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Top-Rated Couples Counseling | Asheville, NC
Strengthen your bond & feel closer than ever.
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20+ years of clinical experience
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Expertise in alternative relationship structures, including ethical non-monogamy
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Committed to providing LGBTQIA+-affirming care
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Trained in specialized methods like emotionally-focused therapy (EFT)
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Intensive couples therapy option for faster progress
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Offering both online couples therapy and in-person walk-and-talk sessions in Asheville, NC
Meet your Asheville couples therapist
Sarah J. Thompson, LCMHC, LPC
I help couples navigate the rough waters of relationship struggles and find their way back to each other (or, if they desire, to part ways peacefully). My work focuses on rebuilding trust, improving communication, and rediscovering the connection that brought you together in the first place.
My background combines rigorous academic training along with real-world experience helping partners move beyond cycles of conflict. What drives me is seeing how transformative it can be when couples develop new ways of understanding each other and themselves.
In our sessions, you'll find a balanced blend of structured techniques and heartfelt guidance. I don't believe in quick fixes or band-aid solutions. Instead, we'll work together to uncover the deeper patterns at play and develop practical tools that create lasting change in your relationship. My goal is to help you build the partnership you've always wanted—one conversation at a time.
My approach to couples & marriage counseling
I'm the kind of therapist who brings my whole self into the room with you. I don't hide behind clinical jargon or maintain a cold, distant facade. Instead, I bring my authentic self to our sessions—someone who listens deeply, asks thoughtful questions, and isn't afraid to go into the tough stuff with you.
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I believe couples therapy works best when it feels like a genuine conversation. We might laugh together one minute and explore painful emotions the next. Throughout it all, I'm fully present with you—not just analyzing your words, but truly feeling and understanding your experience.
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At the heart of my practice is emotionally-focused therapy (EFT), a powerful approach that helps couples break free from negative cycles and rebuild emotional connections. With EFT, my goal is to help you experience profound healing in your relationship, feeling more heard and understood by your loved ones than ever before.
How to get started
Common reasons why people seek couples counseling
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Lack of intimacy
When the spark fades and you feel more like roommates than partners, it takes a toll on both of you. Whether it's physical intimacy or emotional connection that's missing, couples therapy helps uncover what's getting in the way and rebuild the closeness you once shared.
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Relationship uncertainty
Wrestling with the question of "should we stay together?" can be exhausting and confusing. Therapy offers a guided space to explore your relationship honestly, understand what's working and what isn't, and make decisions that align with both of your needs—whether that means finding a new path forward together or separating with clarity.
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Transition to parenthood
A baby changes everything—your sleep, your freedom, and definitely your relationship. Many couples struggle with the shift from partners to parents as they navigate new responsibilities, less couple time, and different parenting approaches. Therapy helps you maintain your connection as a couple while embracing your new roles as parents.
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Communication breakdown
When every conversation turns into an argument or painful silence, it's time for a new approach. Many couples get stuck in patterns where neither person feels heard. In therapy, you'll learn to recognize these cycles and develop ways to truly listen and express yourselves that bring you closer instead of driving you apart.
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Trust violations
After betrayal or broken promises, rebuilding trust takes more than just time—it takes intention and guidance. Therapy creates a space to process hurt feelings, understand what led to the breach, and gradually rebuild security in your relationship if both partners are committed to the process.
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Life transitions and external stressors
Job changes, moves, financial problems, health issues—life's challenges can put enormous strain on your relationship. Therapy helps you navigate these stressors as a team rather than being pulled apart by them, finding strength in your partnership even during difficult times.
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Recurring conflicts
When you're having the same fight over and over, it usually means there's something deeper going on. Therapy helps uncover what's really driving these patterns and gives you both conflict resolution skills so repetitive arguments become opportunities for growth.
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Differing values or life goals
Sometimes partners find themselves wanting different things as they grow and change. Therapy helps you navigate these differences, finding compromise where possible and determining whether your paths forward are still compatible.
2 highly recommended marriage counseling resources
Not sure whether my practice is right for you? Here are some other trusted resources where you can find help.
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FAQs about couples therapy
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How do I know if EMDR is right for me?EMDR might be right for you if you're experiencing emotional distress that feels bigger than the current situation, finding yourself highly reactive to certain triggers, or holding beliefs about yourself that you intellectually know aren't true. While EMDR is particularly helpful for trauma recovery, you don't need to have experienced a major traumatic event to benefit—it can help with anxiety, relationship patterns, life transitions, or any emotional pain where you feel blocked from moving forward. The best way to determine if EMDR is a good fit is to schedule a free phone consultation with me. We'll discuss your specific situation and explore whether this approach aligns with your needs and goals.
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Is EMDR usually covered by insurance?Yes, EMDR therapy is usually covered by insurance. As an out-of-network provider, I'm happy to provide you with detailed documentation and superbills so you can request reimbursement from your insurance provider. I recommend checking with your insurance company about their specific out-of-network mental health benefits and EMDR coverage.
