There are times when one partner feels that counseling is necessary while the other rejects any need for counseling. It’s not unusual for the first partner to seek out individual counseling. Over time, the second partner may feel that they can see results and that joining in could deliver results.

Working with a couple after working with an individual can only be done if the individual gives their direct permission. Counselors still need to be aware of privacy issues, only addressing issues where permission has been granted, or of they have been raised during couple counseling. Once permission has been obtained then it is ethical to move from individual to couple counseling – it happens quite frequently.