Photo of Karen Marullo, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Karen Marullo, MA, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Homewood, AL 35209
I am an individual and family therapist with over 30 years of experience in the field. I work with adults experiencing problems with depression, anxiety, marital and relationship issues, eating disorders, sexual abuse and post-traumatic stress disorder. I utilize integrative therapies that emphasize cognitive behavioral methods and mindfulness strategies. My mission is to assist individuals in gaining insight about pains of the past, develop clearer views of these problems and learn to incorporate more effective coping skills that lead to a healthier and more balanced life.
I am an individual and family therapist with over 30 years of experience in the field. I work with adults experiencing problems with depression, anxiety, marital and relationship issues, eating disorders, sexual abuse and post-traumatic stress disorder. I utilize integrative therapies that emphasize cognitive behavioral methods and mindfulness strategies. My mission is to assist individuals in gaining insight about pains of the past, develop clearer views of these problems and learn to incorporate more effective coping skills that lead to a healthier and more balanced life.
(205) 402-8540 View (205) 402-8540
Photo of Marcy J. Watkins, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Marcy J. Watkins
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MSCE, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Decatur, AL 35601  (Online Only)
Life can be a roller coaster ride with extreme highs and lows. Finding the right therapist to help you bring that ride to a happy ending can be challenging. I am someone who is committed to taking this journey with you in making every day your best day. I am caring, compassionate and energetic while getting to the root of the matter. You hold the keys to your overall happiness, I want to help you unlock the doors. Together we will develop your "Blue Print 2 Success" in your marriage, parenting skills, career goals, business or overall mental wellness! You can achieve the optimal success in every part of your life, everyday! Join me!
Life can be a roller coaster ride with extreme highs and lows. Finding the right therapist to help you bring that ride to a happy ending can be challenging. I am someone who is committed to taking this journey with you in making every day your best day. I am caring, compassionate and energetic while getting to the root of the matter. You hold the keys to your overall happiness, I want to help you unlock the doors. Together we will develop your "Blue Print 2 Success" in your marriage, parenting skills, career goals, business or overall mental wellness! You can achieve the optimal success in every part of your life, everyday! Join me!
(256) 371-4719 View (256) 371-4719
Photo of Mind, Body & Heart Wellness Clinic, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Mind, Body & Heart Wellness Clinic
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, CST
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35226
Just a sample of our therapists' treatment specialities include depression, anxiety, grief, LGBTQ population, sexual issues, ADHD, behavioral issues, PTSD/trauma, addictions, grief, Christian-centric, as well as pre-marital, marriage, divorce & co-parenting counseling.
At Mind, Body & Heart Wellness Clinic our shared goal is to provide an integrative approach to counseling that assists you in finding your optimal mental, emotional, spiritual, and sexual health. MBH Wellness is comprised of multiple licensed therapists who specialize in and are passionate about a wide range of mental health concerns. We addresses the relational, cognitive, emotional, sexual, physical, cultural, and socio-economic factors impacting your wellbeing. When you are paired with a therapist that fits your unique needs, positive change is a logical consequence!
Just a sample of our therapists' treatment specialities include depression, anxiety, grief, LGBTQ population, sexual issues, ADHD, behavioral issues, PTSD/trauma, addictions, grief, Christian-centric, as well as pre-marital, marriage, divorce & co-parenting counseling.
At Mind, Body & Heart Wellness Clinic our shared goal is to provide an integrative approach to counseling that assists you in finding your optimal mental, emotional, spiritual, and sexual health. MBH Wellness is comprised of multiple licensed therapists who specialize in and are passionate about a wide range of mental health concerns. We addresses the relational, cognitive, emotional, sexual, physical, cultural, and socio-economic factors impacting your wellbeing. When you are paired with a therapist that fits your unique needs, positive change is a logical consequence!
(205) 509-1811 View (205) 509-1811
Tom McLure Red Mountain Counseling Llc
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MAEd, MA
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35223
Waitlist for new clients
MEd Marriage & Family Therapy--ministry, higher education.
Anxiety, Depression, Relationships, Addictions, Trauma. Counseling/Therapy is investment in quality of life. People seek help when frustrated, confused, overwhelmed. Does addiction (substance/behavior) control your life? Does a challenging relationship frustrate you? Are you tired of trying to change your partner? or trying to change yourself for your partner? Have you experienced painful loss? Do you frequently feel tense and uneasy? Does the life you live differ from the life you want?
MEd Marriage & Family Therapy--ministry, higher education.
Anxiety, Depression, Relationships, Addictions, Trauma. Counseling/Therapy is investment in quality of life. People seek help when frustrated, confused, overwhelmed. Does addiction (substance/behavior) control your life? Does a challenging relationship frustrate you? Are you tired of trying to change your partner? or trying to change yourself for your partner? Have you experienced painful loss? Do you frequently feel tense and uneasy? Does the life you live differ from the life you want?
(205) 618-8840 View (205) 618-8840
Photo of Shawne M Sisk, Marriage & Family Therapist in Alabama
Shawne M Sisk
Marriage & Family Therapist, MEd, LPC-S, LMFT-S, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35242
As a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist & Professional Counselor, I am dedicated to helping couples work through the difficulties of married life to achieve better communication, greater emotional connection, and a more satisfying marriage.
Life can be hard! If you are struggling with challenges such as: marriage or relationship issues, infidelity, anxiety, depression, divorce, job loss, or low self-esteem maybe it is time to do something different. If your current efforts to deal with relationships, emotions, and life's challenges just aren't working, it is probably time to get some help. Maybe you're unsure if counseling really works. Counseling is no "magic pill" that instantly fixes your problems! However, it does help many people change, heal, and improve their quality of life.
As a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist & Professional Counselor, I am dedicated to helping couples work through the difficulties of married life to achieve better communication, greater emotional connection, and a more satisfying marriage.
Life can be hard! If you are struggling with challenges such as: marriage or relationship issues, infidelity, anxiety, depression, divorce, job loss, or low self-esteem maybe it is time to do something different. If your current efforts to deal with relationships, emotions, and life's challenges just aren't working, it is probably time to get some help. Maybe you're unsure if counseling really works. Counseling is no "magic pill" that instantly fixes your problems! However, it does help many people change, heal, and improve their quality of life.
(205) 713-8734 View (205) 713-8734
Photo of Kristen M Woods, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Kristen M Woods
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hoover, AL 35216
With a certification in Marriage, couples, and family counseling I am trained to assist couples and families with resolving conflicts, building healthier interpersonal relationships, and fostering more effective ways of communication.
Whether you’re experiencing distress or conflict within your life, experiencing professional changes, having difficulty coping with the loss of a loved one, experiencing a transitional phase in your life, or etc. through a positive therapeutic process growth can occur. Through an empathetic and safe environment, the therapeutic process can assist you in creating your optimal life.
With a certification in Marriage, couples, and family counseling I am trained to assist couples and families with resolving conflicts, building healthier interpersonal relationships, and fostering more effective ways of communication.
Whether you’re experiencing distress or conflict within your life, experiencing professional changes, having difficulty coping with the loss of a loved one, experiencing a transitional phase in your life, or etc. through a positive therapeutic process growth can occur. Through an empathetic and safe environment, the therapeutic process can assist you in creating your optimal life.
(205) 983-6371 View (205) 983-6371
Photo of Practical Choices and Healthy Change Therapy, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Practical Choices and Healthy Change Therapy, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CCH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mobile, AL 36609
Hello and Welcome! My name is Jo Anna Johnson. I am the owner of Practical Choices and Healthy Change Therapy, LLC, a Certified Clinical Hypnotherapist (CCH), and a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) for the state of Alabama. I serve adults experiencing a wide variety of issues. These issues consist of but are not limited to problems associated with managing stress, marital/relationship issues, addiction, and anger management. To schedule an appointment please visit https://pchctherapy.clientsecure.me
Hello and Welcome! My name is Jo Anna Johnson. I am the owner of Practical Choices and Healthy Change Therapy, LLC, a Certified Clinical Hypnotherapist (CCH), and a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) for the state of Alabama. I serve adults experiencing a wide variety of issues. These issues consist of but are not limited to problems associated with managing stress, marital/relationship issues, addiction, and anger management. To schedule an appointment please visit https://pchctherapy.clientsecure.me
(251) 744-0713 View (251) 744-0713
Photo of Cheryl Lynn Holmes, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Cheryl Lynn Holmes
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPCS, CCH
Verified Verified
Daphne, AL 36526
BIG news! I take Medicare now! I I use a variety of proven modalities: Systemic Sex Therapy, Therapy for Trauma: CBT, EMDR, DBT, EFT (for PTSD and Narcissistic Abuse Syndrome) and The Neurobiology of Attachment Styles and Effective Treatment. I specialize in Marriage and /or Couple's therapy. Open Tuesday-Saturday! Expect Miracles! Learn how to manifest your Life's Purpose and remove all the obstacles-most common: Anxiety, Depression, Low Self-Esteem, Weight, and Communication. See you Soon!
BIG news! I take Medicare now! I I use a variety of proven modalities: Systemic Sex Therapy, Therapy for Trauma: CBT, EMDR, DBT, EFT (for PTSD and Narcissistic Abuse Syndrome) and The Neurobiology of Attachment Styles and Effective Treatment. I specialize in Marriage and /or Couple's therapy. Open Tuesday-Saturday! Expect Miracles! Learn how to manifest your Life's Purpose and remove all the obstacles-most common: Anxiety, Depression, Low Self-Esteem, Weight, and Communication. See you Soon!
(251) 333-0826 View (251) 333-0826
Photo of Kimberly Marable Winters, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Kimberly Marable Winters
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCS, CEAP, SAP, CRC, NCC
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35226
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 Darren D Moore, Marriage & Family Therapist in Alabama
Darren D Moore
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, AAMFT , Aprvd, Supv
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35203
Darren D. Moore, Ph.D., MAED., LMFT is a Clinical Professor, Associate Director for Clinical Training and Supervision in a Masters program in Marriage and Family Therapy, and a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Georgia, Alabama, NY, IL, and credentialed for telehealth in Florida. Dr. Moore utilizes an integrative therapeutic approach when working with clients. Dr. Moore is direct and believes in addressing problems head on, to ensure optimal success, within a limited amount of time. He has degrees from Teachers College, Columbia University, Virginia Tech University, Valdosta State University, and the University of Minnesota.
Darren D. Moore, Ph.D., MAED., LMFT is a Clinical Professor, Associate Director for Clinical Training and Supervision in a Masters program in Marriage and Family Therapy, and a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Georgia, Alabama, NY, IL, and credentialed for telehealth in Florida. Dr. Moore utilizes an integrative therapeutic approach when working with clients. Dr. Moore is direct and believes in addressing problems head on, to ensure optimal success, within a limited amount of time. He has degrees from Teachers College, Columbia University, Virginia Tech University, Valdosta State University, and the University of Minnesota.
(762) 583-8917 View (762) 583-8917
Photo of Pearl Behavioral Health Services, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Pearl Behavioral Health Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Huntsville, AL 35801
Pearl Behavioral Health Services is founded on the belief that anyone is capable of change and can benefit from support from a non biased source and nonjudgmental environment where you can truly remove your filter and work through anything you are struggling with. Our team of 8 licensed counselors and two locations in Athens and Huntsville can help you work through any struggles you are having.
Pearl Behavioral Health Services is founded on the belief that anyone is capable of change and can benefit from support from a non biased source and nonjudgmental environment where you can truly remove your filter and work through anything you are struggling with. Our team of 8 licensed counselors and two locations in Athens and Huntsville can help you work through any struggles you are having.
(938) 777-0250 View (938) 777-0250
Photo of Collins Counseling Associates, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Collins Counseling Associates
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMFT, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mobile, AL 36606
For an appointment call (251) 473-3410. Fifteen licensed counselors, with offices in Mobile & Fairhope, provide specialized treatment for individuals and families impacted by life problems, relationship stress, mental health issues, substance abuse problems, and abuse. We strive to help people in a safe, private, non-judgmental place to work through issues & ultimately find some peace and happiness in life. Our group includes experts in fields of sex therapy, grief counseling, addiction problems and LGBTQ needs.
For an appointment call (251) 473-3410. Fifteen licensed counselors, with offices in Mobile & Fairhope, provide specialized treatment for individuals and families impacted by life problems, relationship stress, mental health issues, substance abuse problems, and abuse. We strive to help people in a safe, private, non-judgmental place to work through issues & ultimately find some peace and happiness in life. Our group includes experts in fields of sex therapy, grief counseling, addiction problems and LGBTQ needs.
(251) 235-5448 View (251) 235-5448
Photo of Andrea N Hendricks PhD LLC, Psychologist in Alabama
Andrea N Hendricks PhD LLC
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
I work with individuals who want to talk to someone in a safe, confidential, encouraging setting. I see adults, adolescents, and couples working through a wide range of issues. Specifically, I see individuals who are dealing with depression, anxiety, eating disorders, obsessive compulsive issues, pain management, or weight management. A lot of my clients are dealing with life transitions and many are needing to make major life decisions. I also work with those who have typical life stressors in work, school, or home and find it extremely helpful to use therapy as a way to maintain positive mental health.
I work with individuals who want to talk to someone in a safe, confidential, encouraging setting. I see adults, adolescents, and couples working through a wide range of issues. Specifically, I see individuals who are dealing with depression, anxiety, eating disorders, obsessive compulsive issues, pain management, or weight management. A lot of my clients are dealing with life transitions and many are needing to make major life decisions. I also work with those who have typical life stressors in work, school, or home and find it extremely helpful to use therapy as a way to maintain positive mental health.
(205) 523-8511 View (205) 523-8511
Photo of Britt Tavel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alabama
Britt Tavel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
It is my goal to help you heal and feel whole again. My hope is to meet you and make you feel like you’re talking to a friend in a safe space, where you feel heard, can be honest with yourself, and can start to feel relief. Maybe you’re going through a divorce; Are a newlywed struggling with your new chapter; Away at college and miss your parents; Can’t seem to keep up with life’s expectations; or feel like you just don’t know yourself anymore, I want to be the one person who you can depend on to be genuine, constant, and supportive.
It is my goal to help you heal and feel whole again. My hope is to meet you and make you feel like you’re talking to a friend in a safe space, where you feel heard, can be honest with yourself, and can start to feel relief. Maybe you’re going through a divorce; Are a newlywed struggling with your new chapter; Away at college and miss your parents; Can’t seem to keep up with life’s expectations; or feel like you just don’t know yourself anymore, I want to be the one person who you can depend on to be genuine, constant, and supportive.
(205) 891-4654 View (205) 891-4654
Photo of Rachel Mae Fondren, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alabama
Rachel Mae Fondren
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, PIP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cullman, AL 35055  (Online Only)
Rachel Fondren is a licensed independent clinical social worker and private independent practitioner who specializes in depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, personality disorders, and trauma disorders. She graduated from the University of North Alabama with a Bachelors in Social Work and from the University of Southern California with a Masters in Social Work. Over the years she has worked with individuals on a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, parenting problems, career challenges, OCD, ADHD, and Serious Mental Illnesses.
Rachel Fondren is a licensed independent clinical social worker and private independent practitioner who specializes in depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, personality disorders, and trauma disorders. She graduated from the University of North Alabama with a Bachelors in Social Work and from the University of Southern California with a Masters in Social Work. Over the years she has worked with individuals on a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, parenting problems, career challenges, OCD, ADHD, and Serious Mental Illnesses.
(256) 286-1367 View (256) 286-1367
Photo of Jenna Mudd, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Jenna Mudd
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CRC
Not Verified Not Verified
Madison, AL 35756  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience working with multiple populations (i.e. children, adolescents, and adults). I have worked with children, adolescents and their families addressing behavioral and emotional issues and those with chronic mental illness (such as Depression, Anxiety, and Schizoaffective Disorder). I have also worked inpatient and outpatient substance abuse treatment. I have training and background addressing issues related to mood disorders, anxiety, behavioral and emotional problems, and attention deficit disorders.
I have extensive experience working with multiple populations (i.e. children, adolescents, and adults). I have worked with children, adolescents and their families addressing behavioral and emotional issues and those with chronic mental illness (such as Depression, Anxiety, and Schizoaffective Disorder). I have also worked inpatient and outpatient substance abuse treatment. I have training and background addressing issues related to mood disorders, anxiety, behavioral and emotional problems, and attention deficit disorders.
(256) 305-6962 View (256) 305-6962
Photo of Oasis Counseling Services, LLC, Counselor in Alabama
Oasis Counseling Services, LLC
Counselor, LPC, NCC, CHT
Verified Verified
Madison, AL 35758
Life challenges can bring drastic changes to people’s lives. Such crucial changes can negatively impact their state of mind, sense of self, and behavior toward their loved ones. I strive to help individuals and families overcome adversity and maintain optimal mental wellness. I work to provides clients with professional support in dealing with important life events, while ensuring their mental health during those difficult times. I offer the highest level of counseling services to achieve your ultimate goals and to improve lives.
Life challenges can bring drastic changes to people’s lives. Such crucial changes can negatively impact their state of mind, sense of self, and behavior toward their loved ones. I strive to help individuals and families overcome adversity and maintain optimal mental wellness. I work to provides clients with professional support in dealing with important life events, while ensuring their mental health during those difficult times. I offer the highest level of counseling services to achieve your ultimate goals and to improve lives.
(938) 222-9490 View (938) 222-9490
Photo of Brooke Nelson Murphy, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Brooke Nelson Murphy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Madison, AL 35758
Waitlist for new clients
My approach to therapy utilizes an integrative blend of counseling theory to provide specialized services to a wide variety of patients and patient issues. My goal in therapy is to work in an equal and collaborative relationship with patients to reach his or her goals through empathy, respect, genuineness, and a little humor. I strive to assist patients to work towards identifying challenges or conflicts as well as to find meaning and purpose in life.
My approach to therapy utilizes an integrative blend of counseling theory to provide specialized services to a wide variety of patients and patient issues. My goal in therapy is to work in an equal and collaborative relationship with patients to reach his or her goals through empathy, respect, genuineness, and a little humor. I strive to assist patients to work towards identifying challenges or conflicts as well as to find meaning and purpose in life.
(256) 973-9872 View (256) 973-9872
Photo of Jeanetta Thomas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alabama
Jeanetta Thomas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Gadsden, AL 35903  (Online Only)
I am a trauma-informed licensed therapist with ten years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families to manage depression, anxiety, PTSD, family conflict, life transitions, and self-esteem issues. One of my greatest joys as a therapist is working with members of diverse communities to be the best version of themselves. I believe that we can best heal and grow through emotional intelligence, self-mastery, and understanding of how our cultural background and life circumstances have impacted our life outlook. I have helped many people over the years establish a stronger sense of self-esteem and life direction.
I am a trauma-informed licensed therapist with ten years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families to manage depression, anxiety, PTSD, family conflict, life transitions, and self-esteem issues. One of my greatest joys as a therapist is working with members of diverse communities to be the best version of themselves. I believe that we can best heal and grow through emotional intelligence, self-mastery, and understanding of how our cultural background and life circumstances have impacted our life outlook. I have helped many people over the years establish a stronger sense of self-esteem and life direction.
(256) 419-5165 View (256) 419-5165
Photo of Jacqueline M Shelley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alabama
Jacqueline M Shelley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Gulf Shores, AL 36542
As a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker I'm here to help you navigate through these difficult and uncertain times. If you are anxious, depressed, traumatized, dealing with loss, (who isn't?), life transitions or relationship problems : I'm here to help. I'll work together with you individually, in your relationships, or group to resolve your issues and improve your overall ability to achieve lasting resilience and new ways to cope. If you want better help soon, you've found me. I invite you to contact me and we can discuss your specific concerns and how I can be of most assistance.
As a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker I'm here to help you navigate through these difficult and uncertain times. If you are anxious, depressed, traumatized, dealing with loss, (who isn't?), life transitions or relationship problems : I'm here to help. I'll work together with you individually, in your relationships, or group to resolve your issues and improve your overall ability to achieve lasting resilience and new ways to cope. If you want better help soon, you've found me. I invite you to contact me and we can discuss your specific concerns and how I can be of most assistance.
(251) 306-2525 View (251) 306-2525
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.