No one gets ganged up on
John's job is not to take your partner's side or decide who is right. Couples counseling looks at what happens between both of you. There may be times he challenges one person more directly and times he challenges the other, but the goal is never to find a winner.
The consultation is a vibe check
The free 30-minute call is simply a chance for both of you to meet John, ask questions, and hear how he works. You can say what you are worried about. You can ask what would be different from counseling you tried before. You can decide together whether the fit feels right.
You will not be pressured
You do not have to arrive ready to share every private detail. You do not have to promise that the relationship will work. You do not have to agree with your partner about everything that brought you here. John will meet both of you with respect and help you understand the pattern—not label either person as the problem.