Marriage Counseling Therapists in Tuscaloosa, AL

Photo of Kimberly Tubbs, Licensed Professional Counselor in Tuscaloosa, AL
Kimberly Tubbs
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
Kimberly Tubbs is a Licensed Professional Counselor with 10 years of counseling experience. Kim graduated from the University of Alabama in 2010 with a focus on marriage and family therapy and counselor education. Kimberly has worked in substance abuse settings, which provides her the opportunity to assist clients with a range of issues. Kimberly also has a background in juvenile justice, domestic violence, family therapy, anger management, and mood disorders. Kimberly prefers to approach therapy with the idea that the client is an expert in their own life and has the ultimate capacity for change.
Kimberly Tubbs is a Licensed Professional Counselor with 10 years of counseling experience. Kim graduated from the University of Alabama in 2010 with a focus on marriage and family therapy and counselor education. Kimberly has worked in substance abuse settings, which provides her the opportunity to assist clients with a range of issues. Kimberly also has a background in juvenile justice, domestic violence, family therapy, anger management, and mood disorders. Kimberly prefers to approach therapy with the idea that the client is an expert in their own life and has the ultimate capacity for change.
(205) 927-4703 View (205) 927-4703
Photo of Keith Parham, Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed Professional Counselor in Tuscaloosa, AL
Keith Parham, Licensed Professional Counselor
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tuscaloosa, AL 35404
COUNSELING : Marital - Relationship Problems - Depression - Anxiety- Recovery from Extra-Marital Affairs -Healing after Divorce ADHD - Grief - Post Traumatic Stress - Spiritual Issues - Christian Counseling - Substance Abuse and Codependency.
I hope you find what you're looking for among these listings. Neither I nor others listed here will have "all the answers". As a Counselor I am trained to help you through difficult circumstances. As a person, I have fallen, been restored, and thank God for His grace, in allowing me to join you in your healing. Online Scheduling for Counseling is available at www.keithparham.com. You can simply click "Website" (on the right <) to schedule an appointment, online.
COUNSELING : Marital - Relationship Problems - Depression - Anxiety- Recovery from Extra-Marital Affairs -Healing after Divorce ADHD - Grief - Post Traumatic Stress - Spiritual Issues - Christian Counseling - Substance Abuse and Codependency.
I hope you find what you're looking for among these listings. Neither I nor others listed here will have "all the answers". As a Counselor I am trained to help you through difficult circumstances. As a person, I have fallen, been restored, and thank God for His grace, in allowing me to join you in your healing. Online Scheduling for Counseling is available at www.keithparham.com. You can simply click "Website" (on the right <) to schedule an appointment, online.
(205) 687-0904 View (205) 687-0904
Photo of Michael King, Marriage & Family Therapist in Tuscaloosa, AL
Michael King
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
I'm deeply committed to the simple things that make therapy rewarding. I want people to leave my office feeling like they're important and worth being understood. Most of my clients are struggling with depression, anxiety, or a feeling of being stuck and frustrated in life. Together, we will work on gaining self-knowledge, improving functioning in life, and becoming more connected to what really matters to you. As a Marriage and Family Therapist, my primary focus is on pain and healing in the context of relationships - with others and yourself.
I'm deeply committed to the simple things that make therapy rewarding. I want people to leave my office feeling like they're important and worth being understood. Most of my clients are struggling with depression, anxiety, or a feeling of being stuck and frustrated in life. Together, we will work on gaining self-knowledge, improving functioning in life, and becoming more connected to what really matters to you. As a Marriage and Family Therapist, my primary focus is on pain and healing in the context of relationships - with others and yourself.
(205) 351-0223 View (205) 351-0223
Photo of Jared Emery, Counselor in Tuscaloosa, AL
Jared Emery
Counselor, LPC, NBCC
Verified Verified
Tuscaloosa, AL 35404
My specialties include: anxiety, depression, self-esteem, marital problems, effective parenting, emotion regulation, grief/loss, substance abuse, personal relationship difficulties, and life transitions.
Therapy evolves through collaboration between you and your therapist, creating a unique experience to meet your needs and achieve desired outcomes. My therapeutic approach is rooted in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, offering a practical, down-to-earth approach in which I help my clients achieve a greater sense of awareness, empowerment, and develop better solutions and strategies to face life’s challenges. I believe that as people become more aware and accepting of themselves, they are more capable of finding happiness and contentment in their lives.
My specialties include: anxiety, depression, self-esteem, marital problems, effective parenting, emotion regulation, grief/loss, substance abuse, personal relationship difficulties, and life transitions.
Therapy evolves through collaboration between you and your therapist, creating a unique experience to meet your needs and achieve desired outcomes. My therapeutic approach is rooted in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, offering a practical, down-to-earth approach in which I help my clients achieve a greater sense of awareness, empowerment, and develop better solutions and strategies to face life’s challenges. I believe that as people become more aware and accepting of themselves, they are more capable of finding happiness and contentment in their lives.
(205) 315-4662 View (205) 315-4662
Photo of Greer Jones, Marriage & Family Therapist in Tuscaloosa, AL
Greer Jones
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
Waitlist for new clients
Although my passion is addiction recovery, I work with clients and their families facing a myriad of issues: marital conflict, infidelity, anxiety, depression, grief and bereavement, life transitions, and substance abuse, to name a handful.
I love working with those who are ready to make a change in their lives. I think trust and comfort are the two most important factors when choosing a therapist. For real progress to happen, the therapist has to be a good fit for you. I think each client comes in with individual and specific challenges, meaning therapy has to be tailored to fit each client. I'd love to be able to take the time to figure out what is happening for you and what can be helpful in overcoming obstacles.
Although my passion is addiction recovery, I work with clients and their families facing a myriad of issues: marital conflict, infidelity, anxiety, depression, grief and bereavement, life transitions, and substance abuse, to name a handful.
I love working with those who are ready to make a change in their lives. I think trust and comfort are the two most important factors when choosing a therapist. For real progress to happen, the therapist has to be a good fit for you. I think each client comes in with individual and specific challenges, meaning therapy has to be tailored to fit each client. I'd love to be able to take the time to figure out what is happening for you and what can be helpful in overcoming obstacles.
(205) 512-2487 View (205) 512-2487
Photo of Greg Evans, Counselor in Tuscaloosa, AL
Greg Evans
Counselor, MDiv, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
PREPARE/ENRICH marriage inventory certified.
Down To Earth Counseling is a professional and caring environment for all who need help getting through life that can be painful and confusing. Greg has extensive training and experience working with anxiety, trauma, and family and relational challenges. He works with diverse populations, including victims of rape, incest, and combat -related PTSD. He works with issues including depression, fears/phobias, religious beliefs, and anger/unforgiveness. He offers premarital therapy, and works with couples in crisis. Finally, Greg walks through life with many "plain old people with plain old problems."
PREPARE/ENRICH marriage inventory certified.
Down To Earth Counseling is a professional and caring environment for all who need help getting through life that can be painful and confusing. Greg has extensive training and experience working with anxiety, trauma, and family and relational challenges. He works with diverse populations, including victims of rape, incest, and combat -related PTSD. He works with issues including depression, fears/phobias, religious beliefs, and anger/unforgiveness. He offers premarital therapy, and works with couples in crisis. Finally, Greg walks through life with many "plain old people with plain old problems."
(205) 610-9974 View (205) 610-9974
Photo of Gibson Therapy Services, LLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Tuscaloosa, AL
Gibson Therapy Services, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MSCE, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
John and Julia Gottman are experts in marriage and the marital relationship, having studied married couples for over 30 years.
I have had the opportunity to work as a mental health professional for over 15 years. Most of my focus in those years has been with children, youth and their families, helping both the young and their families to cope with various life situations or the affects of mental illness. I have begun to focus more on helping couples overcome obstacles that occur in their relationships, although I continue to see individuals of all ages.
John and Julia Gottman are experts in marriage and the marital relationship, having studied married couples for over 30 years.
I have had the opportunity to work as a mental health professional for over 15 years. Most of my focus in those years has been with children, youth and their families, helping both the young and their families to cope with various life situations or the affects of mental illness. I have begun to focus more on helping couples overcome obstacles that occur in their relationships, although I continue to see individuals of all ages.
(205) 490-2574 View (205) 490-2574
Photo of Savannah Brasher, Pre-Licensed Professional in Tuscaloosa, AL
Savannah Brasher
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, LMFTA, CFLE-P
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Tuscaloosa, AL 35406
As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I utilize a relational approach with all clients whether they be an individual, couple or family.
Hi! My name is Savannah and I am so happy to have you here. I am so proud that you are considering beginning the journey of therapy and working towards growth in your life. Therapy is a wonderful tool as it can create extravagant and meaningful change. Therapy can also be your "safe space,” a place where your most influential events, thoughts, and emotions are shared and processed. It can be scary and uncomfortable, however I believe that true growth occurs when we are challenging ourselves. If you are looking to focus on self-esteem, emotion regulation, relationships or connection, I would love to work with you.
As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I utilize a relational approach with all clients whether they be an individual, couple or family.
Hi! My name is Savannah and I am so happy to have you here. I am so proud that you are considering beginning the journey of therapy and working towards growth in your life. Therapy is a wonderful tool as it can create extravagant and meaningful change. Therapy can also be your "safe space,” a place where your most influential events, thoughts, and emotions are shared and processed. It can be scary and uncomfortable, however I believe that true growth occurs when we are challenging ourselves. If you are looking to focus on self-esteem, emotion regulation, relationships or connection, I would love to work with you.
(205) 831-8434 View (205) 831-8434
Photo of Robert W Montgomery, Marriage & Family Therapist in Tuscaloosa, AL
Robert W Montgomery
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
I am a licensed, clinical therapist who works with all sorts of people who are in emotional pain. Think issues like anxiety/worry, marriage/relationship dysfunction, depression, family conflicts, college challenges, addiction or anger. I am trained in many different ways of doing therapy. Forming a team approach is crucial and my primary goal for you is real and lasting change. Having a former 25-year career working for a Fortune 100 Company, I also bring real life experiences to the session. I treat emotional trauma through two specific and powerful therapies called IFS and EMDR.
I am a licensed, clinical therapist who works with all sorts of people who are in emotional pain. Think issues like anxiety/worry, marriage/relationship dysfunction, depression, family conflicts, college challenges, addiction or anger. I am trained in many different ways of doing therapy. Forming a team approach is crucial and my primary goal for you is real and lasting change. Having a former 25-year career working for a Fortune 100 Company, I also bring real life experiences to the session. I treat emotional trauma through two specific and powerful therapies called IFS and EMDR.
(205) 518-9590 View (205) 518-9590
Photo of Jenkins-Richardson & Associates LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Tuscaloosa, AL
Jenkins-Richardson & Associates LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
Anxiety, Depression, Grief/Loss, College Mental Health, Couples/Marriage/Family Counseling, Postpartum Therapy, Infertility Counseling, Play/Art Therapy and Sexual Abuse/Trauma Counseling.
Accepting New Clients! Jenkins-Richardson & Associates is a diverse practice of Licensed Counselors and Social Workers. We are also one of a few practices state-wide who has both a Registered Play/Art Therapist and a Certified Pastoral Counselor on staff. We provide in person counseling services in our Tuscaloosa offices and telehealth services to individuals residing in the state of Alabama. Our services include Individual counseling for ages 4+, Couples, Family, and Group Counseling. Our specialization areas are as follows:
Anxiety, Depression, Grief/Loss, College Mental Health, Couples/Marriage/Family Counseling, Postpartum Therapy, Infertility Counseling, Play/Art Therapy and Sexual Abuse/Trauma Counseling.
Accepting New Clients! Jenkins-Richardson & Associates is a diverse practice of Licensed Counselors and Social Workers. We are also one of a few practices state-wide who has both a Registered Play/Art Therapist and a Certified Pastoral Counselor on staff. We provide in person counseling services in our Tuscaloosa offices and telehealth services to individuals residing in the state of Alabama. Our services include Individual counseling for ages 4+, Couples, Family, and Group Counseling. Our specialization areas are as follows:
(205) 691-4385 View (205) 691-4385
Photo of Joshua Tubbs, Marriage & Family Therapist in Tuscaloosa, AL
Joshua Tubbs
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
I'm especially passionate about working with spiritual trauma and anxiety, but I’ve also worked with people going through depression, grief, marital issues, family issues, and all sorts of other situations.
Everyone has their own mountain to climb, and sometimes it gets more complicated than you prepare for. You may be bogged down in the past, struggling to keep up in the present, or fearful about your future. Whatever you’re going through, you found yourself here, hoping to make a change that can get you back on course. The good news is that there is hope! That change is possible, and you are capable of making it happen. We can work together to help you move past just getting by and start living a meaningful, satisfying life.
I'm especially passionate about working with spiritual trauma and anxiety, but I’ve also worked with people going through depression, grief, marital issues, family issues, and all sorts of other situations.
Everyone has their own mountain to climb, and sometimes it gets more complicated than you prepare for. You may be bogged down in the past, struggling to keep up in the present, or fearful about your future. Whatever you’re going through, you found yourself here, hoping to make a change that can get you back on course. The good news is that there is hope! That change is possible, and you are capable of making it happen. We can work together to help you move past just getting by and start living a meaningful, satisfying life.
(205) 245-8925 View (205) 245-8925
Photo of Kussi Lipskier, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Tuscaloosa, AL
Kussi Lipskier
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, MFTA
Verified Verified
Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
Hello! I'm Kussi, a Marriage and Family Therapist Associate dedicated to promoting well-being for individuals and couples. With a compassionate approach, I specialize in strengthening relationships, fostering connection, and guiding couples towards increased happiness.
Hello! I'm Kussi, a Marriage and Family Therapist Associate dedicated to promoting well-being for individuals and couples. With a compassionate approach, I specialize in strengthening relationships, fostering connection, and guiding couples towards increased happiness.
(659) 271-2511 View (659) 271-2511
Photo of Kimberly Marable Winters, Licensed Professional Counselor in Tuscaloosa, AL
Kimberly Marable Winters
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCS, CEAP, SAP, CRC, NCC
Verified Verified
Tuscaloosa, AL 35404
Areas of focus: Depression, anxiety, stress management, work-related concerns/ stress, marital/ premarital and relationship issues, as well as, substance use disorders and addictive behaviors.
Therapist passionate about helping you make changes in your life that ultimately improve the quality of your life. Seeking to guide, educate, motivate and support you along the journey of finding the healthiest YOU possible! I seek to help people modify their responses to life experiences, change, pain and trauma. Group support is extremely beneficial so don't overlook the options presented by Coach K's Korner to address relationship issues, stress/ anxiety and spiritual growth. Text 205-960-9150 for more information.
Areas of focus: Depression, anxiety, stress management, work-related concerns/ stress, marital/ premarital and relationship issues, as well as, substance use disorders and addictive behaviors.
Therapist passionate about helping you make changes in your life that ultimately improve the quality of your life. Seeking to guide, educate, motivate and support you along the journey of finding the healthiest YOU possible! I seek to help people modify their responses to life experiences, change, pain and trauma. Group support is extremely beneficial so don't overlook the options presented by Coach K's Korner to address relationship issues, stress/ anxiety and spiritual growth. Text 205-960-9150 for more information.
(205) 518-9643 View (205) 518-9643
Photo of F.I.R.M. Therapy - Erin Holloway, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in Tuscaloosa, AL
F.I.R.M. Therapy - Erin Holloway, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
FAMILY, INDIVIDUAL, RELATIONSHIP, & MARRIAGE THERAPY. Going to therapy to share your thoughts and feelings with a complete stranger is a very unique, vulnerable situation. How do you choose the right therapist?
FAMILY, INDIVIDUAL, RELATIONSHIP, & MARRIAGE THERAPY. Going to therapy to share your thoughts and feelings with a complete stranger is a very unique, vulnerable situation. How do you choose the right therapist?
(855) 540-5094 View (855) 540-5094
Photo of Mark Underwood, Marriage & Family Therapist in Tuscaloosa, AL
Mark Underwood
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
My name is Mark Underwood and I am a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist who specializes in treating Clinical Depression and Anxiety with an easy-to-understand approach and common sense techniques. I also do a lot of Behavioral Therapy to help people understand how to improve their relationships with their partners and children. I am licensed as a Marriage and Family Therapist in Alabama, Texas, and Indiana. I am best with people who are "regular folks" who don't want to live in the therapeutic world but just want to understand how to make their life work and feel better.
My name is Mark Underwood and I am a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist who specializes in treating Clinical Depression and Anxiety with an easy-to-understand approach and common sense techniques. I also do a lot of Behavioral Therapy to help people understand how to improve their relationships with their partners and children. I am licensed as a Marriage and Family Therapist in Alabama, Texas, and Indiana. I am best with people who are "regular folks" who don't want to live in the therapeutic world but just want to understand how to make their life work and feel better.
(334) 367-5300 View (334) 367-5300
Photo of Katrina Freeman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Tuscaloosa, AL
Katrina Freeman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
I primarily work with adult clients working through alcohol/substance abuse, adjustment, stress management, anger management, anxiety, depression, parenting dynamics, and marital/couples' issues.
My name is Katrina Freeman and I am an Alabama state licensed counselor and clinical supervisor for associate-level counselors. She has over 30 years of experience in the mental health and substance abuse counseling fields. I have an acceptance-based, client-centered approach to therapy. My passion is helping clients find balance and wellness in their lives.
I primarily work with adult clients working through alcohol/substance abuse, adjustment, stress management, anger management, anxiety, depression, parenting dynamics, and marital/couples' issues.
My name is Katrina Freeman and I am an Alabama state licensed counselor and clinical supervisor for associate-level counselors. She has over 30 years of experience in the mental health and substance abuse counseling fields. I have an acceptance-based, client-centered approach to therapy. My passion is helping clients find balance and wellness in their lives.
(334) 367-4450 View (334) 367-4450
Photo of The Well, Licensed Professional Counselor in Tuscaloosa, AL
The Well
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, RPT-S, NCC, TBRI, MA
Verified Verified
Tuscaloosa, AL 35487
The Well Counseling Center is a professional mental health care practice serving the area with office, and/or Telehealth. We sincerely believe there is hope, no matter their situation. With an integrated approach, using psychological proven techniques and skills from a Christian foundation, we draw from a variety of methodologies to incorporate what is most helpful for each individual. We tailor our skills and therapeutic interventions to meet our individual clients’ needs with love and understanding. Sascha is a advanced clinical supervising specialist for teen, child, marital, and online therapy
The Well Counseling Center is a professional mental health care practice serving the area with office, and/or Telehealth. We sincerely believe there is hope, no matter their situation. With an integrated approach, using psychological proven techniques and skills from a Christian foundation, we draw from a variety of methodologies to incorporate what is most helpful for each individual. We tailor our skills and therapeutic interventions to meet our individual clients’ needs with love and understanding. Sascha is a advanced clinical supervising specialist for teen, child, marital, and online therapy
(682) 452-7312 View (682) 452-7312
Photo of Shaquetta Williams, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tuscaloosa, AL
Shaquetta Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
Waitlist for new clients
Are you struggling with a recent life transition or adjustment? Whether you're a new mom, going through a new marriage, a divorce/separation, a recent move, or career change, I am here to help you on your journey. I specialize in helping ages 6 and up navigate life transitions and adjustments, anxiety, and depression. I help women process emotional abuse, intimate partner violence, and delve deeper into self-worth. In addition, I work with military and veteran spouses/partners who feel alone in their walk of life whether it’s being a caregiver, or living with someone who struggles with PTSD and other mental health concerns.
Are you struggling with a recent life transition or adjustment? Whether you're a new mom, going through a new marriage, a divorce/separation, a recent move, or career change, I am here to help you on your journey. I specialize in helping ages 6 and up navigate life transitions and adjustments, anxiety, and depression. I help women process emotional abuse, intimate partner violence, and delve deeper into self-worth. In addition, I work with military and veteran spouses/partners who feel alone in their walk of life whether it’s being a caregiver, or living with someone who struggles with PTSD and other mental health concerns.
(256) 292-9071 View (256) 292-9071
Photo of Dylann Lowery, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Tuscaloosa, AL
Dylann Lowery
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, MFT-A, MFTI
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Tuscaloosa, AL 35405  (Online Only)
You and your partner are staring at a long, bumpy road ahead of you. Once, you were excited to go on this journey together. Now, part of you is terrified of what's to come. You want to make things work, but you're tired and weary of having the same fight over and over. You can't seem to agree on anything. Are we ready for marriage or have similar goals? What's the best way to raise our kids? Enter stress from outside the relationship- pressure from opinionated in-laws, ever-increasing demands from work, kids acting out at school. Just when you need your partner's support the most, you feel like your teammate has left you stranded.
You and your partner are staring at a long, bumpy road ahead of you. Once, you were excited to go on this journey together. Now, part of you is terrified of what's to come. You want to make things work, but you're tired and weary of having the same fight over and over. You can't seem to agree on anything. Are we ready for marriage or have similar goals? What's the best way to raise our kids? Enter stress from outside the relationship- pressure from opinionated in-laws, ever-increasing demands from work, kids acting out at school. Just when you need your partner's support the most, you feel like your teammate has left you stranded.
(334) 402-2765 View (334) 402-2765
Photo of Rachel Lathrop LICSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tuscaloosa, AL
Rachel Lathrop LICSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Tuscaloosa, AL 35405  (Online Only)
Weeknights and weekend telehealth appointments available! I believe any of our challenges can be utilized as a strength. I strive to create that safe, welcoming space, where you can feel completely comfortable in opening up, to begin the process of healing and feeling whole, again. Maybe you are dealing with marital or relationship struggles, issues with self-esteem, experiencing difficulty coping with symptoms of anxiety, depression, PTSD, or maybe even struggling with the regular day-to-day issues. Allow me the privilege of being that nonjudgmental and genuine listening ear.
Weeknights and weekend telehealth appointments available! I believe any of our challenges can be utilized as a strength. I strive to create that safe, welcoming space, where you can feel completely comfortable in opening up, to begin the process of healing and feeling whole, again. Maybe you are dealing with marital or relationship struggles, issues with self-esteem, experiencing difficulty coping with symptoms of anxiety, depression, PTSD, or maybe even struggling with the regular day-to-day issues. Allow me the privilege of being that nonjudgmental and genuine listening ear.
(205) 525-9554 View (205) 525-9554

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.