Photo of Felicity Kelcourse, Counselor in Indianapolis, IN
Felicity Kelcourse
Counselor, PhD, LMHC
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46208
For over 20 years I have worked with a wide variety of clients. I specialize in insight oriented work with individuals, including dream work, offering weekly therapy as well relational psychoanalysis. As a licensed Mental Health Counselor (IN), Diplomate in the American Association of Pastoral Counselors and an American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy Supervisor I provide individual, couple, family and group therapy, as well as supervision. My specialties include dream work and Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy.
For over 20 years I have worked with a wide variety of clients. I specialize in insight oriented work with individuals, including dream work, offering weekly therapy as well relational psychoanalysis. As a licensed Mental Health Counselor (IN), Diplomate in the American Association of Pastoral Counselors and an American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy Supervisor I provide individual, couple, family and group therapy, as well as supervision. My specialties include dream work and Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy.
(317) 891-5557 View (317) 891-5557
Photo of Vinnie Butler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Indianapolis, IN
Vinnie Butler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46268
I have experience working with clients who suffer from anxiety, depression, personality disorders, trauma-related issues, family issues, marital/couples therapy, and working with veterans.
Do ever feel like no matter how hard you try, you cannot reach your goals? Do you find it difficult to manage daily stressors, or do mental health issues interfere with your plans? Sometimes it feels like no matter how hard we try, we cannot overcome our problems on our own. I am a mental health provider who can help you overcome those obstacles. I have a Master’s Degree in Clinical Social Work and am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker.
I have experience working with clients who suffer from anxiety, depression, personality disorders, trauma-related issues, family issues, marital/couples therapy, and working with veterans.
Do ever feel like no matter how hard you try, you cannot reach your goals? Do you find it difficult to manage daily stressors, or do mental health issues interfere with your plans? Sometimes it feels like no matter how hard we try, we cannot overcome our problems on our own. I am a mental health provider who can help you overcome those obstacles. I have a Master’s Degree in Clinical Social Work and am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker.
(317) 593-8778 View (317) 593-8778
Photo of Dr. Melanie K. Stone, Psychologist in Indianapolis, IN
Dr. Melanie K. Stone
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46240
Specializing in: The Treatment of Depression and Anxiety; EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) for treatment of trauma; Marriage Enrichment; Parenting Skills Training; Marriage and Family Life with a Child with Special Needs; Consultant/Speaker for Business and Industry; Psychological Evaluations for Adoptions.
Do you feel overwhelmed, worried, or sad and don't know where to turn? Is the way you are feeling affecting your relationships, your job, your sleep? Have you experienced disturbing or traumatic events in your life that seem to be affecting your daily living? Do you have struggles in your marriage or challenges as a parent and don't know what else to try? I help people like you everyday. Through the counseling process, you can begin to understand the struggles you are experiencing, and learn more effective ways of dealing with and resolving some of the difficulties in your life.
Specializing in: The Treatment of Depression and Anxiety; EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) for treatment of trauma; Marriage Enrichment; Parenting Skills Training; Marriage and Family Life with a Child with Special Needs; Consultant/Speaker for Business and Industry; Psychological Evaluations for Adoptions.
Do you feel overwhelmed, worried, or sad and don't know where to turn? Is the way you are feeling affecting your relationships, your job, your sleep? Have you experienced disturbing or traumatic events in your life that seem to be affecting your daily living? Do you have struggles in your marriage or challenges as a parent and don't know what else to try? I help people like you everyday. Through the counseling process, you can begin to understand the struggles you are experiencing, and learn more effective ways of dealing with and resolving some of the difficulties in your life.
(317) 560-7422 View (317) 560-7422
Photo of Anny J Maslowski, Counselor in Indianapolis, IN
Anny J Maslowski
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46216
I am a bilingual (native Spanish-speaker) Licensed Professional Counselor with experience in working with multicultural clients. I work with individuals and families going through various types of immigration cases and assisting them with emotional support as well as documentation of evidence for their case. In addition, I have experience in the areas of depression, anxiety, life transitions, cultural adjustments, relationship/marital issues, and trauma. I believe in the strengths of each client and try to build upon the resources that each client already has in building motivation to continue to make changes.
I am a bilingual (native Spanish-speaker) Licensed Professional Counselor with experience in working with multicultural clients. I work with individuals and families going through various types of immigration cases and assisting them with emotional support as well as documentation of evidence for their case. In addition, I have experience in the areas of depression, anxiety, life transitions, cultural adjustments, relationship/marital issues, and trauma. I believe in the strengths of each client and try to build upon the resources that each client already has in building motivation to continue to make changes.
(317) 494-7328 View (317) 494-7328
Photo of Enlighten Healing , Marriage & Family Therapist in Indianapolis, IN
Enlighten Healing
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46268
Seeking transformation and support? My name is Annita Coburn, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist at Enlighten Healing. With 6+ years of experience, my holistic approach blends ACT, CBT, mindfulness, and positive psychology. As a minority, veteran, and woman, I celebrate diversity. Let's work together to overcome challenges, foster relationships, and lead a purposeful life. Contact me to start your journey.
Seeking transformation and support? My name is Annita Coburn, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist at Enlighten Healing. With 6+ years of experience, my holistic approach blends ACT, CBT, mindfulness, and positive psychology. As a minority, veteran, and woman, I celebrate diversity. Let's work together to overcome challenges, foster relationships, and lead a purposeful life. Contact me to start your journey.
(317) 406-0981 View (317) 406-0981
Photo of Rachael S Glasser, Marriage & Family Therapist in Indianapolis, IN
Rachael S Glasser
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46240
I participated in a summit between Marriage and Family Therapists and Genetic Counselors.
We all create a set of expectations of ourselves, our world, and others, beginning with our earliest relationships. I enjoy working with clients who are interested in exploring how these beliefs either strengthen or distort our approach to relationships, medical issues, trauma, and/or challenges. I have a general practice dealing with issues of depression, anxiety, adjustment, marital, and family issues. I also work with clients and their families who are coping with medical and/or genetic diagnoses. I see soldiers and/or their spouses who are adjusting to military related issues and deployments.
I participated in a summit between Marriage and Family Therapists and Genetic Counselors.
We all create a set of expectations of ourselves, our world, and others, beginning with our earliest relationships. I enjoy working with clients who are interested in exploring how these beliefs either strengthen or distort our approach to relationships, medical issues, trauma, and/or challenges. I have a general practice dealing with issues of depression, anxiety, adjustment, marital, and family issues. I also work with clients and their families who are coping with medical and/or genetic diagnoses. I see soldiers and/or their spouses who are adjusting to military related issues and deployments.
(317) 427-6369 View (317) 427-6369
Photo of Malisa Komolthiti, Marriage & Family Therapist in Indianapolis, IN
Malisa Komolthiti
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46201  (Online Only)
I'm a dedicated psychotherapist and Marriage and Family Therapist, happily serving clients in Indiana and Florida. My areas of practice are· Anxiety · Depression· Stress · Divorce ·Marital/Pre-marital ·Parenting ·Couple/Family Conflict· Learning Disabilities · LGBTQIA+ · Life Coaching ·Mood Disorders · Panic Attacks · Peer Relationships · Behavioral Issues · Career Counseling · Codependency · Coping Skills. I support the unique journeys of adults, children, teens, and parents. I accept insurance.
I'm a dedicated psychotherapist and Marriage and Family Therapist, happily serving clients in Indiana and Florida. My areas of practice are· Anxiety · Depression· Stress · Divorce ·Marital/Pre-marital ·Parenting ·Couple/Family Conflict· Learning Disabilities · LGBTQIA+ · Life Coaching ·Mood Disorders · Panic Attacks · Peer Relationships · Behavioral Issues · Career Counseling · Codependency · Coping Skills. I support the unique journeys of adults, children, teens, and parents. I accept insurance.
(513) 951-4347 View (513) 951-4347
Photo of HSC Services, Counselor in Indianapolis, IN
HSC Services
Counselor, MS, MHC
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46219
At HSC Services we understand life is challenging with struggling with sadness, isolation, anxiety, financial, family issues, work related issues, marriage and/or relationship issues, struggling with the next step in your life, or struggling to manage your day to day. The goal is to feel a sense of connection to society and wanting to feel understood. Being able to manage life through financial education and literacy. Conflict resolution for marriages/relationships and family issues. Discover new interests and passions and overcome being overwhelmed with daily life and create balance.
At HSC Services we understand life is challenging with struggling with sadness, isolation, anxiety, financial, family issues, work related issues, marriage and/or relationship issues, struggling with the next step in your life, or struggling to manage your day to day. The goal is to feel a sense of connection to society and wanting to feel understood. Being able to manage life through financial education and literacy. Conflict resolution for marriages/relationships and family issues. Discover new interests and passions and overcome being overwhelmed with daily life and create balance.
(317) 597-6831 View (317) 597-6831
Photo of Shalonda Allison, Counselor in Indianapolis, IN
Shalonda Allison
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46220  (Online Only)
As a therapist and transformational coach, I am passionate about working with individuals, couples, and professionals who are seeking guidance with life challenges, self-esteem, building and sustaining relationships, communication challenges, and decision-making. I consider it an honor to partner and provide light for your journey with restoring your family, marriage, or partnership, and providing direction for individual struggles and challenges. My purpose is never to choose or judge the path one takes, but to provide a light that provides clarity of what your options are, and which direction is best suited for you to take.
As a therapist and transformational coach, I am passionate about working with individuals, couples, and professionals who are seeking guidance with life challenges, self-esteem, building and sustaining relationships, communication challenges, and decision-making. I consider it an honor to partner and provide light for your journey with restoring your family, marriage, or partnership, and providing direction for individual struggles and challenges. My purpose is never to choose or judge the path one takes, but to provide a light that provides clarity of what your options are, and which direction is best suited for you to take.
(317) 434-0441 View (317) 434-0441
Photo of Shannon Loehr, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Indianapolis, IN
Shannon Loehr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46220
I also conduct premarital workshops and have a passion for preparing couples for marriage.
I often hear people ask, "why did I wait so long to seek counseling?" Although making the decision to begin counseling FEELS intimidating, the truth is that it can be a very helpful step in managing some of the difficulties of life. Are you experiencing thoughts, emotions or behaviors that are impacting your daily life or affecting your relationships with others? I can help you work through these challenges and I am available to listen, support and guide you in developing a plan to move forward.
I also conduct premarital workshops and have a passion for preparing couples for marriage.
I often hear people ask, "why did I wait so long to seek counseling?" Although making the decision to begin counseling FEELS intimidating, the truth is that it can be a very helpful step in managing some of the difficulties of life. Are you experiencing thoughts, emotions or behaviors that are impacting your daily life or affecting your relationships with others? I can help you work through these challenges and I am available to listen, support and guide you in developing a plan to move forward.
(317) 333-7605 View (317) 333-7605
Photo of Shelley Spencer-Hellmich, Marriage & Family Therapist in Indianapolis, IN
Shelley Spencer-Hellmich
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, LCAC, CADACIV, CDVC
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46240
"I work with adults, children and adolescents. I often work with relationship, marital and family issues. I help couples with communication issues and provide ideas to work on outside of the session. Children often see me for stress management techniques to utilize at school and home; and I teach them techniques to help increase focus and concentration."
"I work with adults, children and adolescents. I often work with relationship, marital and family issues. I help couples with communication issues and provide ideas to work on outside of the session. Children often see me for stress management techniques to utilize at school and home; and I teach them techniques to help increase focus and concentration."
(317) 891-5894 View (317) 891-5894
Photo of Heather R Meyer, Marriage & Family Therapist in Indianapolis, IN
Heather R Meyer
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46260
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist providing in-person and virtual therapy to youth and adults. My goal as a therapist is to build connections within the family structure while aligning with individual client goals. It is important to me that my clients feel safe in treatment regardless of background, orientation, and family structure. I enjoy working with adolescents through young adults experiencing trauma, anxiety, and depression. I also work with couples who are wanting to reconnect within their relationship.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist providing in-person and virtual therapy to youth and adults. My goal as a therapist is to build connections within the family structure while aligning with individual client goals. It is important to me that my clients feel safe in treatment regardless of background, orientation, and family structure. I enjoy working with adolescents through young adults experiencing trauma, anxiety, and depression. I also work with couples who are wanting to reconnect within their relationship.
(317) 458-9631 View (317) 458-9631
Photo of Maryann Shepard, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Indianapolis, IN
Maryann Shepard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMFT, CEAP, SAP, MAC
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46220
Hi! Thank you for reviewing my practice information; I have worked for many years helping individuals and families. Over the years, I have often heard that my clients are tired, lost and just feel empty. And many times, there's also marital or family conflict. I, also, work with clients that feel that their work is no longer satisfying or enjoyable. Let's talk about all these issues, and find some solutions and start feeling hopeful and excited about your life again. My office hours are flexible; I try to see clients right away. I wish you the best, Maryann
Hi! Thank you for reviewing my practice information; I have worked for many years helping individuals and families. Over the years, I have often heard that my clients are tired, lost and just feel empty. And many times, there's also marital or family conflict. I, also, work with clients that feel that their work is no longer satisfying or enjoyable. Let's talk about all these issues, and find some solutions and start feeling hopeful and excited about your life again. My office hours are flexible; I try to see clients right away. I wish you the best, Maryann
(317) 751-2973 View (317) 751-2973
Photo of Compassion Helplines,Inc dba BetterLiving Min Inc., Pastoral Counselor in Indianapolis, IN
Compassion Helplines,Inc dba BetterLiving Min Inc.
Pastoral Counselor, PhD , NCCA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46256  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
We provide individual, marriage, family, pre-marital, and group counseling.
Dr. Joyce L. [Brock] Griffith is the president of COMPASSION HELPLINES, Inc. a Faith-based Counseling Center serving the community since 1994. Our Motto: “We are reaching the C.O.R.E of the individual’s problems with biblical solutions through Counseling, Outreach, Referrals, and Education. Our mission is to support family life from a Christian perspective through all of its phases. Our vision is to minister to individuals, families, and groups in need of Christian/biblical counseling as a result of experiencing anxiety, depression, self-doubt, grief & loss, and other emotional issues as they face life's challenges.
We provide individual, marriage, family, pre-marital, and group counseling.
Dr. Joyce L. [Brock] Griffith is the president of COMPASSION HELPLINES, Inc. a Faith-based Counseling Center serving the community since 1994. Our Motto: “We are reaching the C.O.R.E of the individual’s problems with biblical solutions through Counseling, Outreach, Referrals, and Education. Our mission is to support family life from a Christian perspective through all of its phases. Our vision is to minister to individuals, families, and groups in need of Christian/biblical counseling as a result of experiencing anxiety, depression, self-doubt, grief & loss, and other emotional issues as they face life's challenges.
(317) 932-8234 View (317) 932-8234
Photo of Marli Piercy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Indianapolis, IN
Marli Piercy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46220
Paul and a Masters of Arts degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Indiana Wesleyan University.
Life can become overwhelming at times. We may be struggling with our spouse/partner, or our family relationships and feel like we are stuck in an endless loop of fights and frustrations. We need someone to walk alongside us in our journey and help us to get off the merry-go-round. I believe that within each of us exists strengths and resources that once discovered, we can use to bring transformation to our lives and our relationships. My desire as a therapist is to support you in your journey and provide a safe place to share your hurts and discover your strengths.
Paul and a Masters of Arts degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Indiana Wesleyan University.
Life can become overwhelming at times. We may be struggling with our spouse/partner, or our family relationships and feel like we are stuck in an endless loop of fights and frustrations. We need someone to walk alongside us in our journey and help us to get off the merry-go-round. I believe that within each of us exists strengths and resources that once discovered, we can use to bring transformation to our lives and our relationships. My desire as a therapist is to support you in your journey and provide a safe place to share your hurts and discover your strengths.
(317) 659-8115 View (317) 659-8115
Photo of Amanda Stevens, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Indianapolis, IN
Amanda Stevens
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46220
I work with individuals, couples, and families through a variety of challenges (including but not limited to) low self-esteem or self-worth, communication struggles, feelings of anxiety, depression, or disconnection, couple concerns, pre-marital framework, career, identity, or lifestyle transitions, and living and/or loving in the time of COVID.
I’m an open and affirming therapist, always striving toward cultural competency while living into cultural humility. I see and honor you, the client, with acceptance and grace, while collaborating with you to facilitate the growth and change you seek. I can imagine it may not feel like it, but I believe you are ultimately the expert in your own life, and through conversation we can discover and uncover the answers lying in wait for you to move forward differently.
I work with individuals, couples, and families through a variety of challenges (including but not limited to) low self-esteem or self-worth, communication struggles, feelings of anxiety, depression, or disconnection, couple concerns, pre-marital framework, career, identity, or lifestyle transitions, and living and/or loving in the time of COVID.
I’m an open and affirming therapist, always striving toward cultural competency while living into cultural humility. I see and honor you, the client, with acceptance and grace, while collaborating with you to facilitate the growth and change you seek. I can imagine it may not feel like it, but I believe you are ultimately the expert in your own life, and through conversation we can discover and uncover the answers lying in wait for you to move forward differently.
(317) 434-0197 View (317) 434-0197
Photo of Annie Harton, Marriage & Family Therapist in Indianapolis, IN
Annie Harton
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46205
I have great respect for marriage and enjoy working with dating, engaged, and married couples.
Are you feeling lonely in your relationship? Are you lacking meaning in your daily life? Have you been having the same arguments over and over again? Do you feel disconnected from yourself and/or others? Are you looking for someone to hear your story? I would love to have that honor and carry the hope for you until you can pick it back up again. We are given the gift of one another in our marital and family relationships to love and support us through our daily journey. We are part of a system that forms and challenges us. I can help you improve communication, intimacy, and family interaction while working through emotions.
I have great respect for marriage and enjoy working with dating, engaged, and married couples.
Are you feeling lonely in your relationship? Are you lacking meaning in your daily life? Have you been having the same arguments over and over again? Do you feel disconnected from yourself and/or others? Are you looking for someone to hear your story? I would love to have that honor and carry the hope for you until you can pick it back up again. We are given the gift of one another in our marital and family relationships to love and support us through our daily journey. We are part of a system that forms and challenges us. I can help you improve communication, intimacy, and family interaction while working through emotions.
(317) 953-5240 View (317) 953-5240
Photo of Katherine Turner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Indianapolis, IN
Katherine Turner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46240
) My areas of practice specialty include individual and marital/couples therapy, sex therapy, life stages and transitions, and men/women's health issues along the life cycle.
I believe the process of therapy will help you clarify your feelings, understand yourself and others, explore options, and make changes in your life. My orientation as a therapist is both psychodynamic and interactive--gaining an understanding of your past to enhance your future. I consider self-knowledge and self-acceptance the best ways to overcome challenges encountered throughout life. Therapy should be tailored to a client's needs as no two people are alike, therefore I employ a variety of theories, techniques, and practices which customize treatment to the uniqueness of each individual.
) My areas of practice specialty include individual and marital/couples therapy, sex therapy, life stages and transitions, and men/women's health issues along the life cycle.
I believe the process of therapy will help you clarify your feelings, understand yourself and others, explore options, and make changes in your life. My orientation as a therapist is both psychodynamic and interactive--gaining an understanding of your past to enhance your future. I consider self-knowledge and self-acceptance the best ways to overcome challenges encountered throughout life. Therapy should be tailored to a client's needs as no two people are alike, therefore I employ a variety of theories, techniques, and practices which customize treatment to the uniqueness of each individual.
(317) 443-9593 View (317) 443-9593
Photo of Susie Ross, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Indianapolis, IN
Susie Ross
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46216
I have 20 plus years' experience providing mental health therapy for a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, trauma, mood disorders, personality disorders, grief and loss, stages of life events, family relations and marriage counseling.
It is my belief that mental health is an important part of our overall health. I strive to create a judgement free environment where you can feel free and at ease talking about any issues, concerns or goals you have. I will meet you where you are, believing each of you are the expert of your own life.
I have 20 plus years' experience providing mental health therapy for a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, trauma, mood disorders, personality disorders, grief and loss, stages of life events, family relations and marriage counseling.
It is my belief that mental health is an important part of our overall health. I strive to create a judgement free environment where you can feel free and at ease talking about any issues, concerns or goals you have. I will meet you where you are, believing each of you are the expert of your own life.
(317) 779-3124 View (317) 779-3124
Photo of Hazel Owens, Marriage & Family Therapist in Indianapolis, IN
Hazel Owens
Marriage & Family Therapist, MDiv, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46220
Waitlist for new clients
I work with individuals, couples, and families through a variety of pit stops on their journey towards healing, that include but are not limited to: Pre-marital Counseling, Complexities in Dating, Childhood Trauma/Wounds, Marital Concerns, Anxiety, Depression, Faith & Spirituality concerns/hurts, Life Adjustments, & Racial Trauma/Identity Concerns.
Sometimes the journey of life can take us to places where we don’t want to be. That place can leave us feeling scared, isolated, anxious, hurt, traumatized, and disconnected from those we care about. It is a complete joy and honor to work with individuals and couples as they face these difficulties or are being proactive in ways to navigate the places where life may take them. I believe the client is the expert of their own life and I get to help them navigate the complexities of life and relationships.
I work with individuals, couples, and families through a variety of pit stops on their journey towards healing, that include but are not limited to: Pre-marital Counseling, Complexities in Dating, Childhood Trauma/Wounds, Marital Concerns, Anxiety, Depression, Faith & Spirituality concerns/hurts, Life Adjustments, & Racial Trauma/Identity Concerns.
Sometimes the journey of life can take us to places where we don’t want to be. That place can leave us feeling scared, isolated, anxious, hurt, traumatized, and disconnected from those we care about. It is a complete joy and honor to work with individuals and couples as they face these difficulties or are being proactive in ways to navigate the places where life may take them. I believe the client is the expert of their own life and I get to help them navigate the complexities of life and relationships.
(317) 754-2991 View (317) 754-2991

See more therapy options for Indianapolis

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.