Photo of Zach Linder, Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate in 80525, CO
Zach Linder
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Collins, CO 80525
Zach Linder has a Master of Science Degree in Mental Health Counseling, with a concentration in Marriage and Family Therapy, from John Brown University.
Life is filled with hopes and expectations that lead to our greatest joys and deepest pain. The tricky part is that the things we value the most can cause us the greatest pain and suffering. Where there is pain, there can be healing, and where there are ashes, new life can be made. Zach Linder believes that the context of the past, the experience in the present, and the hopes and goals of the future are all essential parts of using our deepest suffering to move into and live our greatest joys. Zach’s clients experience him joining them where they are and walking with them step by step on the journey to where they want to be.
Zach Linder has a Master of Science Degree in Mental Health Counseling, with a concentration in Marriage and Family Therapy, from John Brown University.
Life is filled with hopes and expectations that lead to our greatest joys and deepest pain. The tricky part is that the things we value the most can cause us the greatest pain and suffering. Where there is pain, there can be healing, and where there are ashes, new life can be made. Zach Linder believes that the context of the past, the experience in the present, and the hopes and goals of the future are all essential parts of using our deepest suffering to move into and live our greatest joys. Zach’s clients experience him joining them where they are and walking with them step by step on the journey to where they want to be.
(970) 548-3369 View (970) 548-3369
Photo of LightHouse WholeHealth Therapy Center, Licensed Professional Counselor in 80525, CO
LightHouse WholeHealth Therapy Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MFT
Verified Verified
Fort Collins, CO 80525
LightHouse WholeHealth offers modalities that include Marriage and Family Systems, EMDR, TF-CBT (trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy), CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy), DBT (dialectical behavioral therapy), Behavioral, Attachment and Emotion Focused Therapy, Anger Management, Solution Focused Therapy, Trauma Systems Therapy, Play Therapy & groups.
Jennifer is the founder and co-owner of LIghtHouse WholeHealth Therapy Center. We accept insurance, FSA/HSA, credit cards and cash. We are currently taking new patients! She started practicing in 2009. Before this she was in education for 12 years. She specializes in trauma, individual, couples and family therapy. She treats individuals, children, couples and families. She has experience working in outpatient, crisis intervention, foster, adoption, family systems, premarital, marital, perinatal and postnatal and intensive in home therapy and group therapy. www.lhhealththerapies.com.
LightHouse WholeHealth offers modalities that include Marriage and Family Systems, EMDR, TF-CBT (trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy), CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy), DBT (dialectical behavioral therapy), Behavioral, Attachment and Emotion Focused Therapy, Anger Management, Solution Focused Therapy, Trauma Systems Therapy, Play Therapy & groups.
Jennifer is the founder and co-owner of LIghtHouse WholeHealth Therapy Center. We accept insurance, FSA/HSA, credit cards and cash. We are currently taking new patients! She started practicing in 2009. Before this she was in education for 12 years. She specializes in trauma, individual, couples and family therapy. She treats individuals, children, couples and families. She has experience working in outpatient, crisis intervention, foster, adoption, family systems, premarital, marital, perinatal and postnatal and intensive in home therapy and group therapy. www.lhhealththerapies.com.
(970) 592-5832 View (970) 592-5832
Photo of Alex Murphy, Licensed Professional Counselor in 80525, CO
Alex Murphy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LAC, ADS
Verified Verified
Fort Collins, CO 80525
Currently, I work and specialize in bringing healing to people suffering from chronic pain, trauma, depression, anxiety, relational/marital stress, life transitions, and addiction (behavioral and substance related).
You matter and your unique story matters. Together we will work to unearth the issues contributing to your pain and chart a path forward. Along the way we'll also discover your strengths that will aid you in healing. Depression, anxiety, and other issues are not the end of the road. There is hope and we will work toward that hope.
Currently, I work and specialize in bringing healing to people suffering from chronic pain, trauma, depression, anxiety, relational/marital stress, life transitions, and addiction (behavioral and substance related).
You matter and your unique story matters. Together we will work to unearth the issues contributing to your pain and chart a path forward. Along the way we'll also discover your strengths that will aid you in healing. Depression, anxiety, and other issues are not the end of the road. There is hope and we will work toward that hope.
(970) 451-0870 View (970) 451-0870
Photo of Lisa Wallace, Licensed Professional Counselor in 80525, CO
Lisa Wallace
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Fort Collins, CO 80525
Counseling since 2002, I have experience with adults/couples/families/teens and children dealing with anxiety, depression, anger, adoption, communication, marital issues, PTSD, grief and loss, parenting, blended families, divorce, sexuality, and adjusting to life changes.
Life can be complicated for different reasons. Sometimes more support can help. At any age, life can be overwhelming, negative behaviors can persist, relationships trapped in hurtful patterns, or inner worlds caught in negative thinking which stretch our coping, and cause stress. In all this WE WANT TO FEEL BETTER! Counseling offers a private, confidential space to get help. It is an honor to listen and join in your life story. I work with adults/couples/families/teens and children, listening to your goals to bring balance, health, wellness, peace and more happiness.
Counseling since 2002, I have experience with adults/couples/families/teens and children dealing with anxiety, depression, anger, adoption, communication, marital issues, PTSD, grief and loss, parenting, blended families, divorce, sexuality, and adjusting to life changes.
Life can be complicated for different reasons. Sometimes more support can help. At any age, life can be overwhelming, negative behaviors can persist, relationships trapped in hurtful patterns, or inner worlds caught in negative thinking which stretch our coping, and cause stress. In all this WE WANT TO FEEL BETTER! Counseling offers a private, confidential space to get help. It is an honor to listen and join in your life story. I work with adults/couples/families/teens and children, listening to your goals to bring balance, health, wellness, peace and more happiness.
(970) 237-6166 View (970) 237-6166
Photo of Brook Bretthauer, Marriage & Family Therapist in 80525, CO
Brook Bretthauer
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EMDR, PACT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Fort Collins, CO 80525
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist and work with people from many different backgrounds.
I am glad you are searching for a therapist to help you with whatever life issue(s) you may be struggling with. Finding someone you feel safe and comfortable with is vital when deciding on a therapist. As part of my practice, I strive to create a secure and nurturing environment where you can share concerns and vulnerabilities while also making progress toward goals and the changes you would like to have happen in your life.
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist and work with people from many different backgrounds.
I am glad you are searching for a therapist to help you with whatever life issue(s) you may be struggling with. Finding someone you feel safe and comfortable with is vital when deciding on a therapist. As part of my practice, I strive to create a secure and nurturing environment where you can share concerns and vulnerabilities while also making progress toward goals and the changes you would like to have happen in your life.
(970) 323-3036 View (970) 323-3036
Photo of Emma A French, Licensed Professional Counselor in 80525, CO
Emma A French
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Fort Collins, CO 80525  (Online Only)
My formal education led me to specialize in marriage/couple, family, and systems counseling.
Accepting New Clients from both Idaho and Colorado! Hello, and Im happy to see you here! Considering counseling can be taking a big step and you might be looking for a change in your life, some general support, or wanting to solve a specific problem. No matter what it is you are here for, I am glad you are and I believe we can make space to work through anything!
My formal education led me to specialize in marriage/couple, family, and systems counseling.
Accepting New Clients from both Idaho and Colorado! Hello, and Im happy to see you here! Considering counseling can be taking a big step and you might be looking for a change in your life, some general support, or wanting to solve a specific problem. No matter what it is you are here for, I am glad you are and I believe we can make space to work through anything!
(208) 738-9106 View (208) 738-9106
Photo of Erica Hope, Psychologist in 80525, CO
Erica Hope
Psychologist, PhD, LP, EMDR
Verified Verified
Fort Collins, CO 80525
Do you feel overwhelmed, unhappy, or anxious? Are you grieving a loss or struggling with infertility? Maybe you are struggling with food, disordered eating or a negative body image. Are you looking to improve your relationships so you feel more at ease and satisfied in your life? Perhaps you are experiencing health issues that are impacting how you feel about yourself. Life can be difficult and sometimes we need someone outside our circle to listen, understand and support us through these challenges. If you are looking to make a change, I would be honored to assist you along your journey.
Do you feel overwhelmed, unhappy, or anxious? Are you grieving a loss or struggling with infertility? Maybe you are struggling with food, disordered eating or a negative body image. Are you looking to improve your relationships so you feel more at ease and satisfied in your life? Perhaps you are experiencing health issues that are impacting how you feel about yourself. Life can be difficult and sometimes we need someone outside our circle to listen, understand and support us through these challenges. If you are looking to make a change, I would be honored to assist you along your journey.
(970) 808-0144 View (970) 808-0144
Photo of Kaitlin Jones, Marriage & Family Therapist in 80525, CO
Kaitlin Jones
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS, EMDR, IFS
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Fort Collins, CO 80525  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
If you have found yourself at a crossroads in your life or relationship, then I am here to help. I am an individual, couple and family therapist specializing in trauma healing, self-esteem, and transitional difficulties treated both individually as well as in the context of a couple or family. I use a strengths-based approach to therapy and believe that people are geared toward healing and growth. While providing resources and tools for healing, I support clients on their journey towards health and well-being.
If you have found yourself at a crossroads in your life or relationship, then I am here to help. I am an individual, couple and family therapist specializing in trauma healing, self-esteem, and transitional difficulties treated both individually as well as in the context of a couple or family. I use a strengths-based approach to therapy and believe that people are geared toward healing and growth. While providing resources and tools for healing, I support clients on their journey towards health and well-being.
(970) 372-6785 View (970) 372-6785
Photo of Elizabeth Brandon, Marriage & Family Therapist in 80525, CO
Elizabeth Brandon
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CAS, CHT
Verified Verified
Fort Collins, CO 80525
Do you have a difficult childhood? Unfortunately, our childhood decisions are put on automatic and affect our current daily life. I teach practical skills, such as tapping, emotional skills and communication that can be used for the rest of your life. Alchemical Hypnotherapy is used to rescue the child that was you from your past. Then, the adult is empowered to set boundaries and focus on attaining personal goals. Energy Psychology (Thought Field Therapy) is useful to defuse patterns and trauma and as a daily tool. My desire is to promote independence in the people I work with. I have a large toolbox to give clients to use.
Do you have a difficult childhood? Unfortunately, our childhood decisions are put on automatic and affect our current daily life. I teach practical skills, such as tapping, emotional skills and communication that can be used for the rest of your life. Alchemical Hypnotherapy is used to rescue the child that was you from your past. Then, the adult is empowered to set boundaries and focus on attaining personal goals. Energy Psychology (Thought Field Therapy) is useful to defuse patterns and trauma and as a daily tool. My desire is to promote independence in the people I work with. I have a large toolbox to give clients to use.
(970) 718-2708 View (970) 718-2708
Photo of Polaris Partners Counseling and Consulting, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in 80525, CO
Polaris Partners Counseling and Consulting, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Fort Collins, CO 80525
Currently accepting new telehealth clients, Northern CO, Denver, Western Slope (CCHA, COAccess, RMHP) We at Polaris Partners help people chart a course to their full potential. Our staff has a breadth of training and expertise to help clients navigate life's obstacles and we build strong relationships to reach clients and connect them with sources of support and strength. We strive to be the community's first choice in collaborating with clients and their communities to help clients get their bearings and return to their true path. We look forward to partnering with you in the next steps of your journey toward optimum mental health.
Currently accepting new telehealth clients, Northern CO, Denver, Western Slope (CCHA, COAccess, RMHP) We at Polaris Partners help people chart a course to their full potential. Our staff has a breadth of training and expertise to help clients navigate life's obstacles and we build strong relationships to reach clients and connect them with sources of support and strength. We strive to be the community's first choice in collaborating with clients and their communities to help clients get their bearings and return to their true path. We look forward to partnering with you in the next steps of your journey toward optimum mental health.
(970) 579-4130 View (970) 579-4130
Photo of Shoshanna K. Shachtman, Licensed Professional Counselor in 80525, CO
Shoshanna K. Shachtman
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Fort Collins, CO 80525
My primary objective when clients begin counseling is to create a safe and nonjudgmental environment to speak openly. I believe in the progression of change and enjoy working with various challenges that life presents to us. I strive to use a collaborative style of counseling, focused on helping clients gain a sense of empowerment. My emphasis is on the importance of increasing insight and awareness, as well as strengthening one's relationships and support systems.
My primary objective when clients begin counseling is to create a safe and nonjudgmental environment to speak openly. I believe in the progression of change and enjoy working with various challenges that life presents to us. I strive to use a collaborative style of counseling, focused on helping clients gain a sense of empowerment. My emphasis is on the importance of increasing insight and awareness, as well as strengthening one's relationships and support systems.
(970) 341-2133 View (970) 341-2133
Photo of Lindy Pearson, Licensed Professional Counselor in 80525, CO
Lindy Pearson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Collins, CO 80525
My approach begins with the belief that the human experience is to know both joy and pain, & every variation of emotion in-between, often in the same moment. I believe that which has been wounded in relationship must be healed in relationship. In order for your true self to emerge it must be witnessed. Just as our deepest glory must be held, so too must our wounds. In these places we will engage a posture of curiosity of how those wounds have impacted your style of relating and the ways you have had to adapt to cope.
My approach begins with the belief that the human experience is to know both joy and pain, & every variation of emotion in-between, often in the same moment. I believe that which has been wounded in relationship must be healed in relationship. In order for your true self to emerge it must be witnessed. Just as our deepest glory must be held, so too must our wounds. In these places we will engage a posture of curiosity of how those wounds have impacted your style of relating and the ways you have had to adapt to cope.
(970) 672-7974 x704 View (970) 672-7974 x704
Photo of Ann-Marie Bowman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 80525, CO
Ann-Marie Bowman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDRII, OSW-C
Verified Verified
Fort Collins, CO 80525  (Online Only)
My work is dedicated to helping people develop healthy and satisfying lives and relationships. Though it can be difficult to make the decision to begin psychotherapy, I have found that those who have sought my help have achieved valuable results. I offer confidential psychotherapy for individuals, couples and families. I have an expertise of working with clients dealing with issues of depression, anxiety and trauma, along with learning to cope with relationship issues and managing through difficult life transitions. I am committed to helping you receive the services best suited for you.
My work is dedicated to helping people develop healthy and satisfying lives and relationships. Though it can be difficult to make the decision to begin psychotherapy, I have found that those who have sought my help have achieved valuable results. I offer confidential psychotherapy for individuals, couples and families. I have an expertise of working with clients dealing with issues of depression, anxiety and trauma, along with learning to cope with relationship issues and managing through difficult life transitions. I am committed to helping you receive the services best suited for you.
(503) 758-7478 View (503) 758-7478
Photo of Beyond the Mirror Counseling & Wellness, Licensed Professional Counselor in 80525, CO
Beyond the Mirror Counseling & Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Fort Collins, CO 80525
We are an inclusive and empowering team of practitioners that believe that you are more than just your symptoms and your diagnosis. We believe that mental health issues can arise when there is an imbalance or disruption in one or more areas of an individual's life. In order to address mental health concerns, it is important to take a holistic approach that addresses all of these potential areas of imbalance. ​ Our practitioners compassionately support our clients in identifying and addressing underlying causes , as well as making lifestyle changes to promote optimal health and wellbeing.
We are an inclusive and empowering team of practitioners that believe that you are more than just your symptoms and your diagnosis. We believe that mental health issues can arise when there is an imbalance or disruption in one or more areas of an individual's life. In order to address mental health concerns, it is important to take a holistic approach that addresses all of these potential areas of imbalance. ​ Our practitioners compassionately support our clients in identifying and addressing underlying causes , as well as making lifestyle changes to promote optimal health and wellbeing.
(970) 239-1939 View (970) 239-1939
Photo of Ruth Krug, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 80525, CO
Ruth Krug
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, RYT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fort Collins, CO 80525
Living with grief, trauma and stress can feel lonely and isolating. It can also show up as chronic pain, fatigue, sleeping, depression and anxiety. If you are looking to be proactive in your mental health healing, want to incorporate empowering coping skills and also have the desire to change patterns that no longer serve you, these therapy sessions can help you to integrate your stress and trauma in a way that allows you to feel embodied and whole again. I specialize in somatic therapy and using a mind-body connection to heal and integrate.
Living with grief, trauma and stress can feel lonely and isolating. It can also show up as chronic pain, fatigue, sleeping, depression and anxiety. If you are looking to be proactive in your mental health healing, want to incorporate empowering coping skills and also have the desire to change patterns that no longer serve you, these therapy sessions can help you to integrate your stress and trauma in a way that allows you to feel embodied and whole again. I specialize in somatic therapy and using a mind-body connection to heal and integrate.
(970) 762-2443 View (970) 762-2443
Photo of Lynsey Crevier, Pre-Licensed Professional in 80525, CO
Lynsey Crevier
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LPCC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Collins, CO 80525
My work is based on my passionate belief that we are created for deep and abiding relationships with one another. To be in relationship means to be authentic and be seen for who you are without fear of judgment. It is only within this type of environment that healing can flourish. Exposing brokenness enables me to tenderly walk alongside my clients in order to illicit redemptive restoration in their lives. Joining with clients on their journeys is an honor and privilege that is not taken lightly. Treatment is always tailored to the uniqueness of clients' struggles and strengths, being informed by evidenced based practices.
My work is based on my passionate belief that we are created for deep and abiding relationships with one another. To be in relationship means to be authentic and be seen for who you are without fear of judgment. It is only within this type of environment that healing can flourish. Exposing brokenness enables me to tenderly walk alongside my clients in order to illicit redemptive restoration in their lives. Joining with clients on their journeys is an honor and privilege that is not taken lightly. Treatment is always tailored to the uniqueness of clients' struggles and strengths, being informed by evidenced based practices.
(970) 507-4505 x708 View (970) 507-4505 x708
Photo of Mallory Hislar, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 80525, CO
Mallory Hislar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fort Collins, CO 80525
If you have ever experienced sexual assault, abuse, the loss of a loved one, or a toxic relationship you are already a survivor. You might feel really lost and alone, but you don't have to be. Oftentimes when people have been through significant traumas they continue through life thinking they will be fine, but they are continuously haunted by anxiety and depression. If you have experienced any of these traumatic situations you likely have also experienced narcissistic abuse within your family. This kind of trauma and abuse can make it difficult to function in healthy relationships as an adult. -now offering EMDR
If you have ever experienced sexual assault, abuse, the loss of a loved one, or a toxic relationship you are already a survivor. You might feel really lost and alone, but you don't have to be. Oftentimes when people have been through significant traumas they continue through life thinking they will be fine, but they are continuously haunted by anxiety and depression. If you have experienced any of these traumatic situations you likely have also experienced narcissistic abuse within your family. This kind of trauma and abuse can make it difficult to function in healthy relationships as an adult. -now offering EMDR
(970) 788-2781 View (970) 788-2781
Photo of Nicole Kucera, Counselor in 80525, CO
Nicole Kucera
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Collins, CO 80525
Nicole Kucera believes in creating a space where everyone can take a breath and be truly seen without judgment. Therapy is not a linear process, but when met with respect, dignity, and support, everyone can achieve their goals. Using a strength-based and client-centered approach, Nicole welcomes and encourages collaboration throughout the therapy journey. With bravery and perseverance everyone can dream, feel connected, and thrive.
Nicole Kucera believes in creating a space where everyone can take a breath and be truly seen without judgment. Therapy is not a linear process, but when met with respect, dignity, and support, everyone can achieve their goals. Using a strength-based and client-centered approach, Nicole welcomes and encourages collaboration throughout the therapy journey. With bravery and perseverance everyone can dream, feel connected, and thrive.
(970) 436-9781 View (970) 436-9781
Photo of Patrice A. Quadrel, LMFT, CACIII, Marriage & Family Therapist in 80525, CO
Patrice A. Quadrel, LMFT, CACIII
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CACIII
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Collins, CO 80525  (Online Only)
Have you ever thought of your Entire Life as being a web of relationships? I do. I see your life as having 4 Key Areas of Relationship: 1) With your SELF, 2) With OTHERS, 3) With local Community and the World, 4) And possibly, With Substances, or other Vices. When any 1 or more of these is stressful or out of balance, symptoms occur or worsen. Uncomfortable feelings of transition/change, anxiety, depression, grief, loss, internal or external conflict, feeling hopeless or stuck or angry, or alone, without support or solutions. The list goes on. It is my Mission to help you to feel rapid relief and to facilitate healing/change.
Have you ever thought of your Entire Life as being a web of relationships? I do. I see your life as having 4 Key Areas of Relationship: 1) With your SELF, 2) With OTHERS, 3) With local Community and the World, 4) And possibly, With Substances, or other Vices. When any 1 or more of these is stressful or out of balance, symptoms occur or worsen. Uncomfortable feelings of transition/change, anxiety, depression, grief, loss, internal or external conflict, feeling hopeless or stuck or angry, or alone, without support or solutions. The list goes on. It is my Mission to help you to feel rapid relief and to facilitate healing/change.
(970) 387-4259 View (970) 387-4259
Photo of Mallory Hislar, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 80525, CO
Mallory Hislar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fort Collins, CO 80525
Are you a woman facing painful sex, fertility problems, relationship struggles, or both? Do you have a health situation you don't feel like you can talk about because "you look fine"? Have you ever experienced a significant trauma or sexual assault? Do you have relationship issues that are affected by any of these things? Health problems and recovering from trauma is scary, then the way that people respond to them can make us feel like our problems are minimized and invalidated. This can make us feel alone, helpless, terrified, as well as frustrated with the responses of people around us. -now offering EMDR
Are you a woman facing painful sex, fertility problems, relationship struggles, or both? Do you have a health situation you don't feel like you can talk about because "you look fine"? Have you ever experienced a significant trauma or sexual assault? Do you have relationship issues that are affected by any of these things? Health problems and recovering from trauma is scary, then the way that people respond to them can make us feel like our problems are minimized and invalidated. This can make us feel alone, helpless, terrified, as well as frustrated with the responses of people around us. -now offering EMDR
(970) 548-9871 View (970) 548-9871
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.