Marriage Counseling Therapists in 80111

Photo of Jordan Gonzales, Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate in 80111, CO
Jordan Gonzales
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, LPC, ADDC
Verified Verified
Jordan received her master’s degree in counseling with a concentration in marriage and family therapy from Southeastern Louisiana University.
Jordan has been practicing counseling since 2016, and has experience in community, non-profit, and private practice settings. She’s worked with teens and adults who have experienced trauma, life transitions, self-esteem concerns, depression and anxiety. Jordan is passionate about providing a safe space for clients to express and understand themselves. She uses a client-centered approach, along with expressive arts, CBT and solution-focused therapy to help clients reach their goals. Her approach is playful, creative, and empowering. She also has experience providing therapeutic support for members of the LBGTQIA+ community.
Jordan received her master’s degree in counseling with a concentration in marriage and family therapy from Southeastern Louisiana University.
Jordan has been practicing counseling since 2016, and has experience in community, non-profit, and private practice settings. She’s worked with teens and adults who have experienced trauma, life transitions, self-esteem concerns, depression and anxiety. Jordan is passionate about providing a safe space for clients to express and understand themselves. She uses a client-centered approach, along with expressive arts, CBT and solution-focused therapy to help clients reach their goals. Her approach is playful, creative, and empowering. She also has experience providing therapeutic support for members of the LBGTQIA+ community.
(720) 928-9332 View (720) 928-9332
Photo of Hilary Goulding, Marriage & Family Therapist in 80111, CO
Hilary Goulding
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hi, I’m Hilary, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I am so glad you are here. My passion is helping people finally feel relief from anxiety and worry with science-backed strategies that actually work. I help clients break the cycle of anxiety and worry, stop overthinking, decrease stress & burnout, heal their root causes of anxiety and learn effective coping skills. Anxiety does not have to run your life. Relief is possible! Start living your life with less anxiety and more JOY. You deserve it.
Hi, I’m Hilary, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I am so glad you are here. My passion is helping people finally feel relief from anxiety and worry with science-backed strategies that actually work. I help clients break the cycle of anxiety and worry, stop overthinking, decrease stress & burnout, heal their root causes of anxiety and learn effective coping skills. Anxiety does not have to run your life. Relief is possible! Start living your life with less anxiety and more JOY. You deserve it.
(720) 802-0213 View (720) 802-0213
Photo of Sarah Wells, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 80111, CO
Sarah Wells
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Centennial, CO 80111
My speciality is working with family issues, depression & anxiety, life impasses, ambiguous loss, grief and marital issues.
Are you feeling like you are faltering after having too many challenges? I see women & men who need support so they can manage the complications facing them. Often the vicissitudes of life catch up with us and we need support. I have experience with highly sensitive individuals, grief issues, neurodivergence, ADHD and other issues causing discord. Together, we figure out how to unwind traumas, diagnosis, losses or whatever has happened, to help you to take care of your self, gain perspective and feel better. I offer confidential, supportive, intelligent and thoughtful depth therapy so you can be at your best.
My speciality is working with family issues, depression & anxiety, life impasses, ambiguous loss, grief and marital issues.
Are you feeling like you are faltering after having too many challenges? I see women & men who need support so they can manage the complications facing them. Often the vicissitudes of life catch up with us and we need support. I have experience with highly sensitive individuals, grief issues, neurodivergence, ADHD and other issues causing discord. Together, we figure out how to unwind traumas, diagnosis, losses or whatever has happened, to help you to take care of your self, gain perspective and feel better. I offer confidential, supportive, intelligent and thoughtful depth therapy so you can be at your best.
(720) 821-6328 View (720) 821-6328
Photo of AT Family Therapy, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in 80111, CO
AT Family Therapy, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
If you are struggling in your marriage or feel like a failure as a parent, you are not alone.
I specialize in couple and family therapy and have helped save hundreds of relationships and marriages that were headed to divorce. Do you fight everyday with your partner and things escalate too fast? Do you feel insecure in your relationship due to betrayal or other past hurt? Does your sex life need a boost? Whatever challenge you face in your relationship, I can help. I will work with you and your partner to learn effective communication skills, improve conflict resolution skills, heal from past hurts and strengthen connection and intimacy. You and your partner will gain new insights that will bring your closer than ever!
If you are struggling in your marriage or feel like a failure as a parent, you are not alone.
I specialize in couple and family therapy and have helped save hundreds of relationships and marriages that were headed to divorce. Do you fight everyday with your partner and things escalate too fast? Do you feel insecure in your relationship due to betrayal or other past hurt? Does your sex life need a boost? Whatever challenge you face in your relationship, I can help. I will work with you and your partner to learn effective communication skills, improve conflict resolution skills, heal from past hurts and strengthen connection and intimacy. You and your partner will gain new insights that will bring your closer than ever!
(303) 900-7361 View (303) 900-7361
Photo of Collaborate Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist in 80111, CO
Collaborate Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, RPT, CST
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Centennial, CO 80111
Collaborate Counseling focuses on the individual, couple and family systems struggling with life transitions, trauma, sexual abuse, relational conflict, addictions, and reaching your ultimate goal in emotional, and psychological health. Anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD recovery are core to maintaining health, happiness and success in your relationships, including yourself. Carolyn offers the expertise as Licensed Marriage & Family Therapists, Certified Sex Therapists, Registered Play Therapists and a Trauma and addiction trained provider.
Collaborate Counseling focuses on the individual, couple and family systems struggling with life transitions, trauma, sexual abuse, relational conflict, addictions, and reaching your ultimate goal in emotional, and psychological health. Anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD recovery are core to maintaining health, happiness and success in your relationships, including yourself. Carolyn offers the expertise as Licensed Marriage & Family Therapists, Certified Sex Therapists, Registered Play Therapists and a Trauma and addiction trained provider.
(720) 784-6977 View (720) 784-6977
Photo of Rebecca M Knudsen, Marriage & Family Therapist in 80111, CO
Rebecca M Knudsen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, EMDR, SRT, PRT
Verified Verified
Centennial, CO 80111
Rebecca is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in both California and Colorado.
If you feel broken from betrayal, addiction, or shame, and are looking for healing for mind, body and soul, we are here to help. We are a team of therapists with rigorous training and experience in helping individuals and couples heal from infidelity, betrayal, and sexually compulsive behavior. We treat the whole person, including EMDR to heal trauma, yoga therapy to treat the trauma in your body, groups with like-minded individuals who want to heal, and therapists that are passionate, rigorously trained, and who love their clients. We know that healing is possible, and we know the path to help you get there.
Rebecca is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in both California and Colorado.
If you feel broken from betrayal, addiction, or shame, and are looking for healing for mind, body and soul, we are here to help. We are a team of therapists with rigorous training and experience in helping individuals and couples heal from infidelity, betrayal, and sexually compulsive behavior. We treat the whole person, including EMDR to heal trauma, yoga therapy to treat the trauma in your body, groups with like-minded individuals who want to heal, and therapists that are passionate, rigorously trained, and who love their clients. We know that healing is possible, and we know the path to help you get there.
(720) 674-7897 View (720) 674-7897
Photo of Jenny Emerson, Marriage and Family Therapist Candidate in 80111, CO
Jenny Emerson
Marriage and Family Therapist Candidate, MA, MFTC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Centennial, CO 80111
I have personal and clinical experience with many issues including marriage, parenting, divorce, grief/loss, career transitions, co-parenting, blended families, high-conflict situations, sex /intimacy, and supporting LGBTQIA+ families.
Are you caught in recurring negative and frustrating patterns within your relationship(s)? Do you find it challenging to engage in difficult but important conversations with loved ones? Are you yearning for a shift in how conflicts are navigated so they don't further hurt your relationship? If you or a family member, answered yes to any of the previous questions, you do not have to struggle alone with these issues or wait until a crisis. There is hope! Relationships are hard, take work, and are impacted by experiences. It's possible to change patterns and then repair hurt to create hope, emotional safety, calmness, and connection.
I have personal and clinical experience with many issues including marriage, parenting, divorce, grief/loss, career transitions, co-parenting, blended families, high-conflict situations, sex /intimacy, and supporting LGBTQIA+ families.
Are you caught in recurring negative and frustrating patterns within your relationship(s)? Do you find it challenging to engage in difficult but important conversations with loved ones? Are you yearning for a shift in how conflicts are navigated so they don't further hurt your relationship? If you or a family member, answered yes to any of the previous questions, you do not have to struggle alone with these issues or wait until a crisis. There is hope! Relationships are hard, take work, and are impacted by experiences. It's possible to change patterns and then repair hurt to create hope, emotional safety, calmness, and connection.
(720) 734-4520 View (720) 734-4520
Photo of Camille L. Reich, Marriage & Family Therapist in 80111, CO
Camille L. Reich
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT).
True Happiness and Stability Stems from the Quality of our Significant Relationships! I work from a strength-based, solution-focused, and systemic or relational orientation, all are evidence-based approaches. I focus on people's strengths and possibilities while addressing their real life difficulties. I also practice child-centered play therapy and provide personality, relationship (couple) and career assessments. I believe in a holistic approach to the therapeutic process that incorporates biological, psychological, social, and spiritual dimensions empowering a person or family towards mastering life to its fullest. I look forward to consulting with you!
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT).
True Happiness and Stability Stems from the Quality of our Significant Relationships! I work from a strength-based, solution-focused, and systemic or relational orientation, all are evidence-based approaches. I focus on people's strengths and possibilities while addressing their real life difficulties. I also practice child-centered play therapy and provide personality, relationship (couple) and career assessments. I believe in a holistic approach to the therapeutic process that incorporates biological, psychological, social, and spiritual dimensions empowering a person or family towards mastering life to its fullest. I look forward to consulting with you!
(303) 479-4296 View (303) 479-4296
Photo of Virginia (Ginger) Inmon, Licensed Professional Counselor in 80111, CO
Virginia (Ginger) Inmon
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Centennial, CO 80111
3 years post graduate education in a marriage and family training institute.
I provide psychotherapy and counseling to adults, couples and families, and have extensive training in couples work and grief therapy (including traumatic loss and loss after a suicide). I draw primarily from a Psychodynamic approach to therapy but have training in a variety of modalities, including EMDR and Brainspotting, specialized grief therapy, DBT, family systems, IFS, trauma therapy, and Imago couples therapy, so as to be able to meet my clients where they are and with what might best attend to their issues.
3 years post graduate education in a marriage and family training institute.
I provide psychotherapy and counseling to adults, couples and families, and have extensive training in couples work and grief therapy (including traumatic loss and loss after a suicide). I draw primarily from a Psychodynamic approach to therapy but have training in a variety of modalities, including EMDR and Brainspotting, specialized grief therapy, DBT, family systems, IFS, trauma therapy, and Imago couples therapy, so as to be able to meet my clients where they are and with what might best attend to their issues.
(720) 440-2750 View (720) 440-2750
Photo of Erin Chelgren, Marriage and Family Therapist Candidate in 80111, CO
Erin Chelgren
Marriage and Family Therapist Candidate, MS, MFTC
Verified Verified
Accepting new clients now. If you're not feeling heard or understood in your relationship or marriage, I want to help. With my advanced training in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and EMDR, I help couples identify and transform the root of the communication issues that keep them stuck in distress. Both partners will learn to express their emotions and unmet needs in an effective way that sparks intimate connection and joy. I am passionate about working with couples experiencing anxiety, depression, betrayal trauma, transitions, parenthood, and symptoms of trauma.
Accepting new clients now. If you're not feeling heard or understood in your relationship or marriage, I want to help. With my advanced training in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and EMDR, I help couples identify and transform the root of the communication issues that keep them stuck in distress. Both partners will learn to express their emotions and unmet needs in an effective way that sparks intimate connection and joy. I am passionate about working with couples experiencing anxiety, depression, betrayal trauma, transitions, parenthood, and symptoms of trauma.
(720) 807-7358 View (720) 807-7358
Photo of Harley Cantor, Marriage & Family Therapist in 80111, CO
Harley Cantor
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFTC
Verified Verified
The Stratford Clinic currently has availability for couples, families, and individuals both in-person or via telehealth! I am originally from the United Kingdom, but have lived in the U.S. for over a decade and focus on working with couples and families, but also work with individuals. As a Marriage and Family Therapist, my systemic training informs my expertise in the fundamental dynamics of all types of relationships.
The Stratford Clinic currently has availability for couples, families, and individuals both in-person or via telehealth! I am originally from the United Kingdom, but have lived in the U.S. for over a decade and focus on working with couples and families, but also work with individuals. As a Marriage and Family Therapist, my systemic training informs my expertise in the fundamental dynamics of all types of relationships.
(720) 915-4618 View (720) 915-4618
Photo of Tiffany Van Deren, Licensed Professional Counselor in 80111, CO
Tiffany Van Deren
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
I believe counseling can assist in personal growth, interpersonal relationships, family concerns, marriage issues, and interruptions of daily life.
Individuals, Couples and Families. True happiness and personal stability stems from the quality of our significant relationships! I work from a systemic or relational orientation as well as a strength-based & solution-focused perspective. My emphasis is on an individual's strengths and untapped potential while addressing their current daily challenges. I enjoy helping others identify their core values & redefining purpose in life that's relevant and relational. I believe in a holistic approach to the therapeutic process that incorporates psychological, social, and spiritual dimensions. I look forward to working with you to achieve your goals.
I believe counseling can assist in personal growth, interpersonal relationships, family concerns, marriage issues, and interruptions of daily life.
Individuals, Couples and Families. True happiness and personal stability stems from the quality of our significant relationships! I work from a systemic or relational orientation as well as a strength-based & solution-focused perspective. My emphasis is on an individual's strengths and untapped potential while addressing their current daily challenges. I enjoy helping others identify their core values & redefining purpose in life that's relevant and relational. I believe in a holistic approach to the therapeutic process that incorporates psychological, social, and spiritual dimensions. I look forward to working with you to achieve your goals.
(303) 816-8183 View (303) 816-8183
Photo of Katie Richardson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 80111, CO
Katie Richardson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
My passion is providing empathy, humor and nonjudgmental support to those struggling with life transitions they may be experiencing. I call it, "living a new normal." Whether it is a new medical diagnosis, the dissolution of a marriage/ relationship or the blending of families, I am here to help! By implementing solution focused techniques, you will begin to understand that transitions are the chapters in your life story. You have to close one in order to open the next.
My passion is providing empathy, humor and nonjudgmental support to those struggling with life transitions they may be experiencing. I call it, "living a new normal." Whether it is a new medical diagnosis, the dissolution of a marriage/ relationship or the blending of families, I am here to help! By implementing solution focused techniques, you will begin to understand that transitions are the chapters in your life story. You have to close one in order to open the next.
(720) 580-6623 View (720) 580-6623
Photo of Cynthia McKay, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in 80111, CO
Cynthia McKay
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, JD, MA, LAC
Verified Verified
Centennial, CO 80111
With many years as a therapist, I have found great success in helping others to manage and comprehend their complex trauma, addiction, marriage/divorce issues, family therapy and setting goals for success.
I am here to help you be the best version of yourself. You have already completed the most difficult task and that is to ask for help. If you are struggling with issues and feel powerless, know that there are people who love you and want to assist you in finding happiness in your life. I live authentically have the ability to help others to see their potential while guiding them to a more peaceful life. I specialize in families, stress, addiction, marriage and complex trauma. Helping people through previous trauma is what drives me. Guiding those who need to process and develop a healthier space in their life is my passion.
With many years as a therapist, I have found great success in helping others to manage and comprehend their complex trauma, addiction, marriage/divorce issues, family therapy and setting goals for success.
I am here to help you be the best version of yourself. You have already completed the most difficult task and that is to ask for help. If you are struggling with issues and feel powerless, know that there are people who love you and want to assist you in finding happiness in your life. I live authentically have the ability to help others to see their potential while guiding them to a more peaceful life. I specialize in families, stress, addiction, marriage and complex trauma. Helping people through previous trauma is what drives me. Guiding those who need to process and develop a healthier space in their life is my passion.
(720) 893-8639 View (720) 893-8639
Photo of CMH Counseling Services, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in 80111, CO
CMH Counseling Services, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCPS, EMDR
Verified Verified
My practice specializes in partners of an emotional or sexual betrayal which may lead to infidelity. If you have recently discovered your husband's excessive pornography use, you may be experiencing trauma from post traumatic stress, anxiety, sadness, or even anger that you doubt you can ever trust him again. Experiencing betrayal in your marriage is often a devastating, overwhelming and lonely experience. As the betrayed spouse, you may be experiencing an identity crisis leaving you doubting your marriage and yourself.
My practice specializes in partners of an emotional or sexual betrayal which may lead to infidelity. If you have recently discovered your husband's excessive pornography use, you may be experiencing trauma from post traumatic stress, anxiety, sadness, or even anger that you doubt you can ever trust him again. Experiencing betrayal in your marriage is often a devastating, overwhelming and lonely experience. As the betrayed spouse, you may be experiencing an identity crisis leaving you doubting your marriage and yourself.
(303) 536-8713 View (303) 536-8713
Photo of Denver Diabetes Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist in 80111, CO
Denver Diabetes Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
I have been a Type 1 Diabetic for over 36 years and I am also a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. Over the years, I have realized how little support there is for people living with and affected by Diabetes, Types 1 and 2. For that reason, I set up a counseling practice to do just that - support Diabetics and those close to them who may be dealing with issues such as depression, anxiety and/or needing better coping skills. For more information, check out my website: www.denverdiabetescounseling.com. I hope to meet and support you soon!
I have been a Type 1 Diabetic for over 36 years and I am also a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. Over the years, I have realized how little support there is for people living with and affected by Diabetes, Types 1 and 2. For that reason, I set up a counseling practice to do just that - support Diabetics and those close to them who may be dealing with issues such as depression, anxiety and/or needing better coping skills. For more information, check out my website: www.denverdiabetescounseling.com. I hope to meet and support you soon!
(720) 442-7514 View (720) 442-7514
Photo of Esra Nutku-Bilir, Licensed Professional Counselor in 80111, CO
Esra Nutku-Bilir
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Centennial, CO 80111
Welcome! I work with post traumatic stress disorder, depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, Bipolar disorders, stress and anxiety related with acute or chronic medical illnesses, developmental issues of adulthood, relationship conflicts, couple's counseling, marriage health and conflict, life transition issues such as stress during college, retirement, change that comes with adverse life events. Men's and women's developmental, family, work and relationship issues and Seniors are also my interest areas. I work with clients age between 15-95 years old.
Welcome! I work with post traumatic stress disorder, depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, Bipolar disorders, stress and anxiety related with acute or chronic medical illnesses, developmental issues of adulthood, relationship conflicts, couple's counseling, marriage health and conflict, life transition issues such as stress during college, retirement, change that comes with adverse life events. Men's and women's developmental, family, work and relationship issues and Seniors are also my interest areas. I work with clients age between 15-95 years old.
(720) 776-2016 View (720) 776-2016
Photo of Lisa Thomas, Marriage & Family Therapist in 80111, CO
Lisa Thomas
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCSW, LMFT, DAACS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
As a Licensed Marriage Therapist with a specialization in Sex Therapy for 20 years, I have the ability to address relationship and intimacy problems without bias and provide experienced solutions for love, sex and relationships. As a Relationship & Intimacy specialist, I can assist you with reorganizing your relationship with an outcome that is best for your couples style & for your family. We will improve communication, intimacy, and connection that will breathe life back into your relationship and rekindle the spark. I look forward to contributing to your success and teaching you the strategies for amazing intimacy.
As a Licensed Marriage Therapist with a specialization in Sex Therapy for 20 years, I have the ability to address relationship and intimacy problems without bias and provide experienced solutions for love, sex and relationships. As a Relationship & Intimacy specialist, I can assist you with reorganizing your relationship with an outcome that is best for your couples style & for your family. We will improve communication, intimacy, and connection that will breathe life back into your relationship and rekindle the spark. I look forward to contributing to your success and teaching you the strategies for amazing intimacy.
(720) 336-4388 View (720) 336-4388
Photo of Annette Nunez, Marriage & Family Therapist in 80111, CO
Annette Nunez
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, KAP
Verified Verified
Centennial, CO 80111
Hello! I am a family and marriage therapist licensed in Colorado with over 28 years of experience working as a psychotherapist and NOW offering Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including but not limited to anxiety, depression, grief, women's issues and coping with life transitions. My primary focus is to provide effective therapy to women who are going through life changes and struggle with self-esteem, stress, motivation, and confidence. Through CBT techniques I help my clients discover their self-worth and teach the importance of self-compassion, self-care, and self-love.
Hello! I am a family and marriage therapist licensed in Colorado with over 28 years of experience working as a psychotherapist and NOW offering Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including but not limited to anxiety, depression, grief, women's issues and coping with life transitions. My primary focus is to provide effective therapy to women who are going through life changes and struggle with self-esteem, stress, motivation, and confidence. Through CBT techniques I help my clients discover their self-worth and teach the importance of self-compassion, self-care, and self-love.
(720) 734-6323 View (720) 734-6323
New Reflections Counseling, Inc
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LMHC, LCSW
Verified Verified
New Reflections Counseling, Inc was founded in 2012 by Lisa Abrotsky who is committed to providing a better tomorrow for all individuals and families. A knowledgeable therapist providing assistance to individuals suffering from a variety of relational issues, such as anxiety, depression, family issues, and marital distress.
New Reflections Counseling, Inc was founded in 2012 by Lisa Abrotsky who is committed to providing a better tomorrow for all individuals and families. A knowledgeable therapist providing assistance to individuals suffering from a variety of relational issues, such as anxiety, depression, family issues, and marital distress.
(561) 867-3927 View (561) 867-3927
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.