Marriage and Family Therapist
MDiv, MA, CD, RMFT, RCT-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bedford, NS B4B
He specializes in home-schooling and treating adults and adolescents with emotional issues, Marriage, Family, Parenting and Other Relationship Distress, Immigration Stress, Grief, and Transition.
Ban Sing is passionate about integrating beliefs, professional knowledge and skills, and rich life experiences to support those in need, enabling them to face life's challenges. During treatment, He focused on issues of relationships, self-esteem, and emotional disturbances. He is committed to walking side by side with clients with respect, empathy, kindness, and passion, enabling them to explore the challenges they face with peace of mind. He is helping clients deal with self-esteem, grief and loss, childhood, parenting, relationship and spiritual issues.
He specializes in home-schooling and treating adults and adolescents with emotional issues, Marriage, Family, Parenting and Other Relationship Distress, Immigration Stress, Grief, and Transition.
Ban Sing is passionate about integrating beliefs, professional knowledge and skills, and rich life experiences to support those in need, enabling them to face life's challenges. During treatment, He focused on issues of relationships, self-esteem, and emotional disturbances. He is committed to walking side by side with clients with respect, empathy, kindness, and passion, enabling them to explore the challenges they face with peace of mind. He is helping clients deal with self-esteem, grief and loss, childhood, parenting, relationship and spiritual issues.
(782) 400-0464 View (782) 400-0464
Photo of Marsh-Knickle & Associates. , Psychologist in Bedford, NS
Marsh-Knickle & Associates.
Psychologist, PhD/Psy, MSc/MA, LMFT, MSW, MASP
Verified Verified
Bedford, NS B4A
We are a well established practice providing confidential, sensitive, personalized psychological and counselling services for adults, teens, children, families and couples in Nova Scotia and beyond. We provide assessment, treatment and relapse prevention services. As we are a group of clinicians with various training we offer evidence based multiple therapeutic techniques. Approaches include EMDR, DBT, CBT, Mindfulness, Marriage and Family Therapy (including Gottman and Systems approaches), Solution Focused Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Attachment Therapy, and various Trauma Based Therapies.
We are a well established practice providing confidential, sensitive, personalized psychological and counselling services for adults, teens, children, families and couples in Nova Scotia and beyond. We provide assessment, treatment and relapse prevention services. As we are a group of clinicians with various training we offer evidence based multiple therapeutic techniques. Approaches include EMDR, DBT, CBT, Mindfulness, Marriage and Family Therapy (including Gottman and Systems approaches), Solution Focused Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Attachment Therapy, and various Trauma Based Therapies.
(902) 901-5369 View (902) 901-5369
Photo of Debbie Bowyer, Counsellor in Bedford, NS
Debbie Bowyer
Counsellor, MAC, AC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bedford, NS B4A
I address a wide range of problems including: stress & anxiety; depression; unresolved anger; forgiveness; grief; bitterness; low self-esteem; identity crisis; conflict; family issues; marriage conflicts; crisis intervention.
My approach is to allow you to bring your past into the present so that you can develop skills that free you to thrive in the future. I provide a safe, open and encouraging space to equip and free you to do three things: * identify automatic negative, limiting or unproductive thoughts and behaviours, and imagine a life beyond them; * move from the bondage of those thoughts and behaviours, into a freedom of intention and choice where you can live life with purpose and passion; * develop the skill to sustain this freedom on your own.
I address a wide range of problems including: stress & anxiety; depression; unresolved anger; forgiveness; grief; bitterness; low self-esteem; identity crisis; conflict; family issues; marriage conflicts; crisis intervention.
My approach is to allow you to bring your past into the present so that you can develop skills that free you to thrive in the future. I provide a safe, open and encouraging space to equip and free you to do three things: * identify automatic negative, limiting or unproductive thoughts and behaviours, and imagine a life beyond them; * move from the bondage of those thoughts and behaviours, into a freedom of intention and choice where you can live life with purpose and passion; * develop the skill to sustain this freedom on your own.
(866) 210-5422 View (866) 210-5422
Photo of U. Beatrice Martin, Registered Social Worker in Bedford, NS
U. Beatrice Martin
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Bedford, NS B4A  (Online Only)
Do you feel challenged or overwhelmed by e.g.: general life problems, mental health problems like anxiety or depression, issues of abuse and trauma, marital/ relationship problems, separation/ divorce, bullying, career issues, parental difficulties, life or workplace stress, grief and loss, women’s issues or health-related topics? My services are tailored towards your particular circumstances and needs. With professional help you can start to make progress, work on your goals, overcome stumbling blocks, acquire coping skills, build resilience and resolve your issues. We all have the capacity to make meaningful changes and heal.
Do you feel challenged or overwhelmed by e.g.: general life problems, mental health problems like anxiety or depression, issues of abuse and trauma, marital/ relationship problems, separation/ divorce, bullying, career issues, parental difficulties, life or workplace stress, grief and loss, women’s issues or health-related topics? My services are tailored towards your particular circumstances and needs. With professional help you can start to make progress, work on your goals, overcome stumbling blocks, acquire coping skills, build resilience and resolve your issues. We all have the capacity to make meaningful changes and heal.
(902) 812-0613 View (902) 812-0613
Photo of Yellowfinch Counselling -Marriage&Family Therapist, Counsellor in Bedford, NS
Yellowfinch Counselling -Marriage&Family Therapist
Counsellor, BA(Psy), MFCS, CCTP, CGS
Verified Verified
Bedford, NS B4A
Marriage problems? Communication issues? Perhaps you feel your drifting apart or stuck arguing over the same thing never feeling heard? Intimacy has dramatically decreased or beginning to. Maybe you just need maintenance for your relationship so it stays at the current level and helps to cement emotional connection and bonding or you'd like your relationship to go beyond surface level. Couples counselling is our specialty. We also focus on divorce, co-parenting, infidelity recovery as well as narcissism and break ups. For individual therapy we focus on: anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, stress, return to work (off work stress leave), life changes. Specializations and training in: grief and loss, CBT-I for insomnia, divorce recovery, mindfulness. I use a family systems approach to therapy, as well as am trained in: EFT, Narrative, CBT.
Marriage problems? Communication issues? Perhaps you feel your drifting apart or stuck arguing over the same thing never feeling heard? Intimacy has dramatically decreased or beginning to. Maybe you just need maintenance for your relationship so it stays at the current level and helps to cement emotional connection and bonding or you'd like your relationship to go beyond surface level. Couples counselling is our specialty. We also focus on divorce, co-parenting, infidelity recovery as well as narcissism and break ups. For individual therapy we focus on: anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, stress, return to work (off work stress leave), life changes. Specializations and training in: grief and loss, CBT-I for insomnia, divorce recovery, mindfulness. I use a family systems approach to therapy, as well as am trained in: EFT, Narrative, CBT.
(587) 817-2379 View (587) 817-2379
Photo of Perrier Wellness Associates Inc, Psychologist in Bedford, NS
Perrier Wellness Associates Inc
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Bedford, NS B4A
We are team of psychologists, counsellors, and consultants who work collaboratively with clients to improve overall wellbeing in a respectful and nonjudgmental atmosphere. Our team has training and experience with assessing, diagnosing, and treating PTSD, depression, anxiety, phobias, OCD, ADHD, and insomnia, as well as problematic substance use, gambling, and sexual behaviours. We provide counselling related to stress, anger, grief, shame, guilt, and self-esteem. We work with couples to address problems with communication, intimacy, attachment, and infidelity. We provide holistic nutritional services and will work with you to improve your mental and physical wellbeing through nutrition and lifestyle changes.
We are team of psychologists, counsellors, and consultants who work collaboratively with clients to improve overall wellbeing in a respectful and nonjudgmental atmosphere. Our team has training and experience with assessing, diagnosing, and treating PTSD, depression, anxiety, phobias, OCD, ADHD, and insomnia, as well as problematic substance use, gambling, and sexual behaviours. We provide counselling related to stress, anger, grief, shame, guilt, and self-esteem. We work with couples to address problems with communication, intimacy, attachment, and infidelity. We provide holistic nutritional services and will work with you to improve your mental and physical wellbeing through nutrition and lifestyle changes.
(782) 201-1326 View (782) 201-1326
Photo of Mike Buckley, Counsellor in Bedford, NS
Mike Buckley
Counsellor, PhD, Psych, MA, RCT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Bedford, NS B4A
Dr Mike's extensive clinical experience has allowed him the honour of supporting/guiding his clients with empathy & compassion for over 40 yrs. His commitment, insight & warmth extends outside his practice as his authenticity and caring nature help his clients to feel connected and understood. Dr Mike is committed to building a trusted therapeutic relationship that enhances personal growth while identifying underlying issues causing distress or discomfort in your life. Connect with Dr Mike today to begin your journey to wholeness and authenticity. "Life Happens...And Dr Mike Can Help!"
Dr Mike's extensive clinical experience has allowed him the honour of supporting/guiding his clients with empathy & compassion for over 40 yrs. His commitment, insight & warmth extends outside his practice as his authenticity and caring nature help his clients to feel connected and understood. Dr Mike is committed to building a trusted therapeutic relationship that enhances personal growth while identifying underlying issues causing distress or discomfort in your life. Connect with Dr Mike today to begin your journey to wholeness and authenticity. "Life Happens...And Dr Mike Can Help!"
(902) 346-2158 View (902) 346-2158
Photo of Deborah Hubble Smith, Counsellor in Bedford, NS
Deborah Hubble Smith
Counsellor, MC, RCT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bedford, NS B4A
You’re exhausted and grumpy. You thought having a kid would make your family complete, but now all you and your partner talk about are diapers and schedules, and who is (or isn’t) taking care of the kids. It’s hard to hold onto the joy everyone tells us our kids should bring. You worry that things will never get better, and that you and your partner will just grow further and further apart. Even worse, you’re starting to resent your partner, your kid, and everyone else that makes it look so easy to have the perfect little family. It’s so lonely feeling like the only one who is struggling with life and family these days.
You’re exhausted and grumpy. You thought having a kid would make your family complete, but now all you and your partner talk about are diapers and schedules, and who is (or isn’t) taking care of the kids. It’s hard to hold onto the joy everyone tells us our kids should bring. You worry that things will never get better, and that you and your partner will just grow further and further apart. Even worse, you’re starting to resent your partner, your kid, and everyone else that makes it look so easy to have the perfect little family. It’s so lonely feeling like the only one who is struggling with life and family these days.
(902) 200-6266 View (902) 200-6266
Photo of Brittany Lynn Parsons, Registered Counselling Therapist Candidate in Bedford, NS
Brittany Lynn Parsons
Registered Counselling Therapist Candidate, MA, BA, CYC-P
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Bedford, NS B4A
Currently accepting new clients in person and remotely! Welcome! You, the client, are the expert of your life. Taking the first step of reaching out for support is a courageous act! You deserve to feel your best and be celebrated in your efforts along the way. You may be eager to begin your therapeutic journey or hesitant - both feelings are okay. I work with children, youth, families and adults. I specialize in trauma, adverse childhood experiences, grief/loss, relationships and life transitions, etc.
Currently accepting new clients in person and remotely! Welcome! You, the client, are the expert of your life. Taking the first step of reaching out for support is a courageous act! You deserve to feel your best and be celebrated in your efforts along the way. You may be eager to begin your therapeutic journey or hesitant - both feelings are okay. I work with children, youth, families and adults. I specialize in trauma, adverse childhood experiences, grief/loss, relationships and life transitions, etc.
(902) 403-1599 View (902) 403-1599
Photo of Marlene Johns, Counsellor in Bedford, NS
Marlene Johns
Counsellor, MEd , RCT, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bedford, NS B4A
Marlene Johns is a Registered Counselling Therapist who works with adults, young clients (children/adolescents), and families experiencing difficulty with issues related to anxiety, depression, traumatic stress, self-esteem, low self-confidence, anger, aggression, social anxiety, fears, grief and loss, separation/divorce, adoption/stepfamily issues, major life transitions, and family conflicts which may be preventing them from living a happier and healthier life.
Marlene Johns is a Registered Counselling Therapist who works with adults, young clients (children/adolescents), and families experiencing difficulty with issues related to anxiety, depression, traumatic stress, self-esteem, low self-confidence, anger, aggression, social anxiety, fears, grief and loss, separation/divorce, adoption/stepfamily issues, major life transitions, and family conflicts which may be preventing them from living a happier and healthier life.
(902) 499-2107 View (902) 499-2107
Photo of Taylor Armstrong, Registered Counselling Therapist Candidate in Bedford, NS
Taylor Armstrong
Registered Counselling Therapist Candidate, MA, RCT-C, CCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bedford, NS B4B
I work with individuals and couples 16 years of age and older. I specialize in supporting individuals who are struggling with relational issues, substance use, addiction, self-harm, suicidal ideation, anxiety and depression.
I work with individuals and couples 16 years of age and older. I specialize in supporting individuals who are struggling with relational issues, substance use, addiction, self-harm, suicidal ideation, anxiety and depression.
(782) 201-0209 View (782) 201-0209
Photo of Kendra Blackburn, Counsellor in Bedford, NS
Kendra Blackburn
Counsellor, MA, RCT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bedford, NS B4B  (Online Only)
NOTE: accepting new clients for individual therapy & Women's ADHD Group - Life can feel impossible without support and the tools to be successful. You may feel stuck or hopeless, but I am here to help you resolve the past, find joy in the present, and hopeful about your future. I welcome clients of all genders, orientations, cultures, and unique walks of life. My approach with clients is to be open-minded, inclusive, and collaborative in order to help you heal and thrive. I work with individuals age 18+ experiencing symptoms of trauma, anxiety, depression, ADHD, issues with self-worth, and more.
NOTE: accepting new clients for individual therapy & Women's ADHD Group - Life can feel impossible without support and the tools to be successful. You may feel stuck or hopeless, but I am here to help you resolve the past, find joy in the present, and hopeful about your future. I welcome clients of all genders, orientations, cultures, and unique walks of life. My approach with clients is to be open-minded, inclusive, and collaborative in order to help you heal and thrive. I work with individuals age 18+ experiencing symptoms of trauma, anxiety, depression, ADHD, issues with self-worth, and more.
(782) 821-3536 View (782) 821-3536
Photo of Craig McDonald Counselling, Counsellor in Bedford, NS
Craig McDonald Counselling
Counsellor, MBA, MEd, RCT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bedford, NS B4A
My ideal client is someone who has taken that courageous first step and admitted they need help. They may be struggling with addiction, stress, anxiety, depression or even just the pressures of everyday life, seeking better work-life balance. They are seeking a compassionate, empathetic listener, someone who can work with them to improve their life and help them learn new skills to lead a more enriched and fulfilling life.
My ideal client is someone who has taken that courageous first step and admitted they need help. They may be struggling with addiction, stress, anxiety, depression or even just the pressures of everyday life, seeking better work-life balance. They are seeking a compassionate, empathetic listener, someone who can work with them to improve their life and help them learn new skills to lead a more enriched and fulfilling life.
(782) 222-0475 View (782) 222-0475
Photo of Mike Whitehouse, Counsellor in Bedford, NS
Mike Whitehouse
Counsellor, RCT, BSc, BJourn, MEd
Verified Verified
Bedford, NS B4A
I am a Registered Counselling Therapist (RCT). My counselling approach is built on something called unconditional positive regard. I am a non-judgemental listener who likes to use kindness, support and sometimes even humour to build relationships with my clients. We can use a wide range of counselling practices depending on your personal or professional needs. Any person or group wrestling with an aspect of your personal or professional life is welcome to work with me. I have many years of experience in education and professional practice and have helped individuals, families, and businesses solve challenges they are facing.
I am a Registered Counselling Therapist (RCT). My counselling approach is built on something called unconditional positive regard. I am a non-judgemental listener who likes to use kindness, support and sometimes even humour to build relationships with my clients. We can use a wide range of counselling practices depending on your personal or professional needs. Any person or group wrestling with an aspect of your personal or professional life is welcome to work with me. I have many years of experience in education and professional practice and have helped individuals, families, and businesses solve challenges they are facing.
(782) 201-0182 View (782) 201-0182
Photo of Marcy Daniels, Registered Social Worker in Bedford, NS
Marcy Daniels
Registered Social Worker, BA, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bedford, NS B4A
On the outside, you look like you have it all together, but truth is, on the inside you're a mess. You used to pride yourself on being able to balance a successful career, kids and a healthy relationship. But now, you feel burnt out and anxious; your worries are always rolling around in your mind. Lately, you've been more irritable and frustrated toward your kids and spouse, which makes you feel terrible. Worse yet, you've completely forgotten about yourself. It feels like you are drowning under the weight of your problems and you are desperate to get free. You never imagined yourself seeing a therapist, but you know you need help.
On the outside, you look like you have it all together, but truth is, on the inside you're a mess. You used to pride yourself on being able to balance a successful career, kids and a healthy relationship. But now, you feel burnt out and anxious; your worries are always rolling around in your mind. Lately, you've been more irritable and frustrated toward your kids and spouse, which makes you feel terrible. Worse yet, you've completely forgotten about yourself. It feels like you are drowning under the weight of your problems and you are desperate to get free. You never imagined yourself seeing a therapist, but you know you need help.
(902) 600-2653 View (902) 600-2653
Photo of Nanci Wojcik Counselling and Clinical Supervisor, Counsellor in Bedford, NS
Nanci Wojcik Counselling and Clinical Supervisor
Counsellor, MEd, CCC, RCT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bedford, NS B4A
Currently accepting clients. I will complete an initial assessment to help determine the depth of your depression, anxiety, unhealthy coping strategies and other areas that may be causing you to feel stuck. We repeat what’s familiar. Even though we know what is dysfunctional, and not working well for us, we repeat behaviours because they are familiar. We can break old patterns and rewire our brain, forming new neural connections so that new thoughts and behaviours become the norm. Go to www.aldergrovecounselling.com for more information.
Currently accepting clients. I will complete an initial assessment to help determine the depth of your depression, anxiety, unhealthy coping strategies and other areas that may be causing you to feel stuck. We repeat what’s familiar. Even though we know what is dysfunctional, and not working well for us, we repeat behaviours because they are familiar. We can break old patterns and rewire our brain, forming new neural connections so that new thoughts and behaviours become the norm. Go to www.aldergrovecounselling.com for more information.
(782) 201-1310 View (782) 201-1310
Photo of Wild Art Therapy Collective in Bedford, NS
Wild Art Therapy Collective
MA, RCT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bedford, NS B4A
As a trained Transpersonal Counseling Therapist with more than 10 years of professional experience, I work both in and outside the box of traditional talk therapy. I coach parents and first time fathers, provide concrete tools for technology addictions and emotional challenges, offer deep counseling therapy for trauma survivors and psycho-spiritual support for people exploring beyond the material world for answers. If we can meet in person, we have access to several different locations in Nova Scotia for Wilderness Therapy with horses, ocean, forests, rivers and plants. If we can only meet online, we'll open to the Wild near you.
As a trained Transpersonal Counseling Therapist with more than 10 years of professional experience, I work both in and outside the box of traditional talk therapy. I coach parents and first time fathers, provide concrete tools for technology addictions and emotional challenges, offer deep counseling therapy for trauma survivors and psycho-spiritual support for people exploring beyond the material world for answers. If we can meet in person, we have access to several different locations in Nova Scotia for Wilderness Therapy with horses, ocean, forests, rivers and plants. If we can only meet online, we'll open to the Wild near you.
(782) 492-0063 View (782) 492-0063
Photo of Elizabeth Anne Clarke, Counsellor in Bedford, NS
Elizabeth Anne Clarke
Counsellor, MACP, CCC, RCT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bedford, NS B4A
From time to time, we all face challenges that can be overwhelming. Sometimes these challenges are situational, but they can also be the result of our lived experience(s) over time. Often they manifest as anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, and self harm. These manifestations can lead to further challenges such as job loss, family conflict, isolation, and addiction. Although we may flounder or experience failure, we can develop the strategies needed to live a flourishing life. Integrative therapeutic approaches including Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Positive Psychotherapy, and Solution Focused Therapy teach us how to live well.
From time to time, we all face challenges that can be overwhelming. Sometimes these challenges are situational, but they can also be the result of our lived experience(s) over time. Often they manifest as anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, and self harm. These manifestations can lead to further challenges such as job loss, family conflict, isolation, and addiction. Although we may flounder or experience failure, we can develop the strategies needed to live a flourishing life. Integrative therapeutic approaches including Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Positive Psychotherapy, and Solution Focused Therapy teach us how to live well.
(902) 906-5230 View (902) 906-5230
Photo of Michelle Labine, Counsellor in Bedford, NS
Michelle Labine
Counsellor, MA , RCT, RP, CCC
Verified Verified
22 Endorsed
Bedford, NS B4B
Our healing journey begins when we are able to acknowledge what truly hurts. This is the thing you know deep down- It might be the loss of a relationship, loved one, job or way of life, disappointment or betrayal, a feeling of emptiness and a lack of fulfillment. ‘Unfinished business’ can follow us for years, experiences from early life can still affect us into our adult lives. This can be especially true in relationship patterns, since we often live our current relationships based on experiences we don’t want to repeat from the past. I work with adult individuals and couples to help resolve unfinished business.
Our healing journey begins when we are able to acknowledge what truly hurts. This is the thing you know deep down- It might be the loss of a relationship, loved one, job or way of life, disappointment or betrayal, a feeling of emptiness and a lack of fulfillment. ‘Unfinished business’ can follow us for years, experiences from early life can still affect us into our adult lives. This can be especially true in relationship patterns, since we often live our current relationships based on experiences we don’t want to repeat from the past. I work with adult individuals and couples to help resolve unfinished business.
(782) 312-0152 View (782) 312-0152
Photo of Jennifer M. Banks, Counsellor in Bedford, NS
Jennifer M. Banks
Counsellor, RCT, CCC, RP, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bedford, NS B4B
Are you and your partner always at eachother? Are you feeling tired of fighting day in and day out? Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and I can help! I am here to help you figure out the cycle of conflict that is eating away at your relationship. I also offer EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing) which assists in processing any trauma that may be standing in the way as well. Let's work together so you can have the relationship you have always wanted. I offer direct billing, and offer evening and weekend appointments. I can't wait to work together!
Are you and your partner always at eachother? Are you feeling tired of fighting day in and day out? Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and I can help! I am here to help you figure out the cycle of conflict that is eating away at your relationship. I also offer EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing) which assists in processing any trauma that may be standing in the way as well. Let's work together so you can have the relationship you have always wanted. I offer direct billing, and offer evening and weekend appointments. I can't wait to work together!
(902) 200-6331 View (902) 200-6331

See more therapy options for Bedford

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.