help you find an authenticity that is the basis of true intimacy.
- [Is S3X Really the Problem?](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/is-s3x-really-the-problem/) - My business mentor, Danny Iny, asks each of his clients the same essential question during our Master Minds: What is the problem you are solving for?
- [The Blame Game](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/the-blame-game/) - When the Name of the Game is Blame, No One Wins. Whether we fabricate unbelievable excuses like, “The dog ate my homework,” or blame others for what happens to us, we give up not only responsibility for our lives, but also our power.
- [Can You Become a Super Communicator?](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/can-you-become-a-super-communicator/) - The majority of couples answer my question, “What do you hope to get out of couples therapy,” the same way… “We want to communicate better.”
- [Bored with Your Relationship? You need more play](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/bored-with-your-relationship-you-need-more-play/) - When my children were school age, the stress that appeared in January/February over which summer camps to sign up for, which would sell out the fastest, and which would be fun while also manageable with my work schedule definitely was not fun.

## Pages

- [Home](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/) - Together Couples Counseling in Columbia, MD offers individual and couples therapy to help you improve communication and reconnect. Online therapy available throughout MD.
- [About Hanna Yerushalmi](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/about-hanna/) - About Hanna Yerushalmi, LCPC, CST Every couple faces challenges, whether it’s the stress of daily life, the strain of parenting, the ache of mismatched desires, or the silence that grows when communication breaks down. These struggles are painful, but they don’t have to define your relationship. I create a warm, safe space where clients can
- [Your Relationship Guide](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/about/) - Risa Ganel, LCMFT offers couples and individual therapy in Columbia, MD with Together Couples Counseling. Learn more about her education and background.
- [About Shanell Wyche Hodges](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/about-shanell/) - About Shanell Wyche Hodges, LCPC Every relationship hits rough patches. Maybe it’s the same fight that never seems to end, the distance that’s crept in over time, or that heavy feeling that you’re living more like roommates than partners. You might catch yourself wondering, “How did we get here?” or “When did things start to
- [Podcast Appearances](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/podcast-appearances/) - Risa Ganel, LCMFT, and Certified Relational Life Therapist Honest Talk About Love, Conflict, and Reconnection Risa Ganel is a Certified Relational Life Therapist and the founder of Together Couples Counseling, where she helps couples trade resentment and roommate syndrome for real communication and genuine connection. She’s a frequent guest on podcasts about relationships, intimacy, and
- [Relationship Skills Bootcamp](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/relationship-skills-bootcamp/) - Are unresolved conflicts driving a wedge between you and your partner? It Doesn’t Have to Be This Way – Rediscover The Intimacy and Connection in Your Relationship Saturday, May 16 – Sunday, May 17, 2026 Attend our 2-day relationship bootcamp in Annapolis, MD for couples and individuals – limited seats available. Register for the BootcampMay
- [Consultation & Supervision for RLT](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/rlt-mentoring/) - Mentoring & Consultation forRLT PractitionersMove From Knowing RLT to Practicing the Art of RLTYes! I want to strengthen my RLT Skills! You’ve completed your Relational Life Therapy training. You understand the model, the stance, and the language. Now you want more than conceptual clarity and you want fluency in the room. You’re working with real
- [Why Desire Changes in Long-Term Relationships](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/why-desire-changes-in-long-term-relationships/) - Why Desire Changes in Long-Term Relationships (and What to Do About It) A free, live Sex Ed webinar for women who want to rebuild intimacy without shame, pressure, or guessing. Hosted byHanna Yerushalmi, LCPC, CSTDateFebruary 11th, 2026Time12pm ETLocationLive online via Google MeetCostFreeFormatLive only (no recording, no replay)Register Now Privacy Guaranteed, No Recording will be
- [Why desire changes in long-term relationships TY](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/why-desire-changes-in-long-term-relationships-ty/) - You’re Registered! Thank you for signing up for the free live webinar: Why Desire Changes in Long-Term Relationships (and What to Do About It) You’re all set! You’ll receive an email shortly with your access details for the live session on Google Meet. 📅 Webinar Details Date: February 11th, 2026Time: 12pm ETLocation: Live online via
- [Personalized Couples Intensive](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/schedule-your-couples-intensive/) - Schedule Your Personalized Couples Intensive The trust has been broken Neither of you know how to compromise Apologies aren’t enough anymore, you want real, lasting change Maybe you both worry about upsetting each other and so nothing gets discussed effectively And you want change now. A jump start may be exactly what you need. And
- [Relationship Intelligence Community](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/relationship-intelligence-community/) - (410) 440-1413 Join The Relationship Intelligence Community ➡️For couples and singles who completed the Relationship Skills Boot Camp and want ongoing, expert-led support, not another quick-fix relationship tip Keep Your Love Story Growing through Practical Tools, Live Support, and a Community that CaresJoin the Relationship Intelligence Community with your partner and meet monthly with Certified
- [Relationship Intelligence Community](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/relationship-intelligence-community-temp/) - Join a Community to learn Relationship Skills for healthy, intimate, lasting relationships Imagine having relationship experts in your corner, outside your therapist office. That’s what’s waiting for you inside the Women’s Relationship Intelligence Community… YOU COULD: Speak up for yourself and have a better chance of being heard Manage conflict with more confidence, instead of
- [Staging](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/staging/) - For couples and singles who want ongoing, expert-led support, not another quick-fix relationship tip Keep Your Love Story Growing through Practical Tools, Live Support, and a Community that Cares Join the Relationship Intelligence Community with your partner and meet monthly with Certified RLT Practitioners Risa Ganel and Katharine Petzold for live coaching, targeted practice, and
- [Ellicott City, MD](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/ellicott-city-md/) - Together Couples Counseling provides couples and individual therapy for residents of Ellicott City, MD to support you in creating a relationship that you love.
- [Annapolis, MD](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/annapolis-md/) - Together Couples Counseling provides couples and individual therapy for residents of Annapolis, MD to support you in creating a relationship that you love.
- [Arlington, VA](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/arlington-va/) - Together Couples Counseling provides couples and individual therapy for residents of Arlington, VA to support you in creating a relationship that you love.
- [Fees](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/fees-and-insurance/) - In the first session, you will meet with Risa for one hour. Sessions after that will be 45-50 minutes. Risa may recommend longer sessions depending on the nature of the issues you seek to address. All sessions over one hour will be prorated based on the fees below. The fee schedule for our therapists is
- [Couples Therapy](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/couples-therapy/) - Together Couples Counseling in Columbia, MD offers therapy to help you regain intimacy and rekindle a deeper, loving connection with your partner. – Offering in-person sessions in Columbia, MD & online therapy for Maryland & Virginia residents
- [Sex Therapy](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/sex-therapy/) - If your sex life is waning, Together Couples Counseling in Columbia, MD provides therapy for sexually dissatisfied couples to regain connection and improve intimacy. Virtual sessions offered for Maryland residents.
- [Individual Therapy](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/individual-therapy-2/) - Individual TherapyWhen your relationship is draining your joy and energy. It’s Monday morning, and you’re relieved the weekend is over. Yet again, It was filled with hundreds of little and big disappointments in your marriage, your partner and yourself. You’re grateful for work distracting you from the sad state of your relationship. Way too often,
- [Thank You](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/thank-you-2/) - Thank You! Thank you for reaching out! We will get back to you as soon as we can.
- [5 Relationship Pitfalls to Avoid](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/5-relationship-pitfalls-to-avoid/) - Free Resource: 5 Relationship Pitfalls and What to Do Instead First, be honest with yourself. Risa’s free guide will help you begin to honestly acknowledge the ways you may be damaging your relationship, and learn to do something about it. First Name: Last Name Email Website:
- [Speaking](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/speaking/) - SpeakingA popular, experienced speaker. You need engaging, inspiring subject-matter experts to speak at your conference, summit or show. And your audience wants to know how to improve their relationships. A presentation on relationship intelligence could be your audience’s favorite part of your event. Risa Ganel spoke at the Success thru Style Summit, an annual event
- [Get in Touch](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/get-in-touch/) - Contact Us Get In Touch Thank you for reaching out. The easiest way to get in touch is to schedule a free 15 minute phone call by clicking on the Schedule button below and choosing a time that works best for you. Otherwise if you have questions you can fill out the form to send
- [Terms of Service](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/terms-of-service/) - Terms Of Service Last updated: June 6, 2024 Please read these terms and conditions carefully before using Our Service. Interpretation and Definitions Interpretation The words of which the initial letter is capitalized have meanings defined under the following conditions. The following definitions shall have the same meaning regardless of whether they appear in singular or
- [FAQ](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/faq/) - Do you only work with married couples? I’m glad to work with people who are in committed relationships, whether married or not. I also offer individual therapy for relationship issues, anxiety, life stage transitions and more. Will you work with me even if my partner doesn’t want to attend therapy? Absolutely. I can work with
- [Good Faith Estimate](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/good-faith-estimate/) - You have the right to receive a “Good Faith Estimate” explaining how much your medical care will cost. Under federal law, health care providers need to give patients who don’t have insurance or who are not using insurance an estimate of the bill for medical items and services. You have the right to receive a
- [Conflict Course Pilot](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/conflict-course-pilot/) - Calming Your Fear of Conflict Registration is now OPEN! A 6 Week Hybrid On-line Course designed to help Professional Women Calm their fear of conflict And Confidently communicate their needs So they can navigate love and connection as a team with their spouse Does conflict make you anxious? Do you find yourself being nice
- [Quiz](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/quiz/)
- [Blog](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/blog-2/)
- [Couples Retreat](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/couples-retreat/) - Couples RetreatThe joy and connection are gone, but not forgotten. You remember how it was to fall in love with your spouse. You still care deeply for each other, but these days, you’re at a stage where it’s a highlight to agree on what to watch on Netflix. On top of losing that special zing,
- [Schedule Consult](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/schedule/)
- [Relationship Pitfalls](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/relationship-pitfalls/) - 5 Relationship Pitfalls to Avoid Download your copy
- [Testimonials](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/testimonials-page/)

## Podcasts

- [Equilibrium Echoes](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/podcast/equilibrium-echoes/) - Alyssa Decker's show explores the tools and insights that help people build healthier, more authentic relationships. Risa explains how to tell real intimacy from its convincing substitutes, and what couples often settle for without realizing it.
- [Close the Chapter](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/podcast/close-the-chapter/) - Kristin Boice's podcast helps listeners navigate life's difficult transitions and reconnect with who they really are. In this episode, Risa and Kristin dig into what real intimacy asks of a couple, and why so many partners mistake comfortable distance for closeness.
- [Warrior Forward](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/podcast/warrior-forward/) - Kimberly Sweeney Walsh's show helps women push past the limiting beliefs that hold back their health, worth, and mindset. Here, Risa breaks down the core skills behind her Relationship Skills Bootcamp and how learning them changes what feels possible in a marriage.
- [We Don't Deserve Men](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/podcast/we-dont-deserve-men/) - Kayla Yoder's show is about shifting the dynamic between men and women from competition to cooperation. Risa shares a practical tool for interrupting a toxic pattern the moment it starts, before it takes over the whole conversation.
- [The True You](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/podcast/the-true-you/) - Paula Burns interviews women about the journeys that shaped them and the work of rediscovering who they really are. Risa lays out the relationship skills that let a woman stand up for herself and for her relationship at the same time.
- [Emotions Untapped](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/podcast/emotions-untapped/) - Livia Lowder's show guides listeners to understand and work with their emotions rather than be run by them. Risa walks through how emotional intelligence changes the way couples handle conflict, with techniques you can use in the next hard conversation.
- [Marriage and Intimacy Tips for Christian Couples](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/podcast/marriage-and-intimacy-tips-for-christian-couples/) - Monica Tanner helps couples ditch resentment and roommate syndrome and rebuild their communication, connection, and commitment. Risa introduces Relational Life Therapy and how its approach moves couples from merely tolerating each other to loving the life they share.
- [The Columbia Mom Podcast](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/podcast/the-columbia-mom-podcast/) - The ColumbiaMom Podcast features honest conversations with the women raising families and running businesses across Maryland. Risa names the destructive patterns that take hold in so many relationships and shows how a couple can break the cycle and find their way back to each other.

## Testimonials

- [C.K. (Therapist)](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/hb_testimonials/c-k-therapist/) - The supervision I received was probably the best I have ever received. I've spent so many hours reflecting on it. Every piece Risa offered, from the first to the last, whether in terms of my strengths or the constructive feedback, seems to me to fit with every other piece, and it all makes sense, in
- [K.O. New York (Therapist)](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/hb_testimonials/k-o-new-york-therapist/) - You will not find a better professional to gently walk you through the steps than Risa Ganel. I remember saying to her at the end of the first meeting, " Thank you for not wasting one minute of our time, " because, frankly, it's been my experience, in a group setting, that a lot of
- [Anonymous](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/hb_testimonials/3600/) - This was a fantastic 2 days. You shed light on our relationship and my part in it in ways I’d never looked at them before.
- [— Sarah P.](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/hb_testimonials/sarah-p-2/) - “Terry Real’s Bootcamp was life-changing for me and my husband. We’ve been together 30+ years so it’d be fair to wonder what would we possibly have to work on. My love-avoidant, grandiose man said this shifted our relationship to a deeper, more loving level; his love-dependent, grandiose wife agrees. The Bootcamp weekend opened up new
- [— J.G.](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/hb_testimonials/j-g/) - “I have found that most couples really want a relationship that works for both people and they have no idea how to make that happen. Once they learn that implementing a set of learned skills can achieve their goal, the majority of couples are willing to do things differently. They become empowered to change!”
- [— Sarah P.](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/hb_testimonials/sarah-p/) - “For therapists doing couples work, the Bootcamp is a great chance to see a compilation/distillation of RLT skills in action, plus a great way to do your own relational work. That last part was valuable beyond measure and has shaped my work as a therapist and partner in powerful ways.”
- [— K.B.](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/hb_testimonials/4218/) - “I was made to feel comfortable right from the start, which made it much easier for a guy like me to talk about our problems. Working with Risa opened our lines of communication, and we no longer got overly emotional when we talked about difficult subjects. We learned to manage our time better and now
- [— S.M.](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/hb_testimonials/s-m-2/) - “… I no longer felt as frustrated. I came to appreciate who my husband is and how he is different from me. We learned to respect one another’s ideas and opinions and I was reminded of all the positive reasons I married him. I no longer think about divorce and am much happier overall. And
- [— A.M.](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/hb_testimonials/a-m/) - “My wife and I both found RLI’s workshop to be exceptional and well worth the time and effort. I would recommend it highly, particularly to couples having communication problems. RLI’s approach is unique, but common sense, so it is easy to understand and, hopefully, to apply.”
- [— Tod](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/hb_testimonials/tod/) - “The couple’s work that you do is so valuable — we are relating now in a wholly new and expansive way. It’s what each of us knew we were missing but could not have found on our own. Thank you so much!”
- [Anonymous](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/hb_testimonials/3603/) - The examples Risa gave, the handouts, and the visuals, and the role plays were all super helpful.
- [Anonymous](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/hb_testimonials/3602/) - Risa’s care for us was palpable, and I felt really heard and understood.
- [Anonymous](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/hb_testimonials/3601/) - Risa delivered on everything she promised. I have clarity and tools to improve my marriage and I am so grateful.
- [D.W.](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/hb_testimonials/d-w/) - We’ve worked with Risa for 13 sessions now and if we hadn’t gone to counseling with her, we’d be living separate lives. I don’t think about divorce anymore. I’m wearing my wedding ring again, too! I’m so glad my husband didn’t give up on us and that we have worked with Risa.
- [Anonymous](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/hb_testimonials/3599/) - Risa was calm, respectful, honest and kind. My only wish is to have more time with her.
- [Anonymous](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/hb_testimonials/3501/) - “Even though I’ve been in therapy, I realized there is so much to each piece that having support and practicing with others gave me more confidence. Now I can speak up for myself more instead of saying everything is fine when it’s not.”
- [Anonymous](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/hb_testimonials/3500/) - “I learned that keeping silent was colluding with the dysfunction around me. Risa gave me permission to speak up in my personal life. It was empowering. What I have inside is of value and deserves to be shared and heard. I don’t have to worry about what others think. I’ve always measured what others think
- [Anonymous](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/hb_testimonials/3499/) - “Sharing experiences and hearing others ask questions who have the same struggles as I do was extremely helpful. I became more confident and felt more secure in starting to speak up for myself with my husband.”
- [Anonymous](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/hb_testimonials/3498/) - “I recommend working with Risa to all of my friends. If you are ready to be held accountable and hear it like it is, she is the BEST.”
- [](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/hb_testimonials/3497/) - “I used to feel like there was no hope and that nothing would change. I’m more at peace because I know there are ways to make changes that come from within me!”
- [Anonymous](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/hb_testimonials/3496/) - "This was exactly what I needed, I just didn’t know it! I knew I had conflict with my husband and by the second class I realized this was going to be different than I thought. It opened things up for me in a way I never would have guessed. This is just the beginning of
- [S.S.](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/hb_testimonials/s-s/) - Risa helped my husband and I get to the point where we realized that we either need to stop talking about our marriage and actually fix it, or end things. We hit rock bottom at one point, but somehow we pulled each other out of the weeds. Slowly, we started liking one another again, and
- [R.N.](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/hb_testimonials/r-n/) - Risa has been positive, professional and knowledgeable about every issue that I have brought to our sessions. Her approach to our work together has been realistic, kind and compassionate. She communicates in a warm and direct manner, asking the right questions and providing valuable insight at just the right times. She is a gifted and
- [K.B.](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/hb_testimonials/k-b/) - I was made to feel comfortable right from the start which made it much easier for a guy like me to talk about our problems. Therapy opened our lines of communication and we no longer got overly emotional when we talked about difficult subjects. We learned to manage our time better and now have more
- [S.M.](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/hb_testimonials/s-m/) - After 10 sessions with Risa, I no longer felt as frustrated. I came to appreciate who my husband is and how he is different from me. We learned to respect one another’s ideas and opinions and I was reminded of all the positive reasons I married him. I no longer think about divorce and am

## Categories

- [Couples Therapy](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/category/couples-therapy/)
- [Couples Intensives](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/category/couples-intensives/)
- [Individual Therapy](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/category/individual-therapy/)
- [Sex Therapy](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/category/sex-therapy/)

## Tags

- [couples counseling](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/tag/couples-counseling/)
- [couples therapy](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/tag/couples-therapy/)
- [love](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/tag/love/)
- [marriage](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/tag/marriage/)
- [relationships](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/tag/relationships/)
- [marriage counseling](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/tag/marriage-counseling/)
- [Intimacy](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/tag/intimacy/)
- [emotions](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/tag/emotions/)
- [telehealth](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/tag/telehealth/)
- [normal marital hatred](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/tag/normal-marital-hatred/)
- [surviving isolation](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/tag/surviving-isolation/)
- [stay at home order](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/tag/stay-at-home-order/)
- [resentment](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/tag/resentment/)
- [sex](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/tag/sex/)
- [healthy relationships](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/tag/healthy-relationships/)
- [defensiveness](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/tag/defensiveness/)
- [self esteem](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/tag/self-esteem/)
- [boundaries](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/tag/boundaries/)

## Testimonial Categories

- [RICommunity](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/testimonial_category/ricommunity/)
- [Personalized](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/testimonial_category/personalized/)
- [Relationship Skills Bootcamp](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/testimonial_category/relationship-skills-bootcamp/)
- [RLT page](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/testimonial_category/rlt-page/)
- [Homepage](https://togethercouplescounseling.com/testimonial_category/homepage/)