Marriage Counseling Therapists in Washington, DC

Photo of Latia Taliaferro, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Latia Taliaferro
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20002  (Online Only)
Latia has a Master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Northwestern University.
Latia Taliaferro is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) with over 10 years of experience in the mental health field, specifically in community and school settings. Her clinical experience includes empowering young adults, adults, and families to access inner compassion, wisdom, and trust to build hope and resiliency as they navigate expected and unexpected experiences. Latia specializes in treating mood, anxiety, trauma, and stress stemming from relational challenges, grief, difficulties at work, and other life transitions.
Latia has a Master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Northwestern University.
Latia Taliaferro is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) with over 10 years of experience in the mental health field, specifically in community and school settings. Her clinical experience includes empowering young adults, adults, and families to access inner compassion, wisdom, and trust to build hope and resiliency as they navigate expected and unexpected experiences. Latia specializes in treating mood, anxiety, trauma, and stress stemming from relational challenges, grief, difficulties at work, and other life transitions.
(844) 536-0627 View (844) 536-0627
Photo of Elana Hoffman, PhD, Psychologist
Elana Hoffman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20010  (Online Only)
I also draw from lived experiences with marriage, divorce, solo parenting, and alternative romantic relationships.
I love working with couples and individuals with difficulty in romantic relationships (i.e. sexual issues, communication, infidelity, divorce), adults who come from dysfunctional childhoods, as well as those with anxiety, impulsivity, and addiction. I also enjoy working with those in non-traditional romantic relationships (i.e. ethically non-monogamous, polyamorous). I am LGBTQIA- affirming and sex positive. I work best with clients who are engaged, thoughtful, and motivated for change. My style is empathic and direct, with a sense of humor. I believe strongly in the therapeutic alliance and the client/therapist fit.
I also draw from lived experiences with marriage, divorce, solo parenting, and alternative romantic relationships.
I love working with couples and individuals with difficulty in romantic relationships (i.e. sexual issues, communication, infidelity, divorce), adults who come from dysfunctional childhoods, as well as those with anxiety, impulsivity, and addiction. I also enjoy working with those in non-traditional romantic relationships (i.e. ethically non-monogamous, polyamorous). I am LGBTQIA- affirming and sex positive. I work best with clients who are engaged, thoughtful, and motivated for change. My style is empathic and direct, with a sense of humor. I believe strongly in the therapeutic alliance and the client/therapist fit.
(202) 793-8669 View (202) 793-8669
Photo of Carrie Elizabeth Collier, PhD, LPC-DC, LPC-Va, Licensed Professional Counselor
Carrie Elizabeth Collier
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-DC, LPC-Va
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20007
Relationship conflicts, marital distress, conflict, and distance, parental dilemmas, marital tensions, anxiety, depression, physical illness, losses, parenting anxiety, childhood and adolescent problems, concerns about aging, workplace stress, and grief and trauma.
I have been a licensed professional counselor since 2001. I offer individual, couples and family therapy. I focus on family and life challenges pertaining to marriage, partners, family cut offs and estrangements, friends, and parenting using Bowen Family Systems Theory. I work online with individuals, couples, parents, and families from all walks of life with a wide array of family and marital challenges, emotional and relationship concerns.
Relationship conflicts, marital distress, conflict, and distance, parental dilemmas, marital tensions, anxiety, depression, physical illness, losses, parenting anxiety, childhood and adolescent problems, concerns about aging, workplace stress, and grief and trauma.
I have been a licensed professional counselor since 2001. I offer individual, couples and family therapy. I focus on family and life challenges pertaining to marriage, partners, family cut offs and estrangements, friends, and parenting using Bowen Family Systems Theory. I work online with individuals, couples, parents, and families from all walks of life with a wide array of family and marital challenges, emotional and relationship concerns.
View
Photo of Carrie Holl, MA, PsyD, Psychologist
Carrie Holl
Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009
I also have background in behavioral medicine, marriage and family therapy, and neuropsychological and psychological testing.
I am an empathic and experienced Cognitive-Behavioral (CBT) and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) therapist. I also teach at Georgetown Hospital and the George Washington University, as well as serve on the OCD Mid-Atlantic Affiliate Board. My treatment aims are as follows: 1) provide direct symptom relief, 2) engage clients in treatment in a way that interests them, 3) appeal to strengths, 4) encourage overall treatment compliance, and 5) explain the clinical process in easy to understand language. Empowerment occurs with the recognition that mental health symptoms have predictable patterns. Symptoms are relieved through changing these patterns. Interactive readings and assignments are encouraged.
I also have background in behavioral medicine, marriage and family therapy, and neuropsychological and psychological testing.
I am an empathic and experienced Cognitive-Behavioral (CBT) and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) therapist. I also teach at Georgetown Hospital and the George Washington University, as well as serve on the OCD Mid-Atlantic Affiliate Board. My treatment aims are as follows: 1) provide direct symptom relief, 2) engage clients in treatment in a way that interests them, 3) appeal to strengths, 4) encourage overall treatment compliance, and 5) explain the clinical process in easy to understand language. Empowerment occurs with the recognition that mental health symptoms have predictable patterns. Symptoms are relieved through changing these patterns. Interactive readings and assignments are encouraged.
(202) 670-8967 View (202) 670-8967
Photo of Diana Hawkins, Pre-Licensed Professional
Diana Hawkins
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20024  (Online Only)
I have a Masters and Doctorate of Divinity and am currently working as a marriage and family therapist.
My name is Diana Hawkins. I am a marriage and family therapist (MFT). My major focus is working with individuals and families to help heal the broken hearted and restore clients to who they are to become whole again. I also specialize in using my platform to help women abused mentally, emotionally, sexually, and physically.
I have a Masters and Doctorate of Divinity and am currently working as a marriage and family therapist.
My name is Diana Hawkins. I am a marriage and family therapist (MFT). My major focus is working with individuals and families to help heal the broken hearted and restore clients to who they are to become whole again. I also specialize in using my platform to help women abused mentally, emotionally, sexually, and physically.
(240) 896-1115 View (240) 896-1115
Photo of Jane C Clark-Ashford - Jane Clark-Ashford Behavioral Health Services, MA, LPC, LCPC, NCC, LMFT, Counselor
Jane Clark-Ashford Behavioral Health Services
Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC, NCC, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20032  (Online Only)
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist.
Accepting Adults only at this time! Affordable, appropriate, client-centered mental health services are provided in a comfortable, friendly, professional, and non-intimidating environment.
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist.
Accepting Adults only at this time! Affordable, appropriate, client-centered mental health services are provided in a comfortable, friendly, professional, and non-intimidating environment.
(301) 453-8559 View (301) 453-8559
Photo of Ivory Melanie McMillian, PsyD, LPC, NCC, BC-TMH, Psychologist
Ivory Melanie McMillian
Psychologist, PsyD, LPC, NCC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20001
I am a Psypact Certified Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Licensed Professional Counselor and Clinical Consultant with over 20 years of experience. I specialize in general adjustment issues, bipolar, depressive, anxiety, trauma, personality disorders, and marital issues. I also work with individuals who have a general interest in working toward living their best life.
I am a Psypact Certified Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Licensed Professional Counselor and Clinical Consultant with over 20 years of experience. I specialize in general adjustment issues, bipolar, depressive, anxiety, trauma, personality disorders, and marital issues. I also work with individuals who have a general interest in working toward living their best life.
(571) 410-2979 View (571) 410-2979
Photo of Helena Trimmer - WSDI Partners, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
WSDI Partners, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20011  (Online Only)
Are you dealing with a difficult time? Have you experienced trauma? Do you have a hard time with your teen? Are you struggling with a relationship? Dealing with stress? Have you recently lost someone? Are you going through a major life transition ( marriage, birth, loss of a job, divorce)? We are here to help, heal and restore hope! Our practice's focus is to bring comprehensive and culturally competent services to clients so they can thrive and realize their full potential. It is our overall goal to enhance the quality of life for individuals and families.
Are you dealing with a difficult time? Have you experienced trauma? Do you have a hard time with your teen? Are you struggling with a relationship? Dealing with stress? Have you recently lost someone? Are you going through a major life transition ( marriage, birth, loss of a job, divorce)? We are here to help, heal and restore hope! Our practice's focus is to bring comprehensive and culturally competent services to clients so they can thrive and realize their full potential. It is our overall goal to enhance the quality of life for individuals and families.
(301) 591-6642 View (301) 591-6642
Photo of Angel Thompson - An Angel's Touch, LLC, LPC, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
An Angel's Touch, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20001  (Online Only)
Over the years, I have worked with a variety of populations but specialize in Marriage and Family counseling.
I earned a Master’s degree in Rehabilitation Counseling with a specialty in Marriage and Family at Maryville University in St. Louis, MO. I am licensed in both Washington, DC and Maryland. For more than 18 years, I have held various positions in the Social Service industry including managing a private practice, case manager, individual and group counselor, supervisor, trainer and clinic director. My education and professional experience gives me a unique and effective Solution Focused and Strength Based approach to counseling. I work to provide clients with tailored treatment plans that can be integrated into their daily lives.
Over the years, I have worked with a variety of populations but specialize in Marriage and Family counseling.
I earned a Master’s degree in Rehabilitation Counseling with a specialty in Marriage and Family at Maryville University in St. Louis, MO. I am licensed in both Washington, DC and Maryland. For more than 18 years, I have held various positions in the Social Service industry including managing a private practice, case manager, individual and group counselor, supervisor, trainer and clinic director. My education and professional experience gives me a unique and effective Solution Focused and Strength Based approach to counseling. I work to provide clients with tailored treatment plans that can be integrated into their daily lives.
(301) 691-5640 View (301) 691-5640
Photo of Jason Powell, LMFT, CST, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jason Powell
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CST
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20009
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) as well as a Certified Sex Therapist (CST) through AASECT. My work focuses on marriage and couples therapy, specifically centered on infidelity repair, communication issues, couples in crisis, relationships on the brink, and those experiencing a range of frustrations and challenges with physical intimacy. I have been featured in Forbes, the Knot, and other leading media outlets offering my insight into relationships and communication. I would love to meet with you about your unique circumstances and how I might be able to help.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) as well as a Certified Sex Therapist (CST) through AASECT. My work focuses on marriage and couples therapy, specifically centered on infidelity repair, communication issues, couples in crisis, relationships on the brink, and those experiencing a range of frustrations and challenges with physical intimacy. I have been featured in Forbes, the Knot, and other leading media outlets offering my insight into relationships and communication. I would love to meet with you about your unique circumstances and how I might be able to help.
(202) 873-9614 View (202) 873-9614
Photo of Lori Shapiro, LCSW-C, lCISWC, AASECT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lori Shapiro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, lCISWC, AASECT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009
HeartWerq Lori Shapiro, LICSW Senior Clinician Clinical Social Worker, Certified Sex Therapist, Marriage and Couples Therapist (She/Her) Lori Shapiro is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Supervisor with more than 20 years of experience. Her practice focuses on working with individuals, couples, and families on a variety of issues, including couples counseling, sex therapy, relationship difficulties, sexual and gender identity support, as well as unique individual challenges. Lori has received degrees from Florida Atlantic University and Barry University (Master’s in Social Work) and also has a certification in sex therapy f
HeartWerq Lori Shapiro, LICSW Senior Clinician Clinical Social Worker, Certified Sex Therapist, Marriage and Couples Therapist (She/Her) Lori Shapiro is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Supervisor with more than 20 years of experience. Her practice focuses on working with individuals, couples, and families on a variety of issues, including couples counseling, sex therapy, relationship difficulties, sexual and gender identity support, as well as unique individual challenges. Lori has received degrees from Florida Atlantic University and Barry University (Master’s in Social Work) and also has a certification in sex therapy f
(240) 669-2573 View (240) 669-2573
Photo of Meredith Gardner, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Meredith Gardner
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20016
I work with children, adolescents, adults, and families on a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, communication, divorce, grief, relationships and behavior management. I am primarily cognitive behavioral and take an active role in therapy, challenging clients to explore alternative ways to deal with their issues while creating a trusting and caring environment. I am the founder and clinical director of District Therapy Associates, a psychotherapy practice with several diverse therapists who focus on child, adolescent, adult, family, marriage, and group therapy.
I work with children, adolescents, adults, and families on a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, communication, divorce, grief, relationships and behavior management. I am primarily cognitive behavioral and take an active role in therapy, challenging clients to explore alternative ways to deal with their issues while creating a trusting and caring environment. I am the founder and clinical director of District Therapy Associates, a psychotherapy practice with several diverse therapists who focus on child, adolescent, adult, family, marriage, and group therapy.
(202) 609-8914 View (202) 609-8914
Photo of Azubike Aliche (Approved Sw Supervisor), LICSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Azubike Aliche (Approved Sw Supervisor)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20009
At Power Counseling PLLC, we are a group of five skilled and talented clinicians who are dedicated to meeting the needs and treatment goals of our clients. We are seeing clients by Zoom video in NJ, MD and VA. In Washington DC, you have a choice of virtual or in-person therapy. We take pride in the relationship that we build with our clients that make them to return to us, each time they have an emotional or relationship problem. Whether they have depression, anxiety, work-related stress, marital problems or other mental health problems, they give us a call. They refer friends and relatives to us. Join the the satisfied crowd.
At Power Counseling PLLC, we are a group of five skilled and talented clinicians who are dedicated to meeting the needs and treatment goals of our clients. We are seeing clients by Zoom video in NJ, MD and VA. In Washington DC, you have a choice of virtual or in-person therapy. We take pride in the relationship that we build with our clients that make them to return to us, each time they have an emotional or relationship problem. Whether they have depression, anxiety, work-related stress, marital problems or other mental health problems, they give us a call. They refer friends and relatives to us. Join the the satisfied crowd.
(202) 217-1798 View (202) 217-1798
Photo of Krystal Stanley - Re-New Psychological Services, PhD, Psychologist
Re-New Psychological Services
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20003
graduating from high school/college; entering the workforce; marriage and child-rearing, etc).
We use a strength-based, developmental approach in our work with clients. Rather than highlighting pathology in your life, we identify the ways in which you successfully navigate life's challenges and help you develop new tools to overcome any roadblocks you may encounter.
graduating from high school/college; entering the workforce; marriage and child-rearing, etc).
We use a strength-based, developmental approach in our work with clients. Rather than highlighting pathology in your life, we identify the ways in which you successfully navigate life's challenges and help you develop new tools to overcome any roadblocks you may encounter.
(202) 684-2662 View (202) 684-2662
Photo of Donna Schwartz, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Donna Schwartz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20037
Donna Schwartz is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Assistant Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at the George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences. She has maintained a private practice in Washington, DC for over 25 years. She has over 30 years of experience helping individuals and couples. Donna specializes in the treatment of anxiety, binge eating disorder, couple's counseling to include pre- marital counseling, infertility, pregnancy, postpartum anxiety and depression. In addition to being a prominent psychotherapist, Ms. Schwartz is an Assistant Clinical Professor at George Washington University's School of Medicine and Health Sciences since 2010.
Donna Schwartz is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Assistant Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at the George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences. She has maintained a private practice in Washington, DC for over 25 years. She has over 30 years of experience helping individuals and couples. Donna specializes in the treatment of anxiety, binge eating disorder, couple's counseling to include pre- marital counseling, infertility, pregnancy, postpartum anxiety and depression. In addition to being a prominent psychotherapist, Ms. Schwartz is an Assistant Clinical Professor at George Washington University's School of Medicine and Health Sciences since 2010.
(202) 804-2484 View (202) 804-2484
Photo of Jamy Drapeza - Thriveworks Counseling &Psychiatry Washington,D.C., Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Thriveworks Counseling &Psychiatry Washington,D.C.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20045
We offer individual counseling, psychiatry/medication management (virtual only), family counseling, couples therapy/ marriage counseling, and child & teen therapy.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
We offer individual counseling, psychiatry/medication management (virtual only), family counseling, couples therapy/ marriage counseling, and child & teen therapy.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
(855) 524-5193 View (855) 524-5193
Photo of Dr. Ron Del Moro, PhD, EdS, LPC, LCPC, Counselor
Dr. Ron Del Moro
Counselor, PhD, EdS, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
My couples and marriage therapy approach is guided by the works of John Gottman and the IMAGO Relationship principles.
My objectives in therapy are safety and growth. We will work together to discover what is needed to create the life and relationships you want. Together, we discuss what is needed for you to thrive (and what gets in the way). I am honest and direct in my work. I am a highly empathetic, interactive, personal, and dynamic therapist who can equally support and challenge when needed. I specialize in supporting individuals, couples, and families with relationship issues, connections (with self and others), anxiety, depression, life transitions, anger, communication, impostor syndrome, and mindfulness.
My couples and marriage therapy approach is guided by the works of John Gottman and the IMAGO Relationship principles.
My objectives in therapy are safety and growth. We will work together to discover what is needed to create the life and relationships you want. Together, we discuss what is needed for you to thrive (and what gets in the way). I am honest and direct in my work. I am a highly empathetic, interactive, personal, and dynamic therapist who can equally support and challenge when needed. I specialize in supporting individuals, couples, and families with relationship issues, connections (with self and others), anxiety, depression, life transitions, anger, communication, impostor syndrome, and mindfulness.
(202) 729-9286 View (202) 729-9286
Photo of Yvany Peery, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Yvany Peery
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20008
Infidelity? Constantly fighting? A sexless marriage? If any of these ring true, you've come to the right place. I provide marriage counseling/couples therapy to adults of all ages, using the evidence-based and highly effective Gottman Method of couples therapy, a structured and relatively short-term approach I've found to be successful. I also provide individual counseling for those who have experienced trauma, including PTSD. A past or current trauma can significantly impact your life, but it doesn't have to dominate your life. For more than 10 years, I've been helping people regain a sense of ease and control over their lives.
Infidelity? Constantly fighting? A sexless marriage? If any of these ring true, you've come to the right place. I provide marriage counseling/couples therapy to adults of all ages, using the evidence-based and highly effective Gottman Method of couples therapy, a structured and relatively short-term approach I've found to be successful. I also provide individual counseling for those who have experienced trauma, including PTSD. A past or current trauma can significantly impact your life, but it doesn't have to dominate your life. For more than 10 years, I've been helping people regain a sense of ease and control over their lives.
(833) 453-1287 View (833) 453-1287
Photo of Dr. Alan J. Lipman, PhD, JD, Psychologist
Dr. Alan J. Lipman
Psychologist, PhD, JD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20007
With 25 years experience, Dr. Lipman is a national leader specializing in marriage, individual, & couples therapy. As professor at Georgetown, in positions at Yale Psychiatric Institute andHospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Dr. Lipman led National Panels initiated at the White House, was named Expert Task Force member to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, and serves as Expert On-Air consultant for CNN, BBC, MSNBC, & many more. Specialties: Marriage and Couples Therapy, Communication Issues, Stress, Depression, Anxiety. Also treats attorneys with work relationship issues, and was awarded the J.D. from Georgetown Law
With 25 years experience, Dr. Lipman is a national leader specializing in marriage, individual, & couples therapy. As professor at Georgetown, in positions at Yale Psychiatric Institute andHospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Dr. Lipman led National Panels initiated at the White House, was named Expert Task Force member to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, and serves as Expert On-Air consultant for CNN, BBC, MSNBC, & many more. Specialties: Marriage and Couples Therapy, Communication Issues, Stress, Depression, Anxiety. Also treats attorneys with work relationship issues, and was awarded the J.D. from Georgetown Law
(202) 609-8614 View (202) 609-8614
Photo of Renana Brooks, PhD, Psychologist
Renana Brooks
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20008
DBT) Diplomate and Board Certified in DBT , Marriage and Family Therapy and Behavioral Medicine.
Clients with a strong desire to fix their relationships in the most profound ways fit well with my practice .This is true even if you don’t know what is wrong or your partner disagrees about what the problem is. The change is not just communication patterns but also underlying intense emotional distress or explosive patterns of expression. We address complaints such as lack of sex or affection or emotional withdrawal.We stop couples from divorce and fix communication problems by training partners how to best be supportive and to understand underlying psychological messages unwittingly communicated between partners.
DBT) Diplomate and Board Certified in DBT , Marriage and Family Therapy and Behavioral Medicine.
Clients with a strong desire to fix their relationships in the most profound ways fit well with my practice .This is true even if you don’t know what is wrong or your partner disagrees about what the problem is. The change is not just communication patterns but also underlying intense emotional distress or explosive patterns of expression. We address complaints such as lack of sex or affection or emotional withdrawal.We stop couples from divorce and fix communication problems by training partners how to best be supportive and to understand underlying psychological messages unwittingly communicated between partners.
(703) 420-7312 View (703) 420-7312
1
...
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.