Looking for the Best Couples Therapist in Long Beach? Here’s How I Can Help
If you're searching for the best couples therapist in Long Beach, CA — congratulations! You’re already taking a brave step toward strengthening your relationship (and honestly, that deserves some applause 👏).
I'm Anna McDonald, LCSW, and I specialize in helping couples reconnect, rebuild trust, and deepen their connection using research-based methods like the Gottman Method. At Thrive Therapy & Couples Counseling, I offer a warm, compassionate space where both partners feel heard, valued, and supported.
Whether you're struggling with communication, navigating ongoing conflict, or simply want to feel closer again, I’m currently accepting new clients and would be honored to walk alongside you on your journey toward lasting growth.
Couples therapy Long Beach
What Makes a Great Couples Therapist?
Let’s be honest: Not all couples therapists are created equal.
Here’s what actually makes a great one:
Specialized Training: First and foremost, a great couples therapist uses what we call "evidence-based practices" — meaning they’re trained in approaches that have been scientifically studied and actually work (no guessing games here!). I bring expertise in the Gottman Method, one of the most trusted, research-backed frameworks for helping relationships thrive.
Human Connection: Great therapy isn’t just about techniques — it’s about heart. You deserve a therapist who brings empathy, kindness, and genuine care into the room. Someone who can hold space without judgment, no matter what you’re bringing to the table.
Empowerment and Practical Tools: You should walk out of sessions not just feeling better, but actually equipped with tools you can use in daily life to strengthen your relationship.
At Thrive Therapy, I focus on all three: solid training, compassionate care, and real-world tools you can actually use when things get messy (because let’s be real — life does get messy).
My Approach to Couples Therapy
As a certified Gottman therapist, I’ve completed hundreds of hours of specialized training — plus countless hours of sitting in the room with real couples, working through real challenges.
In our sessions, you’ll find a personable, professional guide who’s here to support you — whether this is your first time in therapy or you're seasoned pros doing deeper relationship work.
I use research-based tools to help you:
Manage conflict more effectively
Build and deepen emotional connection
Create shared meaning and purpose in your relationship
I offer both in-person and virtual sessions to meet you where you are, because life needs flexibility (and honestly, sometimes therapy in sweatpants is a vibe).
Why Clients Choose Thrive Therapy & Couples Counseling
Clients choose my practice because we build real, trusting relationships over time. Therapy with me is collaborative, personalized, and centered around your unique needs — not a one-size-fits-all checklist.
Along with individual couples work, I offer optional psychoeducational workshops to help reinforce the tools and strategies we practice in session. (Think of them like a relationship bootcamp — minus the yelling and push-ups.)
If you're looking for a space where growth feels supported, encouraged, and human, you’ll feel right at home here.
Now Accepting New Couples!
If you’re ready, I’m ready.
Let's get started — together.
Reach out today for a free 15-minute consultation to explore how I can support your relationship in healing, reconnecting, and growing stronger than ever.
Finding the right couples therapist can truly change the course of your relationship — and your life.
If you’re ready to move toward a stronger, more connected future, I would be honored to support you. I’m currently accepting new clients and would love to help you build a relationship that's not just surviving, but thriving.
You don’t have to do this alone.
✨ Help is here. Support is here. Hope is here.
Contact me today to schedule your free consultation — and take your first step toward healing, growth, and a deeper connection.
