Testimonials: How we were able to help couples
Read real customer reviews on Proven Expert
Do you sometimes feel insecure, overlooked, or constantly find yourself in conflict in your relationship? You're not alone. Many couples face similar challenges. We can help you rediscover each other.
- Our path to respectful communication
- We only argue anymore
- My partner has no desire for sex
- My partner is having an affair or a fling
- My partner is a narcissist
- My partner is jealous
- Love turned into hatred
- We would like to separate peacefully.
- We have a blended family
- Help after a narcissistic relationship
Couple therapy, couple counseling and sex therapy
Certified couples counselors Doris and Bernd Nickel offer competent and empathetic support – regardless of location, conveniently online and throughout Germany.
- Flexible evening appointments, whenever you have time – let us advise you on a time that suits you. Late appointments are also available, including on public holidays, Saturdays, and Sundays.
- Professional support – benefit from many years of practice and life experience in couples counseling.
- Individual coaching – Develop new perspectives and new solutions for your relationship together.
- Help in every phase of life – whether conflicts, speechlessness, sexual dissatisfaction or acute crises: We are there for you.
- Sustainable methods – our digital counseling is based on proven, practical concepts. Systemic couples therapy is considered an evidence-based approach.
- Scientifically based
- High efficacy – long-term effects
We have sustainably improved our relationship
Our path to respectful communication
My partner and I booked an appointment for modern couples therapy via online meeting with Bernd Nickel because I felt constantly criticized for my behavior. His structured and empathetic approach was evident right from the initial consultation. Instead of offering superficial advice, he guided us through essential reflective questions: "What can you change?"; "Where do you need boundaries?"; "What is beyond your control?"
These clear, guiding questions helped us to recognize and understand the destructive spiral of interaction. Even after the first session, we had practical tips that could be immediately implemented in everyday life.
In subsequent sessions, Mr. Nickel delved deeper into the process: He asked specific questions about what was already working well and where we were still experiencing difficulties. This individualized fine-tuning ("refinement") made all the difference. We received not only theoretical solutions but also practical implementation support.
The result of our collaborative work: We now communicate more respectfully, show more appreciation instead of criticism, can set clear boundaries, and deal with our differences more constructively. Mr. Nickel succeeded in creating a safe, appreciative atmosphere in which both felt heard and understood.
We can wholeheartedly recommend Bernd Nickel – for couples who are ready to work on their relationship and want professional, empathetic, and solution-oriented support. Investing in this therapy has strengthened our partnership in the long term.
Anna-Maria Gruber, Vienna.
If you experience something similar: Arrange an initial consultation with a 100% satisfaction guarantee.
Experience report from couples counseling: We only argue anymore
How we as a couple found our way back to each other
It wasn't an abrupt break, but a gradual process: conflicts increased, intimacy faded. Disappointment and misunderstandings increasingly characterized our daily lives. Without us saying a word, the relationship was on the brink. During this difficult time, we decided to seek professional support from Bernd Nickel.
Even during our first appointment, we could sense that this was someone who truly listened and understood our situation. With great sensitivity and clear guidance, Bernd Nickel helped us to see ourselves and our relationship patterns in a new light.
Instead of remaining stuck in familiar reactions, we began to embrace new perspectives. Together, we developed a respectful dialogue style – honest, open, and solution-oriented. Step by step, trust and connection returned.
Today we experience our partnership on a deeper, more conscious level. We wouldn't have been able to achieve this transformation without professional support. In retrospect, accepting help was one of the best decisions we ever made.
Our clear recommendation: If you feel you've lost each other as a couple – don't hesitate. A neutral, outside perspective can open doors that would otherwise remain closed. We wholeheartedly recommend Bernd Nickel.
If you experience something similar: Arrange an initial consultation with a 100% satisfaction guarantee.
Personal account of a relationship crisis: My partner has no desire for sex
When closeness is lacking – and how we revived our relationship
Our journey through a period without sex. To the outside world, we appeared to be a harmonious couple. But inside, we had grown apart. The physical intimacy, once taken for granted, was increasingly absent. I hoped for a long time that things would improve on their own – but nothing changed.
Bringing up the subject took courage. I was afraid of putting pressure on her or facing rejection. When I finally did, we both experienced relief: we were both suffering, but had remained silent out of insecurity.
Openness helped us to identify the causes – unspoken expectations, stress, lack of time for each other. Step by step, we found new ways to connect: mindful touches, conversations without demands, shared moments without a goal.
The support from Bernd Nickel was particularly important. He gave us insights that helped us to talk honestly about our needs and fears – without blame, with mutual respect.
Bernd Nickel says: A period without sex is not automatically a failure. It can be an impetus to consciously reshape relationships and intimacy.
We have seen that those who have the courage to look together can develop genuine connection again, even from a distance.
If you experience something similar: Arrange an initial consultation with a 100% satisfaction guarantee.
Personal account of an affair: My partner is having an affair
Infidelity shook our relationship – and yet became a turning point.
After the affair, everything was called into question: intimacy, trust, and the future as a couple. And yet, today we look back on a relationship that is more honest and vibrant than ever before.
It was during this profound crisis that we met Ms. Nickel. With great sensitivity, clarity, and a keen sense of what was achievable, she guided us through a time we could hardly have managed on our own. Her ability to defuse tension with humor, in particular, often gave us precisely the lightness we needed.
At first, there was silence, guilt, and deep hurt. But through conversations with Ms. Nickel, we began to understand how the infidelity could have happened – and what we had been lacking long before it occurred.
During the consultation, we learned new ways to stay in touch with each other:
- to have honest conversations without assigning blame,
- to clearly define our boundaries and desires,
- to listen actively – even when it was challenging,
- not to avoid conflicts, but to resolve them constructively,
- to consciously and jointly reshape our partnership.
From the greatest shock emerged a new quality of closeness. Today we live with more mutual respect, openness, and connection than ever before. This would hardly have been possible without the attentive guidance of Ms. Nickel.
Our conclusion: An affair doesn't have to mean the end. With courage, honesty, and good support, a crisis can lead to genuine renewal.
If you experience something similar: Arrange an initial consultation with a 100% satisfaction guarantee.
Personal account of narcissism in a relationship
When one partner constantly sees themselves as the center of attention – and what can help then
Between withdrawal and hope – our way out of stressful dynamics
Our relationship felt increasingly unbalanced. Constant tension, hurtful exchanges, and a lack of genuine empathy defined our daily lives. I felt like I wasn't truly seen or taken seriously.
We couldn't make any progress on our own. After numerous fruitless discussions, we decided to seek professional guidance. With Bernd Nickel, we found someone who understands the dynamics of narcissistic relationships and can clearly identify what truly works.
The very first session was a turning point for us: clarity, structure, and compassion – it was palpable. Finally, we could speak openly without cornering or hurting each other.
With Bernd Nickel's help, we recognized how entrenched our communication patterns were – and what role power, withdrawal, and self-protection played in them. Step by step, we developed new ways of interacting with each other.
The introduction to a language that doesn't attack but connects was particularly helpful: authentic, respectful, and appreciative. This brought relief – and new hope.
Today, as a couple, we are more alert, clear-headed, and attentive to each other. Anyone experiencing similar challenges shouldn't hesitate to accept support. We wholeheartedly recommend Bernd Nickel – as someone who understands and guides.
If you experience something similar: Arrange an initial consultation with a 100% satisfaction guarantee.
Personal account of jealousy in a relationship
When jealousy threatened our relationship – and we still found a way
What began as minor uncertainties became a serious burden: mistrust, control, and recurring conflicts increasingly dominated our daily lives. Closeness gave way to mistrust, and we drifted apart emotionally.
At another point, it became clear: things couldn't continue like this. The decision to go to couples therapy was difficult for us – but it was also an important first step. With professional guidance, we learned to understand the deeper causes of our jealousy without assigning blame.
What was particularly valuable for us was how we learned to communicate with each other – clearly, respectfully, and without accusations. These new communication strategies helped us to recognize tensions early on and to talk honestly about our feelings.
We developed small rituals that strengthened trust and began to express insecurities before they erupted into accusations. Step by step, a stable connection was rebuilt.
Today we experience our partnership on a new level. Jealousy hasn't disappeared – but it no longer dominates us. Instead of control, openness, reliability, and mutual respect now characterize our relationship.
Our experience shows that even if jealousy puts a heavy strain on a relationship, with openness and professional help it can become an opportunity for growth.
If you experience something similar: Arrange an initial consultation with a 100% satisfaction guarantee.
Personal account of saving a relationship: Love turned into aversion
When jealousy threatened our relationship
From estrangement back to connection – our way out of the crisis. How professional help saved us from separation.
When we contacted Bernd Nickel, our relationship was at a low point. Instead of closeness, accusations, irritability, and the feeling of no longer being understood by the other person defined our time together.
In Bernd Nickel we found someone who understood how to address difficult topics respectfully and clearly. His calm, structured manner created a space in which we could open up – without fear of being blamed.
Together with him, we realized how deeply we were trapped in negative patterns. With targeted guidance, he helped us break free from these patterns and develop new ways of interacting with one another – step by step.
What was particularly helpful was the way we restarted the conversation: without pressure, with respect and genuine interest in each other. This not only increased our understanding but also our emotional closeness.
Today we look to the future with confidence. Where once there was aversion and frustration, there is now room for connection and tenderness. The decision to pursue joint support was a turning point in our lives.
Our recommendation: If your relationship is marked by estrangement – seek guidance. Bernd Nickel has shown us that there are still ways forward even when all seems lost.
If you experience something similar: Arrange an initial consultation with a 100% satisfaction guarantee.
Separation experience report: We want to separate amicably
Our decision to separate – and how we were able to shape it together
One day we had to admit that our relationship was no longer sustainable. Instead of blaming each other, we looked for a way to part ways respectfully – also for the sake of our children.
Ms. Nickel accompanied us during this sensitive phase. From our very first appointment, we felt accepted in our differences. Her calm and structured approach helped us to sort through the chaos of emotions, disappointments, and hurts.
With great sensitivity, she helped us to avoid getting stuck in conflict and instead find common solutions. Even in difficult moments, she kept our focus on what really mattered – a fair and dignified separation.
Thanks to their help, we were able to reach agreements that were acceptable to both of us – without legal disputes. Our children's needs always remained our top priority.
Today we look back with relief and gratitude. A threatened escalation was resolved respectfully. Ms. Nickel was a pillar of support – professional, empathetic, and clear in her stance.
For anyone in a similar situation, we want to offer encouragement: separation doesn't have to be a battle. With the right support, it can become a peaceful new beginning.
If you experience something similar: Arrange an initial consultation with a 100% satisfaction guarantee.
Family experience report: We have a blended family
Help, we have a blended family!
From conflict to cooperation – our journey as a blended family
Our family consists of children from previous relationships and one child we have together. This diversity is enriching – but also fraught with conflict. Different parenting styles, tensions, and the need for belonging led to constant friction.
We came to Mr. Nickel on a recommendation. His direct, clear manner helped us to openly address conflicts and find solutions together. He always made sure that everyone was heard – including the children.
His focus on the essentials was particularly helpful. Instead of assigning blame, we learned to communicate more openly and develop mutual understanding.
Of course, not everything is harmonious right away – but we now have tools to deal with tensions better. As a family, we act more consciously, respectfully, and as a team.
What helped us most was:
- The solution-oriented approach
- A trusting atmosphere for everyone
- Practical everyday tips
- Taking all family members seriously
Patchwork requires patience – and a willingness to question old patterns. The process takes time, but it's worth it. We wholeheartedly recommend Mr. Nickel to anyone in a similar situation.
If you experience something similar: Arrange an initial consultation with a 100% satisfaction guarantee.
Finally back to myself
Excellent online coaching after a narcissistic relationship!
As a separated woman (living in Slovakia), I contacted Mr. Nickel with profound self-doubt and intense guilt. I felt I had failed in my past relationship with a narcissistic partner and hadn't "done enough." What I then experienced with Mr. Nickel was precisely the clarity and empowerment I needed.
Here are the points that made the coaching so valuable for me:
Mr. Nickel pleasantly surprised me. Instead of dwelling on problems for hours or digging deep into my childhood, he asked me directly about my goals, my expectations, and above all, my strengths. That was incredibly refreshing and immediately shifted my focus to the future.
Clarity about narcissistic dynamics. With great empathy and expertise, he helped me see through the toxic patterns of my previous relationship. He made me aware of mechanisms like gaslighting, devaluation, subtle shaming, and the grueling push-and-pull games. That was the key moment: I learned to distinguish between genuine guilt and the responsibility that was simply imposed on me.
Self-esteem regained, not just built up. One sentence from Mr. Nickel particularly resonated with me: It wasn't about painstakingly rebuilding my self-esteem, but about reclaiming it. It was still there, just buried. Thanks to his help, I rediscovered my former strength.
Conclusion: After this insightful initial consultation, I feel relieved and empowered. Mr. Nickel works with absolute competence, empathy, and a results-oriented approach. I can wholeheartedly recommend him – especially for women who want to break free from emotionally abusive relationships.
Tamara from Slovakia.
If you experience something similar: Arrange an initial consultation with a 100% satisfaction guarantee.
Over 70 years of life experience & over 8.000 consultations
We are not just couples therapists – we are a couple ourselves with a shared history. Our work is based on systemic couples therapy according to the principles of... Heidelberg School and based on experience from over 8.000 supported consulting processes.
This combination of professional depth, personal relationship experience and many years of practice enables particularly clear, honest and effective support.
"Every disadvantage contains the seed of an equally large or even greater advantage."