Our

Mission as a 

RelationshiP  Therapist 

Practice

Since 1980

Our story and mission

Struggling Couples - Michael Borash LPC was founded to meet a clear need: couples and families in Fairfax and the surrounding region needed specialized, compassionate, and effective counseling that focused squarely on relationship restoration and emotional health. Since 1980, our practice has helped individuals, couples, and families navigate conflict, rebuild trust after infidelity, and develop practical tools for lasting connection. Our mission is to provide a safe, nonjudgmental environment where complex relationship problems are met with clarity, skill, and hope.

Meet Michael Borash, LPC

Michael Borash is a Licensed Professional Counselor with extensive experience in marriage therapy, family counseling, and individual psychotherapy. Over decades in practice, Michael has worked with a wide range of relationship issues: chronic conflict, infidelity, trust wounds, remarriage challenges, and the long-term patterns that keep couples stuck. His approach is grounded in evidence-based practice and informed by real-world experience with couples across varied backgrounds.

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Clinical philosophy

At the core of our work is the belief that most relationship pain occurs because of patterned interactions—repetitive cycles that escalate conflict or create emotional distance. These cycles can be disrupted through a combination of emotional understanding, behavioral change, and practical skill-building. Our clinical philosophy emphasizes:

Empathy and accountability

Couples are supported to understand each other’s experience while taking responsibility for harmful behaviors.

Actionable

Skills

Counseling offers practical techniques for communication, setting boundaries, and managing triggers.

Safety

First

We prioritize emotional and physical safety, particularly in situations involving betrayal, abuse, or intense conflict.

Long-term

Resilience

The goal is not just symptom reduction but building skills and habits that strengthen relationships over time.

Areas of specialization

Marriage counseling and marriage therapy

Relationship counseling and relationship therapy

Infidelity counseling and trust repair

Re-marriage counseling and blended family support

Individual therapy for issues that impair relationship functioning

Telehealth and virtual marriage counseling for remote access


Professional training and credentials

Michael’s credentials include licensure as a Professional Counselor (LPC). He maintains ongoing training in relational therapies, conflict resolution techniques, and telehealth best practices to ensure his work uses current, effective methods. His background combines clinical training and real-world experience with families, couples, and individuals across diverse situations.

How we work with clients

Initial intake

Every client begins with a full assessment—relationship history, goals, strengths, and immediate concerns.

Goal-oriented planning

We co-create treatment plans with measurable goals and periodic reviews of progress.

Flexible formats

Sessions are available in-person in Fairfax or via secure telehealth, allowing continuity of care.

Ongoing teaching and homework

Therapy includes assignments to practice new skills between sessions, ensuring real-world change.

Values that guide our practice

Respect

Every person’s experience is acknowledged and treated with dignity.

Honesty

We prioritize transparent, straightforward guidance—even when it’s challenging.

Collaboration

Therapy is a team effort. We work together to set goals and measure progress.

Practicality

Solutions are realistic and tailored to your life circumstances.

Success stories (anonymized)

A couple repaired trust after an affair by following a structured protocol that emphasized accountability, transparent communication, and phased emotional rebuilding.

A partner who withdrew emotionally learned communication and regulation strategies that reduced shutdowns and increased effective sharing of needs.

A blended family improved daily functioning through clearer roles, consistent boundaries, and improved parental coordination.

Why people choose Struggling Couples - Michael Borash LPC

Specialization in the relational problems couples struggle with most

Decades of clinical experience and practical wisdom

Balanced emphasis on emotional insight and concrete skills

Convenient access through telehealth plus a welcoming Fairfax office

Insurance and fees

We accept private pay and may provide documentation for reimbursement through your insurance out-of-network benefits. For questions about payment options, session lengths, or telehealth logistics,contact our office at (703) 951-7025 or email info@strugglingcouples.com.

Professional and community involvement

Our practice values community education about healthy relationships. We participate in local workshops and consult with other professionals when complex family dynamics or legal questions arise. We also maintain strict confidentiality and professional boundaries while coordinating with other providers (with client consent) to ensure integrated care.

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Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

  • Do you work with same-sex couples?

    Yes. Our services are inclusive and provided without discrimination to couples and individuals of all sexual orientations and gender identities.

  • What are your hours and availability?

    Sessions are scheduled by appointment. Evening and limited weekend slots may be available—call for current availability.

  • How do I prepare for my first session?

    Think about the main issues you want to address, recent patterns of interaction, and your goals. Bring any relevant history that might help the assessment.


Contact

Struggling Couples - Michael Borash LPC | Fairfax, VA

Prepare to share a brief relationship history and your primary concerns.