Couples counselling in Kelowna.
Every relationship goes through hard seasons. Couples counselling gives you and your partner a calm, supportive space to slow down, understand each other again, and find your way back to feeling like a team.
You don't have to be in crisis to reach out
Couples counselling (also called couples therapy, marriage counselling or relationship counselling) is a space for both partners to be heard. With the support of a trained therapist, you'll learn to understand the patterns that keep pulling you apart and build new ways of connecting.
Some couples come in after a major rupture. Others simply notice they've drifted and want to reconnect before things get harder. Couples counselling may help if you're:
- Having the same argument over and over
- Feeling more like roommates than partners
- Struggling to talk without it turning into a fight, or shutting down
- Working to rebuild trust after a betrayal
- Facing a big life change together
- Unsure whether to stay together and wanting clarity
How couples counselling can help
Two of the most researched approaches to couples therapy
Couples counselling at Lakeside draws on Emotionally Focused Therapy and the Gottman Method, combined in a way that fits your relationship and your goals.
Emotionally Focused Therapy
EFT helps couples understand the emotions and attachment needs underneath their conflict. Instead of getting stuck in a cycle of blame or withdrawal, you'll learn to recognize the pattern, turn toward each other, and build a more secure bond.
The Gottman Method
Based on decades of research into what makes relationships last, the Gottman Method gives couples practical tools to manage conflict, deepen friendship and fondness, and create shared meaning together.
Meet Alex Lundgard
Alex is our dedicated couples counsellor at Lakeside. She is a Canadian Certified Counsellor with a master's degree in counselling psychology, and she is trained in both Emotionally Focused Therapy and the Gottman Method.
Alex supports adults and couples in healing from trauma, anxiety and relationship challenges. Her style is collaborative and strength-based: she works alongside you, builds on what's already working in your relationship, and helps you both feel heard without taking sides.
Alex sees couples in person at our downtown Kelowna office and online.
Getting started is simple
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Book a free consultation
Book online with Alex, or fill out our Best Fit Form and our office manager will call you to talk through your questions and next steps.
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Your first session
Alex will get to know you both, your story as a couple, and what you'd each like to change. Each partner gets space to be heard.
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Make a plan together
You'll set goals as a couple and talk about how often to meet. Sessions are available in person or online.
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Practise new ways of connecting
Over time, you'll learn to recognize your patterns, communicate more openly, and handle conflict in ways that bring you closer.
A cozy space in downtown Kelowna
Our office is a small, welcoming space in the heart of downtown Kelowna, designed to feel more like a living room than a clinic. Busy schedules or living apart? Online couples sessions are available too.
Clear, simple fees
Many extended health plans cover counselling with a Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC). Check your plan for coverage details. We can direct bill most providers, or give you a receipt to submit for reimbursement.
Sessions for you and your partner, in person or online. Free consultation available.
Sessions with a master's-level counselling intern through our low-cost program. Call 250-258-2696 to ask about availability.
Frequently asked questions
Do we need to be in crisis to start couples counselling?
Not at all. Many couples come in to strengthen a relationship that's mostly good, or to work through a rough patch before it becomes a bigger problem.
Do we both need to attend?
Couples counselling works best when both partners attend. If your partner isn't ready yet, individual counselling can still help you understand your relationship and decide on next steps.
Will the counsellor take sides?
No. Alex's role is to support the relationship as a whole, making sure both partners feel heard and understood.
Can couples counselling help if we're thinking about separating?
Yes. Counselling can help you gain clarity about the future of your relationship. If you do decide to separate, Lakeside also offers support with separation, co-parenting, mediation and parenting plans.
How much does couples counselling cost?
Couples sessions are $175. Low-cost sessions with a master's-level intern are $45. Call 250-258-2696 to ask.
Is couples counselling covered by insurance?
Many extended health plans cover counselling with a Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC). Check your plan's coverage details.
Do you offer online couples counselling?
Yes. Alex sees couples both in person at our downtown Kelowna office and online.
Do you offer a free consultation?
Yes. A free consultation lets you ask questions and get a feel for working with Alex before booking your first full session.
What if there is abuse or I don't feel safe in my relationship?
Your safety comes first. When there is abuse or fear in a relationship, couples counselling may not be the right place to start. Please reach out to us privately, or contact VictimLinkBC any time at 1-800-563-0808. If you're in immediate danger, call 911.
Your relationship is worth investing in.
Reaching out together is a meaningful first step. Book a free consultation with Alex and start finding your way back to each other.
If you're in crisis or thinking about suicide, call or text 9-8-8 (Suicide Crisis Helpline), or call 911.