Photo of Sirvart Mesrobian, Psychologist in Los Angeles, CA
Sirvart Mesrobian
Psychologist, LCP
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90042
I am a licensed clinical psychologist providing Individual, Family and Couples psychotherapy in a private practice setting in both West Los Angeles. I work primarily with young adults & adults struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, behavioral/emotional disturbance, relationship/family dilemmas. I provide a flexible approach to understanding and responding to the unique needs of each individual. The clients I typically work with include adolescents and young adults, as well as couples and families. I am most comfortable working with stress, anxiety, and family conflict (marriage, parenting, additional familial issues).
I am a licensed clinical psychologist providing Individual, Family and Couples psychotherapy in a private practice setting in both West Los Angeles. I work primarily with young adults & adults struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, behavioral/emotional disturbance, relationship/family dilemmas. I provide a flexible approach to understanding and responding to the unique needs of each individual. The clients I typically work with include adolescents and young adults, as well as couples and families. I am most comfortable working with stress, anxiety, and family conflict (marriage, parenting, additional familial issues).
(323) 677-2688 View (323) 677-2688
Photo of Kelly Aguirre, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Kelly Aguirre
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90041
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist #93109.
Are you finding the transition into motherhood challenging or overwhelming? Whether it be infertility, miscarriage, peri-natal/postpartum depression and anxiety, or simply the challenges of maintaining a sense of self as you care for your family, the most important thing you can do is seek support through this transitional time of your life. I consider it a privilege to walk alongside my clients through each stage of transition. Whether it be a new job, a child, a relationship, or the loss associated with life transitions, I provide a safe space to explore one's feelings and get unstuck.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist #93109.
Are you finding the transition into motherhood challenging or overwhelming? Whether it be infertility, miscarriage, peri-natal/postpartum depression and anxiety, or simply the challenges of maintaining a sense of self as you care for your family, the most important thing you can do is seek support through this transitional time of your life. I consider it a privilege to walk alongside my clients through each stage of transition. Whether it be a new job, a child, a relationship, or the loss associated with life transitions, I provide a safe space to explore one's feelings and get unstuck.
(626) 275-2872 View (626) 275-2872
Photo of Victoria Andrews, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Victoria Andrews
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90047
Hi, I am Vicki Andrews, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist. I look forward to working with you in those areas of discomfort. We can work at your pace using an eclectic approach that works best for you. Therapy takes courage & I am here to support you on your path to becoming the person you want to be. I enjoy working with all persons, but hold a special place for women’s issues, adolescent concern, depression, anxiety, & trauma. As an adult who grew up in a home with an alcoholic father, I also understand those issues & concerns.
Hi, I am Vicki Andrews, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist. I look forward to working with you in those areas of discomfort. We can work at your pace using an eclectic approach that works best for you. Therapy takes courage & I am here to support you on your path to becoming the person you want to be. I enjoy working with all persons, but hold a special place for women’s issues, adolescent concern, depression, anxiety, & trauma. As an adult who grew up in a home with an alcoholic father, I also understand those issues & concerns.
(213) 642-2233 View (213) 642-2233
Photo of Jacinta Brown-Wade, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Jacinta Brown-Wade
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90018
Jacinta Brown-Wade I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in California.
I believe it takes a strong person to seek out counseling and support to initiate the change you are looking for. I would love to help you get there. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I am committed to working with you to create change by developing goals, identifying and increasing strengths, processing experiences, empowering, nurturing, and providing psychoeducation to enable change.
Jacinta Brown-Wade I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in California.
I believe it takes a strong person to seek out counseling and support to initiate the change you are looking for. I would love to help you get there. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I am committed to working with you to create change by developing goals, identifying and increasing strengths, processing experiences, empowering, nurturing, and providing psychoeducation to enable change.
(323) 593-2834 View (323) 593-2834
Photo of Jamie Kirk, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Jamie Kirk
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90037
Greetings and salutations! I want to start by congratulating you on taking the first step of putting YOU first. I know making this choice may have been difficult, but I am glad you are here. My name is Jamie Kirk! I am a Los Angeles native, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Certified Life Coach, Author, and Ordained Minister. I have been an asset to the mental health community for over 10 years, helping clients overcome depression and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.
Greetings and salutations! I want to start by congratulating you on taking the first step of putting YOU first. I know making this choice may have been difficult, but I am glad you are here. My name is Jamie Kirk! I am a Los Angeles native, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Certified Life Coach, Author, and Ordained Minister. I have been an asset to the mental health community for over 10 years, helping clients overcome depression and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.
(213) 566-3406 View (213) 566-3406
Photo of Delmy Portillo, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Delmy Portillo
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90028
Hi, my name is Delmy Portillo, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who practices primarily Psychodynamic therapy. I enjoy supporting my clients to find meaning, purpose, healing, and growth in various areas of their lives. My areas of focus are relational dynamics, maladaptive coping skills, and identity. I primarily work from a Psychodynamic approach and use other modalities such as Client-Centered, Gestalt, and Cognitive Behavioral. I will meet you with empathy, validation, and unconditional positive regard.
Hi, my name is Delmy Portillo, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who practices primarily Psychodynamic therapy. I enjoy supporting my clients to find meaning, purpose, healing, and growth in various areas of their lives. My areas of focus are relational dynamics, maladaptive coping skills, and identity. I primarily work from a Psychodynamic approach and use other modalities such as Client-Centered, Gestalt, and Cognitive Behavioral. I will meet you with empathy, validation, and unconditional positive regard.
(323) 673-2551 View (323) 673-2551
Photo of Tina Kyung Kim, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Tina Kyung Kim
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90020
I also work with clients with relationship issues to overcome marital conflict, divorce, separation, co-parenting and adult children issues.
It is daunting to decide to see a therapist, especially if you are not familiar with clinical treatment. Sometimes you need help uncovering thoughts and feelings regarding concerning matters. Are you so anxious, depressed, and angry that you feel overwhelmed? Or do you want to be a more social, confident, and positive individual? Each client is unique. The ultimate goal of therapy is to allow a client to learn about themselves in order to be more proactive and live the fullest life possible.
I also work with clients with relationship issues to overcome marital conflict, divorce, separation, co-parenting and adult children issues.
It is daunting to decide to see a therapist, especially if you are not familiar with clinical treatment. Sometimes you need help uncovering thoughts and feelings regarding concerning matters. Are you so anxious, depressed, and angry that you feel overwhelmed? Or do you want to be a more social, confident, and positive individual? Each client is unique. The ultimate goal of therapy is to allow a client to learn about themselves in order to be more proactive and live the fullest life possible.
(213) 985-3678 View (213) 985-3678
Photo of Christie Chu, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Christie Chu
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90019
Hello, my name is Christie Chu. I'm a licensed marriage and family therapist in California and a licensed professional counselor in Texas. I'm a mother of 11-year-old twins, and have a great deal of life experience dealing with many of the issues my patients face. I work with clients with mood disorders, including anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder. I work with couples dealing with infertility, relational violence, Child Abuse, and LGBTQ issues. In addition, I I work with school issues and I am a credentialed school counselor.
Hello, my name is Christie Chu. I'm a licensed marriage and family therapist in California and a licensed professional counselor in Texas. I'm a mother of 11-year-old twins, and have a great deal of life experience dealing with many of the issues my patients face. I work with clients with mood disorders, including anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder. I work with couples dealing with infertility, relational violence, Child Abuse, and LGBTQ issues. In addition, I I work with school issues and I am a credentialed school counselor.
(323) 616-2574 View (323) 616-2574
Photo of Venecia Ebneof, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Venecia Ebneof
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90004
Venecia Ebneof LMFT I am fully licensed as a Marriage family and child therapist in California. I can help by providing tools to assist with coping with adjusting to changes and current stressors. I am an eclectic clinician meaning I use a variety of approaches from CBT, DBT, SFT. My passion is to provide tools for individuals to formulate and reach goals that are important to them. I believe in fostering a therapeutic alliance where one can become their authentic self and live a life of authenticity, vulnerability and abundance.
Venecia Ebneof LMFT I am fully licensed as a Marriage family and child therapist in California. I can help by providing tools to assist with coping with adjusting to changes and current stressors. I am an eclectic clinician meaning I use a variety of approaches from CBT, DBT, SFT. My passion is to provide tools for individuals to formulate and reach goals that are important to them. I believe in fostering a therapeutic alliance where one can become their authentic self and live a life of authenticity, vulnerability and abundance.
(213) 523-3612 View (213) 523-3612
Photo of Michelle Lee, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Michelle Lee
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90029
Hello, my name is Michelle Lee. I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in Fresno, CA, but I am currently providing telehealth services to clients all over the state. I work with adults and specialize in working with people going through life transitions, couples counseling, substance abuse/relapse prevention, and trauma-informed care. I work from a client-centered approach and help my clients learn how to thrive and find meaning in life. I work mainly from an attachment-based and trauma-informed lens, but I frequently use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in my practice.
Hello, my name is Michelle Lee. I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in Fresno, CA, but I am currently providing telehealth services to clients all over the state. I work with adults and specialize in working with people going through life transitions, couples counseling, substance abuse/relapse prevention, and trauma-informed care. I work from a client-centered approach and help my clients learn how to thrive and find meaning in life. I work mainly from an attachment-based and trauma-informed lens, but I frequently use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in my practice.
(818) 629-0215 View (818) 629-0215
Photo of Walk It Out Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Walk It Out Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90041
I love people and hearing their stories. Walk with me as I conduct therapy sessions outside (or in office if requested) as I believe putting our body in motion is connected to putting our mind in motion. I see individuals for one-on-one counseling sessions with the goal of guiding you to live your best life through listening, empathizing, and offering techniques to help you understand and reach your goals. I specialize in working with women ages 16-65 suffering from disordered eating, low self-esteem, anxiety, or navigating life transitions whether postpartum, divorce/marriage or career change. I look forward to speaking with you!
I love people and hearing their stories. Walk with me as I conduct therapy sessions outside (or in office if requested) as I believe putting our body in motion is connected to putting our mind in motion. I see individuals for one-on-one counseling sessions with the goal of guiding you to live your best life through listening, empathizing, and offering techniques to help you understand and reach your goals. I specialize in working with women ages 16-65 suffering from disordered eating, low self-esteem, anxiety, or navigating life transitions whether postpartum, divorce/marriage or career change. I look forward to speaking with you!
(818) 532-5638 View (818) 532-5638
Photo of Mi Ae Kim, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Mi Ae Kim
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90042
I’m Mi Ae, a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist and Certified Couples and Sex Therapist. I work with couples and individuals to work on relationship issues and sexual issues and help explore and untangle past traumas that are keeping you in an unhealthy cycle. I cultivate a curious and non-judgmental stance while developing an insight-oriented, relational, and attachment-based approach. I aim to honor, validate, and welcome the uniqueness of each person’s diverse experiences into a space with warmth, empathy, and authenticity.
I’m Mi Ae, a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist and Certified Couples and Sex Therapist. I work with couples and individuals to work on relationship issues and sexual issues and help explore and untangle past traumas that are keeping you in an unhealthy cycle. I cultivate a curious and non-judgmental stance while developing an insight-oriented, relational, and attachment-based approach. I aim to honor, validate, and welcome the uniqueness of each person’s diverse experiences into a space with warmth, empathy, and authenticity.
(323) 879-7762 View (323) 879-7762
Photo of Cassie Tumanuvao, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Cassie Tumanuvao
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90066
I'm Cassandra, a licensed marriage and family therapist. I've worked with people struggling with relationship issues, women's issues, infertility, marital/pre-marital issues, spirituality, and more. My ideal client is someone who is struggling with knowing what to do next. They are likely overwhelmed but are also tired of inaction and are trying to find a way out of the mess. My top modalities are CBT, motivational interviewing, and strengths-based therapy. I also like to practice faith-based counseling but that is something that a client would have to request.
I'm Cassandra, a licensed marriage and family therapist. I've worked with people struggling with relationship issues, women's issues, infertility, marital/pre-marital issues, spirituality, and more. My ideal client is someone who is struggling with knowing what to do next. They are likely overwhelmed but are also tired of inaction and are trying to find a way out of the mess. My top modalities are CBT, motivational interviewing, and strengths-based therapy. I also like to practice faith-based counseling but that is something that a client would have to request.
(310) 987-4266 View (310) 987-4266
Photo of Abigail Vickery, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Abigail Vickery
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90002
Hello! I am Abigail Vickery, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, and a Credentialed School Counselor. I am a John Maxwell Certified Coach as well. I am trained in Clifton Strengths and DISC. I specialize in working with children of all ages, women, parenting issues, and couples (both pre-marital and marital). I have over two decades of experience in the mental health field in various settings and with the following focus areas: depression, anxiety, children with behavioral issues, parenting issues, divorce, blended families, marital conflicts, and work-life balance.
Hello! I am Abigail Vickery, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, and a Credentialed School Counselor. I am a John Maxwell Certified Coach as well. I am trained in Clifton Strengths and DISC. I specialize in working with children of all ages, women, parenting issues, and couples (both pre-marital and marital). I have over two decades of experience in the mental health field in various settings and with the following focus areas: depression, anxiety, children with behavioral issues, parenting issues, divorce, blended families, marital conflicts, and work-life balance.
(213) 372-0863 View (213) 372-0863
Photo of Hyunmi An, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Hyunmi An
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025
As a multilingual (Korean/Japanese/English) marriage and family therapist, I strongly believe that we can work together to build your path to recovery.
Life at times can seem like a roller coaster with all of its twists and turns. The inevitable ups and downs with no clear direction can leave us feeling lost. Unforeseen events throw us around for a loop, reminding of us of the uncertainties and whimsical nature of life. Depression, anxiety, feelings of helpless or being left behind can shortly follow. Other times, the opposite is true. Staleness, stagnation, and the far too predictable aspects can lock us down. Is more structure the answer? Or is it more flexibility? It is my hope that we can find the answers to the many questions together, as companions on this journey together.
As a multilingual (Korean/Japanese/English) marriage and family therapist, I strongly believe that we can work together to build your path to recovery.
Life at times can seem like a roller coaster with all of its twists and turns. The inevitable ups and downs with no clear direction can leave us feeling lost. Unforeseen events throw us around for a loop, reminding of us of the uncertainties and whimsical nature of life. Depression, anxiety, feelings of helpless or being left behind can shortly follow. Other times, the opposite is true. Staleness, stagnation, and the far too predictable aspects can lock us down. Is more structure the answer? Or is it more flexibility? It is my hope that we can find the answers to the many questions together, as companions on this journey together.
(626) 770-5524 View (626) 770-5524
Photo of Melissa O'Keefe, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Melissa O'Keefe
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90034
Hi there, I'm Melissa! I am here to listen and to offer support. I focus on strengthening self-esteem through fostering self-compassion. Many people struggle with balancing the demands of life. You don't need to suffer alone. I practice with a person-centered approach and have extensive education in the field of Marriage and Family Therapy. I am trained in Attachment Theory and strive to create a secure and nurturing environment. I am kind and compassionate and offer guidance as I walk with you on your journey through life.
Hi there, I'm Melissa! I am here to listen and to offer support. I focus on strengthening self-esteem through fostering self-compassion. Many people struggle with balancing the demands of life. You don't need to suffer alone. I practice with a person-centered approach and have extensive education in the field of Marriage and Family Therapy. I am trained in Attachment Theory and strive to create a secure and nurturing environment. I am kind and compassionate and offer guidance as I walk with you on your journey through life.
(424) 484-1909 View (424) 484-1909
Photo of Kongit Farrell - Premarital Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Kongit Farrell - Premarital Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CST
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90230  (Online Only)
Learn more about your compatibility, readiness for marriage, and ability to face life as a team.
Found that special someone and thinking about taking it to the next level? Want to make sure you’re on the same page about what matters most so that you can build on the love you have and lay the foundation for a healthy, fun, and fruitful life together (without a lot of drama and a satisfying intimate life)? Premarital counseling can help with all of that and more! In my premarital counseling program, we will create a custom plan that addresses all aspects of a healthy marriage with specialized training for strengthening your unique relationship.
Learn more about your compatibility, readiness for marriage, and ability to face life as a team.
Found that special someone and thinking about taking it to the next level? Want to make sure you’re on the same page about what matters most so that you can build on the love you have and lay the foundation for a healthy, fun, and fruitful life together (without a lot of drama and a satisfying intimate life)? Premarital counseling can help with all of that and more! In my premarital counseling program, we will create a custom plan that addresses all aspects of a healthy marriage with specialized training for strengthening your unique relationship.
(424) 372-8685 View (424) 372-8685
Photo of Sense Of Self, Counselor in Los Angeles, CA
Sense Of Self
Counselor, MS, LPCC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90047
Counseling services are provided to help couples, families, and individuals who experience issues dealing with life transitions, divorce, marital issues, self-fulfillment, personal growth, anxiety, depression and other discomforts that can cause major issues in their day to day lives. I will help clients to understand themselves, set goals, think positively, and gain independence in their thoughts and abilities. I find that most of my clients are looking to find a decrease in stress, acceptance, love, and strength to move on to the next part in their life.
Counseling services are provided to help couples, families, and individuals who experience issues dealing with life transitions, divorce, marital issues, self-fulfillment, personal growth, anxiety, depression and other discomforts that can cause major issues in their day to day lives. I will help clients to understand themselves, set goals, think positively, and gain independence in their thoughts and abilities. I find that most of my clients are looking to find a decrease in stress, acceptance, love, and strength to move on to the next part in their life.
(213) 863-1322 View (213) 863-1322
Photo of Gaslighting; Narcissist Abuse; Toxic Bonding, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Gaslighting; Narcissist Abuse; Toxic Bonding
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, C-PD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90034  (Online Only)
Inner pain can be an opportunity for deep learning & growing bc it serves to expose the real issues that have gone unresolved within yourself and in your relationship/marriage for way too long.
GASLIGHTING; NARCISSIST ABUSE; CODEPENDENCY; TOXIC ATTACHMENT; HI-CONFLICT RELATIONSHIP: Gaslighting is a form of psychological/emotional abuse where the abuser manipulates situations repeatedly to trick the victim into doubting his/her own memory, perception & sanity. You're accused of doing something that you know you didn't do or say. Often belittled, demeaned, and raged upon. You walk on eggshells & constantly need to watch what you say for fear your partner might blow up. You often feel confused & now distrust yourself; have trouble making decisions & feel like you lost yourself or don't know the person you used to be.
Inner pain can be an opportunity for deep learning & growing bc it serves to expose the real issues that have gone unresolved within yourself and in your relationship/marriage for way too long.
GASLIGHTING; NARCISSIST ABUSE; CODEPENDENCY; TOXIC ATTACHMENT; HI-CONFLICT RELATIONSHIP: Gaslighting is a form of psychological/emotional abuse where the abuser manipulates situations repeatedly to trick the victim into doubting his/her own memory, perception & sanity. You're accused of doing something that you know you didn't do or say. Often belittled, demeaned, and raged upon. You walk on eggshells & constantly need to watch what you say for fear your partner might blow up. You often feel confused & now distrust yourself; have trouble making decisions & feel like you lost yourself or don't know the person you used to be.
(424) 331-1039 View (424) 331-1039
Photo of Laura Curry, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Laura Curry
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90044
My name is Laura Curry, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I am passionate about helping others, providing support, and helping to advocate. Your mental health matters! I have various experiences in the field. I have worked in a residential substance use program, Methadone clinic, crisis residential program, community-based therapy, school therapy, county services for severe mental illness, and psychiatric health facility. I have experience working with children, teens, and adults.
My name is Laura Curry, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I am passionate about helping others, providing support, and helping to advocate. Your mental health matters! I have various experiences in the field. I have worked in a residential substance use program, Methadone clinic, crisis residential program, community-based therapy, school therapy, county services for severe mental illness, and psychiatric health facility. I have experience working with children, teens, and adults.
(213) 668-7913 View (213) 668-7913

Marriage Counseling Therapists

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.