Marriage Counselling in Nelson Bay, NSW

Photo of Janine Epere, Psychotherapist in Nelson Bay, NSW
Janine Epere
Psychotherapist, PsychD, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
Nelson Bay, NSW 2315
I am a Hunter Valley based therapist and Clinical Supervisor with over 15 years experience. I offer a wealth of knowledge and in-depth experience of complex trauma, life-controlling issues, addictions and relationships. Co-founder/CEO of a women's rehabilitation program, Destiny Haven, our mission is to see the lives of broken women restored. I have received significant recognition for my achievements, including finalist in Telstra Businesswomen's awards (2017). I use proven approaches offering unique expertise to help you quickly begin to experience relief from life controlling symptoms that hinder your relationships and limit life
I am a Hunter Valley based therapist and Clinical Supervisor with over 15 years experience. I offer a wealth of knowledge and in-depth experience of complex trauma, life-controlling issues, addictions and relationships. Co-founder/CEO of a women's rehabilitation program, Destiny Haven, our mission is to see the lives of broken women restored. I have received significant recognition for my achievements, including finalist in Telstra Businesswomen's awards (2017). I use proven approaches offering unique expertise to help you quickly begin to experience relief from life controlling symptoms that hinder your relationships and limit life
(02) 4058 4578 View (02) 4058 4578

Online Therapists

Photo of David Sokol, Counsellor in Nelson Bay, NSW
David Sokol
Counsellor, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
Chatswood, NSW 2067
I provide Monday-Thursday evening sessions. I specialise in supporting clients in all aspects of relationship: pre-marriage counselling, couples counselling, reflecting on the end of a relationship. Clients have said working with a male counsellor brings a different perspective on clarifying their issues. With over 20 years and over 10,000 sessions experience I have worked with individuals and couples, locally, interstate, and overseas who are experiencing difficulties in their relationship. I offer face-to-face and Zoom sessions. Find my website for more details
I provide Monday-Thursday evening sessions. I specialise in supporting clients in all aspects of relationship: pre-marriage counselling, couples counselling, reflecting on the end of a relationship. Clients have said working with a male counsellor brings a different perspective on clarifying their issues. With over 20 years and over 10,000 sessions experience I have worked with individuals and couples, locally, interstate, and overseas who are experiencing difficulties in their relationship. I offer face-to-face and Zoom sessions. Find my website for more details
(02) 9538 7081 View (02) 9538 7081
Photo of Regine Yuen-Williams Counselling, Counsellor in Nelson Bay, NSW
Regine Yuen-Williams Counselling
Counsellor, MSc, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
Beaconsfield, NSW 2015
With over 15yrs clinical experiences, I've helped many clients deal with a wide range of problems:RELATIONSHIPS(Interpersonal, marital, family disputes, parenting, extra-marital affairs; EMOTIONS(stress, anxiety, fear, depression); BEHAVIOURS (anger management, substance abuse, financial; &LIFE CRISES (financial, trauma, bereavement).
Have you ever felt overwhelmed by negative emotions, reacted by losing your temper with a loved-one and then felt sorry, lost, & helpless? Unresolved problems or traumatic experiences can result in a wide range of physical, emotional & behavioural issues such as appetite, insomnia, stress, anxiety, depression, reaching for the booze or even domestic violence. Inevitably, these situations take a toll on you personally & on all your close relationships, leading to further negativity & additional problems, you just know that something is wrong & changes must be made. Behavioral/Emotional/Conflicts/issues don't occur overnight!
With over 15yrs clinical experiences, I've helped many clients deal with a wide range of problems:RELATIONSHIPS(Interpersonal, marital, family disputes, parenting, extra-marital affairs; EMOTIONS(stress, anxiety, fear, depression); BEHAVIOURS (anger management, substance abuse, financial; &LIFE CRISES (financial, trauma, bereavement).
Have you ever felt overwhelmed by negative emotions, reacted by losing your temper with a loved-one and then felt sorry, lost, & helpless? Unresolved problems or traumatic experiences can result in a wide range of physical, emotional & behavioural issues such as appetite, insomnia, stress, anxiety, depression, reaching for the booze or even domestic violence. Inevitably, these situations take a toll on you personally & on all your close relationships, leading to further negativity & additional problems, you just know that something is wrong & changes must be made. Behavioral/Emotional/Conflicts/issues don't occur overnight!
(02) 8806 0114 View (02) 8806 0114
Photo of Moureen Wong, Counsellor in Nelson Bay, NSW
Moureen Wong
Counsellor, PhD, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kensington, NSW 2033
Across the lifespan my clients are children, youth, adult, senior, family, migrant, employee, carer, people with disability (ADHD, autism, vision-impaired). I support 3 types of needs: 1) Clinical: Anxiety, depression, injury/illness, pain, IBS. I make assessment recommendations too; 2) People facing difficult situations: Stress,exam, job, fussy eater, relationships, separation, coping with loss, suicide, role transition-becoming a parent, teen, marriage, divorce, job promotion, relocation; 3) Enhance performance: Healthy Breathing, Mindfulness training, learn emotional intelligence, cultural intelligence, career counselling.
Across the lifespan my clients are children, youth, adult, senior, family, migrant, employee, carer, people with disability (ADHD, autism, vision-impaired). I support 3 types of needs: 1) Clinical: Anxiety, depression, injury/illness, pain, IBS. I make assessment recommendations too; 2) People facing difficult situations: Stress,exam, job, fussy eater, relationships, separation, coping with loss, suicide, role transition-becoming a parent, teen, marriage, divorce, job promotion, relocation; 3) Enhance performance: Healthy Breathing, Mindfulness training, learn emotional intelligence, cultural intelligence, career counselling.
(02) 8105 5335 View (02) 8105 5335
Photo of Alexsandra McCredie, Psychologist in Nelson Bay, NSW
Alexsandra McCredie
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Vaucluse, NSW 2030  (Online Only)
This includes PTSD; anxiety and depression; marital challenges or divorce; DV, both victims of and perpetrators; problematic drug and alcohol use and gambling; report writing for court matters, including expert witness appearances.
As a psychologist, I help facilitate and increase your self-awareness on how and why you think, feel and act. From incidental solution-focussed approaches during a crisis, to exploring and processing the impact of trauma from your past, you can come to accept and welcome all of your parts and take control. Increase your self-worth and self-esteem with healthy boundaries, compassion to self, and always trying to work from your rational mind, the part that manages emotions, connects, attaches and feels safe.
This includes PTSD; anxiety and depression; marital challenges or divorce; DV, both victims of and perpetrators; problematic drug and alcohol use and gambling; report writing for court matters, including expert witness appearances.
As a psychologist, I help facilitate and increase your self-awareness on how and why you think, feel and act. From incidental solution-focussed approaches during a crisis, to exploring and processing the impact of trauma from your past, you can come to accept and welcome all of your parts and take control. Increase your self-worth and self-esteem with healthy boundaries, compassion to self, and always trying to work from your rational mind, the part that manages emotions, connects, attaches and feels safe.
(02) 9100 0377 View (02) 9100 0377
Photo of Edvard Miler, Counsellor in Nelson Bay, NSW
Edvard Miler
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
Epping, NSW 2121
Feeling anxious or depressed? Are you experiencing burnout at work? Are you going through some tough times in your marriage or relationship? Do you have issues with your faith that are leaving you with an overwhelming sense of guilt and shame? Are you going through grief and loss? Do you feel lost and are in need of some form of guidance? Do you need professional supervision? If your answer is "yes" to any of these questions, you have come to the right place.
Feeling anxious or depressed? Are you experiencing burnout at work? Are you going through some tough times in your marriage or relationship? Do you have issues with your faith that are leaving you with an overwhelming sense of guilt and shame? Are you going through grief and loss? Do you feel lost and are in need of some form of guidance? Do you need professional supervision? If your answer is "yes" to any of these questions, you have come to the right place.
(02) 7804 4429 View (02) 7804 4429
Photo of Caring Hearts Counselling Services - Akram Youssef, Counsellor in Nelson Bay, NSW
Caring Hearts Counselling Services - Akram Youssef
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
Port Macquarie, NSW 2444
Youth often grapple with questions of identity, self-esteem, and a desire to understand their place in the world, managing academic pressures, career decisions, and future uncertainties, while their goals are to develop a strong sense of self, increased self-awareness, and confidence in navigating life's challenges. Couples need improving communication, resolving conflicts, navigating major life changes such as marriage, parenthood, or career shifts , and understanding each other, while their goals are supporting each other through transitions, adapting to change, and maintaining a strong partnership.
Youth often grapple with questions of identity, self-esteem, and a desire to understand their place in the world, managing academic pressures, career decisions, and future uncertainties, while their goals are to develop a strong sense of self, increased self-awareness, and confidence in navigating life's challenges. Couples need improving communication, resolving conflicts, navigating major life changes such as marriage, parenthood, or career shifts , and understanding each other, while their goals are supporting each other through transitions, adapting to change, and maintaining a strong partnership.
(02) 5563 4668 View (02) 5563 4668
Photo of Sylvia Chen - Individual And Couples Counselling, Counsellor in Nelson Bay, NSW
Sylvia Chen - Individual And Couples Counselling
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
Gordon, NSW 2072
I am a trauma-informed clinical counsellor, Somatic Experiencing practitioner, gong sound healer, breathwork facilitator that firmly believes in the value of human life. I have experience in a range of areas including marriage/relationship, anxiety and stress, trauma, depression, attachment, family of origin issues, parenting, grief & loss, personal growth & development, special need supports and chronic health related concerns. ​I am warm, caring and insightful. I am here to support your integration, and all of the various parts of your personality and being, into a balanced and joyful whole, made up of body, mind and soul.
I am a trauma-informed clinical counsellor, Somatic Experiencing practitioner, gong sound healer, breathwork facilitator that firmly believes in the value of human life. I have experience in a range of areas including marriage/relationship, anxiety and stress, trauma, depression, attachment, family of origin issues, parenting, grief & loss, personal growth & development, special need supports and chronic health related concerns. ​I am warm, caring and insightful. I am here to support your integration, and all of the various parts of your personality and being, into a balanced and joyful whole, made up of body, mind and soul.
(02) 8403 0049 View (02) 8403 0049
Photo of Connie Easterbrook Counselling Services, Counsellor in Nelson Bay, NSW
Connie Easterbrook Counselling Services
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sydney, NSW 2000
Experiencing relationship struggles or marriage breakdown. Wanting to refresh, renew or repair your relationship with your partner or loved one. Overwhelmed by grief and sadness. Anxious. Depressed. Stressed. Overwhelmed. Discouraged. Low self-esteem. If you are looking for compassionate care, support, hope for the future and a transformed emotional life - then I may be able to help. I am a warm, relational counsellor who offers experience, wisdom and compassion. I can provide practical skills and strategies to assist alongside empowering you to find your own unique way forward.
Experiencing relationship struggles or marriage breakdown. Wanting to refresh, renew or repair your relationship with your partner or loved one. Overwhelmed by grief and sadness. Anxious. Depressed. Stressed. Overwhelmed. Discouraged. Low self-esteem. If you are looking for compassionate care, support, hope for the future and a transformed emotional life - then I may be able to help. I am a warm, relational counsellor who offers experience, wisdom and compassion. I can provide practical skills and strategies to assist alongside empowering you to find your own unique way forward.
(02) 7501 0787 View (02) 7501 0787
Photo of June Gay, Principal Psychologist, Psychologist in Nelson Bay, NSW
June Gay, Principal Psychologist
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Chatswood, NSW 2067
Respect is extended to all individuals, irrespective of their mental health diagnosis, age, religion, race, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, body shape/size, marital status, education, profession, genetics, or disability.
June has over 22y experience as a Psychologist and has a Master of Counselling Psychology. Central to therapy with June is an authentic, empathetic and collaborative therapeutic relationship, which research has shown to be the most important factor in successful counselling. Recognising the uniqueness of each individual, June integrates evidence based concepts and techniques to assist and empower client recovery. Sessions can be conducted either in person or via Telehealth video software. Additionally, June is a registered provider with Medicare, health funds, WorkCover, and Access+.
Respect is extended to all individuals, irrespective of their mental health diagnosis, age, religion, race, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, body shape/size, marital status, education, profession, genetics, or disability.
June has over 22y experience as a Psychologist and has a Master of Counselling Psychology. Central to therapy with June is an authentic, empathetic and collaborative therapeutic relationship, which research has shown to be the most important factor in successful counselling. Recognising the uniqueness of each individual, June integrates evidence based concepts and techniques to assist and empower client recovery. Sessions can be conducted either in person or via Telehealth video software. Additionally, June is a registered provider with Medicare, health funds, WorkCover, and Access+.
(02) 9100 0355 View (02) 9100 0355
Photo of Helen Qin Counselling (English, Mandarin), Psychotherapist in Nelson Bay, NSW
Helen Qin Counselling (English, Mandarin)
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Surry Hills, NSW 2010
Hello, I am an registered Medicare provider, highly professional and compassionate bilingual psychotherapist/counsellor (English, Mandarin) and Accredited Mental Health Social Worker with more than 10 years of clinical experience. I am also a professionally trained and qualified relationship/marriage counsellor (Dr. John Gottman method of couple counselling level 3 trained).
Hello, I am an registered Medicare provider, highly professional and compassionate bilingual psychotherapist/counsellor (English, Mandarin) and Accredited Mental Health Social Worker with more than 10 years of clinical experience. I am also a professionally trained and qualified relationship/marriage counsellor (Dr. John Gottman method of couple counselling level 3 trained).
(02) 9098 5155 View (02) 9098 5155
Olivia Sakamoto
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
Port Macquarie, NSW 2444
Specialising in anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, workplace bullying, addictions, marriage, separation, infidelity and relationship counselling, family/blended family challenges, mediation, child and young adults, grief and anger management.
Olivia's experience as a Clinical Counsellor comes with more than a decade in private practice and pastoral care roles. Specialising in anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, workplace bullying, addictions, relationship counselling, family/blended, mediation, child and young adults, grief and anger management. Clientele include corporate who utilise workplace EAP and NDIS clients & private clients with an age range of 6 to 85 years. Face to Face, Video-link or Phone sessions are offered. Olivia who is known for her sincere, peaceful and non-judgmental manner uses evidence based therapies recognising there is no one size fits all.
Specialising in anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, workplace bullying, addictions, marriage, separation, infidelity and relationship counselling, family/blended family challenges, mediation, child and young adults, grief and anger management.
Olivia's experience as a Clinical Counsellor comes with more than a decade in private practice and pastoral care roles. Specialising in anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, workplace bullying, addictions, relationship counselling, family/blended, mediation, child and young adults, grief and anger management. Clientele include corporate who utilise workplace EAP and NDIS clients & private clients with an age range of 6 to 85 years. Face to Face, Video-link or Phone sessions are offered. Olivia who is known for her sincere, peaceful and non-judgmental manner uses evidence based therapies recognising there is no one size fits all.
(02) 6564 1972 View (02) 6564 1972
Photo of Womanscoach , Counsellor in Nelson Bay, NSW
Womanscoach
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
Bondi Junction, NSW 2022
I have been passionately working in the field of individual and couples counselling, and mentoring parents of teens for over 26 years. As a certified counselor and life coach, I have the skills and techniques to boost success in all areas of your life, with a specialty in empowering married couples to connect on a deeper level & improve their relationship. I am experienced in multiple spheres, including marriage, parenting, intimacy, relationships, postnatal support and goal setting. I am a member of the ACA and highly recommended in delivering counselling services. I lectures across AU and USA. References available
I have been passionately working in the field of individual and couples counselling, and mentoring parents of teens for over 26 years. As a certified counselor and life coach, I have the skills and techniques to boost success in all areas of your life, with a specialty in empowering married couples to connect on a deeper level & improve their relationship. I am experienced in multiple spheres, including marriage, parenting, intimacy, relationships, postnatal support and goal setting. I am a member of the ACA and highly recommended in delivering counselling services. I lectures across AU and USA. References available
(02) 9100 0928 View (02) 9100 0928
Photo of Kara Choi, Psychologist in Nelson Bay, NSW
Kara Choi
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Putney, NSW 2112
I work with adults (18+) and couples wanting to improve their mood/anxiety, relationships, and for those wanting to understand and change how their history continues to shape their relational patterns today. This may be particularly pertinent during the perinatal period (during pregnancy and postpartum). I also work with couples to prepare for and adjust to transition periods of marriage and parenthood. I believe in the wisdom of working to strengthen and bolster relationships from a place of preparation rather than waiting until things become difficult to seek support.
I work with adults (18+) and couples wanting to improve their mood/anxiety, relationships, and for those wanting to understand and change how their history continues to shape their relational patterns today. This may be particularly pertinent during the perinatal period (during pregnancy and postpartum). I also work with couples to prepare for and adjust to transition periods of marriage and parenthood. I believe in the wisdom of working to strengthen and bolster relationships from a place of preparation rather than waiting until things become difficult to seek support.
(02) 7804 4788 View (02) 7804 4788
Photo of Fernanda Tinelli, Counsellor in Nelson Bay, NSW
Fernanda Tinelli
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Bella Vista, NSW 2153
I help couples, families and individuals seeking to achieve healthy relationships and improved mental health. I specialise in marriage, family counselling, during/post-separation, infidelity and ethical-non monogamy. I also provide individual counselling to support clients struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma and grief. My work is very solution focused so my clients can achieve fast results. Over the years, I've transitioned from a legal career into counselling/psychology so my clients can expect high ethical standards, high academic competency as well as a modern and fresh approach to relationships and psychotherapy.
I help couples, families and individuals seeking to achieve healthy relationships and improved mental health. I specialise in marriage, family counselling, during/post-separation, infidelity and ethical-non monogamy. I also provide individual counselling to support clients struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma and grief. My work is very solution focused so my clients can achieve fast results. Over the years, I've transitioned from a legal career into counselling/psychology so my clients can expect high ethical standards, high academic competency as well as a modern and fresh approach to relationships and psychotherapy.
(02) 8403 2742 View (02) 8403 2742
Photo of Alena Piccolruaz, Psychologist in Nelson Bay, NSW
Alena Piccolruaz
Psychologist, MPsych, Assoc MAPS
Verified Verified
Taree, NSW 2430
I have a special interest in working with children, adolescents, and families in addition to supporting mums and dads through pregnancy and post-pregnancy. Issues treated (but not limited to) include; anxiety, stress, depression, trauma, school issues, suicidal thinking, personality disorder, anger management, gender transitioning, self-harm, grief and loss, work related issues (Workcover accredited psych), life coaching, relationship matters, family mediation, court and legal reports and the teaching of parenting skills. I also offer couples, family and marital therapy. I am also an accredited Supervisor to other psychologists.
I have a special interest in working with children, adolescents, and families in addition to supporting mums and dads through pregnancy and post-pregnancy. Issues treated (but not limited to) include; anxiety, stress, depression, trauma, school issues, suicidal thinking, personality disorder, anger management, gender transitioning, self-harm, grief and loss, work related issues (Workcover accredited psych), life coaching, relationship matters, family mediation, court and legal reports and the teaching of parenting skills. I also offer couples, family and marital therapy. I am also an accredited Supervisor to other psychologists.
(02) 9159 6930 View (02) 9159 6930
Photo of Menaka Iyengar Cooke M.app.psych, Psychotherapist in Nelson Bay, NSW
Menaka Iyengar Cooke M.app.psych
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
Haberfield, NSW 2045
Clients want help with managing stress and anxiety over life matters such as workplace issues, relationships including marriage ups-and-downs, divorce and separation; death including grief and loss; personal development from being assertive to managing health and personal wellbeing; assistance in being better parents; personal trauma incuding sexual assault or bodily harm or migration difficulties
Clients want help with managing stress and anxiety over life matters such as workplace issues, relationships including marriage ups-and-downs, divorce and separation; death including grief and loss; personal development from being assertive to managing health and personal wellbeing; assistance in being better parents; personal trauma incuding sexual assault or bodily harm or migration difficulties
(02) 8069 5431 View (02) 8069 5431
Photo of Relationship-Talk: Dr Cory Middleton, Psychologist in Nelson Bay, NSW
Relationship-Talk: Dr Cory Middleton
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Sydney, NSW 2000
Highly experienced psychologist supporting individuals & couples. Come discuss: Relationship challenges, mental health (stress, anxiety & depression), men's issues, marriage counselling, workplace stress. Feeling stuck? Cory provides non-judgmental, deeply supportive, experienced professional skill in guiding you through life's challenges. Proactively address issues that may be impacting your personal and relationship happiness.
Highly experienced psychologist supporting individuals & couples. Come discuss: Relationship challenges, mental health (stress, anxiety & depression), men's issues, marriage counselling, workplace stress. Feeling stuck? Cory provides non-judgmental, deeply supportive, experienced professional skill in guiding you through life's challenges. Proactively address issues that may be impacting your personal and relationship happiness.
(02) 9100 0542 View (02) 9100 0542
Photo of Antonia Jennings, Counsellor in Nelson Bay, NSW
Antonia Jennings
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
Umina Beach, NSW 2257
I offer a range of services that cover all aspects of personal and life counselling, relationship & couples counselling, pre-marital counselling, career counselling and grief counselling. By offering counselling and therapeutic solutions, both in person and virtually, we’re here we’re here to help you bring about the change you’re looking for. I can offer support to NDIS self managed & plan managed clients. I have both in person clinics and virtual options for all appointments.
I offer a range of services that cover all aspects of personal and life counselling, relationship & couples counselling, pre-marital counselling, career counselling and grief counselling. By offering counselling and therapeutic solutions, both in person and virtually, we’re here we’re here to help you bring about the change you’re looking for. I can offer support to NDIS self managed & plan managed clients. I have both in person clinics and virtual options for all appointments.
0403 018 185 View 0403 018 185
Photo of The Couples' Therapy Room, Counsellor in Nelson Bay, NSW
The Couples' Therapy Room
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
Newcastle, NSW 2300
Welcome! I’m Aicha, a French couples counsellor with a passion for guiding individuals through the difficult terrain of human relationships. Whether you're facing communication breakdowns, trust issues, intimacy challenges, infidelity, the aftermath of betrayal, or navigating major life transitions such as marriage, parenthood, or career changes, I'm dedicated to providing you with the tools and support you need to rebuild and revitalize your relationship.
Welcome! I’m Aicha, a French couples counsellor with a passion for guiding individuals through the difficult terrain of human relationships. Whether you're facing communication breakdowns, trust issues, intimacy challenges, infidelity, the aftermath of betrayal, or navigating major life transitions such as marriage, parenthood, or career changes, I'm dedicated to providing you with the tools and support you need to rebuild and revitalize your relationship.
(02) 4082 6778 View (02) 4082 6778
Marriage Counselling

How does marriage counseling work?

Marriage counseling works by teaching couples concrete skills to communicate with one another and solve disagreements in healthy ways. A trained mental health professional works with both members of a couple to explore difficulties the couple may be having and helps them develop skills to address these matters. Couples who don’t have any difficulties but want to prepare for marriage may develop skills for the future.

How long does marriage counseling typically last?

Marriage counseling is a short-term form of therapy; the process may last between four and eight sessions. Other forms of relationship guidance from mental health professionals, such as couples therapy, are longer lasting, may focus on the past rather than just the present, and are tailored to the individual couple and their emotions, history, and patterns in the relationship. Couples therapy often lasts for 12 weeks or longer.

Is marriage counseling effective?

Marriage counseling helps many couples develop relationship skills that may not have been acquired or tested in a relationship; partners may be better able to communicate and address conflict following counseling. However, there are many different forms of marriage counseling, and this form of counseling does not have as strong an evidence base as other modalities such as couples therapy.

Is marriage counseling effective if only one partner wants to go?

Yes, marriage counseling can still be effective if one partner convinces the other to engage in the process. Of course, whether counseling is effective depends on the couple’s commitment to work on their relationship; however, the short-term, skills-based nature of marriage counseling makes it a relatively easy “ask” of a partner, and the hesitant individual may see its value once counseling begins.