Photo of Jane Alt, Marriage & Family Therapist in Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA
Jane Alt
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA 90049
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist.
I specialize in the treatment of couples and family therapy. I provide a safe space for individuals in a couple or family to share corrective experiences. I work with couples that want to understand each other better but are struggling to find common ground through effective communication. My goal is to improve relationships and resolve conflicts within the couples/family structure by working with all individuals that makeup that structure. I integrate complementary methodologies to offer a personalized approach tailored to each individual including: structural and strategic family therapy, emotionally focused therapy, and CBT.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist.
I specialize in the treatment of couples and family therapy. I provide a safe space for individuals in a couple or family to share corrective experiences. I work with couples that want to understand each other better but are struggling to find common ground through effective communication. My goal is to improve relationships and resolve conflicts within the couples/family structure by working with all individuals that makeup that structure. I integrate complementary methodologies to offer a personalized approach tailored to each individual including: structural and strategic family therapy, emotionally focused therapy, and CBT.
(310) 307-3454 View (310) 307-3454
Photo of Rachel Dworkin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA
Rachel Dworkin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA 90049
Nurturing, strength-based and compassionate, I am an active and directive participant in my clients' work- whether working with individuals or with a couple . We together will identify what brings you to treatment, be it depression, anxiety, PTSD, marital distress, or simply discomfort. We will articulate where in your life you are struggling- interpersonally, at work, within your family system or in your marriage, and develop goals to relieve that distress. It can be challenging to choose to participate in therapy, and I work to create a safe environment so we can engage and address the issues that are challenging you.
Nurturing, strength-based and compassionate, I am an active and directive participant in my clients' work- whether working with individuals or with a couple . We together will identify what brings you to treatment, be it depression, anxiety, PTSD, marital distress, or simply discomfort. We will articulate where in your life you are struggling- interpersonally, at work, within your family system or in your marriage, and develop goals to relieve that distress. It can be challenging to choose to participate in therapy, and I work to create a safe environment so we can engage and address the issues that are challenging you.
(213) 682-3287 View (213) 682-3287
Photo of Don ( Dr Don ) Etkes, Marriage & Family Therapist in Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA
Don ( Dr Don ) Etkes
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MFT
Verified Verified
Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA 90049
IMMEDIATE APPOINTMENT: STRESS MANAGEMENT by VIDEO, PHONE, OFFICE $65 and up Sliding Fee. Day/Eve/Weekend. "I offer YOU over 30 years of Experience in giving Warm Nurturing Nonjudgmental Guidance to 1000s of people, offering HELP in COPING with YOUR LIFE feeling out of control. My GOAL is your GETTING THE LIFE YOU WANT. " Author "Loving With Passion", Ph.D. in Psychology, life coach, hypnotherapist, UCLA certified Sex Therapist, professional speaker, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, had a TV show "Love U." on TLC. Internationally recognized expert on TV and radio. Written about in Cosmopolitan to the Washington Post. Dr Don
IMMEDIATE APPOINTMENT: STRESS MANAGEMENT by VIDEO, PHONE, OFFICE $65 and up Sliding Fee. Day/Eve/Weekend. "I offer YOU over 30 years of Experience in giving Warm Nurturing Nonjudgmental Guidance to 1000s of people, offering HELP in COPING with YOUR LIFE feeling out of control. My GOAL is your GETTING THE LIFE YOU WANT. " Author "Loving With Passion", Ph.D. in Psychology, life coach, hypnotherapist, UCLA certified Sex Therapist, professional speaker, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, had a TV show "Love U." on TLC. Internationally recognized expert on TV and radio. Written about in Cosmopolitan to the Washington Post. Dr Don
(310) 895-9655 View (310) 895-9655
Photo of Amita Fakhimi, Psychologist in Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA
Amita Fakhimi
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA 90049
Dr. Amita Fakhimi is a clinical psychologist with over 10 years of experience working with individuals, couples and families. She has an immense, genuine passion for therapy and her patients. Her devotion is evidenced by her extensive academic and professional work history. She is dually licensed as a Clinical Psychologist and Marriage & Family Therapist, a rarity in the field. Dr. Fakhimi is committed to providing a safe and supportive environment and hopes to be a vessel for change for her patients, so they can live a happier and healthier lifestyle.
Dr. Amita Fakhimi is a clinical psychologist with over 10 years of experience working with individuals, couples and families. She has an immense, genuine passion for therapy and her patients. Her devotion is evidenced by her extensive academic and professional work history. She is dually licensed as a Clinical Psychologist and Marriage & Family Therapist, a rarity in the field. Dr. Fakhimi is committed to providing a safe and supportive environment and hopes to be a vessel for change for her patients, so they can live a happier and healthier lifestyle.
(424) 414-0139 View (424) 414-0139
Photo of Dr. Suzanne Pelka, Marriage & Family Therapist in Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA
Dr. Suzanne Pelka
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAT, PhD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA 90025
In need of sex therapy? Lack of desire? A sex-starved marriage? Sex/porn addiction? Just not on the same page as your partner? As a Sexuality Specialist and CSAT, I have successfully treated clients struggling with many different sexual problems (Men: erectile dysfunction, rapid/premature/delayed ejaculation. Women: low desire, painful intercourse, vaginismus/vulvadynia. Either: sexual inexperience, sexual anorexia, childhood sexual traumas including incest). I often use EMDR to resolve underlying traumas. I have researched and taught at UCLA, SMC, The University of Chicago, DePaul and have been a sexuality expert on NBC, ABC and KCAL 9 news.
In need of sex therapy? Lack of desire? A sex-starved marriage? Sex/porn addiction? Just not on the same page as your partner? As a Sexuality Specialist and CSAT, I have successfully treated clients struggling with many different sexual problems (Men: erectile dysfunction, rapid/premature/delayed ejaculation. Women: low desire, painful intercourse, vaginismus/vulvadynia. Either: sexual inexperience, sexual anorexia, childhood sexual traumas including incest). I often use EMDR to resolve underlying traumas. I have researched and taught at UCLA, SMC, The University of Chicago, DePaul and have been a sexuality expert on NBC, ABC and KCAL 9 news.
(310) 601-6882 View (310) 601-6882
Photo of Jennifer Ginsberg, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA
Jennifer Ginsberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAT, MAJCS
Verified Verified
Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA 90025
Welcome to my practice! In our sessions, you will feel safe enough to be rigorously honest with me, without fear of judgement. I will meet you with the compassion and discernment you need in order to heal. I specialize in treating sex addiction, codependency, betrayal trauma, love addiction, substance abuse, partners of addicts and complex couples. We will work through the underlying emotional content (trauma, unresolved grief and abandonment wounds) that fuel the negative patterns. Together, we will restructure your internal landscape so you can achieve your goals and bring purpose to your life.
Welcome to my practice! In our sessions, you will feel safe enough to be rigorously honest with me, without fear of judgement. I will meet you with the compassion and discernment you need in order to heal. I specialize in treating sex addiction, codependency, betrayal trauma, love addiction, substance abuse, partners of addicts and complex couples. We will work through the underlying emotional content (trauma, unresolved grief and abandonment wounds) that fuel the negative patterns. Together, we will restructure your internal landscape so you can achieve your goals and bring purpose to your life.
(310) 340-6708 View (310) 340-6708
Photo of Sterling Walker, Pre-Licensed Professional in Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA
Sterling Walker
Pre-Licensed Professional, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA 90025
Throughout our lives, we all have experienced feelings of depression, anxiety, and anger. These emotions leave you feeling insecure, shameful, lonely, unworthy and stuck in unhealthy patterns of behavior. Trauma can have negative emotional and physical effects and can lead to family/relationship issues. I specialize in solution-focused brief therapy, motivational interviewing, mindfulness and CBT. These approaches allow me to work with the client to decrease symptoms of anxiety and depression and other health/behavioral issues.
Throughout our lives, we all have experienced feelings of depression, anxiety, and anger. These emotions leave you feeling insecure, shameful, lonely, unworthy and stuck in unhealthy patterns of behavior. Trauma can have negative emotional and physical effects and can lead to family/relationship issues. I specialize in solution-focused brief therapy, motivational interviewing, mindfulness and CBT. These approaches allow me to work with the client to decrease symptoms of anxiety and depression and other health/behavioral issues.
(310) 879-5156 View (310) 879-5156
Photo of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Los Angeles, Psychologist in Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Los Angeles
Psychologist, PsyD, PhD
Verified Verified
Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA 90025
CBT Los Angeles is a nationally-recognized practice specializing in evidence-based cognitive behavioral therapy. All of our therapists are doctoral-level experts in CBT, many having taught and supervised at top graduate clinical psychology programs and clinical training programs around the country. Our expert therapists are deeply experienced in treating a variety of psychological problems. At CBT Los Angeles, we bridge innovation science with state-of-the-art treatment.
CBT Los Angeles is a nationally-recognized practice specializing in evidence-based cognitive behavioral therapy. All of our therapists are doctoral-level experts in CBT, many having taught and supervised at top graduate clinical psychology programs and clinical training programs around the country. Our expert therapists are deeply experienced in treating a variety of psychological problems. At CBT Los Angeles, we bridge innovation science with state-of-the-art treatment.
(424) 317-8205 View (424) 317-8205
Photo of Bill Cloke, Ph.D., Marriage & Family Therapist in Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA
Bill Cloke, Ph.D.
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA 90049
Psychotherapy is essentially a collaborative process where the feedback between the therapist and the person is without any sense of judgement or agenda.Therapy is about what works from the perspective of each person's unique personal experience. It allows for a fluid perspective to be understood and worked through. I am an active participant, providing descriptions along with mutually agreed upon insights and interpretations. I believe that the essential process within oneself and in a therapeutic setting should always contain compassion, understanding, respect and empathy. The goal is to develop a positive relationship with oneself and with others.
Psychotherapy is essentially a collaborative process where the feedback between the therapist and the person is without any sense of judgement or agenda.Therapy is about what works from the perspective of each person's unique personal experience. It allows for a fluid perspective to be understood and worked through. I am an active participant, providing descriptions along with mutually agreed upon insights and interpretations. I believe that the essential process within oneself and in a therapeutic setting should always contain compassion, understanding, respect and empathy. The goal is to develop a positive relationship with oneself and with others.
(310) 982-7343 View (310) 982-7343
Photo of Janet K Smith, Psychologist in Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA
Janet K Smith
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA 90025
We all face conflicts that at times become “too much.” When we feel overwhelmed there’s a natural tendency to want to restore balance in ourselves and our lives. Any conflict—in love, work, body image, physical symptoms—can lead to anxiety, shame and a sense of "going through the motions." Whether you’re dealing with current or long-standing difficulties, there are effective ways to understand and soften painful feelings. Life can be better when you open to new thinking, curb negativity and break repetitive cycles; you become kinder to yourself. You can find your own voice.
We all face conflicts that at times become “too much.” When we feel overwhelmed there’s a natural tendency to want to restore balance in ourselves and our lives. Any conflict—in love, work, body image, physical symptoms—can lead to anxiety, shame and a sense of "going through the motions." Whether you’re dealing with current or long-standing difficulties, there are effective ways to understand and soften painful feelings. Life can be better when you open to new thinking, curb negativity and break repetitive cycles; you become kinder to yourself. You can find your own voice.
(310) 473-6169 View (310) 473-6169
Photo of Armin Baier, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA
Armin Baier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA 90049
I am a psychotherapist for individuals and couples who have a variety of psychiatric conditions and life concerns. I work primarily face-to-face from my office in the Brentwood area of Los Angeles; I also provide therapy by telephone and Skype with clients in California and New York. Gestalt therapy training has formed the basis of my practice, with special emphasis on the experiential, experimental and existential nature of psychotherapy.
I am a psychotherapist for individuals and couples who have a variety of psychiatric conditions and life concerns. I work primarily face-to-face from my office in the Brentwood area of Los Angeles; I also provide therapy by telephone and Skype with clients in California and New York. Gestalt therapy training has formed the basis of my practice, with special emphasis on the experiential, experimental and existential nature of psychotherapy.
(917) 551-5403 View (917) 551-5403
Photo of Chelsea Gottfurcht, Psychologist in Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA
Chelsea Gottfurcht
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA 90025
Many of us have gone through experiences that leave us feeling stuck, unmotivated, or without hope for change. The promise of psychotherapy is that it offers a path that illuminates the conscious and unconscious limiting beliefs we unknowingly come to identify with. It allows us a framework where insight becomes possible - and the opportunity for a relationship that is dedicated to knowing you deeply. In this sense, I believe we are partners working to understand your motivations, fears, and deepest hopes so that you can feel a greater sense of freedom and empowerment in your life and in your future.
Many of us have gone through experiences that leave us feeling stuck, unmotivated, or without hope for change. The promise of psychotherapy is that it offers a path that illuminates the conscious and unconscious limiting beliefs we unknowingly come to identify with. It allows us a framework where insight becomes possible - and the opportunity for a relationship that is dedicated to knowing you deeply. In this sense, I believe we are partners working to understand your motivations, fears, and deepest hopes so that you can feel a greater sense of freedom and empowerment in your life and in your future.
(310) 651-7208 View (310) 651-7208
Photo of Derek Baldridge, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA
Derek Baldridge
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA 90025  (Online Only)
With over a decade of experience in the mental health field, I have a deep respect and understanding of the positive impact of the therapeutic process. I have dedicated my career to helping others, and I get a profound sense of purpose working with clients to help them navigate the complexities of life, better understand their issues, and meet their potential. My initial work with foster youth and other underserved populations not only fueled my passion to be a therapist, but gave me first-hand insight into the strength and resilience of the human spirit, and the immense change and growth we are capable of with the right support.
With over a decade of experience in the mental health field, I have a deep respect and understanding of the positive impact of the therapeutic process. I have dedicated my career to helping others, and I get a profound sense of purpose working with clients to help them navigate the complexities of life, better understand their issues, and meet their potential. My initial work with foster youth and other underserved populations not only fueled my passion to be a therapist, but gave me first-hand insight into the strength and resilience of the human spirit, and the immense change and growth we are capable of with the right support.
(424) 484-8868 View (424) 484-8868
Photo of Robert D. Scheps, Psychologist in Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA
Robert D. Scheps
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA 90049
If you are considering starting therapy you are likely feeling stuck: either in feelings of depression or anxiety; in repetitive behaviors; in unsatisfying personal relationships; or in career frustrations. You are often making decisions and acting in ways that are counterproductive to what you want. Our work together will make you recognize how your past experiences intrude on the present, preventing personal growth. Once your are aware of how your disruptive behaviors, actions and/or beliefs interfere with your goals you can make new choices that are more fulfilling.
If you are considering starting therapy you are likely feeling stuck: either in feelings of depression or anxiety; in repetitive behaviors; in unsatisfying personal relationships; or in career frustrations. You are often making decisions and acting in ways that are counterproductive to what you want. Our work together will make you recognize how your past experiences intrude on the present, preventing personal growth. Once your are aware of how your disruptive behaviors, actions and/or beliefs interfere with your goals you can make new choices that are more fulfilling.
(310) 895-9184 View (310) 895-9184
Photo of Dr. Albert Bonfil, Psychologist in Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA
Dr. Albert Bonfil
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA 90025
Are you grappling with anxiety, depression, OCD, or attention-related challenges? I’m a nationally recognized expert in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), the research-based treatment of choice for quickly and effectively treating depression, anxiety, and related problems. If you're in search of a personalized and collaborative therapeutic journey, I'm here to help you. My commitment as a psychologist is to understand your unique needs and collaborate with you to provide you with the most effective therapy science has to offer.
Are you grappling with anxiety, depression, OCD, or attention-related challenges? I’m a nationally recognized expert in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), the research-based treatment of choice for quickly and effectively treating depression, anxiety, and related problems. If you're in search of a personalized and collaborative therapeutic journey, I'm here to help you. My commitment as a psychologist is to understand your unique needs and collaborate with you to provide you with the most effective therapy science has to offer.
(424) 688-9247 x1 View (424) 688-9247 x1
Photo of Ildiko Tabori-Corral, Psychologist in Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA
Ildiko Tabori-Corral
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA 90049
I combine a unique and specialized form of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) based on Choice Theory with a Family Systems approach to treatment. I view maladaptive behavioral patterns as a result of inadequate or dysfunctional life choices. I assist my clients in recognizing these patterns of behavior and encourage them to draw realistic and practical solutions to the things that are hindering growth and happiness through the choices they make in life. I work collaboratively with my clients using a "here and now" problem-solving technique and develop a treatment plan that uses psychotherapy, exercise, nutrition, and social support networks.
I combine a unique and specialized form of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) based on Choice Theory with a Family Systems approach to treatment. I view maladaptive behavioral patterns as a result of inadequate or dysfunctional life choices. I assist my clients in recognizing these patterns of behavior and encourage them to draw realistic and practical solutions to the things that are hindering growth and happiness through the choices they make in life. I work collaboratively with my clients using a "here and now" problem-solving technique and develop a treatment plan that uses psychotherapy, exercise, nutrition, and social support networks.
(310) 341-7061 View (310) 341-7061
Photo of Carder Stout, Marriage & Family Therapist in Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA
Carder Stout
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MFT
Verified Verified
Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA 90049
Hello, my name is Dr. Carder Stout. I want to thank you for joining me. You may be here because something in your life is not working. As a Depth Psychologist I believe that everyone has the capacity to be happy. My aim as a therapist is to heal those parts of you that are standing in the way. Let me help you connect with the joy in your life. I have been described as compassionate, calm and insightful. My patients tell me that I am present with them as a good listener and guide.
Hello, my name is Dr. Carder Stout. I want to thank you for joining me. You may be here because something in your life is not working. As a Depth Psychologist I believe that everyone has the capacity to be happy. My aim as a therapist is to heal those parts of you that are standing in the way. Let me help you connect with the joy in your life. I have been described as compassionate, calm and insightful. My patients tell me that I am present with them as a good listener and guide.
(424) 294-8975 View (424) 294-8975
Photo of Penn Shelton, Pre-Licensed Professional in Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA
Penn Shelton
Pre-Licensed Professional, ACSW, CADC-II
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA 90025  (Online Only)
As a therapist specializing in mental health, addiction recovery, trauma, relationships, and family dynamics, I have been helping adults, adolescents, couples and families navigate the challenges of life for the past ten years of clinical experience. Drawing from my experience as an addiction counselor since 2015, 4 years as a therapist, my personal journey of recovery for 12 years, I have developed a unique and integrated therapeutic framework that empowers my clients to discover the root cause of their problems. As my client, I will guide you to your truth rather than trying to impose my ideas of what I think is best for you.
As a therapist specializing in mental health, addiction recovery, trauma, relationships, and family dynamics, I have been helping adults, adolescents, couples and families navigate the challenges of life for the past ten years of clinical experience. Drawing from my experience as an addiction counselor since 2015, 4 years as a therapist, my personal journey of recovery for 12 years, I have developed a unique and integrated therapeutic framework that empowers my clients to discover the root cause of their problems. As my client, I will guide you to your truth rather than trying to impose my ideas of what I think is best for you.
(310) 484-5751 View (310) 484-5751
Photo of Bonnie Banafsheh Shayeg, Marriage & Family Therapist in Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA
Bonnie Banafsheh Shayeg
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA 90049
Hi there lovers. You want to feel understood and connected socially and personally. It's important for you to explore your raw self without guilt or shame, yet most of us don't have that luxury. The goal of therapy is self exploration and awareness, recognizing conditionings, traumas, and learned patterns keeping you looping. People feel most benefit from therapy when they are ready to put in work outside the session as much as in the session. I use humor, empathy and directness to give you a stable yet direct support system to help navigate your life towards satisfaction and feeling fulfilled.
Hi there lovers. You want to feel understood and connected socially and personally. It's important for you to explore your raw self without guilt or shame, yet most of us don't have that luxury. The goal of therapy is self exploration and awareness, recognizing conditionings, traumas, and learned patterns keeping you looping. People feel most benefit from therapy when they are ready to put in work outside the session as much as in the session. I use humor, empathy and directness to give you a stable yet direct support system to help navigate your life towards satisfaction and feeling fulfilled.
(424) 552-4598 View (424) 552-4598
Photo of Dr. John Drimmer, Psychologist in Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA
Dr. John Drimmer
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA 90049
I'm told I'm warm, smart, and that I have a good sense of humor. (Sometimes my dog likes to sit in on sessions.) I believe therapy has got to change lives -- and be enjoyable. Unlike some therapists, I believe in setting goals and tracking progress. Why go to therapy without results? What's my specialty? Helping people free themselves from what holds them back. My approach combines Positive Psychology and CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy) with mindfulness and a creative mix of the best approaches known to modern psychology.
I'm told I'm warm, smart, and that I have a good sense of humor. (Sometimes my dog likes to sit in on sessions.) I believe therapy has got to change lives -- and be enjoyable. Unlike some therapists, I believe in setting goals and tracking progress. Why go to therapy without results? What's my specialty? Helping people free themselves from what holds them back. My approach combines Positive Psychology and CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy) with mindfulness and a creative mix of the best approaches known to modern psychology.
(424) 373-3205 View (424) 373-3205

See more therapy options for Brentwood, 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.