Online couples therapy in New York

When the same argument keeps coming back, or the house has gone quiet, it can help to have a third person in the conversation. I see couples by video, anywhere in New York State, and the first conversation is free.

What brings couples in

• The same argument, again and again, with nothing settled
• Distance: living side by side, more like housemates than partners
• Trust that has been broken, by an affair or in smaller ways
• A big change: a baby, a move, an illness, retirement, children leaving home
• Not knowing whether to stay together

How couples therapy works

We meet together by video. In the first sessions I listen to each of you: what is happening now, how it got here, and what each of you wants to be different.

Couples get caught in patterns. One pushes and the other pulls away; one criticises and the other defends. A pattern is hard to see from inside it. My part is to slow the conversation down so you can both see what is going on, and try something different.

I am not there to decide who is right. I am there for the relationship, and for both of you.

Who you would be working with

I’m Robert Margolis, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in New York State with the “R” psychotherapy privilege. I have worked in the mental health field for more than forty years, and I see couples and individuals. There is more about me here.

Questions couples ask

What if my partner won’t come?

You can start on your own. Many people do, and when one person changes how they respond, the relationship often changes too. Your partner is welcome to join later.

Can we join from different places?

Yes. You can share one screen or use two, as long as you are both in New York State when we meet.

Do you take sides?

No. I listen to both of you and I say what I see. The aim is for the two of you to understand each other better, not for one of you to win.

How long does couples therapy take?

It depends on what you are dealing with and what you want. Some couples come for a few months about one problem. Others stay longer. We check in about it as we go.

What does it cost?

You can pay privately, and I accept some insurance plans. Whether a plan covers couples sessions varies, so we go over the fee together in the free first conversation. The details are on the fees page.

Start with a free conversation

The first conversation is free, lasts about 15 minutes, and there is no obligation to continue. Call 516-318-0949, or send the short request below and I’ll get back to you to find a time.