Photo of Dr. Rebecca Kammes, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bel Air, Los Angeles, CA
Dr. Rebecca Kammes
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bel Air, Los Angeles, CA 90095  (Online Only)
I am a marriage and family therapist with 10+ years of experience in the field.
I work with individuals, couples, and families in issues across the relationship spectrum. I have an expertise in the intersection of relationship concerns and disability/neurodivergence. I work with individuals and their family members looking for sexuality education and self-identity exploration, as well as coaching on dating skills and beginning relationships. I engage with couples to work on relationship enhancement and sex therapy. I also am a trauma-informed therapist, working with both victims, perpetrators, and couples experiencing sexual and relationship violence.
I am a marriage and family therapist with 10+ years of experience in the field.
I work with individuals, couples, and families in issues across the relationship spectrum. I have an expertise in the intersection of relationship concerns and disability/neurodivergence. I work with individuals and their family members looking for sexuality education and self-identity exploration, as well as coaching on dating skills and beginning relationships. I engage with couples to work on relationship enhancement and sex therapy. I also am a trauma-informed therapist, working with both victims, perpetrators, and couples experiencing sexual and relationship violence.
(310) 807-6608 View (310) 807-6608
Photo of Caryn Shein Psychotherapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bel Air, Los Angeles, CA
Caryn Shein Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bel Air, Los Angeles, CA 90025
Accepting new clients! It is not always easy separating our personal lives from our professional lives when the boundaries we try to maintain in order to excel in both spheres often bleed into each other. You want to bring the best of yourself to all facets of your life, but when issues such as substance abuse, depression, marital strife, family problems, & conflicts with co-workers are so prevalent, how do we cope? What do we do with our mental and emotional baggage? How do we remain balanced and calm when the world we live in demands so much of us?
Accepting new clients! It is not always easy separating our personal lives from our professional lives when the boundaries we try to maintain in order to excel in both spheres often bleed into each other. You want to bring the best of yourself to all facets of your life, but when issues such as substance abuse, depression, marital strife, family problems, & conflicts with co-workers are so prevalent, how do we cope? What do we do with our mental and emotional baggage? How do we remain balanced and calm when the world we live in demands so much of us?
(323) 489-6319 View (323) 489-6319
Photo of Rossana Sida, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bel Air, Los Angeles, CA
Rossana Sida
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Bel Air, Los Angeles, CA 90025
in Marriage & Family Therapy from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology; Treatment of Sexual Assault Survivors via Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy training from Strength United.
Are relationships supposed to be this hard? When sexual issues keep you from maintaining or obtaining a happy relationship it's time to see a sex therapist. As a sex & relationship specialist, I successfully treat people with issues surrounding sexual desire & performance, sexual trauma, problems with arousal or orgasm, differences in the amount of sex they'd like to have, & sexual pain disorders such as vaginismus. I assist clients in building intimacy by deepening their mutual understanding & compassion (for their often very opposite mate!) and help them stay accountable for taking positive action to improve relationships.
in Marriage & Family Therapy from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology; Treatment of Sexual Assault Survivors via Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy training from Strength United.
Are relationships supposed to be this hard? When sexual issues keep you from maintaining or obtaining a happy relationship it's time to see a sex therapist. As a sex & relationship specialist, I successfully treat people with issues surrounding sexual desire & performance, sexual trauma, problems with arousal or orgasm, differences in the amount of sex they'd like to have, & sexual pain disorders such as vaginismus. I assist clients in building intimacy by deepening their mutual understanding & compassion (for their often very opposite mate!) and help them stay accountable for taking positive action to improve relationships.
(323) 633-6986 View (323) 633-6986
Photo of Tom Szabadi, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bel Air, Los Angeles, CA
Tom Szabadi
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPCC, EMDR
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Bel Air, Los Angeles, CA 90025
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who specializes in trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship/intimacy issues, infidelity/betrayal, addiction, and alcohol/substance abuse disorders. I am a sex-positive therapist who works with clients of all sexual orientations and gender identities. I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) which can assist with resolving lingering effects of past traumatic memories. It can also lesson the hold of negativity and limiting beliefs and move you to a much healthier self-concept and higher self-esteem.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who specializes in trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship/intimacy issues, infidelity/betrayal, addiction, and alcohol/substance abuse disorders. I am a sex-positive therapist who works with clients of all sexual orientations and gender identities. I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) which can assist with resolving lingering effects of past traumatic memories. It can also lesson the hold of negativity and limiting beliefs and move you to a much healthier self-concept and higher self-esteem.
(213) 513-7301 View (213) 513-7301
Photo of Ailsa M Long, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bel Air, Los Angeles, CA
Ailsa M Long
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Bel Air, Los Angeles, CA 90025  (Online Only)
I also provide marital and couples counseling.
I believe we all have the desire for growth and increasing our positive outlook on life. I want to help my clients work through past traumas and challenges affecting them still and causing them hurt and a feeling of being stuck. Therapy is an important investment you can make in your own life and own happiness with all the current stressors in life. I provide a safe space for you to express yourself, work through challenges and gain perspective into what’s needed for growth and positive change. If you’re experiencing anxiety or panic attacks I can help you manage these symptoms better and increase coping skills in your daily life.
I also provide marital and couples counseling.
I believe we all have the desire for growth and increasing our positive outlook on life. I want to help my clients work through past traumas and challenges affecting them still and causing them hurt and a feeling of being stuck. Therapy is an important investment you can make in your own life and own happiness with all the current stressors in life. I provide a safe space for you to express yourself, work through challenges and gain perspective into what’s needed for growth and positive change. If you’re experiencing anxiety or panic attacks I can help you manage these symptoms better and increase coping skills in your daily life.
(424) 407-8621 View (424) 407-8621
Photo of Jonathan Rocklin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bel Air, Los Angeles, CA
Jonathan Rocklin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bel Air, Los Angeles, CA 90025
Career counseling, depression in its many forms, grief & loss, including pet bereavement, job loss, anxiety, relationships, marital, both straight and gay, adults including geriatrics.
Career Counseling, Depression/Anxiety are primary specializations. I believe the client is his/her own best therapist and already possesses the necessary wisdom for healing to begin. I can facilitate this process by providing a safe, non-intrusive, supportive environment. I prefer to acknowledge, build and reinforce the client's strengths rather than focus on old negative beliefs. 25+ years experience.
Career counseling, depression in its many forms, grief & loss, including pet bereavement, job loss, anxiety, relationships, marital, both straight and gay, adults including geriatrics.
Career Counseling, Depression/Anxiety are primary specializations. I believe the client is his/her own best therapist and already possesses the necessary wisdom for healing to begin. I can facilitate this process by providing a safe, non-intrusive, supportive environment. I prefer to acknowledge, build and reinforce the client's strengths rather than focus on old negative beliefs. 25+ years experience.
(424) 571-9839 View (424) 571-9839
Photo of Jessica Harris, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bel Air, Los Angeles, CA
Jessica Harris
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CEDS
Verified Verified
Bel Air, Los Angeles, CA 90025  (Online Only)
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist, certified eating disorder specialist and clinical supervisor working with adolescents, adults, couples and families since 2010. I have held clinical and management positions, working in the inpatient, residential and outpatient levels of care treating a wide variety of clients.
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist, certified eating disorder specialist and clinical supervisor working with adolescents, adults, couples and families since 2010. I have held clinical and management positions, working in the inpatient, residential and outpatient levels of care treating a wide variety of clients.
(323) 616-1709 View (323) 616-1709
Photo of Abeer A Othman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bel Air, Los Angeles, CA
Abeer A Othman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bel Air, Los Angeles, CA 90025
, in Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage & Family therapy, and I am Licensed in sunny southern California.
I work collaboratively, my style is active and engaged with the intention of creating a safe environment to empower understanding, growth, and healing. I guide my clients by helping them modify their lives according to their needs and lifestyle.
, in Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage & Family therapy, and I am Licensed in sunny southern California.
I work collaboratively, my style is active and engaged with the intention of creating a safe environment to empower understanding, growth, and healing. I guide my clients by helping them modify their lives according to their needs and lifestyle.
(818) 835-4149 View (818) 835-4149
Photo of Lara Kim, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bel Air, Los Angeles, CA
Lara Kim
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bel Air, Los Angeles, CA 90025  (Online Only)
Marriage and Family Therapy is a second career for me and one that I was drawn to by a deeply held conviction that people are capable of change. My passion for therapy is founded on the belief that we do not have to be bound by our wounds or fears. While these are important parts of our journey, they do not have to define who we are nor who we can become.
Marriage and Family Therapy is a second career for me and one that I was drawn to by a deeply held conviction that people are capable of change. My passion for therapy is founded on the belief that we do not have to be bound by our wounds or fears. While these are important parts of our journey, they do not have to define who we are nor who we can become.
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Photo of Kevin Graves, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bel Air, Los Angeles, CA
Kevin Graves
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bel Air, Los Angeles, CA 90025
in Marriage and Family Therapy, Topping and AHEC fellowships).
“Bridging is the work of opening the gate to the stranger, within and without.” – Gloria E. Anzaldúa. You’re at an inflection point. The ground has shifted; you find yourself on rocky terrain. The trail’s end is hazy, but you catch a glimpse: the outline of a hopeful future, somehow. Let us nurture those neglected pieces of yourself too oft ignored. With sincerity, compassion, and levity, I offer steady company on your voyage. You’ll discover bridges to yourself, your loved ones, and the goals that matter to you. The discourse shall be rich; the reflection, deep; the change, meaningful. You needn’t travel alone.
in Marriage and Family Therapy, Topping and AHEC fellowships).
“Bridging is the work of opening the gate to the stranger, within and without.” – Gloria E. Anzaldúa. You’re at an inflection point. The ground has shifted; you find yourself on rocky terrain. The trail’s end is hazy, but you catch a glimpse: the outline of a hopeful future, somehow. Let us nurture those neglected pieces of yourself too oft ignored. With sincerity, compassion, and levity, I offer steady company on your voyage. You’ll discover bridges to yourself, your loved ones, and the goals that matter to you. The discourse shall be rich; the reflection, deep; the change, meaningful. You needn’t travel alone.
(310) 742-0939 View (310) 742-0939
Photo of Willowbrooks Behavioral Health, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bel Air, Los Angeles, CA
Willowbrooks Behavioral Health
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, BCBA-D, LEP
Verified Verified
Bel Air, Los Angeles, CA 90025  (Online Only)
I am a licensed educational psychologist (LEP), a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), and a board-certified behavioral analyst – doctorate level (BCBA-D). I have 30 years of experience working with families, children and adolescents in out-patient treatment. I place importance on accountability in my therapeutic methods and my approach to therapy is direct but nonjudgmental and gentle. I am empathetic and offer a supporting and nurturing environment, and strive to provide thoughtful feedback in a respectful and supportive manner.
I am a licensed educational psychologist (LEP), a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), and a board-certified behavioral analyst – doctorate level (BCBA-D). I have 30 years of experience working with families, children and adolescents in out-patient treatment. I place importance on accountability in my therapeutic methods and my approach to therapy is direct but nonjudgmental and gentle. I am empathetic and offer a supporting and nurturing environment, and strive to provide thoughtful feedback in a respectful and supportive manner.
(747) 300-0233 View (747) 300-0233
Photo of Fiorella Chujutalli, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Bel Air, Los Angeles, CA
Fiorella Chujutalli
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, MS, RN, BSN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bel Air, Los Angeles, CA 90025  (Online Only)
Are you tired of fighting with your partner and being misunderstood? Do you feel like you are trying your best but nothing seems to work? Do you miss the person you first fell in love with? These are all signs that you could benefit from couple’s therapy. I specialize in helping couples “speak the same language” so that they can better understand each other’s needs and grow closer together. I am also certified in pre-marital counseling and love to help couples go into marriage with the best chance of success.
Are you tired of fighting with your partner and being misunderstood? Do you feel like you are trying your best but nothing seems to work? Do you miss the person you first fell in love with? These are all signs that you could benefit from couple’s therapy. I specialize in helping couples “speak the same language” so that they can better understand each other’s needs and grow closer together. I am also certified in pre-marital counseling and love to help couples go into marriage with the best chance of success.
(951) 904-3072 View (951) 904-3072
Photo of Natalie D'Annibale, PsyD LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bel Air, Los Angeles, CA
Natalie D'Annibale, PsyD LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bel Air, Los Angeles, CA 90025
Sessions include addiction and sobriety, dual-diagnosis, sex, love, and intimacy, relationships and marital, multicultural, LGBTQIA+, empowerment in life transitions, and bereavement, grief, and loss.
It takes trust and courage to explore our emotional well-being, to resolve maladaptive behaviors, addictions, and to work on personal growth. My areas of expertise are in Humanistic, Existential, Family Systems, and Solution-Focused Brief Therapies. I encourage personal responsibility, self-actualization, and self-awareness utilizing strength-based advocacy with empathy and authenticity. If you are ready to improve your personal experiences and interpersonal relationships, reach out and we will get started on your next and best chapter.
Sessions include addiction and sobriety, dual-diagnosis, sex, love, and intimacy, relationships and marital, multicultural, LGBTQIA+, empowerment in life transitions, and bereavement, grief, and loss.
It takes trust and courage to explore our emotional well-being, to resolve maladaptive behaviors, addictions, and to work on personal growth. My areas of expertise are in Humanistic, Existential, Family Systems, and Solution-Focused Brief Therapies. I encourage personal responsibility, self-actualization, and self-awareness utilizing strength-based advocacy with empathy and authenticity. If you are ready to improve your personal experiences and interpersonal relationships, reach out and we will get started on your next and best chapter.
(760) 621-7656 View (760) 621-7656
Photo of Bahar Shaker, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Bel Air, Los Angeles, CA
Bahar Shaker
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bel Air, Los Angeles, CA 90025  (Online Only)
As an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist, my role is to provide a safe space for you to navigate this multifaceted healing journey.
Now Accepting New Clients! I will get back to you back within 24 hours. Uncover the JOY in your journey to mental well-being—I'm here to make therapy a positive and playful experience! Life's challenges can feel overwhelming, sometimes leaving you feeling stuck and in search of clarity and courage. You may be grappling with issues such as past wounds, emotional well-being, or the ebbs and flows of relationships and life's challenges. Maybe your goal is to find healing, self-awareness, and self-care, or to embark on a transformative journey toward well-being and growth.
As an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist, my role is to provide a safe space for you to navigate this multifaceted healing journey.
Now Accepting New Clients! I will get back to you back within 24 hours. Uncover the JOY in your journey to mental well-being—I'm here to make therapy a positive and playful experience! Life's challenges can feel overwhelming, sometimes leaving you feeling stuck and in search of clarity and courage. You may be grappling with issues such as past wounds, emotional well-being, or the ebbs and flows of relationships and life's challenges. Maybe your goal is to find healing, self-awareness, and self-care, or to embark on a transformative journey toward well-being and growth.
(323) 902-3024 View (323) 902-3024
Photo of Ladan Hannani Safvati, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bel Air, Los Angeles, CA
Ladan Hannani Safvati
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ATR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bel Air, Los Angeles, CA 90025
Would you like to deal with life's stresses effectively? Are you struggling with uncomfortable feelings such as sadness, anger, fear, worry, anxiety, jealousy, guilt? Would you like to improve family relationships, raise healthy, happy and confident children even in challenging situations? Do you need marital/ premarital counseling? Do you want to improve self-esteem & achieve personal growth? With my deep understanding of emotions and compassionate approach, I will create a safe place to explore your emotions and identify which ones you can rely on as a guide to your needs and which ones are no longer helpful & need to be changed.
Would you like to deal with life's stresses effectively? Are you struggling with uncomfortable feelings such as sadness, anger, fear, worry, anxiety, jealousy, guilt? Would you like to improve family relationships, raise healthy, happy and confident children even in challenging situations? Do you need marital/ premarital counseling? Do you want to improve self-esteem & achieve personal growth? With my deep understanding of emotions and compassionate approach, I will create a safe place to explore your emotions and identify which ones you can rely on as a guide to your needs and which ones are no longer helpful & need to be changed.
(310) 256-2811 View (310) 256-2811
Photo of Nicole Barkopoulos, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bel Air, Los Angeles, CA
Nicole Barkopoulos, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bel Air, Los Angeles, CA 90095  (Online Only)
I especially enjoy assisting clients going through difficult life transitions such as marriage, birth, aging, loss, illness, and death.
With the constantly changing landscape of society and the world, I offer clients dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, insomnia, life circumstance change, cultural differences and difficulties, a stable landing board in which to process their reactions, feelings, and thoughts during these often challenging times. The approaches to therapy I incorporate include psychodynamic, existential, family systems, meaning-centered, and cognitive behavioral, all while coming from a trauma-informed care perspective.
I especially enjoy assisting clients going through difficult life transitions such as marriage, birth, aging, loss, illness, and death.
With the constantly changing landscape of society and the world, I offer clients dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, insomnia, life circumstance change, cultural differences and difficulties, a stable landing board in which to process their reactions, feelings, and thoughts during these often challenging times. The approaches to therapy I incorporate include psychodynamic, existential, family systems, meaning-centered, and cognitive behavioral, all while coming from a trauma-informed care perspective.
(800) 825-9989 View (800) 825-9989
Photo of Enros Manaligod, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bel Air, Los Angeles, CA
Enros Manaligod
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bel Air, Los Angeles, CA 90025  (Online Only)
As a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT); I work with individuals (children, adolescents, and adults), families, and couples.
Relationships are complicated, especially the relationships that are most important to us. Many of us feel the need for connection, security, and love. However, sometimes we end up hurt and alone. Relational pain can show up as anxiety, fear, depression or grief, among other things. I firmly believe validation, empathy, and humor are the most powerful tools for helping clients experience lasting change. My most significant reward as a professional helper is watching my clients go from despair to possibility.
As a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT); I work with individuals (children, adolescents, and adults), families, and couples.
Relationships are complicated, especially the relationships that are most important to us. Many of us feel the need for connection, security, and love. However, sometimes we end up hurt and alone. Relational pain can show up as anxiety, fear, depression or grief, among other things. I firmly believe validation, empathy, and humor are the most powerful tools for helping clients experience lasting change. My most significant reward as a professional helper is watching my clients go from despair to possibility.
(702) 291-7696 View (702) 291-7696
Photo of Well Marriage Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bel Air, Los Angeles, CA
Well Marriage Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bel Air, Los Angeles, CA 90025
Couples counseling is our specialty and what we offer exclusively at Well Marriage Center. We have 4 licensed, specialized couples therapists in the LA and surrounding areas who have committed their life's work to helping couples change the trajectory of their relationship with counseling and coaching techniques that heal trust, rekindle intimacy, and increase the positive aspects of your relationship. We listen intently but don't only listen; you get our thoughts, ideas, suggestions and feedback every step of the way. We're active with you in this process. Relationship dynamics are our specialty!
Couples counseling is our specialty and what we offer exclusively at Well Marriage Center. We have 4 licensed, specialized couples therapists in the LA and surrounding areas who have committed their life's work to helping couples change the trajectory of their relationship with counseling and coaching techniques that heal trust, rekindle intimacy, and increase the positive aspects of your relationship. We listen intently but don't only listen; you get our thoughts, ideas, suggestions and feedback every step of the way. We're active with you in this process. Relationship dynamics are our specialty!
(626) 263-6864 View (626) 263-6864
Photo of Sanaz Saeidian, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Bel Air, Los Angeles, CA
Sanaz Saeidian
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bel Air, Los Angeles, CA 90025  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in working with adults around challenges related to trauma, anxiety, depression, stress management, life transitions including marriage and parenting.
I understand that each therapeutic journey is unique and that it takes courage to take steps towards gaining insight & clarity around your emotional and mental wellbeing. I tailor my approach based on your personal needs, values and preferences. I use a compassionate & trauma-informed approach to create a safe & supportive environment for you to develop inner strength & make meaningful changes in your life. We’ll work together to empower you with the tools you need to gain greater awareness into your past & help re-create your unique life story.
I specialize in working with adults around challenges related to trauma, anxiety, depression, stress management, life transitions including marriage and parenting.
I understand that each therapeutic journey is unique and that it takes courage to take steps towards gaining insight & clarity around your emotional and mental wellbeing. I tailor my approach based on your personal needs, values and preferences. I use a compassionate & trauma-informed approach to create a safe & supportive environment for you to develop inner strength & make meaningful changes in your life. We’ll work together to empower you with the tools you need to gain greater awareness into your past & help re-create your unique life story.
(424) 222-5509 x7 View (424) 222-5509 x7
Photo of Dr. Isabell Springer, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bel Air, Los Angeles, CA
Dr. Isabell Springer
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bel Air, Los Angeles, CA 90024  (Online Only)
Voted TOP 3 BEST Marriage Counselors in Los Angeles. "With Isabell’s help, I experienced profound healing and growth beyond my wildest imagination. In every session, I received absolute presence and compassion—no note taking, no distractions, no judgment, pure being in the Now. I sought out her help when I was going through an awfully painful breakup. What would have taken traditional therapists several years, Isabell helped me dissolve in just 10 weeks. What an amazingly liberating experience. I came out of this counseling as a strong, independent woman bursting with a love for life." - Female Client, 43
Voted TOP 3 BEST Marriage Counselors in Los Angeles. "With Isabell’s help, I experienced profound healing and growth beyond my wildest imagination. In every session, I received absolute presence and compassion—no note taking, no distractions, no judgment, pure being in the Now. I sought out her help when I was going through an awfully painful breakup. What would have taken traditional therapists several years, Isabell helped me dissolve in just 10 weeks. What an amazingly liberating experience. I came out of this counseling as a strong, independent woman bursting with a love for life." - Female Client, 43
(352) 604-4861 View (352) 604-4861

See more therapy options for Bel Air, Los Angeles

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.