Photo of Carol Barnaby, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 20814, MD
Carol Barnaby
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
I am a friendly straight forward person who believes in helping people to become "unstuck" from the problems that are holding them back from enjoying their lives. Do you suffer from anxiety? Are you struggling with being a new parent or parenting issues? Are you having a hard time making relationships work? Is your marriage in crisis? Are you suffering from a loss or grief? If you are nodding in response to these questions, then I can help you to feel better. Please contact me today to begin moving forward in your life.
I am a friendly straight forward person who believes in helping people to become "unstuck" from the problems that are holding them back from enjoying their lives. Do you suffer from anxiety? Are you struggling with being a new parent or parenting issues? Are you having a hard time making relationships work? Is your marriage in crisis? Are you suffering from a loss or grief? If you are nodding in response to these questions, then I can help you to feel better. Please contact me today to begin moving forward in your life.
(301) 852-7005 View (301) 852-7005
Photo of Margie Schlesinger, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 20814, MD
Margie Schlesinger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814  (Online Only)
I have expertise in: relationship/marital issues; anxiety; depression; grief and loss; trauma and PTSD; pregnancy loss and infertility; sexual abuse/assault; and narcissistic abuse.
Life can be difficult sometimes, but you never have to go through it alone. My strengths lie in the unique ability to connect with people by use of compassion and understanding; listening; humor; and therapeutic knowledge and skills. I have been working in the field for over 30 years and my heart is always filled with joy when I see and hear about my clients emotional growth and healing.
I have expertise in: relationship/marital issues; anxiety; depression; grief and loss; trauma and PTSD; pregnancy loss and infertility; sexual abuse/assault; and narcissistic abuse.
Life can be difficult sometimes, but you never have to go through it alone. My strengths lie in the unique ability to connect with people by use of compassion and understanding; listening; humor; and therapeutic knowledge and skills. I have been working in the field for over 30 years and my heart is always filled with joy when I see and hear about my clients emotional growth and healing.
(240) 255-9604 View (240) 255-9604
Photo of Diana Mayer, Marriage & Family Therapist in 20814, MD
Diana Mayer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LCMFT
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
I received my Bachelors in Psychology in Venezuela, and my Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy by the University of Rochester, NY.
I offer a strength base therapy approach focused on the possibilities for change. I help children, teens, adults and families get unstuck from unproductive patters of relation and practice more productive ways of communication. Being from Venezuela, and raising my own multicultural family, I am passionate by the challenges of meshing cultures to raise emphatic, tolerant and successful children and adolescents. I believe building and maintaining a successful family system requires the art of juggling. I help parents use their own resources to balance their many roles and coach kids and teens through their diverse relationships.
I received my Bachelors in Psychology in Venezuela, and my Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy by the University of Rochester, NY.
I offer a strength base therapy approach focused on the possibilities for change. I help children, teens, adults and families get unstuck from unproductive patters of relation and practice more productive ways of communication. Being from Venezuela, and raising my own multicultural family, I am passionate by the challenges of meshing cultures to raise emphatic, tolerant and successful children and adolescents. I believe building and maintaining a successful family system requires the art of juggling. I help parents use their own resources to balance their many roles and coach kids and teens through their diverse relationships.
(202) 793-7867 View (202) 793-7867
Photo of Sandra Cohen, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in 20814, MD
Sandra Cohen
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
I have practiced psychotherapy since 1991. I work with individuals, couples and families. Clients consult me for different reasons, such as feelings of depression, struggling with anxiety and adjustment to life changes. As a marriage and family therapist I see my clients in the context of their relationships. I pay special attention to the patterns of interaction, in order to help transform them and move forward.
I have practiced psychotherapy since 1991. I work with individuals, couples and families. Clients consult me for different reasons, such as feelings of depression, struggling with anxiety and adjustment to life changes. As a marriage and family therapist I see my clients in the context of their relationships. I pay special attention to the patterns of interaction, in order to help transform them and move forward.
(240) 377-0827 View (240) 377-0827
Photo of Toni Session, Counselor in 20814, MD
Toni Session
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814  (Online Only)
I am experienced in providing Marriage, Couples and Family Therapy and in crisis intervention with children ages 5-18 years old.
Hi there, I am Toni. One word used to describe me would be genuine. I am a therapist and life coach who is all about her client. My goal is to learn everything I can about you so I can help you become your best self. I practice from a person-centered approach with a focus in Solution Focused Therapy as well as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Also, by listening and building a therapeutic alliance with you. I incorporate techniques specifically catered to you. Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to work with you.
I am experienced in providing Marriage, Couples and Family Therapy and in crisis intervention with children ages 5-18 years old.
Hi there, I am Toni. One word used to describe me would be genuine. I am a therapist and life coach who is all about her client. My goal is to learn everything I can about you so I can help you become your best self. I practice from a person-centered approach with a focus in Solution Focused Therapy as well as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Also, by listening and building a therapeutic alliance with you. I incorporate techniques specifically catered to you. Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to work with you.
(240) 641-1047 View (240) 641-1047
Photo of Lisa McPherson Robinson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 20814, MD
Lisa McPherson Robinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, BCD, ATR, PhD
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
My specialty areas include: Complex trauma, loss/grief, depression, anxiety, alcoholism, dissociative disorder, PTSD, marital issues, separation/divorce, and sexual issues.
I have been in private practice for 43 years. I am a Board Certified Diplomate Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have two years of post graduate training in Family and Couples Therapy and six years of study in Sex Therapy. I completed a five month Intensive Trauma Certification Program. I try to create a safe non judgmental environment so that you can talk about your concerns. Psychotherapy allows you time to think about your life, where you are, and where you would like to be. I am a interactive and relational psychotherapist. I see young adults and adults for individual and couples psychotherapy.
My specialty areas include: Complex trauma, loss/grief, depression, anxiety, alcoholism, dissociative disorder, PTSD, marital issues, separation/divorce, and sexual issues.
I have been in private practice for 43 years. I am a Board Certified Diplomate Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have two years of post graduate training in Family and Couples Therapy and six years of study in Sex Therapy. I completed a five month Intensive Trauma Certification Program. I try to create a safe non judgmental environment so that you can talk about your concerns. Psychotherapy allows you time to think about your life, where you are, and where you would like to be. I am a interactive and relational psychotherapist. I see young adults and adults for individual and couples psychotherapy.
(301) 246-2885 View (301) 246-2885
Photo of Marie A. Murphy MS, MSW, BCPsa, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 20814, MD
Marie A. Murphy MS, MSW, BCPsa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, MSW, BCPsa, FIPA
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
I specialize in helping people suffering from depression, anxiety (mood disorders), early trauma, family or personal transitions, relationship concerns (including marital and/or family issues), psychosomatic issues, losses, and grief issues that are inevitable throughout our lives. I focus on understanding the underlying fears and blockages that interfere with more satisfaction and enjoyment in life--put another way, in thinking about our psychological lives and our states of mind, the past is prologue. I deeply value the uniqueness of each patient's experience and the importance of active and supportive collaboration in promoting growth and change.
I specialize in helping people suffering from depression, anxiety (mood disorders), early trauma, family or personal transitions, relationship concerns (including marital and/or family issues), psychosomatic issues, losses, and grief issues that are inevitable throughout our lives. I focus on understanding the underlying fears and blockages that interfere with more satisfaction and enjoyment in life--put another way, in thinking about our psychological lives and our states of mind, the past is prologue. I deeply value the uniqueness of each patient's experience and the importance of active and supportive collaboration in promoting growth and change.
(240) 447-7785 View (240) 447-7785
Photo of Dr. Thomas Luttrell, Marriage & Family Therapist in 20814, MD
Dr. Thomas Luttrell
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, LCMFT
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
Tired of the status quo? Stuck in a rut in your relationships, wellness, business, intimacy, or spirituality? I help align all parts of your life with your true authentic self. Together, we’ll secure genuine change through acceptance first. I'm Dr. Tom, and I'm licensed for independent practice as a Licensed Clinical Marriage and Family Therapist in California (LMFT 111604), the District of Columbia (LMFT200001211), and Maryland (LCMFT, LCM754), and am a professional coach across the U.S. I have provided therapy to individuals and families since 2007. I'm also happily married for over 15 years, and we have 2 young boys.
Tired of the status quo? Stuck in a rut in your relationships, wellness, business, intimacy, or spirituality? I help align all parts of your life with your true authentic self. Together, we’ll secure genuine change through acceptance first. I'm Dr. Tom, and I'm licensed for independent practice as a Licensed Clinical Marriage and Family Therapist in California (LMFT 111604), the District of Columbia (LMFT200001211), and Maryland (LCMFT, LCM754), and am a professional coach across the U.S. I have provided therapy to individuals and families since 2007. I'm also happily married for over 15 years, and we have 2 young boys.
(301) 945-7549 View (301) 945-7549
Photo of Mina Dadvar, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in 20814, MD
Mina Dadvar
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LPC , CAGS
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
Couples work is challenging and emotionally provocative. Feelings of frustration, pain, anger and discouragement alternating with relief, hopefulness, and excitement are common among couples who are trying to resolve their marital discord. Although each couple is unique the following principles hold true in treatment of the majority of partners. 1) A good marriage requires both spouses to psychologically separate from their family of origin and shift their primary love, loyalty to each other. An individual cannot fully participate in an interdepended relationship without being first an independent and autonomous person.
Couples work is challenging and emotionally provocative. Feelings of frustration, pain, anger and discouragement alternating with relief, hopefulness, and excitement are common among couples who are trying to resolve their marital discord. Although each couple is unique the following principles hold true in treatment of the majority of partners. 1) A good marriage requires both spouses to psychologically separate from their family of origin and shift their primary love, loyalty to each other. An individual cannot fully participate in an interdepended relationship without being first an independent and autonomous person.
(301) 530-4806 View (301) 530-4806
Photo of Dr. Jay Rhodes, Marriage & Family Therapist in 20814, MD
Dr. Jay Rhodes
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCMFT
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814  (Online Only)
My name is Dr. Jay Rhodes, and I am a board-certified, Licensed Clinical Marriage and Family Therapist in Maryland, and a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in other states as well. I have worked with clients from diverse backgrounds and cultures in various settings such as military bases, combat zones, hospitals, schools, embassies, consulates, to nonprofit homeless ministries. I have helped individuals, couples, families, children, adolescents, and groups deal with a wide range of issues such as anxiety, depression, traumatic stress, and relationships. I have helped others worldwide, I can help you.
My name is Dr. Jay Rhodes, and I am a board-certified, Licensed Clinical Marriage and Family Therapist in Maryland, and a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in other states as well. I have worked with clients from diverse backgrounds and cultures in various settings such as military bases, combat zones, hospitals, schools, embassies, consulates, to nonprofit homeless ministries. I have helped individuals, couples, families, children, adolescents, and groups deal with a wide range of issues such as anxiety, depression, traumatic stress, and relationships. I have helped others worldwide, I can help you.
(240) 716-6992 View (240) 716-6992
Photo of Mina Dadvar Klein, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in 20814, MD
Mina Dadvar Klein
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, CAGS, MS
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
In early 90’s I launched a weekly television program to address issues that Iranian-Americans struggle with- among them, acculturation, depression, anxiety, career choices, parenting, marital discord and the difficulties of being single/dating .
Individuals seek treatment because they are in pain. Facing one's own weaknesses is difficult and opening up even more so-particularly for people whose cultural background and/or family upbringing discourges transparency /self-disclosure. My priority is to create a safe environment where my clients may confront, accept and change aspects of their lives they consider shameful and/or self-destructive. I have been invited as a guest speaker by a number of organizations and regularly offer seminars and work shops on such themes as self-esteem,communication skills, stress management and the challenges of being married/single and dating
In early 90’s I launched a weekly television program to address issues that Iranian-Americans struggle with- among them, acculturation, depression, anxiety, career choices, parenting, marital discord and the difficulties of being single/dating .
Individuals seek treatment because they are in pain. Facing one's own weaknesses is difficult and opening up even more so-particularly for people whose cultural background and/or family upbringing discourges transparency /self-disclosure. My priority is to create a safe environment where my clients may confront, accept and change aspects of their lives they consider shameful and/or self-destructive. I have been invited as a guest speaker by a number of organizations and regularly offer seminars and work shops on such themes as self-esteem,communication skills, stress management and the challenges of being married/single and dating
(301) 530-4806 View (301) 530-4806
Photo of Rosario de Gregorio, Marriage & Family Therapist in 20814, MD
Rosario de Gregorio
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCMFT
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
I am a bilingual Marriage and Family Therapist I believe therapy can help individuals find new ways of functioning and increase self-knowledge that can help them move forward in life. Every crisis, obstacle and challenge in life can offer an opportunity for personal growth and self-discovery that can help us learn new things about ourselves. As an immigrant myself I know the individual and family challenges of living in a different culture. I enjoy working with immigrant families helping them navigate the benefits and challenges of living in a new culture.
I am a bilingual Marriage and Family Therapist I believe therapy can help individuals find new ways of functioning and increase self-knowledge that can help them move forward in life. Every crisis, obstacle and challenge in life can offer an opportunity for personal growth and self-discovery that can help us learn new things about ourselves. As an immigrant myself I know the individual and family challenges of living in a different culture. I enjoy working with immigrant families helping them navigate the benefits and challenges of living in a new culture.
(240) 233-4407 View (240) 233-4407
Photo of Global Psychotherapy Center of Bethesda, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in 20814, MD
Global Psychotherapy Center of Bethesda
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
You may benefit from participating in therapy in many ways: Attaining a better understanding of yourself, your goals, and values Developing skills for improving your relationships Finding resolution to the issues or concerns that led you to seek therapy Learning new ways to cope with stress and anxiety Managing anger, grief, depression, and other emotional pressures Improving communication and listening skills Changing old behavior patterns and developing new ones Discovering new ways to solve problems in your family or marriage Improving your self-esteem and boosting self-confidence .
We are a team of professionals with clinical expertise who love working together to provide the appropriate treatment in a compassionate, therapeutic environment. We provide services to the international community. Our goal is to provide high-quality psychotherapy and counseling treatment to individuals, couples, and families. We focus on helping our clients find their inner resources to be able to make changes in their lives in a healthy and meaningful way.
You may benefit from participating in therapy in many ways: Attaining a better understanding of yourself, your goals, and values Developing skills for improving your relationships Finding resolution to the issues or concerns that led you to seek therapy Learning new ways to cope with stress and anxiety Managing anger, grief, depression, and other emotional pressures Improving communication and listening skills Changing old behavior patterns and developing new ones Discovering new ways to solve problems in your family or marriage Improving your self-esteem and boosting self-confidence .
We are a team of professionals with clinical expertise who love working together to provide the appropriate treatment in a compassionate, therapeutic environment. We provide services to the international community. Our goal is to provide high-quality psychotherapy and counseling treatment to individuals, couples, and families. We focus on helping our clients find their inner resources to be able to make changes in their lives in a healthy and meaningful way.
(240) 823-5262 View (240) 823-5262
Photo of Dolores A. Acquista, Marriage & Family Therapist in 20814, MD
Dolores A. Acquista
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LCMFT
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814  (Online Only)
Thank you for visiting my profile! I am a Marriage & Family Therapist, & native of Bethesda, Maryland, with over 25 years experience working with individuals, families, & couples. My primary areas of interest include: relationship & marital counseling, family counseling, & solution-focused therapy. My approach is both engaging & encouraging, & my knowledge-base reflects my many years working in a variety of settings, including as a director in both inpatient and outpatient mental health agencies & substance abuse programs.
Thank you for visiting my profile! I am a Marriage & Family Therapist, & native of Bethesda, Maryland, with over 25 years experience working with individuals, families, & couples. My primary areas of interest include: relationship & marital counseling, family counseling, & solution-focused therapy. My approach is both engaging & encouraging, & my knowledge-base reflects my many years working in a variety of settings, including as a director in both inpatient and outpatient mental health agencies & substance abuse programs.
(301) 804-2732 View (301) 804-2732
Photo of Roxanna S Losada Radley, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in 20814, MD
Roxanna S Losada Radley
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
A clinical psychotherapist for over 30 years, I work extensively with individuals, couples, and families treating depression, anxiety, grief, and other emotional stressors. I have broad experience working with familial issues (e.g., balancing relationships, family, career, etc.) and specialize in couples and women facing critical decisions in their lives. This includes natural life transitions such as marriage, pregnancy, and menopause. Many of my clients come from or work in multicultural environments, and I help them to address many of the challenges that arise from living in another culture. [I am bilingual (Spanish/English)]
A clinical psychotherapist for over 30 years, I work extensively with individuals, couples, and families treating depression, anxiety, grief, and other emotional stressors. I have broad experience working with familial issues (e.g., balancing relationships, family, career, etc.) and specialize in couples and women facing critical decisions in their lives. This includes natural life transitions such as marriage, pregnancy, and menopause. Many of my clients come from or work in multicultural environments, and I help them to address many of the challenges that arise from living in another culture. [I am bilingual (Spanish/English)]
(301) 660-2366 View (301) 660-2366
Photo of Amy B Livingood, Psychologist in 20814, MD
Amy B Livingood
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
I work with adults and older adolescents who are dealing with anxiety and depression that interferes with their ability to maximize their progress at work and school and limits satisfying family and personal relationships. In addition, I find that life transitions can trigger emotional crises, but they also offer the opportunity for people to develop better strategies that can improve old patterns that have been unsuccessful in resolving problems in the past. Other areas of focus have included working on parenting strategies, marital relationships, grief and loss, and the impact of chronic illness on one's emotional life.
I work with adults and older adolescents who are dealing with anxiety and depression that interferes with their ability to maximize their progress at work and school and limits satisfying family and personal relationships. In addition, I find that life transitions can trigger emotional crises, but they also offer the opportunity for people to develop better strategies that can improve old patterns that have been unsuccessful in resolving problems in the past. Other areas of focus have included working on parenting strategies, marital relationships, grief and loss, and the impact of chronic illness on one's emotional life.
(301) 852-6194 View (301) 852-6194
Photo of Rachel A. Dack, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in 20814, MD
Rachel A. Dack
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814  (Online Only)
I am a passionate psychotherapist, specializing in relationship, dating, intimacy and marital issues, anxiety, depression, breakups and low self-esteem. My practice centers on supporting clients throughout life transitions and relationship stages/challenges. I am committed to working together to address issues interfering with life satisfaction and to help you achieve healthier, more rewarding relationships and greater awareness. I believe you possess what it takes to create the life you want and my role is to help you find, utilize and enhance your strengths and gain healthy coping skills to live an authentic and meaningful life.
I am a passionate psychotherapist, specializing in relationship, dating, intimacy and marital issues, anxiety, depression, breakups and low self-esteem. My practice centers on supporting clients throughout life transitions and relationship stages/challenges. I am committed to working together to address issues interfering with life satisfaction and to help you achieve healthier, more rewarding relationships and greater awareness. I believe you possess what it takes to create the life you want and my role is to help you find, utilize and enhance your strengths and gain healthy coping skills to live an authentic and meaningful life.
(301) 655-8462 View (301) 655-8462
Photo of Carolyn (Carrie) J Hansen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 20814, MD
Carolyn (Carrie) J Hansen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814
Workshops/Weekends: Finding my Soul Mate, Marriage-Love Forever, Remarriage/Stepparenting,Single Parenting, Rebuilding after Loss, - using education, healing and effective communication.
Do you want more happiness and success in your life? Do you want to reduce stress and have healthier relationships? Has it been hard getting what you want out of life and having people understand what's really on your mind and in your heart? Are those you love not being loving?. When the things we want the most seem out of reach, we can feel anxious, depressed and even angry. Learn to get more of what you want from life and feel more understood, respected, loved and successful Transform your life. WE CAN HELP AND WE DO!
Workshops/Weekends: Finding my Soul Mate, Marriage-Love Forever, Remarriage/Stepparenting,Single Parenting, Rebuilding after Loss, - using education, healing and effective communication.
Do you want more happiness and success in your life? Do you want to reduce stress and have healthier relationships? Has it been hard getting what you want out of life and having people understand what's really on your mind and in your heart? Are those you love not being loving?. When the things we want the most seem out of reach, we can feel anxious, depressed and even angry. Learn to get more of what you want from life and feel more understood, respected, loved and successful Transform your life. WE CAN HELP AND WE DO!
(301) 456-0137 View (301) 456-0137
Photo of Finding Clarity, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 20814, MD
Finding Clarity
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814
Your mental and emotional health is just as important as your physical health and well being. Just as you would see your primary doctor to maintain your physical health, counseling is here to help maintain your emotional health. I provide counseling to help individuals and their loved ones address various life issues including (but not limited to): Family and marital conflicts, Problems in school, Depression, family separation, Adoption issues, Feelings of anxiety or nervousness, child and adolescent behavioral issues and Addiction issues. Weekend sessions are available.
Your mental and emotional health is just as important as your physical health and well being. Just as you would see your primary doctor to maintain your physical health, counseling is here to help maintain your emotional health. I provide counseling to help individuals and their loved ones address various life issues including (but not limited to): Family and marital conflicts, Problems in school, Depression, family separation, Adoption issues, Feelings of anxiety or nervousness, child and adolescent behavioral issues and Addiction issues. Weekend sessions are available.
(571) 487-8254 x1001 View (571) 487-8254 x1001
Photo of Shae Travis, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in 20814, MD
Shae Travis
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814  (Online Only)
As a couples counselor, I offer a 6 hour pre-marital couples counseling course.
I spent many years as an educator in public schools and as a counselor. Now I have the privilege to devote my full time to mental health counseling. My focus is couples counseling, but I also offer services to help families and individuals navigate through life's challenges.
As a couples counselor, I offer a 6 hour pre-marital couples counseling course.
I spent many years as an educator in public schools and as a counselor. Now I have the privilege to devote my full time to mental health counseling. My focus is couples counseling, but I also offer services to help families and individuals navigate through life's challenges.
(240) 376-3377 View (240) 376-3377
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.