Photo of Jadon Ward, Counsellor in Kelowna, BC
Jadon Ward
Counsellor, MA, MA, RCC, CCC
Verified Verified
Kelowna, BC V1Y
My specialties are working with stress and anxiety, marriage and relationships, and ADHD symptoms.
The last few years have been hard on everyone, and you may have experienced new relational stress, financial stress, and anxiety about what the future might hold. Like many people, you might find yourself overwhelmed or feeling helpless. These stresses and pressures can affect your work, your relationships and your loved ones as well. If you are struggling in these tough times, I can help you find new ways to cope and manage. Together we can identify the root of your stress, find ways to cope with it, and manage your anxiety. My goal in counselling is to go beyond giving you ways to live with your problems.
My specialties are working with stress and anxiety, marriage and relationships, and ADHD symptoms.
The last few years have been hard on everyone, and you may have experienced new relational stress, financial stress, and anxiety about what the future might hold. Like many people, you might find yourself overwhelmed or feeling helpless. These stresses and pressures can affect your work, your relationships and your loved ones as well. If you are struggling in these tough times, I can help you find new ways to cope and manage. Together we can identify the root of your stress, find ways to cope with it, and manage your anxiety. My goal in counselling is to go beyond giving you ways to live with your problems.
(778) 401-3882 View (778) 401-3882
Photo of Next Step Counselling Group, Counsellor in Kelowna, BC
Next Step Counselling Group
Counsellor, MACP, RCC, BSc
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Y
Next Step Counselling is a group practice comprised of compassionate, goal oriented therapists looking to welcome you to a positive place of healthy change. Next Step is dedicated to helping people in our community foster change and embark upon personal development. We specialize in areas such as stress, anxiety, depression, couples, and marital problems. Next Step can help alleviate the daily challenges that life has to offer. We are highly trained RCC's and understand that life can have many challenges, and our goal is to help people navigate through life’s tougher situations. Please get in touch for more information!
Next Step Counselling is a group practice comprised of compassionate, goal oriented therapists looking to welcome you to a positive place of healthy change. Next Step is dedicated to helping people in our community foster change and embark upon personal development. We specialize in areas such as stress, anxiety, depression, couples, and marital problems. Next Step can help alleviate the daily challenges that life has to offer. We are highly trained RCC's and understand that life can have many challenges, and our goal is to help people navigate through life’s tougher situations. Please get in touch for more information!
(343) 300-3220 View (343) 300-3220
Photo of Erle Robert Jaeger, Counsellor in Kelowna, BC
Erle Robert Jaeger
Counsellor, BA, MDiv, MSc, MFT, RCC
Verified Verified
Kelowna, BC V1Y  (Online Only)
Hi, my name is Erle Jaeger and I am a Marriage and Family Therapist and a Registered Clinical Counselor in an "Online Private Practice" in the province of BC. I have been a Mental Health Professional for over 30 years. I use a trauma sensitive, client centered approach using a combination of CBT, mindfulness, and generally speaking a narrative approach to therapy.
Hi, my name is Erle Jaeger and I am a Marriage and Family Therapist and a Registered Clinical Counselor in an "Online Private Practice" in the province of BC. I have been a Mental Health Professional for over 30 years. I use a trauma sensitive, client centered approach using a combination of CBT, mindfulness, and generally speaking a narrative approach to therapy.
(438) 600-3226 View (438) 600-3226
Photo of Virtuous Circle Counselling, Registered Social Worker in Kelowna, BC
Virtuous Circle Counselling
Registered Social Worker, RCSW
Verified Verified
Kelowna, BC V1Y
Our specialties include anxiety counselling, depression counselling, major life transitions, trauma therapy and marriage counselling.
We here at Virtuous Circle Counselling believe deeply in coming from situations of vicious cycles to those of virtuous circles. Vicious cycles are harmful and detrimental and will have you feeling like you are in a rut that you cannot get out of. Virtuous circles come from places of nonjudgmental and growth. At Virtuous Circle Counselling we know mental health is important and we aim to facilitate the change you seek. Our Registered Clinical Therapists offer in-person sessions, online therapy, or phone counselling to help support our clients.
Our specialties include anxiety counselling, depression counselling, major life transitions, trauma therapy and marriage counselling.
We here at Virtuous Circle Counselling believe deeply in coming from situations of vicious cycles to those of virtuous circles. Vicious cycles are harmful and detrimental and will have you feeling like you are in a rut that you cannot get out of. Virtuous circles come from places of nonjudgmental and growth. At Virtuous Circle Counselling we know mental health is important and we aim to facilitate the change you seek. Our Registered Clinical Therapists offer in-person sessions, online therapy, or phone counselling to help support our clients.
(778) 654-5396 View (778) 654-5396
Photo of Eric Kuelker, Psychologist in Kelowna, BC
Eric Kuelker
Psychologist, PhD, RPsych
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Y
Twice the likelihood of saving your marriage.
You came here because you are hurting and overwhelmed. And you want things to improve, so that you can quiet the turmoil, and feel much better again. You have made the right choice. Yet choosing the right psychologist is tricky. You want the best help available, someone who is caring, and truly helpful. That is why I use Feedback Improved Therapy. It consists of measuring in each session whether you are improving as a result of therapy, and your sense of teamwork with me. 3 research studies show that this doubles the effectiveness of psychotherapy.
Twice the likelihood of saving your marriage.
You came here because you are hurting and overwhelmed. And you want things to improve, so that you can quiet the turmoil, and feel much better again. You have made the right choice. Yet choosing the right psychologist is tricky. You want the best help available, someone who is caring, and truly helpful. That is why I use Feedback Improved Therapy. It consists of measuring in each session whether you are improving as a result of therapy, and your sense of teamwork with me. 3 research studies show that this doubles the effectiveness of psychotherapy.
(250) 984-8349 View (250) 984-8349
Photo of Coleen Adderley, Counsellor in Kelowna, BC
Coleen Adderley
Counsellor, MACP, BHSc, LPN, MCBT-P, CCT-P
Verified Verified
Kelowna, BC V1Y
Working on personal problems in therapy can help bring added meaning to your life, help you to learn excellent conflict resolution skills, and improve your marriage.
With over 24 years experience in health care, Coleen is passionate about empowering and helping clients to regain peace of mind and find balance in their lives. She is non-judgemental, empathetic, and provides a safe and trustworthy environment that lends well to building a trusting therapeutic relationship with her clients. Using an all encompassing approach, she looks at every aspect of her clients lives, including their physical and mental health as well as their social supports to create a unique individualized treatment plan for each client. Coleen uses a trauma informed lens to help her client who struggle with trauma & more.
Working on personal problems in therapy can help bring added meaning to your life, help you to learn excellent conflict resolution skills, and improve your marriage.
With over 24 years experience in health care, Coleen is passionate about empowering and helping clients to regain peace of mind and find balance in their lives. She is non-judgemental, empathetic, and provides a safe and trustworthy environment that lends well to building a trusting therapeutic relationship with her clients. Using an all encompassing approach, she looks at every aspect of her clients lives, including their physical and mental health as well as their social supports to create a unique individualized treatment plan for each client. Coleen uses a trauma informed lens to help her client who struggle with trauma & more.
(581) 204-4051 View (581) 204-4051
Photo of Terri-Lynn Kent, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kelowna, BC
Terri-Lynn Kent
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW, RCC
Verified Verified
Kelowna, BC V1Y
Hello! My name is Terri-Lynn and I would welcome the opportunity to offer you support and guidance as you navigate your current challenges. I will strive to create a safe, relaxed and healing space for you to tell your story and to collaborate with you towards the development of strategies to reach your goals. To assist you with this therapeutic process, I will draw upon my 20+ years of clinical experience in health care, having worked closely with individuals and families living with dementia, cancer, persistent pain, developmental disabilities, conflict, stress, loss, anxiety, depression, and marital separation.
Hello! My name is Terri-Lynn and I would welcome the opportunity to offer you support and guidance as you navigate your current challenges. I will strive to create a safe, relaxed and healing space for you to tell your story and to collaborate with you towards the development of strategies to reach your goals. To assist you with this therapeutic process, I will draw upon my 20+ years of clinical experience in health care, having worked closely with individuals and families living with dementia, cancer, persistent pain, developmental disabilities, conflict, stress, loss, anxiety, depression, and marital separation.
(778) 477-0066 View (778) 477-0066
Photo of Kim Ewing Counselling & Psychotherapy, Counsellor in Kelowna, BC
Kim Ewing Counselling & Psychotherapy
Counsellor, MA, MSc, RMFT, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Y
I've been practicing since 1995 & I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor & Marriage & Family Therapist. However, I am now only accepting individual clients 18+. It's clear to me that we can all struggle, even if we are successful in other areas of our lives. Life can be unpredictable & the stress & demands of everyday life, work & relationships can take its toll. As stressors build, you may find yourself struggling with anxiety, mood, eating, body image issues or turning to addictive behaviours. You may also find that unresolved grief or past trauma keeps seeping into your daily life & especially when you least want or expect it.
I've been practicing since 1995 & I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor & Marriage & Family Therapist. However, I am now only accepting individual clients 18+. It's clear to me that we can all struggle, even if we are successful in other areas of our lives. Life can be unpredictable & the stress & demands of everyday life, work & relationships can take its toll. As stressors build, you may find yourself struggling with anxiety, mood, eating, body image issues or turning to addictive behaviours. You may also find that unresolved grief or past trauma keeps seeping into your daily life & especially when you least want or expect it.
(778) 765-3413 View (778) 765-3413
Photo of Lisa Moore Clinical Counselor & Play Therapy Supvr, Counsellor in Kelowna, BC
Lisa Moore Clinical Counselor & Play Therapy Supvr
Counsellor, MA, RCC, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1X
Crossroads Collective's mission is to help people heal and grow through periods of transitions in their lives. Many of us struggle with alcohol / addictions, experience loss, grief, unhappiness or a sense of loss when we transition from one role to another in our daily lives. Some of us lose people we love, dreams we can no longer achieve, changes in careers, the diagnosis of a child with special needs, a loved one entering care, or who is ailing in health, Divorce from a spouse, the beginning of a new marriage, perhaps with a blended family. We accept private insurance plans, Victim Services(CVAP), ICBC Claims and Autism
Crossroads Collective's mission is to help people heal and grow through periods of transitions in their lives. Many of us struggle with alcohol / addictions, experience loss, grief, unhappiness or a sense of loss when we transition from one role to another in our daily lives. Some of us lose people we love, dreams we can no longer achieve, changes in careers, the diagnosis of a child with special needs, a loved one entering care, or who is ailing in health, Divorce from a spouse, the beginning of a new marriage, perhaps with a blended family. We accept private insurance plans, Victim Services(CVAP), ICBC Claims and Autism
(506) 496-0739 View (506) 496-0739
Photo of Innerverse Therapy, Counsellor in Kelowna, BC
Innerverse Therapy
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Y
We work with individuals, couples, and families to address a wide variety of concerns. Areas of focus may include: Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Marital issues, Separation, Divorce, Parenting, Relationship problems, Addictions, Low self-esteem, Assertiveness, Anger, Communication, Career issues, Grief, Aging, Health issues.
We work with individuals, couples, and families to address a wide variety of concerns. Areas of focus may include: Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Marital issues, Separation, Divorce, Parenting, Relationship problems, Addictions, Low self-esteem, Assertiveness, Anger, Communication, Career issues, Grief, Aging, Health issues.
(506) 497-6457 View (506) 497-6457
Photo of Valerie Harbour, Counsellor in Kelowna, BC
Valerie Harbour
Counsellor, MC, RCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Y
Some of my areas of counselling experience include marriage and relationship issues, such as communication or trust issues; anxiety or depression, and dealing with chronic pain or life changes.
Life happens. Will you let life happen to you, or will you choose your direction? Whether you are experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship issues, life changes, or just feeling stuck, you always have a choice. I work with individuals, couples and families to cultivate new ways of looking at problems. I will draw on your strengths and also help you develop new skills to assist you along the way.
Some of my areas of counselling experience include marriage and relationship issues, such as communication or trust issues; anxiety or depression, and dealing with chronic pain or life changes.
Life happens. Will you let life happen to you, or will you choose your direction? Whether you are experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship issues, life changes, or just feeling stuck, you always have a choice. I work with individuals, couples and families to cultivate new ways of looking at problems. I will draw on your strengths and also help you develop new skills to assist you along the way.
(855) 591-6871 View (855) 591-6871
Photo of Dr. David Hersh - Hersh Ctr for Sexual Wellness in Kelowna, BC
Dr. David Hersh - Hersh Ctr for Sexual Wellness
EdD, LMFT, CST, ABS, FAACS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Y
My specialty is Human Sexuality. I'm a Certified Sex Therapist, Psychotherapist and am a mostly retired, formerly Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). I have 50+ years experience. I was trained, mentored and supervised by Dr. Wardell Pomeroy of the Kinsey Institute. I help my patients achieve their greatest sexual and relationship potential, beyond diagnosis and treatment of their concerns, to reach the most exciting levels of an intimate relationship. I see many patients online. It is efficient and effective, and it permits the intimacy and immediacy of an in-office consultation, from the comfort of your home or office.
My specialty is Human Sexuality. I'm a Certified Sex Therapist, Psychotherapist and am a mostly retired, formerly Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). I have 50+ years experience. I was trained, mentored and supervised by Dr. Wardell Pomeroy of the Kinsey Institute. I help my patients achieve their greatest sexual and relationship potential, beyond diagnosis and treatment of their concerns, to reach the most exciting levels of an intimate relationship. I see many patients online. It is efficient and effective, and it permits the intimacy and immediacy of an in-office consultation, from the comfort of your home or office.
(403) 606-3183 View (403) 606-3183
Photo of Angela Slade, Counsellor in Kelowna, BC
Angela Slade
Counsellor, MA, RCC, CMHIMP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V4V  (Online Only)
The transitional period of mid-life can be a challenging time for many women. We are forced to confront our own mortality which can leave us considering what needs to change. One of the most common struggles women in mid-life face is the sense of stagnation in their lives. Many women struggle with feeling invisible as they age and as their bodies change. The pressure to conform to societal expectations can be overwhelming, and many women feel trapped in cycles of dysfunction in different areas of their lives, including marriage, friendships, career, family, and society.
The transitional period of mid-life can be a challenging time for many women. We are forced to confront our own mortality which can leave us considering what needs to change. One of the most common struggles women in mid-life face is the sense of stagnation in their lives. Many women struggle with feeling invisible as they age and as their bodies change. The pressure to conform to societal expectations can be overwhelming, and many women feel trapped in cycles of dysfunction in different areas of their lives, including marriage, friendships, career, family, and society.
(778) 771-2365 View (778) 771-2365
Photo of Dr. Mitch Bonin, Psychologist in Kelowna, BC
Dr. Mitch Bonin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Kelowna, BC V1P
Bonin offers Gottman based methods for couples and marital therapy.
Life struggles and trauma have a way of affecting how we live our lives. I am committed to helping you gain insight on "How you got here, What is keeping you here, and How to move forward." My goal of therapy is to help you gain a different perspectives to help you make positive life changes. I am here to help you identify and develop strategies to reduce the negative impact that your mental health has on your life. I adopted a saying that goes like this - "The universe rewards action." I believe if you are stuck in life just do something different. I am hoping that you choosing to work with is a step to helping you move forward.
Bonin offers Gottman based methods for couples and marital therapy.
Life struggles and trauma have a way of affecting how we live our lives. I am committed to helping you gain insight on "How you got here, What is keeping you here, and How to move forward." My goal of therapy is to help you gain a different perspectives to help you make positive life changes. I am here to help you identify and develop strategies to reduce the negative impact that your mental health has on your life. I adopted a saying that goes like this - "The universe rewards action." I believe if you are stuck in life just do something different. I am hoping that you choosing to work with is a step to helping you move forward.
(249) 209-6336 View (249) 209-6336
Photo of Wise Mind Centre, Psychologist in Kelowna, BC
Wise Mind Centre
Psychologist, PhD, R, Psych
Verified Verified
Kelowna, BC V1P
Wise Mind Centre is a Vancouver-based psychology clinic that provides in-person counselling services in Vancouver, Burnaby, and surrounding areas, and online services to all residents in British Columbia. Our psychologists help individuals struggling with a variety of psychological problems, including anxiety, OCD, depression, substance use, emotional eating, parenting difficulties, self-harm, trauma, suicidal ideations, PTSD, interpersonal difficulties, marital problems, and BPD. We offer primarily CBT, DBT, and mindfulness-based treatments. You may book online with us directly here: https://wisemindcentre.janeapp.com/.
Wise Mind Centre is a Vancouver-based psychology clinic that provides in-person counselling services in Vancouver, Burnaby, and surrounding areas, and online services to all residents in British Columbia. Our psychologists help individuals struggling with a variety of psychological problems, including anxiety, OCD, depression, substance use, emotional eating, parenting difficulties, self-harm, trauma, suicidal ideations, PTSD, interpersonal difficulties, marital problems, and BPD. We offer primarily CBT, DBT, and mindfulness-based treatments. You may book online with us directly here: https://wisemindcentre.janeapp.com/.
(778) 608-5867 View (778) 608-5867
Photo of Michelle Keough, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kelowna, BC
Michelle Keough
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, RSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1W
With over 13 years of experience, I have a sound knowledge in the treatment of relationship and marriage issues, anxiety and depression.
Feeling disconnected from you partner has got you feeling discouraged and frustrated in relationship. You are tired of having the same arguments continue to happen in your relationship with no understanding. Being stuck in miscommunication patterns between you and your partner that lead to disconnection between you both, is holding you back from creating a secure loving bond with your partner. You can ensure I will offer a safe place for you to become unstuck in these patterns and move towards the growth you are longing for. I will work with you on devising the how to overcome these stuck patterns and create the love you want.
With over 13 years of experience, I have a sound knowledge in the treatment of relationship and marriage issues, anxiety and depression.
Feeling disconnected from you partner has got you feeling discouraged and frustrated in relationship. You are tired of having the same arguments continue to happen in your relationship with no understanding. Being stuck in miscommunication patterns between you and your partner that lead to disconnection between you both, is holding you back from creating a secure loving bond with your partner. You can ensure I will offer a safe place for you to become unstuck in these patterns and move towards the growth you are longing for. I will work with you on devising the how to overcome these stuck patterns and create the love you want.
(587) 329-9320 View (587) 329-9320
Photo of Florescence Counselling, Counsellor in Kelowna, BC
Florescence Counselling
Counsellor, MACP, RCC, BSN, CSTIP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Y
Many of us have challenges that prevent us from being our best self, such as depression, anxiety, emotional difficulties, relationship issues, or trauma. Whether you need support to battle your inner demons or the past that haunts you, Jenni can help you discover what you need to not only cope, but to heal and eventually thrive. Florescence describes the process of a plant coming to flower. This is the name of Jenni's business, as it shows her deep desire to help people flourish in their lives. Self-acceptance is a beautiful gift we can give ourselves. She strives to help people give themselves permission to be who they are.
Many of us have challenges that prevent us from being our best self, such as depression, anxiety, emotional difficulties, relationship issues, or trauma. Whether you need support to battle your inner demons or the past that haunts you, Jenni can help you discover what you need to not only cope, but to heal and eventually thrive. Florescence describes the process of a plant coming to flower. This is the name of Jenni's business, as it shows her deep desire to help people flourish in their lives. Self-acceptance is a beautiful gift we can give ourselves. She strives to help people give themselves permission to be who they are.
(778) 766-4403 View (778) 766-4403
Photo of Indepth Counselling Services, Counsellor in Kelowna, BC
Indepth Counselling Services
Counsellor, MH, RTC, CCHt
Verified Verified
Kelowna, BC V1Y
As a counsellor, I am privileged to have supported many clients wrestling with different struggles, such as: PTSD. Emotional Trauma. Anxiety / Stress. Depression. Low Self-Esteem / Confidence. Addiction / Substance abuse. Some of the benefits in seeking for support / therapy are: Discovering underlying issues or beliefs that can block or restrict happiness. * Improving relationship with yourself / others. * Developing more confidence. * * Creating changes through self-discovery and therefor implementing effective ways and strategies, creating custom fit solutions to any barriers and blockage. Overcoming stress, anxiety, addiction without the need of a "quick fix" or a temporary unhealthy coping mechanism
As a counsellor, I am privileged to have supported many clients wrestling with different struggles, such as: PTSD. Emotional Trauma. Anxiety / Stress. Depression. Low Self-Esteem / Confidence. Addiction / Substance abuse. Some of the benefits in seeking for support / therapy are: Discovering underlying issues or beliefs that can block or restrict happiness. * Improving relationship with yourself / others. * Developing more confidence. * * Creating changes through self-discovery and therefor implementing effective ways and strategies, creating custom fit solutions to any barriers and blockage. Overcoming stress, anxiety, addiction without the need of a "quick fix" or a temporary unhealthy coping mechanism
(866) 702-3985 x2 View (866) 702-3985 x2
Photo of Rochelle Dionne Ruttan, Counsellor in Kelowna, BC
Rochelle Dionne Ruttan
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Y
Currently accepting new clients! Life can feel like a roller coaster at times. Moments of great success can feel like standing at the top of a mountain. “I’ve finally made it,” we may think. But then there are those other times. Moments when the ride of life unexpectedly shifts. Our roller coaster is derailed, and we plunge harder and faster than we ever thought possible. Regardless of what direction you feel you are heading on your life’s journey, connecting in a safe space to process your emotions and needs is a vital form of self-care.
Currently accepting new clients! Life can feel like a roller coaster at times. Moments of great success can feel like standing at the top of a mountain. “I’ve finally made it,” we may think. But then there are those other times. Moments when the ride of life unexpectedly shifts. Our roller coaster is derailed, and we plunge harder and faster than we ever thought possible. Regardless of what direction you feel you are heading on your life’s journey, connecting in a safe space to process your emotions and needs is a vital form of self-care.
(579) 300-1099 View (579) 300-1099
Photo of Okanagan Christian Counselling, Counsellor in Kelowna, BC
Okanagan Christian Counselling
Counsellor, RTC
Verified Verified
Kelowna, BC V1Y
Families, Marriages/Divorces, Individuals (Adults, Teens, Children) Welcome to your journey to a new and improved you! We believe that healthy relationships/marriages, healthy individuals, healthy families, and healthy children come from healthy hearts, healthy minds, healthy boundaries, healthy pregnancies and raising kids, and doing the healthy personal work necessary to be your best for yourself and for those in your life. You are important, and you taking the time to work on YOU and your relationships is important to your (and their) quality of life.
Families, Marriages/Divorces, Individuals (Adults, Teens, Children) Welcome to your journey to a new and improved you! We believe that healthy relationships/marriages, healthy individuals, healthy families, and healthy children come from healthy hearts, healthy minds, healthy boundaries, healthy pregnancies and raising kids, and doing the healthy personal work necessary to be your best for yourself and for those in your life. You are important, and you taking the time to work on YOU and your relationships is important to your (and their) quality of life.
(855) 756-7612 View (855) 756-7612

See more therapy options for Kelowna


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.