Marriage Counseling Therapists in Alburnett, IA

Photo of Doreatha Page in Alburnett, IA
Doreatha Page
temp, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alburnett, IA 52202  (Online Only)
Working with me, you will always lead the way, with my support. Do you desire a life full of positive emotions! Working with me you will be exposed to experiencing pleasure and learning skills to build and maintain positive emotions and positive engagement in life tasks that derive meaning and value from life. Are you open to exploring your automatic thought processes. Work with me to gain understanding of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and spend some time exploring your automatic thoughts.
Working with me, you will always lead the way, with my support. Do you desire a life full of positive emotions! Working with me you will be exposed to experiencing pleasure and learning skills to build and maintain positive emotions and positive engagement in life tasks that derive meaning and value from life. Are you open to exploring your automatic thought processes. Work with me to gain understanding of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and spend some time exploring your automatic thoughts.
(319) 988-2505 View (319) 988-2505
Photo of Janey Rose Saunders, Pre-Licensed Professional in Alburnett, IA
Janey Rose Saunders
Pre-Licensed Professional, tMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alburnett, IA 52202
It’s okay to not be okay. Therapy is a safe place to explore trauma, hardship, self-fulfillment and so much more. I will continually strive to make those I work with feel safe, secure, seen, and heard. Using a collaborative process, I hope to guide you along the path of gaining clarity, emphasizing your ability to tap into the resources that are already within you. All the while, allowing for space in which you decide what is best for you. I work from a non judgmental position, believing all humans deserve to be accepted exactly as they are and treated with kindness.
It’s okay to not be okay. Therapy is a safe place to explore trauma, hardship, self-fulfillment and so much more. I will continually strive to make those I work with feel safe, secure, seen, and heard. Using a collaborative process, I hope to guide you along the path of gaining clarity, emphasizing your ability to tap into the resources that are already within you. All the while, allowing for space in which you decide what is best for you. I work from a non judgmental position, believing all humans deserve to be accepted exactly as they are and treated with kindness.
(800) 531-4236 View (800) 531-4236

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Full Heart Family Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Alburnett, IA
Full Heart Family Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, CSAT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Marion, IA 52302
We also treat depression, anxiety, relationship concerns, infidelity, marital issues and more.
At Full Heart Family Therapy, we work with individuals, couples, and families on a variety of mental, emotional, and relational issues. Your therapist will strive to understand your story and your vision for your future, so we can help you overcome obstacles and create the life that you hope for. Our goal is to help you create a full life and a full heart!
We also treat depression, anxiety, relationship concerns, infidelity, marital issues and more.
At Full Heart Family Therapy, we work with individuals, couples, and families on a variety of mental, emotional, and relational issues. Your therapist will strive to understand your story and your vision for your future, so we can help you overcome obstacles and create the life that you hope for. Our goal is to help you create a full life and a full heart!
(515) 414-7966 View (515) 414-7966
Photo of Elise Perea, Counselor in Alburnett, IA
Elise Perea
Counselor, MEd, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Cedar Rapids, IA 52402  (Online Only)
It can be hard to find a therapist if you have shift work or a full schedule, so I am offering sessions from 5am-Noon. In our office, we work on life transitions, gaining insights, making changes, improving relationships, and learning how to to feel more calm and settled. Here you can find out more about healthier coping techniques, and reduce the frequency and severity of symptoms of depression, ADHD and anxiety. It is a good and safe place to improve confidence and self-esteem, address parenting, marital and vocational stress, and to explore and express your identity and needs, wants and goals both personally and professionally.
It can be hard to find a therapist if you have shift work or a full schedule, so I am offering sessions from 5am-Noon. In our office, we work on life transitions, gaining insights, making changes, improving relationships, and learning how to to feel more calm and settled. Here you can find out more about healthier coping techniques, and reduce the frequency and severity of symptoms of depression, ADHD and anxiety. It is a good and safe place to improve confidence and self-esteem, address parenting, marital and vocational stress, and to explore and express your identity and needs, wants and goals both personally and professionally.
(319) 559-4866 View (319) 559-4866
Photo of Monica Siegel, Marriage & Family Therapist in Alburnett, IA
Monica Siegel
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, tLMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hiawatha, IA 52233
As a marriage and family therapist, I work with individuals of all ages, couples, and families.
Whether your hope for therapy is for finding change or acceptance, healing or wellness, know that you do not need to navigate it alone. Our greatest hope is to have the best possible experience in our relationships with others and within ourselves. We can not be content in our experience if we are caught up in our past or preoccupied with the future. However, we can work together to reflect on how we make meaning of the past, and how it influences our experiences, behaviors, and ways of being in our relationships. I will create a relationship with you that is free of judgment and pressure, so that you can feel safe to be yourself.
As a marriage and family therapist, I work with individuals of all ages, couples, and families.
Whether your hope for therapy is for finding change or acceptance, healing or wellness, know that you do not need to navigate it alone. Our greatest hope is to have the best possible experience in our relationships with others and within ourselves. We can not be content in our experience if we are caught up in our past or preoccupied with the future. However, we can work together to reflect on how we make meaning of the past, and how it influences our experiences, behaviors, and ways of being in our relationships. I will create a relationship with you that is free of judgment and pressure, so that you can feel safe to be yourself.
(319) 469-8470 View (319) 469-8470
Photo of Maria Isabel Ramos LMFT, LLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Alburnett, IA
Maria Isabel Ramos LMFT, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cedar Rapids, IA 52402
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a Masters degree in Marriage and Family Therapy.
In our busy and sometimes stressful lives, self-care is imperative. Tending to our own mental health may become necessary if the struggle becomes overwhelming to manage alone. Once you've made the decision that therapy is the next step for you, finding the right neutral, compassionate, non-judgmental and empathetic therapist is of the utmost importance. My mission is to build a therapeutic alliance with you using a collaborative approach to reach your goals. The evidence-based approaches and interventions that I use are designed to assist you in further identifying and tapping into the strengths you already possess.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a Masters degree in Marriage and Family Therapy.
In our busy and sometimes stressful lives, self-care is imperative. Tending to our own mental health may become necessary if the struggle becomes overwhelming to manage alone. Once you've made the decision that therapy is the next step for you, finding the right neutral, compassionate, non-judgmental and empathetic therapist is of the utmost importance. My mission is to build a therapeutic alliance with you using a collaborative approach to reach your goals. The evidence-based approaches and interventions that I use are designed to assist you in further identifying and tapping into the strengths you already possess.
(319) 250-5892 View (319) 250-5892
Photo of John Ryan Leefers, Marriage & Family Therapist in Alburnett, IA
John Ryan Leefers
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Cedar Rapids, IA 52402
His most recent focus has been around depression, anxiety, defiance, PTSD, OCD, Marital Therapy, and Adjustment Disorders.
John holds several college degrees and works with individuals, teens, families, couples and more. He provides a well-rounded application of therapeutic interventions to promote healing and positive change. John helps to manage life's difficult challenges and brings about peace of mind through sound therapeutic practices. With a remarkable sense of compassion, insight and understanding, John has dedicated his life's work to the service of others. No matter what the situation is, therapy can almost always have a positive impact. There is no better time to start then right now. Give John a call now to make an appointment.
His most recent focus has been around depression, anxiety, defiance, PTSD, OCD, Marital Therapy, and Adjustment Disorders.
John holds several college degrees and works with individuals, teens, families, couples and more. He provides a well-rounded application of therapeutic interventions to promote healing and positive change. John helps to manage life's difficult challenges and brings about peace of mind through sound therapeutic practices. With a remarkable sense of compassion, insight and understanding, John has dedicated his life's work to the service of others. No matter what the situation is, therapy can almost always have a positive impact. There is no better time to start then right now. Give John a call now to make an appointment.
(319) 900-5565 View (319) 900-5565
Photo of John Michael Cilek, Marriage & Family Therapist in Alburnett, IA
John Michael Cilek
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, tLMFT
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Cedar Rapids, IA 52402
I have a Master of Arts degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Mount Mercy University.
Now accepting new clients (UI Gradcare, SHIP, UIChoice) - near campus in Northside of Iowa City & on bus routes > For so many of us, life can be overwhelming, disorienting, and difficult. In working with you, my hope is to have an opportunity to slow down, to be curious, and to uncover deeper meaning and connections within ourselves and in relating to others. Your particular knowledge, challenges, experiences, and expertise will be listened to carefully and sensitively responded to with transparency, kindness, and compassion. It is my commitment to greet you in each session with trust, a calm presence, and unconditional hospitality.
I have a Master of Arts degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Mount Mercy University.
Now accepting new clients (UI Gradcare, SHIP, UIChoice) - near campus in Northside of Iowa City & on bus routes > For so many of us, life can be overwhelming, disorienting, and difficult. In working with you, my hope is to have an opportunity to slow down, to be curious, and to uncover deeper meaning and connections within ourselves and in relating to others. Your particular knowledge, challenges, experiences, and expertise will be listened to carefully and sensitively responded to with transparency, kindness, and compassion. It is my commitment to greet you in each session with trust, a calm presence, and unconditional hospitality.
(319) 670-2942 View (319) 670-2942
Photo of Matt Cohen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alburnett, IA
Matt Cohen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LMSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Cedar Rapids, IA 52402
He is also trained in EMDR and marital counseling (Level I Gottman).
Matt Cohen, Ph.D. is an LMSW (Licensed Master Social Worker, The University of Kansas '94) He works as a group facilitator and a licensed workplace mediator, and counsels individuals and couples 18 years and older. Matt has also given national seminars about working with difficult people in the workplace. He is a certified workplace mediator, coach/educator, and trains others in mediation. He has traveled nationally and internationally to present and conduct workshops using movement, storytelling, and play as a technique to build community and spontaneity. He has a Ph.D. in Film and Media Studies and taught at UIOWA for 9 years.
He is also trained in EMDR and marital counseling (Level I Gottman).
Matt Cohen, Ph.D. is an LMSW (Licensed Master Social Worker, The University of Kansas '94) He works as a group facilitator and a licensed workplace mediator, and counsels individuals and couples 18 years and older. Matt has also given national seminars about working with difficult people in the workplace. He is a certified workplace mediator, coach/educator, and trains others in mediation. He has traveled nationally and internationally to present and conduct workshops using movement, storytelling, and play as a technique to build community and spontaneity. He has a Ph.D. in Film and Media Studies and taught at UIOWA for 9 years.
(319) 220-5258 View (319) 220-5258
Photo of Sarah Roberts, Marriage & Family Therapist in Alburnett, IA
Sarah Roberts
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, tLMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Marion, IA 52302
Waitlist for new clients
As a marriage and family therapist, your autonomy and experiences are at the forefront of my practice.
My goal in therapy is to create that space through acceptance, connection, and compassion. Through a collaborative process I hope to help individuals find their voice, create balance through mindfulness, and work towards their goals. I understand that working towards change can be overwhelming and that embracing openness can allow for new experiences in life. I am willing to be there with you to find peace within and be present the way you want to in life, through creating new meaning.
As a marriage and family therapist, your autonomy and experiences are at the forefront of my practice.
My goal in therapy is to create that space through acceptance, connection, and compassion. Through a collaborative process I hope to help individuals find their voice, create balance through mindfulness, and work towards their goals. I understand that working towards change can be overwhelming and that embracing openness can allow for new experiences in life. I am willing to be there with you to find peace within and be present the way you want to in life, through creating new meaning.
(319) 463-3444 View (319) 463-3444
Photo of Colleen R Kuhse-Portzline, Marriage & Family Therapist in Alburnett, IA
Colleen R Kuhse-Portzline
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Marion, IA 52302
Waitlist for new clients
Hi. I am Colleen Kuhse-Portzline. I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. More specifically, I’m a therapist who is passionate about helping people navigate life’s twists and turns. Are you feeling anxious, confused or maybe just “stuck”? Perhaps you’re missing the joy in life you once had or want to feel alive and thriving again. I believe in the idea of wholehearted living, of letting go of what holds us back and cultivating meaningful relationships.
Hi. I am Colleen Kuhse-Portzline. I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. More specifically, I’m a therapist who is passionate about helping people navigate life’s twists and turns. Are you feeling anxious, confused or maybe just “stuck”? Perhaps you’re missing the joy in life you once had or want to feel alive and thriving again. I believe in the idea of wholehearted living, of letting go of what holds us back and cultivating meaningful relationships.
(563) 363-6939 View (563) 363-6939
Photo of Janel Harrington, Marriage & Family Therapist in Alburnett, IA
Janel Harrington
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cedar Rapids, IA 52402
My accepting approach is secured in the notion that we all deserve to be welcomed just as we are, including the problems and struggles we bear. Even if our problems have no straightforward answers, we can learn to live with and through them when we are better connected to ourselves and others. As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I aspire to enable this connection. My training is rooted in Systems Theory, which views individuals, couples, and families through their relationship network. I take care to recognize how family of origin, cultural, and contextual factors inform our habits, perceptions, and sense of well-being.
My accepting approach is secured in the notion that we all deserve to be welcomed just as we are, including the problems and struggles we bear. Even if our problems have no straightforward answers, we can learn to live with and through them when we are better connected to ourselves and others. As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I aspire to enable this connection. My training is rooted in Systems Theory, which views individuals, couples, and families through their relationship network. I take care to recognize how family of origin, cultural, and contextual factors inform our habits, perceptions, and sense of well-being.
(319) 382-6559 View (319) 382-6559
Photo of Elizabeth Miller-White, Marriage & Family Therapist in Alburnett, IA
Elizabeth Miller-White
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, t-LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Hiawatha, IA 52233
Elizabeth Miller-White, MA, tLMFT is a temporary licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. Elizabeth believes each client is the expert in their own lives. Elizabeth enjoys working with adult individuals, children 8 and up, and couples. Elizabeth's interests include depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, ADHD, couple issues including discernment counseling, borderline personality disorder, attachment issues, domestic abuse victims, and eating disorders.
Elizabeth Miller-White, MA, tLMFT is a temporary licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. Elizabeth believes each client is the expert in their own lives. Elizabeth enjoys working with adult individuals, children 8 and up, and couples. Elizabeth's interests include depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, ADHD, couple issues including discernment counseling, borderline personality disorder, attachment issues, domestic abuse victims, and eating disorders.
(319) 246-7642 View (319) 246-7642
Photo of Melissa Paulsen, Marriage & Family Therapist in Alburnett, IA
Melissa Paulsen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, RPT-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Marion, IA 52302
While my degree is in Marriage and Family Therapy, I also provide individual counseling as well! I am a Registered Play Therapist (S2893) so I utilize a lot of play therapy techniques with children ages 3 - 10 in my play therapy room at my office.
No matter why you are seeking therapy, my goal is to make you feel comfortable while helping you to explore whatever life stressor you are currently experiencing in a safe and accepting environment. I have helped individuals, couples, and families to develop open communication, conflict resolution, emotional regulation, and overall improvement in each client's emotional wellbeing and life satisfaction. I also have experience working on issues such as depression and mood disorders, anxiety, grief and loss, oppositional defiant disorder, self-harm, and other adjustment-related stressors.
While my degree is in Marriage and Family Therapy, I also provide individual counseling as well! I am a Registered Play Therapist (S2893) so I utilize a lot of play therapy techniques with children ages 3 - 10 in my play therapy room at my office.
No matter why you are seeking therapy, my goal is to make you feel comfortable while helping you to explore whatever life stressor you are currently experiencing in a safe and accepting environment. I have helped individuals, couples, and families to develop open communication, conflict resolution, emotional regulation, and overall improvement in each client's emotional wellbeing and life satisfaction. I also have experience working on issues such as depression and mood disorders, anxiety, grief and loss, oppositional defiant disorder, self-harm, and other adjustment-related stressors.
(319) 774-4550 View (319) 774-4550
Photo of Ann Gavin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Alburnett, IA
Ann Gavin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Marion, IA 52302
I am currently accepting new clients with any of the following problems: anxiety, depression, grieving, marital distress, teenage issues, parenting problems or life transition struggles.
Hello. Do you feel overwhelmed and underappreciated? Does your life feel out of control or unbearable? Having a person who listens without judgement is instrumental to the healing process. No one should go through life alone. A therapist can be an advocate, a cheerleader or even a coach for your life. I welcome you to come and share your burdens with me and we will work out a solution together.
I am currently accepting new clients with any of the following problems: anxiety, depression, grieving, marital distress, teenage issues, parenting problems or life transition struggles.
Hello. Do you feel overwhelmed and underappreciated? Does your life feel out of control or unbearable? Having a person who listens without judgement is instrumental to the healing process. No one should go through life alone. A therapist can be an advocate, a cheerleader or even a coach for your life. I welcome you to come and share your burdens with me and we will work out a solution together.
(319) 595-4760 View (319) 595-4760
Photo of Kara Cirkl, Counselor in Alburnett, IA
Kara Cirkl
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Marion, IA 52302  (Online Only)
I work with anxiety, depression/mood disorders, trauma and abuse history, life changes, interpersonal conflicts, and marriage and couples counseling.
Thank you for taking the time to consider me as a possible counselor. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 6 years of experience in the mental health profession. As a therapist, I employ a holistic, all inclusive, empathetic style to therapy. It is in my professional interest to provide the most effective therapy to my clients by integrating a use of therapy techniques to include Cognitive-Behavioral, Motivational Interviewing, Strength-based, Mindfulness, and incorporating empirically supported practices.
I work with anxiety, depression/mood disorders, trauma and abuse history, life changes, interpersonal conflicts, and marriage and couples counseling.
Thank you for taking the time to consider me as a possible counselor. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 6 years of experience in the mental health profession. As a therapist, I employ a holistic, all inclusive, empathetic style to therapy. It is in my professional interest to provide the most effective therapy to my clients by integrating a use of therapy techniques to include Cognitive-Behavioral, Motivational Interviewing, Strength-based, Mindfulness, and incorporating empirically supported practices.
(319) 844-5991 x1 View (319) 844-5991 x1
Photo of Kalen D. Zeiger, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Alburnett, IA
Kalen D. Zeiger
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, tLMFT, CCTP, CFTP
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Hiawatha, IA 52233  (Online Only)
I am a Couple & Family Therapy PhD Doctoral Candidate at the University of Iowa, a Marital & Family Therapist Temporary License (tLMFT) in Iowa, and I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) and Certified Family Trauma Professional (CFTP).
Are you queer? Do you have a queer family member, partner, or kid? I provide queer and gender-affirming, neurodiverse-validating mental healthcare; WPATH-informed psychosocial assessments & letters of support; and mental health support for individuals, couples and partners, parents, and families like yours who may be struggling with trauma, stress, anxiety, depression, or adjustments and often must navigate confusing & less than accepting social and care scenarios. Have you experienced trauma? Unfortunately, LGBTQIA2S+ people are more likely to experience trauma. I help clients like you manage and process trauma and move forward.
I am a Couple & Family Therapy PhD Doctoral Candidate at the University of Iowa, a Marital & Family Therapist Temporary License (tLMFT) in Iowa, and I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) and Certified Family Trauma Professional (CFTP).
Are you queer? Do you have a queer family member, partner, or kid? I provide queer and gender-affirming, neurodiverse-validating mental healthcare; WPATH-informed psychosocial assessments & letters of support; and mental health support for individuals, couples and partners, parents, and families like yours who may be struggling with trauma, stress, anxiety, depression, or adjustments and often must navigate confusing & less than accepting social and care scenarios. Have you experienced trauma? Unfortunately, LGBTQIA2S+ people are more likely to experience trauma. I help clients like you manage and process trauma and move forward.
(319) 774-8301 View (319) 774-8301
Photo of Brandon Wall, Marriage & Family Therapist in Alburnett, IA
Brandon Wall
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Cedar Rapids, IA 52402
My passion in life is to help you thrive. My approach to marriage, family, and relationships is unique because I am keenly aware of how your view of the world, yourself, and how you view others affects all aspects of your life and your relationships. I'm a compassionate straight shooter who will help you reshape your past and set a firm foundation for the future. I focus less on diagnosing you and more on helping you to connect deeply with others and discover solutions to move forward. My desire is for you not to have to come back.
My passion in life is to help you thrive. My approach to marriage, family, and relationships is unique because I am keenly aware of how your view of the world, yourself, and how you view others affects all aspects of your life and your relationships. I'm a compassionate straight shooter who will help you reshape your past and set a firm foundation for the future. I focus less on diagnosing you and more on helping you to connect deeply with others and discover solutions to move forward. My desire is for you not to have to come back.
(319) 774-1831 View (319) 774-1831
Photo of Evergreen Therapy Center, Psychologist in Alburnett, IA
Evergreen Therapy Center
Psychologist, PhD, LMHC, LMFT, LISW, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cedar Rapids, IA 52402
Are you struggling to move forward? Do you feel overwhelmed all the time? We have immediate openings with a therapist or psychologist. Let us help you find a solution to your problems. We will listen, support, and help you build the courage to face your fears. The hardest part is asking for help. If you have been struggling with these problems for months or years, you're not alone. It's easy to get stuck and feel trapped, helpless, and overwhelmed.
Are you struggling to move forward? Do you feel overwhelmed all the time? We have immediate openings with a therapist or psychologist. Let us help you find a solution to your problems. We will listen, support, and help you build the courage to face your fears. The hardest part is asking for help. If you have been struggling with these problems for months or years, you're not alone. It's easy to get stuck and feel trapped, helpless, and overwhelmed.
(319) 220-3971 View (319) 220-3971
Photo of Molly Chambers, Marriage & Family Therapist in Alburnett, IA
Molly Chambers
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Marion, IA 52302
Reach out by email for fastest contact. The most powerful predictor of whether therapy will be effective is your relationship with your therapist. Finding the right one can feel overwhelming but you are already on your way. My approach is warm, empathetic and straightforward. I am accepting and direct in nature while focusing on strengths and growth. I do not "beat around the bush" as they say, while also being understanding and kind. I know how important it is to find the right "fit" with a therapist so I offer free 30 minute intro sessions so you can determine if I am the right therapist for you.
Reach out by email for fastest contact. The most powerful predictor of whether therapy will be effective is your relationship with your therapist. Finding the right one can feel overwhelming but you are already on your way. My approach is warm, empathetic and straightforward. I am accepting and direct in nature while focusing on strengths and growth. I do not "beat around the bush" as they say, while also being understanding and kind. I know how important it is to find the right "fit" with a therapist so I offer free 30 minute intro sessions so you can determine if I am the right therapist for you.
(319) 327-8120 View (319) 327-8120

See more therapy options for Alburnett

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.