Photo of Cindy Bollman, Psychologist in Newport Beach, CA
Cindy Bollman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, marital or relationship issues, it is important to find a therapist with whom you feel safe and comfortable....a good fit for you. I have been in practice for over 20 years and my approach is to get to the problem, find the solution, and work collaboratively toward these goals. I welcome feedback, positive and negative!
If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, marital or relationship issues, it is important to find a therapist with whom you feel safe and comfortable....a good fit for you. I have been in practice for over 20 years and my approach is to get to the problem, find the solution, and work collaboratively toward these goals. I welcome feedback, positive and negative!
(949) 520-7958 View (949) 520-7958
Photo of Saba Montazerian, Marriage & Family Therapist in Newport Beach, CA
Saba Montazerian
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
As an experienced Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), in Newport Beach, CA with over 10+ years of diverse background in outpatient, crisis counseling, and Therapeutic-Day Treatment, I am passionate about helping individuals, couples, and families navigate life's challenges and create meaningful change. My passion is to work with young adult women in various stages of life facing Life transition issues, anxiety, depression, chronic pain, grief, school & work burnout, and conflicts within relationships.
As an experienced Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), in Newport Beach, CA with over 10+ years of diverse background in outpatient, crisis counseling, and Therapeutic-Day Treatment, I am passionate about helping individuals, couples, and families navigate life's challenges and create meaningful change. My passion is to work with young adult women in various stages of life facing Life transition issues, anxiety, depression, chronic pain, grief, school & work burnout, and conflicts within relationships.
(949) 575-8401 View (949) 575-8401
Photo of Raquel S. Ruvalcaba, Marriage & Family Therapist in Newport Beach, CA
Raquel S. Ruvalcaba
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660  (Online Only)
My years of service include counseling for Marital/relationship problems, Self Esteem issues, Anxiety, Panic, Trauma, and Depression using CBT, Mindfulness EMDR, specializing in working with trauma from family of origin, past abuse, Complicated Grief, and If struggling with extreme loneliness, Codependency, Toxic abuse in relationships I can help.
Hello, thank you for considering me as your therapist. Seeking therapy is not easy. But, you are taking the first step in feeling better. I have over 20 years working as a Therapist helping couples and individuals heal. I have extensive experience in treating Trauma related symptoms, Panic attacks, Anxiety, Depression, Grief, and Relationship Problems. Please call me to schedule your intake and Let's gets started today.
My years of service include counseling for Marital/relationship problems, Self Esteem issues, Anxiety, Panic, Trauma, and Depression using CBT, Mindfulness EMDR, specializing in working with trauma from family of origin, past abuse, Complicated Grief, and If struggling with extreme loneliness, Codependency, Toxic abuse in relationships I can help.
Hello, thank you for considering me as your therapist. Seeking therapy is not easy. But, you are taking the first step in feeling better. I have over 20 years working as a Therapist helping couples and individuals heal. I have extensive experience in treating Trauma related symptoms, Panic attacks, Anxiety, Depression, Grief, and Relationship Problems. Please call me to schedule your intake and Let's gets started today.
(949) 229-4848 View (949) 229-4848
Photo of Misa Butsuhara, Marriage & Family Therapist in Newport Beach, CA
Misa Butsuhara
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
I also love working with couples, whether they are seeking pre-marital counseling, counseling for co-parenting issues, or struggling with problems such as infidelity or impending separation.
I am passionate about helping young adults, adults, and couples. Have you already tried "talk therapy" and found it unhelpful? I do a lot more than just listen. I help you identify your goals for treatment and collaborate with you every step of the way. I utilize methods and techniques, tailored to your diagnosis and needs, that have been proven to work. I am always grateful to be a part of my clients' lives, to help change and growth occur in wonderful, empowering ways.
I also love working with couples, whether they are seeking pre-marital counseling, counseling for co-parenting issues, or struggling with problems such as infidelity or impending separation.
I am passionate about helping young adults, adults, and couples. Have you already tried "talk therapy" and found it unhelpful? I do a lot more than just listen. I help you identify your goals for treatment and collaborate with you every step of the way. I utilize methods and techniques, tailored to your diagnosis and needs, that have been proven to work. I am always grateful to be a part of my clients' lives, to help change and growth occur in wonderful, empowering ways.
(800) 317-8010 View (800) 317-8010
Photo of Nicole S Johnson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Newport Beach, CA
Nicole S Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Has life become overwhelming, stressful, or unmanageable? Not sure how to help yourself, kids, or relationship, and life has become out of control? You don't need to cope with stress and unhappiness alone. With good treatment individuals will feel and function better. I offer excellent training, insight, warmth and honesty. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist certified with the Board of Behavioral Sciences. I received my BA degree from the University of Arizona in communications and earned my MA degree in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University with an Emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy.
Has life become overwhelming, stressful, or unmanageable? Not sure how to help yourself, kids, or relationship, and life has become out of control? You don't need to cope with stress and unhappiness alone. With good treatment individuals will feel and function better. I offer excellent training, insight, warmth and honesty. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist certified with the Board of Behavioral Sciences. I received my BA degree from the University of Arizona in communications and earned my MA degree in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University with an Emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy.
(949) 647-4976 View (949) 647-4976
Photo of Sheri Keffer, Marriage & Family Therapist in Newport Beach, CA
Sheri Keffer
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MFT, MAT, CCPS
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Dr. Sheri Keffer is a Marriage and Family Therapist, TV and nationally syndicated radio Co-Host, speaker, author and relationship expert who will help you to identify the underlying causes that may be keeping you from all that you are meant to be. Why stay stuck when you can move forward? "Whether anxiety, depression, past traumas or failed relationships are effecting your life, I am dedicated to helping you discover new ways of challenging old patterns of thoughts and behaviors. I look forward to your call and working together with you!"
Dr. Sheri Keffer is a Marriage and Family Therapist, TV and nationally syndicated radio Co-Host, speaker, author and relationship expert who will help you to identify the underlying causes that may be keeping you from all that you are meant to be. Why stay stuck when you can move forward? "Whether anxiety, depression, past traumas or failed relationships are effecting your life, I am dedicated to helping you discover new ways of challenging old patterns of thoughts and behaviors. I look forward to your call and working together with you!"
(949) 647-5521 View (949) 647-5521
Photo of Cheryl Graybill Dale, Marriage & Family Therapist in Newport Beach, CA
Cheryl Graybill Dale
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
I have over 20 years experience and extensive training as a licensed Marriage and Family therapist.
Are you looking for a place to begin healing? Have you tried many other things, only to feel disappointed that life's challenges continue to be more complex than you thought? An effective therapy process creates space and understanding for the purpose of transforming life's struggles and disappointments. In the process, a renewed capacity for more satisfying relationships, greater effectiveness, resiliency and coping skills begin to emerge. Life becomes meaningful and purposeful. In a professional, caring environment, I seek to uncover the patterns and difficulties of the past and create an environment where healing and recovery can take place.
I have over 20 years experience and extensive training as a licensed Marriage and Family therapist.
Are you looking for a place to begin healing? Have you tried many other things, only to feel disappointed that life's challenges continue to be more complex than you thought? An effective therapy process creates space and understanding for the purpose of transforming life's struggles and disappointments. In the process, a renewed capacity for more satisfying relationships, greater effectiveness, resiliency and coping skills begin to emerge. Life becomes meaningful and purposeful. In a professional, caring environment, I seek to uncover the patterns and difficulties of the past and create an environment where healing and recovery can take place.
(714) 759-2300 View (714) 759-2300
Photo of Dr. Silvana Cristina Charison, Counselor in Newport Beach, CA
Dr. Silvana Cristina Charison
Counselor, PsyD, LPCC
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
I especialize in treating Individuals, couples, marital and relationships.
Today you are one step closer to a new you where you feel empowered and on a positive path to growth. When we work together my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. I have extensive knowledge on treating couples and individuals. If you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or you're just ready to move in a new direction in your life, I look forward to working with you to achieve your goals.
I especialize in treating Individuals, couples, marital and relationships.
Today you are one step closer to a new you where you feel empowered and on a positive path to growth. When we work together my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. I have extensive knowledge on treating couples and individuals. If you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or you're just ready to move in a new direction in your life, I look forward to working with you to achieve your goals.
(949) 298-3845 View (949) 298-3845
Photo of Shamim Bahrani-Madi, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Newport Beach, CA
Shamim Bahrani-Madi
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, MA
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
I am a Registered Marriage and Family Therapist Associate.
My focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. This can be achieved by providing a neutral safe environment and customizing an individualized treatment plan that best fits our lives' challenges and difficulties. Many individuals can experience symptoms associated with painful and traumatic circumstances. Anxiety, depression, fear, and hopelessness are a few emotions that can linger post traumatic events. Overcoming these symptoms can be possible by collaborating with you through the process of grief and healing and help you recover the motivation, perspective, and joy.
I am a Registered Marriage and Family Therapist Associate.
My focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. This can be achieved by providing a neutral safe environment and customizing an individualized treatment plan that best fits our lives' challenges and difficulties. Many individuals can experience symptoms associated with painful and traumatic circumstances. Anxiety, depression, fear, and hopelessness are a few emotions that can linger post traumatic events. Overcoming these symptoms can be possible by collaborating with you through the process of grief and healing and help you recover the motivation, perspective, and joy.
(949) 390-6312 View (949) 390-6312
Photo of Sufi Farkhan, Marriage & Family Therapist in Newport Beach, CA
Sufi Farkhan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660  (Online Only)
Is life becoming unmanageable? Looking for real answers? Seeking the best group of clinicians who accept your insurance? Welcome to WellPsyche Medical Group! WellPsyche providers are experts in Wellness and Mental Health. Dr. Sufi specializes in Marriage and Family Therapy. Her role as a therapist is to guide you toward finding that balance within yourself. We will explore how your thoughts, emotions, body, childhood experiences, relationships, genetics, and current environment are contributing to your distress and healing.
Is life becoming unmanageable? Looking for real answers? Seeking the best group of clinicians who accept your insurance? Welcome to WellPsyche Medical Group! WellPsyche providers are experts in Wellness and Mental Health. Dr. Sufi specializes in Marriage and Family Therapy. Her role as a therapist is to guide you toward finding that balance within yourself. We will explore how your thoughts, emotions, body, childhood experiences, relationships, genetics, and current environment are contributing to your distress and healing.
(310) 589-3561 View (310) 589-3561
Photo of Kiandra Hebert, Psychologist in Newport Beach, CA
Kiandra Hebert
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92660
To improve their marriage, parenting strategies, anxiety, depression, weight loss, panic attacks, OCD, or trauma.
Accepting clients in person & video. I provide a comfortable, accepting place where you can gain insights and specific skills to help you feel your best. Often we have deep beliefs about ourselves that can hold us back. Our systems can become overloaded with the stress of modern life. I can help you develop a plan to achieve your goals, have more confidence, & feel more at ease. We are an energy system that can learn to better regulate itself and experience more tranquility, joy, and happiness & better manage sadness and anxiety. I use a variety of research based techniques that I tailor to your needs and preferences.
To improve their marriage, parenting strategies, anxiety, depression, weight loss, panic attacks, OCD, or trauma.
Accepting clients in person & video. I provide a comfortable, accepting place where you can gain insights and specific skills to help you feel your best. Often we have deep beliefs about ourselves that can hold us back. Our systems can become overloaded with the stress of modern life. I can help you develop a plan to achieve your goals, have more confidence, & feel more at ease. We are an energy system that can learn to better regulate itself and experience more tranquility, joy, and happiness & better manage sadness and anxiety. I use a variety of research based techniques that I tailor to your needs and preferences.
(949) 264-5515 View (949) 264-5515
Photo of Sufi Farkhan, Marriage & Family Therapist in Newport Beach, CA
Sufi Farkhan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660  (Online Only)
Is life becoming unmanageable? Looking for real answers? Seeking the best group of clinicians who accept your insurance? Welcome to WellPsyche Medical Group! WellPsyche providers are experts in Wellness and Mental Health. Dr. Sufi specializes in Marriage and Family Therapy. Her role as a therapist is to guide you toward finding that balance within yourself. We will explore how your thoughts, emotions, body, childhood experiences, relationships, genetics, and current environment are contributing to your distress and healing.
Is life becoming unmanageable? Looking for real answers? Seeking the best group of clinicians who accept your insurance? Welcome to WellPsyche Medical Group! WellPsyche providers are experts in Wellness and Mental Health. Dr. Sufi specializes in Marriage and Family Therapy. Her role as a therapist is to guide you toward finding that balance within yourself. We will explore how your thoughts, emotions, body, childhood experiences, relationships, genetics, and current environment are contributing to your distress and healing.
(310) 341-7564 View (310) 341-7564
Photo of Kimiko Castle, Marriage & Family Therapist in Newport Beach, CA
Kimiko Castle
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92661
I specialize in relationship issues such as dating, divorce, substance abuse, mental health, and marital challenges.
Now offering zoom sessions. And free 15 min zoom consultation, to see if we are a good fit. Do you have relationship issues and can't figure out why? Are you depressed because you feel like you have no purpose? Is your anxiety debilitating? I am here to help you work through what's keeping you from the freedom you are seeking. I help clients process and understand blocks in there life. Whether that may be an addiction, communication issues, or the deeper roots of something in your past. I believe the relationship between a therapist and a client begins with authenticity seek to create a space of safety for your healing process.
I specialize in relationship issues such as dating, divorce, substance abuse, mental health, and marital challenges.
Now offering zoom sessions. And free 15 min zoom consultation, to see if we are a good fit. Do you have relationship issues and can't figure out why? Are you depressed because you feel like you have no purpose? Is your anxiety debilitating? I am here to help you work through what's keeping you from the freedom you are seeking. I help clients process and understand blocks in there life. Whether that may be an addiction, communication issues, or the deeper roots of something in your past. I believe the relationship between a therapist and a client begins with authenticity seek to create a space of safety for your healing process.
(949) 531-7819 View (949) 531-7819
Photo of Stacey Aoto-Sullivan, Psychologist in Newport Beach, CA
Stacey Aoto-Sullivan
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92657
marriage, parenting, etc.
I am dedicated to looking at the whole person to identify thematic issues that manifest themselves in different emotional, relational, or behavior patterns that take away from the richness of life. I focus on core emotions to create corrective experiences in relationship to improve emotional connection and promote healing. I address issues related to primary attachments, family of origin, and developmental issues. I have a collaborative approach to work toward creating emotional health and intimacy that has lasting impacts on your quality of life. I have a psychodynamic perspective informed by attachment research and the neurobiology of the brain.
marriage, parenting, etc.
I am dedicated to looking at the whole person to identify thematic issues that manifest themselves in different emotional, relational, or behavior patterns that take away from the richness of life. I focus on core emotions to create corrective experiences in relationship to improve emotional connection and promote healing. I address issues related to primary attachments, family of origin, and developmental issues. I have a collaborative approach to work toward creating emotional health and intimacy that has lasting impacts on your quality of life. I have a psychodynamic perspective informed by attachment research and the neurobiology of the brain.
(714) 701-6694 View (714) 701-6694
Photo of Dr. Dawn Nelson de Ramirez, Psychologist in Newport Beach, CA
Dr. Dawn Nelson de Ramirez
Psychologist, PsyD, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92657
As a Psychologist and Marriage and Family Therapist I have a unique approach to understanding both family dynamics and individual struggles such as anxiety, depression, stress, parenting etc. I focus on brief, solution focused therapy, therapy that works! Therapy and the needs of people that present for therapy have changed and you need a Psychologist/Therapist that understands the unique demands and challenges of today's world. I know that most people don't have the time or money to invest in years of therapy and getting nowhere. I combine Therapy and Life Coaching to build a treatment plan that addresses all your needs.
As a Psychologist and Marriage and Family Therapist I have a unique approach to understanding both family dynamics and individual struggles such as anxiety, depression, stress, parenting etc. I focus on brief, solution focused therapy, therapy that works! Therapy and the needs of people that present for therapy have changed and you need a Psychologist/Therapist that understands the unique demands and challenges of today's world. I know that most people don't have the time or money to invest in years of therapy and getting nowhere. I combine Therapy and Life Coaching to build a treatment plan that addresses all your needs.
(949) 391-2000 View (949) 391-2000
Photo of Antoinette Gupta, Marriage & Family Therapist in Newport Beach, CA
Antoinette Gupta
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, Psy D
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist and provide service to individuals, couples and families.
Do you wish to have a deeper connection and intimacy with your partner? Would you like to learn more positive ways of communicating with your partner, parent or child? Or perhaps you may feel stuck with anxious and/or depressed feelings and would like to learn healthy ways to cope and move forward. You hold the key to make positive changes for a more happy, satisfying and fulfilling life.Your Journey begins with a single step which you have already made by reading this information.
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist and provide service to individuals, couples and families.
Do you wish to have a deeper connection and intimacy with your partner? Would you like to learn more positive ways of communicating with your partner, parent or child? Or perhaps you may feel stuck with anxious and/or depressed feelings and would like to learn healthy ways to cope and move forward. You hold the key to make positive changes for a more happy, satisfying and fulfilling life.Your Journey begins with a single step which you have already made by reading this information.
(714) 584-4950 View (714) 584-4950
Photo of Jarfa Wabs, MA LMFT dba Counseling Together, Marriage & Family Therapist in Newport Beach, CA
Jarfa Wabs, MA LMFT dba Counseling Together
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92657
Finding a therapist at a time when your whole world is falling apart, is one more difficult task to add to the many tasks required of you. Well, you aren't alone! Couples & family counseling is one of my many focuses. Premarital and marriage counseling can be very effective in starting and saving relationships. I also focus on stress, fears, and anxiety that might be causing unexplained aches and pains in your body, frustrating you and others around you. I am well versed on issues of Chronic illness, hormonal imbalances, Fibromyalgia, Infertility, Postpartum, Menopause, Thyroid and many life events affecting healthy relationships.
Finding a therapist at a time when your whole world is falling apart, is one more difficult task to add to the many tasks required of you. Well, you aren't alone! Couples & family counseling is one of my many focuses. Premarital and marriage counseling can be very effective in starting and saving relationships. I also focus on stress, fears, and anxiety that might be causing unexplained aches and pains in your body, frustrating you and others around you. I am well versed on issues of Chronic illness, hormonal imbalances, Fibromyalgia, Infertility, Postpartum, Menopause, Thyroid and many life events affecting healthy relationships.
(949) 281-6275 View (949) 281-6275
Photo of Linda Maxwell Robertson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Newport Beach, CA
Linda Maxwell Robertson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660  (Online Only)
Have the demands of career, marriage or parenting become overwhelming? Are you worried about your kids? Have your problems become unmanageable? Have you become more isolated or are you relying on substances to help you calm down and cope? When anxiety and sadness are more prevalent than hope or happiness, I can help.
Have the demands of career, marriage or parenting become overwhelming? Are you worried about your kids? Have your problems become unmanageable? Have you become more isolated or are you relying on substances to help you calm down and cope? When anxiety and sadness are more prevalent than hope or happiness, I can help.
(949) 313-8024 View (949) 313-8024
Photo of Michelle DeVincentis, Marriage & Family Therapist in Newport Beach, CA
Michelle DeVincentis
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Hello! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California with over 8 years of clinical experience. I typically work with parents in the perinatal period as they navigate their transition into parenthood or re-adjust to life with a new baby, whether it's their first or the fifth! I screen and treat clients for postpartum depression, postpartum anxiety, and birth trauma. I rely heavily on aspects of CBT, DBT, and the importance of self-regulation. It is important to me that my practice is trauma-informed and culturally sensitive because therapeutic care should be accessible to everyone.
Hello! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California with over 8 years of clinical experience. I typically work with parents in the perinatal period as they navigate their transition into parenthood or re-adjust to life with a new baby, whether it's their first or the fifth! I screen and treat clients for postpartum depression, postpartum anxiety, and birth trauma. I rely heavily on aspects of CBT, DBT, and the importance of self-regulation. It is important to me that my practice is trauma-informed and culturally sensitive because therapeutic care should be accessible to everyone.
(951) 494-6995 View (951) 494-6995
Photo of Alison Lynn Johnson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Newport Beach, CA
Alison Lynn Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Frustrated with your: relationship? sex life? child? I am trained in 2nd level, Gottman Method, a specialty that started with couples. John Gottman, the author of, "7 Principles of Marriage," is known for predicting divorce with 90% accuracy, has been influential over my career. The Gottman Method has transformed my practice to focusing on couples, parenting, and children. If you're looking for guidance through a challenging situation with your children, partner or anyone else, I look forward to working with you to accomplish your goals.
Frustrated with your: relationship? sex life? child? I am trained in 2nd level, Gottman Method, a specialty that started with couples. John Gottman, the author of, "7 Principles of Marriage," is known for predicting divorce with 90% accuracy, has been influential over my career. The Gottman Method has transformed my practice to focusing on couples, parenting, and children. If you're looking for guidance through a challenging situation with your children, partner or anyone else, I look forward to working with you to accomplish your goals.
(714) 654-1570 View (714) 654-1570

See more therapy options for Newport Beach

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.