COUPLES COUNSELING

Couples Counseling in Madison and Across Wisconsin

When couples reach out to me, they often say they have tried everything, yet nothing seems to truly change. At Luma Via Mental Health in Madison, Wisconsin, I offer a deeper, evidence-based approach to couples counseling: one that blends structure, compassion, and science. We offer telehealth sessions throughout the state of WI and IL. All of our couples counseling is private pay. We do not accept insurance for this.

My work draws from two of the most respected frameworks in the field: the Gottman Method and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT).

• The Gottman Method offers research-based tools for improving communication, rebuilding trust, and strengthening friendship, the foundation of a healthy relationship.

• Emotionally Focused Therapy helps couples move beyond recurring arguments to identify the deeper attachment needs, emotions, and fears that often drive conflict.

Together, these methods help couples learn practical new skills while deepening emotional safety and connection, both in person and through secure telehealth sessions offered anywhere in Wisconsin & Illinois.

Assessment and Intake

Just as a physician would not diagnose without testing, couples therapy begins with a careful assessment.
In our first sessions, we meet together to explore your relationship patterns, sources of stress, and areas of strength. I then meet individually with each partner to understand personal histories, attachment styles, and what each person needs to feel safe, valued, and heard.

This structured foundation allows us to design a plan that targets the real issues beneath the surface, not just the symptoms that appear in moments of conflict.

Skill Building and Repair

After assessment, we move into focused skill building and repair work. Couples learn how to communicate more clearly, interrupt cycles of blame or withdrawal, and repair ruptures before they become resentments.

Sessions include:
• Communication exercises tailored to your specific dynamics
• Concrete tools to rebuild trust and friendship
• Psychoeducation that explains why certain changes work
• Guidance on integrating these new habits into daily life

This combination of emotional depth and practical skill-building helps create lasting, sustainable change both in and outside the therapy room.

Why Work with Me

I love this work and believe wholeheartedly in the potential of couples to heal and grow. I am here to educate and help change patterns of communication so everyone feels heard and valued. I treat the relationship itself as my client. My approach blends warmth and empathy with clear direction and accountability.

As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Madison and offering telehealth statewide in WI and IL, I bring experience with complex relationships, communication breakdowns, and emotional repair. I use evidence-based frameworks like Gottman and EFT, along with trauma-informed insight, to help couples rebuild trust and closeness.

If you are seeking a therapist who is direct, compassionate, and genuinely hopeful about what’s possible, I would be honored to do this work with you. I want you to feel like I am a part of the team.

What to Expect in Couples Counseling

Therapy is collaborative and goal-oriented.

• Early sessions focus on assessment and setting clear, realistic goals.

• Middle sessions center on skill practice, communication repair, and emotional reconnection.

• Later sessions help consolidate progress, prevent relapse into old patterns, and create a long-term roadmap for growth.

Each session is structured yet flexible, ensuring both partners feel safe, heard, and engaged in the process.

How Long Does Couples Therapy Take?

Every couple’s journey is unique. Many partners begin noticing positive shifts within six to ten sessions, while others continue longer (or shorter) to deepen emotional intimacy or heal from significant ruptures.

Whether you choose a shorter, skills-focused plan or ongoing therapy, we will decide together on the frequency and duration that best fit your goals, stage of life, and comfort level. We come up with a treatment schedule together. Sessions are available in-person in Madison or virtually anywhere in Wisconsin or Illinois.

Common Questions

Who is couples counseling for?
Couples therapy can help those struggling with communication, emotional distance, conflict cycles, parenting stress, or trust issues. It supports partners at any stage — dating, cohabiting, married, or rebuilding after betrayal.

Can telehealth couples counseling work as effectively as in-person sessions?
Yes. Many couples find that virtual therapy offers added flexibility and comfort. Telehealth sessions are secure, HIPAA-compliant, and accessible anywhere in Wisconsin or Illinois.

Do you work with LGBTQ+ couples?
Absolutely. My practice is inclusive of all relationships and identities.

What if my partner is hesitant?
We can begin with a consultation to discuss concerns, clarify goals, and build readiness together. I can also offere individual sessions with each partner for the first few sessions to grow trust and rapport.

Begin Your Journey Toward Connection

If you’re ready to move from disconnection toward stability, trust, and closeness, I would be honored to help.

-Ru, MSW, LCSW

Contact Luma Via Mental Health to schedule your initial couples assessment. Whether you prefer in-person sessions in Madison or telehealth therapy anywhere in Wisconsin, we’ll create a plan that supports your unique relationship and long-term growth.

Luma Via Mental Health
Couples Counseling in Madison, Wisconsin
Serving clients across the entire state via secure telehealth

www.lumaviamentalhealth.com
info@lumaviamentalhealth.com
(608) 291-4969