Marriage Counselling in Oxford

Photo of Kina Malmberg-Lovatt, PsychD, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Kina Malmberg-Lovatt
Psychotherapist, PsychD, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Oxford OX2
I feel passionate about helping my clients, be it dealing with anxiety, depression, marriage and other relationship difficulties, addressing trauma including Complex-PTSD and childhood trauma, achieving personal growth or wanting to get on better in life or at work.
I integrate theories and methods from key psychotherapy orientations, including Transpersonal, Psychodynamic and Jungian as well as Transactional Analysis (TA) and Mindfulness. This offers me a broad therapeutic toolbox with which to help my clients.
I feel passionate about helping my clients, be it dealing with anxiety, depression, marriage and other relationship difficulties, addressing trauma including Complex-PTSD and childhood trauma, achieving personal growth or wanting to get on better in life or at work.
I integrate theories and methods from key psychotherapy orientations, including Transpersonal, Psychodynamic and Jungian as well as Transactional Analysis (TA) and Mindfulness. This offers me a broad therapeutic toolbox with which to help my clients.
01865 953324 View 01865 953324
Photo of Judith Zur, PhD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Judith Zur
Psychologist, PhD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Oxford OX2
Dr Judith Zur is a highly specialist clinical psychologist and Marital/Family therapist and Social Anthropologist with over thirty years’ experience of providing psychological and counselling interventions, consultation and supervision in the NHS and non-statutory settings in the UK and abroad.
I have worked in this field for many years and have an extensive range of tools, my approach is integrative, including, systemic therapy, CBT, DBT, compassion therapy, mindfulness and attachment based therapy. I work with a wide range of issues e.g. anxiety, depression ad childhood trauma, marital conflict and parenting issues. I also work cross culturally.
Dr Judith Zur is a highly specialist clinical psychologist and Marital/Family therapist and Social Anthropologist with over thirty years’ experience of providing psychological and counselling interventions, consultation and supervision in the NHS and non-statutory settings in the UK and abroad.
I have worked in this field for many years and have an extensive range of tools, my approach is integrative, including, systemic therapy, CBT, DBT, compassion therapy, mindfulness and attachment based therapy. I work with a wide range of issues e.g. anxiety, depression ad childhood trauma, marital conflict and parenting issues. I also work cross culturally.
01865 951408 View 01865 951408
Photo of Adela R Moldovan, PsychD, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Adela R Moldovan
Psychotherapist, PsychD, MBACP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
My clinical experience encompasses many years working in a mental health setting and private practice dealing with a broad range of symptoms including, but not limited to, chronic trauma, loss or abuse, stress, anxiety, depression, marital difficulties, child-parent conflicts, self-harm, bi-polar disorder, addiction and border-line states – to name just some of the presenting issues.
Psychotherapy isn’t always about words because at times it can be difficult to talk. My practice incorporates the use of creative methods to aid the expression of feelings and imagery.
My clinical experience encompasses many years working in a mental health setting and private practice dealing with a broad range of symptoms including, but not limited to, chronic trauma, loss or abuse, stress, anxiety, depression, marital difficulties, child-parent conflicts, self-harm, bi-polar disorder, addiction and border-line states – to name just some of the presenting issues.
Psychotherapy isn’t always about words because at times it can be difficult to talk. My practice incorporates the use of creative methods to aid the expression of feelings and imagery.
01782 493877 View 01782 493877
Photo of Helma Marlow - Helma Marlow, MBACP, Counsellor
Helma Marlow
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you feeling anxious, depressed or stressed? Perhaps you are struggling with bereavement, past trauma or low self esteem? Do you have communication problems in your marriage or other relationships? Do you have negative thoughts? Maybe you feel you need help in making adjustments? These are things I can help you with.
I am an Integrative Therapeutic Counsellor (MBACP) working with Adults/Young People (16 +) and with couples (BCS). I use Person Centred and Psychodynamic Theory modalities in my work. I've had some training in Bereavement (Cruse) also CBT and Transactional Analysis. I work collaboratively with my clients, to find their individual attributes and strengths.
Are you feeling anxious, depressed or stressed? Perhaps you are struggling with bereavement, past trauma or low self esteem? Do you have communication problems in your marriage or other relationships? Do you have negative thoughts? Maybe you feel you need help in making adjustments? These are things I can help you with.
I am an Integrative Therapeutic Counsellor (MBACP) working with Adults/Young People (16 +) and with couples (BCS). I use Person Centred and Psychodynamic Theory modalities in my work. I've had some training in Bereavement (Cruse) also CBT and Transactional Analysis. I work collaboratively with my clients, to find their individual attributes and strengths.
020 3984 7834 View 020 3984 7834
Photo of Anita Joy Jacob, MSc, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Anita Joy Jacob
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Are you finding your marriage or relationship to be really hard right now? Is it full of tension, disappointment or heartache? Perhaps you are arguing more and you just don't look forward to spending time with your partner anymore.
I’ve worked with many couples who have either been together for a really long time, or who are just starting out. Both have their unique yet similar challenges as they bridge two different personalities, styles of communicating and overcome old stuff from their upbringing and past relationships. I've also seen real change as couples address these issues.
Are you finding your marriage or relationship to be really hard right now? Is it full of tension, disappointment or heartache? Perhaps you are arguing more and you just don't look forward to spending time with your partner anymore.
I’ve worked with many couples who have either been together for a really long time, or who are just starting out. Both have their unique yet similar challenges as they bridge two different personalities, styles of communicating and overcome old stuff from their upbringing and past relationships. I've also seen real change as couples address these issues.
01454 807301 View 01454 807301
Photo of Lina Helena Milner, MA, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Lina Helena Milner
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Relational problems that we can work on are: conflict and re-current arguments, loss of trust, affairs, dealing with the end of the relationship, adapting to change (immigration, buying property, having children); sexual difficulties: loss of desire, sexual pain, problems with erection/ejaculation, difficulty in reaching orgasm, unconsummated marriage.
My specialism is relationship and sex therapy for couples and individuals. Every relationship has a challenge, but if you feel that the problem has persisted for too long and caused a lot of distress for you, do contact me and we can have a conversation about the type of counselling that will suit your needs. I also work with individuals who are trying to get over break up or have difficulties in forming or ending relationships. I offer an empathetic, safe and professional environment within which we can work together to facilitate the potential for change in the relationship and work towards sexual health, happiness and well-being
Relational problems that we can work on are: conflict and re-current arguments, loss of trust, affairs, dealing with the end of the relationship, adapting to change (immigration, buying property, having children); sexual difficulties: loss of desire, sexual pain, problems with erection/ejaculation, difficulty in reaching orgasm, unconsummated marriage.
My specialism is relationship and sex therapy for couples and individuals. Every relationship has a challenge, but if you feel that the problem has persisted for too long and caused a lot of distress for you, do contact me and we can have a conversation about the type of counselling that will suit your needs. I also work with individuals who are trying to get over break up or have difficulties in forming or ending relationships. I offer an empathetic, safe and professional environment within which we can work together to facilitate the potential for change in the relationship and work towards sexual health, happiness and well-being
07723 456237 View 07723 456237
Photo of Dr Yordan K. Zhekov, PhD, MBACP, Counsellor
Dr Yordan K. Zhekov
Counsellor, PhD, MBACP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I have four Master's degrees and a Doctorate in areas of Theology, Marriage, Divorce, Addiction, Psychology, Psychotherapy and Counselling.
Are you feeling depressed, anxious, stressed or struggling with everyday life? Perhaps you are experiencing feelings you can't quite identify? Are you looking for help with various life challenging issues/situations? Have you got to the point where you can't go on alone and need someone else to help you? Whatever you are facing, you no longer have to do this alone, I am here to provide you with relevant support and address your needs. As an integrative counsellor I am using a compilation of therapeutic methods tailored to the individual's needs and goals providing an environment for enablement and empowerment of their achievement.
I have four Master's degrees and a Doctorate in areas of Theology, Marriage, Divorce, Addiction, Psychology, Psychotherapy and Counselling.
Are you feeling depressed, anxious, stressed or struggling with everyday life? Perhaps you are experiencing feelings you can't quite identify? Are you looking for help with various life challenging issues/situations? Have you got to the point where you can't go on alone and need someone else to help you? Whatever you are facing, you no longer have to do this alone, I am here to provide you with relevant support and address your needs. As an integrative counsellor I am using a compilation of therapeutic methods tailored to the individual's needs and goals providing an environment for enablement and empowerment of their achievement.
01923 936765 View 01923 936765
Photo of Rebecca Dalton - Rebecca Dalton -Motivating Minds, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Rebecca Dalton -Motivating Minds
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Oxford OX2
My specialist interest is ADHD, Addiction and/or Dependency. ‘Let’s finally remove all stigma and shame and tap into our strengths’ Does any of this sound familiar …. Do you or a loved one have unhealthy habits that are becoming regular routines? Is emotional dysregulation or depression causing you to feel lost, helpless or worthless? Is drinking, eating, gambling, internet use or using drugs becoming more frequent as a way of coping? Is motivation, personal and work relationships being affected? Do you feel shame, remorse and loneliness? If you or someone you are supporting is experiencing any of these feelings then I can help.
My specialist interest is ADHD, Addiction and/or Dependency. ‘Let’s finally remove all stigma and shame and tap into our strengths’ Does any of this sound familiar …. Do you or a loved one have unhealthy habits that are becoming regular routines? Is emotional dysregulation or depression causing you to feel lost, helpless or worthless? Is drinking, eating, gambling, internet use or using drugs becoming more frequent as a way of coping? Is motivation, personal and work relationships being affected? Do you feel shame, remorse and loneliness? If you or someone you are supporting is experiencing any of these feelings then I can help.
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Photo of Lina Jordan, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Lina Jordan
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Oxford OX1
It might be that you have a clear sense of the issues you'd like to explore or just a sense that something is not quite right - both are excellent starting points.Currently most of my work is with clients interested in changing their lives to align with their sense of who they are, not who they should be. For some, getting a stronger sense of self is the first step in the therapy. Partly my work is also with people who have experienced one or more traumatic events, including with a PTSD diagnosis - our focus then is on processing the trauma therapeutically to reduce the unwanted symptoms that interfere with daily life.
It might be that you have a clear sense of the issues you'd like to explore or just a sense that something is not quite right - both are excellent starting points.Currently most of my work is with clients interested in changing their lives to align with their sense of who they are, not who they should be. For some, getting a stronger sense of self is the first step in the therapy. Partly my work is also with people who have experienced one or more traumatic events, including with a PTSD diagnosis - our focus then is on processing the trauma therapeutically to reduce the unwanted symptoms that interfere with daily life.
01865 951410 View 01865 951410
Photo of Elena Gava, MBACP, Counsellor
Elena Gava
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Welcome, I'm Elena. Lots of profiles aren't there? I specialise in Anxiety, Childhood, Adult Trauma, Attachment, Relationship issues, Depression, Perfectionism, lack of confidence, ADHD, OCD, people pleasing. I am UK qualified an Integrative counsellor who lived in England 24 years with great awareness of culture and diversity, I believe in working with the whole person both past, present and future to help identify your emotional needs. I work from a humanistic core, which means that I keep you at the centre of our work and folowing your pace building therapy flexible way around you, gentle way that you feel safe and comfortable.
Welcome, I'm Elena. Lots of profiles aren't there? I specialise in Anxiety, Childhood, Adult Trauma, Attachment, Relationship issues, Depression, Perfectionism, lack of confidence, ADHD, OCD, people pleasing. I am UK qualified an Integrative counsellor who lived in England 24 years with great awareness of culture and diversity, I believe in working with the whole person both past, present and future to help identify your emotional needs. I work from a humanistic core, which means that I keep you at the centre of our work and folowing your pace building therapy flexible way around you, gentle way that you feel safe and comfortable.
023 8254 1966 View 023 8254 1966
Photo of Becca West, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Becca West
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am a Clinical Psychologist based in Gloucestershire with ten years of experience working within Mental Health Teams in the NHS. My expertise is in assessing and treating adults experiencing a wide range of psychological, emotional, relational and physical health difficulties. ​ I currently work both privately and within the NHS, in the latter specialising with adults with complex and long standing mental health difficulties.
I am a Clinical Psychologist based in Gloucestershire with ten years of experience working within Mental Health Teams in the NHS. My expertise is in assessing and treating adults experiencing a wide range of psychological, emotional, relational and physical health difficulties. ​ I currently work both privately and within the NHS, in the latter specialising with adults with complex and long standing mental health difficulties.
01608 695686 View 01608 695686
Photo of Karen Burke - Karen Burke, Trauma Recovery, CBT, Counselling, MBACP, Counsellor
Karen Burke, Trauma Recovery, CBT, Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Trauma-focused therapy helps to address the underlying traumatic memories and triggers that contribute to anxiety. CBT, on the other hand, equips individuals with practical techniques to identify and challenge negative thought patterns. However, a combination of trauma-focused therapy and cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) can offer effective strategies for managing anxiety and reclaiming a sense of calm. I provide a safe and supportive environment for processing and healing trauma, and all anxiety-based issues. I offer therapy sessions over the phone and video link.
Trauma-focused therapy helps to address the underlying traumatic memories and triggers that contribute to anxiety. CBT, on the other hand, equips individuals with practical techniques to identify and challenge negative thought patterns. However, a combination of trauma-focused therapy and cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) can offer effective strategies for managing anxiety and reclaiming a sense of calm. I provide a safe and supportive environment for processing and healing trauma, and all anxiety-based issues. I offer therapy sessions over the phone and video link.
01744 419687 View 01744 419687
Photo of Maria Rachel Curry, MA, MBACP, Counsellor
Maria Rachel Curry
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am a Relate trained SPECIALIST RELATIONSHIP THERAPIST with 15 years experience working with COUPLES, FAMILIES and INDIVIDUALS who are seeking help on working with all aspects of relationship difficulties. Are you in a cycle of arguments that you cannot escape? Or faced with issues that are making you feel anxious or depressed? If so communication is often at the heart of the problem and talking with an experienced therapist in a calm and non-judgemental environment can allow for a different way to communicate leading to a more effective way to understand and be understood.
I am a Relate trained SPECIALIST RELATIONSHIP THERAPIST with 15 years experience working with COUPLES, FAMILIES and INDIVIDUALS who are seeking help on working with all aspects of relationship difficulties. Are you in a cycle of arguments that you cannot escape? Or faced with issues that are making you feel anxious or depressed? If so communication is often at the heart of the problem and talking with an experienced therapist in a calm and non-judgemental environment can allow for a different way to communicate leading to a more effective way to understand and be understood.
01844 393942 View 01844 393942
Photo of Shyla Celeghin, MSc, UKCP Trainee, Psychotherapist
Shyla Celeghin
Psychotherapist, MSc, UKCP Trainee
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Welcome my name is Shyla Celeghin I am a trainee Multicultural Integrative Psychotherapist and therapeutic counsellor from the Metanoia Institute a provider of high-quality training in psychological therapies. My approach is deep rooted within the integrative framework. The main modalities I integrate in my practices are Psychodynamic, Transpersonal, Gestalt, Existential, Humanistic, Transactional Analysis, and Person Centred approaches . I hold a BSc (Hons) Degree in applied Science in Psychology and completing my MSc in Integrative Psychotherapy . I am a member of the United Kingdom Council for Psychotherapy (UKCP) .
Welcome my name is Shyla Celeghin I am a trainee Multicultural Integrative Psychotherapist and therapeutic counsellor from the Metanoia Institute a provider of high-quality training in psychological therapies. My approach is deep rooted within the integrative framework. The main modalities I integrate in my practices are Psychodynamic, Transpersonal, Gestalt, Existential, Humanistic, Transactional Analysis, and Person Centred approaches . I hold a BSc (Hons) Degree in applied Science in Psychology and completing my MSc in Integrative Psychotherapy . I am a member of the United Kingdom Council for Psychotherapy (UKCP) .
07858 131168 View 07858 131168
Photo of Richard Barker, MBACP, Counsellor
Richard Barker
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Oxford OX4
I offer counselling and therapeutic coaching. Clients will come to me with a range of problems and often feel some confusion and simply need to talk. In our work we will clarify the problem and see what is most challenging for you at the present time. We will discover where this confusion arises in the body and mind and begin to understand where it began: Perhaps this has been triggered in the past: by an environment, people, a person, upbringing etc. The work we do is non-judgemental and kind. My purpose is to help you find your way out of the confusion and suffering, so you can find purpose, meaning and peace in your life.
I offer counselling and therapeutic coaching. Clients will come to me with a range of problems and often feel some confusion and simply need to talk. In our work we will clarify the problem and see what is most challenging for you at the present time. We will discover where this confusion arises in the body and mind and begin to understand where it began: Perhaps this has been triggered in the past: by an environment, people, a person, upbringing etc. The work we do is non-judgemental and kind. My purpose is to help you find your way out of the confusion and suffering, so you can find purpose, meaning and peace in your life.
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Photo of Lynne Trenery, Counsellor
Lynne Trenery
Counsellor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oxford OX2
Individuals or couples who want to explore relationship issues and work out what they want, whether in the relationship or out of it. Highly experienced in working with infidelity. I help clients identify patterns of destructive communication and rebuild connection. I work with individuals who need support with decision making about their relationship. who may be experiencing anxiety or low self -esteem as a result. Having worked extensively in the corporate sector for many years I also offer single session therapy for clients who feel they are at a career crossroads and would benefit from objective and constructive listening.
Individuals or couples who want to explore relationship issues and work out what they want, whether in the relationship or out of it. Highly experienced in working with infidelity. I help clients identify patterns of destructive communication and rebuild connection. I work with individuals who need support with decision making about their relationship. who may be experiencing anxiety or low self -esteem as a result. Having worked extensively in the corporate sector for many years I also offer single session therapy for clients who feel they are at a career crossroads and would benefit from objective and constructive listening.
01865 509554 View 01865 509554
Photo of Mark Ellis, MA, BACP, Counsellor
Mark Ellis
Counsellor, MA, BACP
Verified Verified
Oxford OX4
While my work encompasses a wide array of issues, such as trauma, anxiety and depression, I have a particular interest in relationships, sex, sexuality and gender. I work with individuals, couples and polycules, in my office in East Oxford and online. My practice is LGBTQ+ affirming. I welcome people of all gender identities, relationship structures, sexual practices and orientations. I strive to be anti-racist and see this as life-long work. Whatever you may be experiencing, I am here to guide you through my therapeutic process, drawing on evidence-based techniques, together with deep empathy and careful attention to detail.
While my work encompasses a wide array of issues, such as trauma, anxiety and depression, I have a particular interest in relationships, sex, sexuality and gender. I work with individuals, couples and polycules, in my office in East Oxford and online. My practice is LGBTQ+ affirming. I welcome people of all gender identities, relationship structures, sexual practices and orientations. I strive to be anti-racist and see this as life-long work. Whatever you may be experiencing, I am here to guide you through my therapeutic process, drawing on evidence-based techniques, together with deep empathy and careful attention to detail.
01865 587111 View 01865 587111
Photo of Leah Spasova - Specialising In Sex Relationships, GMBPsS, Psychologist
Leah Spasova - Specialising In Sex Relationships
Psychologist, GMBPsS
Verified Verified
Online Only
Tired of finding yourself frustrated, lonely, unfulfilled and lost in your intimate life and relationships? Yes, spending life stuck and unhappy, feeling like a lab rat – trying to figure out a maze without a map can be soul-destroying. I've been talking, teaching and helping people with their relationships and sexuality since 2007, and no story can faze me. You can feel safe - I'll get you. I will understand and not judge one bit. This is your journey. Are you struggling with intimacy and sexuality? Are you curious about kinky sex or swinging? Or maybe you want to open your relationship? Or to begin with - actually find a partner?
Tired of finding yourself frustrated, lonely, unfulfilled and lost in your intimate life and relationships? Yes, spending life stuck and unhappy, feeling like a lab rat – trying to figure out a maze without a map can be soul-destroying. I've been talking, teaching and helping people with their relationships and sexuality since 2007, and no story can faze me. You can feel safe - I'll get you. I will understand and not judge one bit. This is your journey. Are you struggling with intimacy and sexuality? Are you curious about kinky sex or swinging? Or maybe you want to open your relationship? Or to begin with - actually find a partner?
01865 638066 View 01865 638066
Photo of Guy Turton, DCounsPsych, MBACP, Counsellor
Guy Turton
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
Oxford OX3
Reviewers and seekers like yourself might be uncertain about what therapy is. You might imagine it's like going to see the doctor to get a plan to be fixed or you may imagine Therapy to be more like a craft/art/magic. Or something else. I don't have fixed ideas about what you bring, how you bring it and what sort of person you might be. I'm not sure what you want, but i'm interested to start exploring it together with you. You may not know what you want and thats ok too. It is ok to reach out from a position of not knowing and uncertainty. Sitting a room together will give you a lot of information.
Reviewers and seekers like yourself might be uncertain about what therapy is. You might imagine it's like going to see the doctor to get a plan to be fixed or you may imagine Therapy to be more like a craft/art/magic. Or something else. I don't have fixed ideas about what you bring, how you bring it and what sort of person you might be. I'm not sure what you want, but i'm interested to start exploring it together with you. You may not know what you want and thats ok too. It is ok to reach out from a position of not knowing and uncertainty. Sitting a room together will give you a lot of information.
01865 638770 View 01865 638770
Photo of Andrew Wood, MSc, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist
Andrew Wood
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am an integrative therapist, offering coaching, counselling and psychotherapy to adult clients via video or telephone. I work with individual clients and couples, and welcome clients from all backgrounds, regardless of race, ethnicity, culture, religion, gender or disability. I aim to provide a professional and comfortable environment where you will feel welcome, where you can talk about your thoughts and feelings in confidence, achieve deeper insight into yourself, your problems and your life, and where you can identify and work towards making positive changes that will enhance your overall sense of wellbeing.
I am an integrative therapist, offering coaching, counselling and psychotherapy to adult clients via video or telephone. I work with individual clients and couples, and welcome clients from all backgrounds, regardless of race, ethnicity, culture, religion, gender or disability. I aim to provide a professional and comfortable environment where you will feel welcome, where you can talk about your thoughts and feelings in confidence, achieve deeper insight into yourself, your problems and your life, and where you can identify and work towards making positive changes that will enhance your overall sense of wellbeing.
01865 537057 View 01865 537057
1

See more therapy options for Oxford

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.