Photo of Mary K Williamson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sacramento, CA
Mary K Williamson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95864
I have been married for 40+ years and realize that marriage can be a challange and learning to work through diffucult times is a very important factor.
Sometimes life challenges leave you overwhelmed and you do not know what to do. Seeking counseling can be difficult and it is often hard to take the first step. I offer a safe and supportive environment to work with you on making the changes to improve your life. I am committed to providing effective and non-judgemental services to the individuals and families I work with. Working with children who have experienced traumatic life experiences is an area that I have many years of experience. Helping these children build trusting relationships with others is very important to me.
I have been married for 40+ years and realize that marriage can be a challange and learning to work through diffucult times is a very important factor.
Sometimes life challenges leave you overwhelmed and you do not know what to do. Seeking counseling can be difficult and it is often hard to take the first step. I offer a safe and supportive environment to work with you on making the changes to improve your life. I am committed to providing effective and non-judgemental services to the individuals and families I work with. Working with children who have experienced traumatic life experiences is an area that I have many years of experience. Helping these children build trusting relationships with others is very important to me.
(916) 546-3677 View (916) 546-3677
Photo of Charles A Garcia, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sacramento, CA
Charles A Garcia
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95818
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over fifteen years of experience. Much of my career has focused on working with adolescents, adults, couples, and families. My approach is client-centered, collaborative, strengths based, and sincerely concerned for the well-being of my clients. Whether you’re seeking help for yourself or a loved one, my goal is to partner with clients in overcoming obstacles to well-being and success in the domains of relationships, family, work, and school.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over fifteen years of experience. Much of my career has focused on working with adolescents, adults, couples, and families. My approach is client-centered, collaborative, strengths based, and sincerely concerned for the well-being of my clients. Whether you’re seeking help for yourself or a loved one, my goal is to partner with clients in overcoming obstacles to well-being and success in the domains of relationships, family, work, and school.
(916) 659-8118 View (916) 659-8118
Photo of Christina Harner, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sacramento, CA
Christina Harner
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95823
Hi! I'm Christina Harner, a licensed marriage and family therapist. I'm also an active-duty military spouse and a veteran myself. believe therapy works for those that want to make change. I have worked extensively with couples dealing with domestic violence, cultural concerns, work-life balance, and military communities. I typically work with adults (over 18) that experience anxiety, depression, and stress due to relationship issues, work-life balance (or lack of), and family issues. As a parent (and one of 9 siblings) I relate well to the complex dynamics in merging family life and work life.
Hi! I'm Christina Harner, a licensed marriage and family therapist. I'm also an active-duty military spouse and a veteran myself. believe therapy works for those that want to make change. I have worked extensively with couples dealing with domestic violence, cultural concerns, work-life balance, and military communities. I typically work with adults (over 18) that experience anxiety, depression, and stress due to relationship issues, work-life balance (or lack of), and family issues. As a parent (and one of 9 siblings) I relate well to the complex dynamics in merging family life and work life.
(916) 252-5569 View (916) 252-5569
Photo of Bryant Howard, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sacramento, CA
Bryant Howard
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95831
You are not alone and I believe that developing these coping skills is the key to living a successful life, and in turn will strengthen your self-esteem, relationships, marriage, parenting and everyday life! .
Try as we might, sometimes happiness and contentment always seem just out of reach. Depression, anxiety and stress can make getting out of bed in the morning a daunting task. Troubles in your relationship or conflict in the family can make you feel helpless or overwhelmed. You don’t like yourself and never feel good enough at work or around certain people. Maybe you just can’t quite put your finger on exactly what is wrong, you just know you don’t want to hurt anymore.
You are not alone and I believe that developing these coping skills is the key to living a successful life, and in turn will strengthen your self-esteem, relationships, marriage, parenting and everyday life! .
Try as we might, sometimes happiness and contentment always seem just out of reach. Depression, anxiety and stress can make getting out of bed in the morning a daunting task. Troubles in your relationship or conflict in the family can make you feel helpless or overwhelmed. You don’t like yourself and never feel good enough at work or around certain people. Maybe you just can’t quite put your finger on exactly what is wrong, you just know you don’t want to hurt anymore.
(916) 571-0375 View (916) 571-0375
Photo of Megan J Valsecchi, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sacramento, CA
Megan J Valsecchi
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95811  (Online Only)
I am a compassionate and empathetic therapist who believes in the power of collaboration on the journey to emotional well-being. I am both a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPPC) with her undergraduate and graduate degree’s coming from California State University, Fullerton, and Sacramento State University, respectively. I create a safe and non-judgmental space where individuals can openly explore their emotions, knowing they are fully heard and understood.
I am a compassionate and empathetic therapist who believes in the power of collaboration on the journey to emotional well-being. I am both a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPPC) with her undergraduate and graduate degree’s coming from California State University, Fullerton, and Sacramento State University, respectively. I create a safe and non-judgmental space where individuals can openly explore their emotions, knowing they are fully heard and understood.
(916) 866-9347 View (916) 866-9347
Photo of Traci Bianchi Templin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sacramento, CA
Traci Bianchi Templin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95816
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, #96632.
Welcome! I offer support for your journey to a balanced, peaceful, and happy life. I have a passion for guiding clients through their journey of finding peace, balance, and happiness in life. I view therapy as a collaborative effort between the client and the therapist. I support my client's unique individuality, life experience, and their personal story. I value openness, acceptance, and laughter, and I strongly believe that we are all in a lifelong process of growth and change. Using empathy and compassion, I provide support and practical feedback to help clients resolve current problems and long-standing patterns.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, #96632.
Welcome! I offer support for your journey to a balanced, peaceful, and happy life. I have a passion for guiding clients through their journey of finding peace, balance, and happiness in life. I view therapy as a collaborative effort between the client and the therapist. I support my client's unique individuality, life experience, and their personal story. I value openness, acceptance, and laughter, and I strongly believe that we are all in a lifelong process of growth and change. Using empathy and compassion, I provide support and practical feedback to help clients resolve current problems and long-standing patterns.
(916) 727-6454 View (916) 727-6454
Photo of Stacy Cordero, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sacramento, CA
Stacy Cordero
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95828
I am excited to introduce myself to you. My name is Stacy Cordero, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California, 142545. It can be uncomfortable to begin therapy. The foundation must include a safe space in which I consider it my responsibility to work hard in building a therapeutic relationship built on trust and mutual respect. I have an extensive background working with individuals affected by relationship challenges. Our connections to others are complex and vital. These connections are vital throughout our lives - no matter how young or how old.
I am excited to introduce myself to you. My name is Stacy Cordero, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California, 142545. It can be uncomfortable to begin therapy. The foundation must include a safe space in which I consider it my responsibility to work hard in building a therapeutic relationship built on trust and mutual respect. I have an extensive background working with individuals affected by relationship challenges. Our connections to others are complex and vital. These connections are vital throughout our lives - no matter how young or how old.
(916) 655-9780 View (916) 655-9780
Photo of Loretta Parker, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sacramento, CA
Loretta Parker
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95834  (Online Only)
Are you open to trying new ways of gaining an understanding of yourself to feel empowered with making positive changes in your life? Each of us have our own unique story in life and at times, we can be challenged with how we deal with the ups and downs of life. Sometimes life events can have an impact on how we relate with others, view the world and ourselves. Sometimes these ups and downs can bring on feelings of sadness, confusion and frustration - when this happens, the expertise of a Marriage and Family Therapist can help.
Are you open to trying new ways of gaining an understanding of yourself to feel empowered with making positive changes in your life? Each of us have our own unique story in life and at times, we can be challenged with how we deal with the ups and downs of life. Sometimes life events can have an impact on how we relate with others, view the world and ourselves. Sometimes these ups and downs can bring on feelings of sadness, confusion and frustration - when this happens, the expertise of a Marriage and Family Therapist can help.
(530) 489-5764 View (530) 489-5764
Photo of Joy Light LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sacramento, CA
Joy Light LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95821  (Online Only)
If you are feeling stressed, depressed, anxious or overwhelmed with your personal relationships or work life, I have over 50 methods in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help you. I also use the very successful Gottman Method to help with conflicts in marriage and relationships. I seek to get to the core issues and self-defeating beliefs so you can truly heal yourself and find your joy in life again. I offer Telehealth (Zoom) sessions from my office to the comfort of your home. I do not take insurance at this time, but I offer a sliding scale on an individual basis to those who need it.
If you are feeling stressed, depressed, anxious or overwhelmed with your personal relationships or work life, I have over 50 methods in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help you. I also use the very successful Gottman Method to help with conflicts in marriage and relationships. I seek to get to the core issues and self-defeating beliefs so you can truly heal yourself and find your joy in life again. I offer Telehealth (Zoom) sessions from my office to the comfort of your home. I do not take insurance at this time, but I offer a sliding scale on an individual basis to those who need it.
(916) 526-3057 View (916) 526-3057
Photo of Shelly Kunker, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sacramento, CA
Shelly Kunker
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, MFT
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95864
I am licensed in California as a Marriage and Family Therapist and hold a Doctorate Degree in Psychology.
Please note - I do not accept insurance. I specialize in working with children, teenagers, and adults who have experienced trauma or grief. Trauma can include a variety of things including physical, emotional, sexual or any other type of abuse, such as being raped or attacked; witnessing or experiencing something terrible such as a car accident or the trauma of combat deployment; the death of a loved one; or many other difficult life experiences. I have also helped numerous members of the LGBTQ community, including those questioning their sexuality and/or gender identity.
I am licensed in California as a Marriage and Family Therapist and hold a Doctorate Degree in Psychology.
Please note - I do not accept insurance. I specialize in working with children, teenagers, and adults who have experienced trauma or grief. Trauma can include a variety of things including physical, emotional, sexual or any other type of abuse, such as being raped or attacked; witnessing or experiencing something terrible such as a car accident or the trauma of combat deployment; the death of a loved one; or many other difficult life experiences. I have also helped numerous members of the LGBTQ community, including those questioning their sexuality and/or gender identity.
(916) 545-6795 View (916) 545-6795
Photo of Karessa Kelly, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sacramento, CA
Karessa Kelly
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95864
My specialties include: Individuals, kids/teens, family, co-parenting, couples and marriage counseling.
The therapeutic journey begins internally by listening to the heart when it tells us there is a need for change in our lives. Second is having the courage to admit when we need outside support to begin this change, and finally being bold enough to use our voices to seek out the assistance of a therapist. Therapy with the right therapist can be helpful to everyone. my preferred theoretical approach is client-centered. A client-centered therapeutic approach allows me to meet my clients where they are at and together develop the appropriate path forward. Other theoretical approaches include; CBT, DBT, experiential, & psychodynamic.
My specialties include: Individuals, kids/teens, family, co-parenting, couples and marriage counseling.
The therapeutic journey begins internally by listening to the heart when it tells us there is a need for change in our lives. Second is having the courage to admit when we need outside support to begin this change, and finally being bold enough to use our voices to seek out the assistance of a therapist. Therapy with the right therapist can be helpful to everyone. my preferred theoretical approach is client-centered. A client-centered therapeutic approach allows me to meet my clients where they are at and together develop the appropriate path forward. Other theoretical approaches include; CBT, DBT, experiential, & psychodynamic.
(916) 237-1619 View (916) 237-1619
Photo of Jesus Sanchez, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sacramento, CA
Jesus Sanchez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95816
Mr. Sanchez is a trained Marriage and Family Therapist with a background in Indigenous arts and cultural traditions. By engaging traditional approaches of psychotherapy, art, and culture, he works with clients to identify their strengths as determined by the health of their social, cultural, family, spiritual and behavioral cycles. His approach offers strength based therapeutic interventions, while utilizing art and culture to support clients in creating practices to strengthen coping skills, relationship patterns, systems of support, concepts of self, and increasing awareness of their role in creating their healing process.
Mr. Sanchez is a trained Marriage and Family Therapist with a background in Indigenous arts and cultural traditions. By engaging traditional approaches of psychotherapy, art, and culture, he works with clients to identify their strengths as determined by the health of their social, cultural, family, spiritual and behavioral cycles. His approach offers strength based therapeutic interventions, while utilizing art and culture to support clients in creating practices to strengthen coping skills, relationship patterns, systems of support, concepts of self, and increasing awareness of their role in creating their healing process.
(916) 597-1146 View (916) 597-1146
Photo of Lola Haag, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sacramento, CA
Lola Haag
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95828
Hello, my name is Lola Haag, and I am a licensed Marriage, Family Therapist with 25 years of experience working to reduce stress and improve relationships. I thoroughly enjoy helping clients deal with the multitude of life's challenges. I have worked extensively with individuals who are struggling with transitions, relationship struggles, or emotional overwhelm. Many times, in adulthood, prior abuse or dysfunctional family of origin issues resurface to cause distress. I work to help adults resolve the past from over-influencing the present and the future. Teens have so many stressors that they have to manage.
Hello, my name is Lola Haag, and I am a licensed Marriage, Family Therapist with 25 years of experience working to reduce stress and improve relationships. I thoroughly enjoy helping clients deal with the multitude of life's challenges. I have worked extensively with individuals who are struggling with transitions, relationship struggles, or emotional overwhelm. Many times, in adulthood, prior abuse or dysfunctional family of origin issues resurface to cause distress. I work to help adults resolve the past from over-influencing the present and the future. Teens have so many stressors that they have to manage.
(916) 520-3972 View (916) 520-3972
Photo of Gita Seshadri, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sacramento, CA
Gita Seshadri
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95816
I offer psychotherapy & a relational view regarding anxiety, grief/loss, body image/self esteem/ weight issues, intimacy problems, divorce, pre-marital, and culture (& interracial/intercultural/interfaith).
Frustrated? Unhappy? Anxious? In emotional pain? Want some validation, insight, and change? I believe that everyone is the expert of their own experience; you have lived your life longer than I have known you. With encouragement, I often use the metaphor of being a flashlight in a dark cave, shedding light on different things, however, you, as the client are in the driver's seat; I am in the passenger seat, as a co-driver. Together, we will explore your personal meanings and experiences while making larger connections to your goals. I invite you to our journey together in creating new meaning.
I offer psychotherapy & a relational view regarding anxiety, grief/loss, body image/self esteem/ weight issues, intimacy problems, divorce, pre-marital, and culture (& interracial/intercultural/interfaith).
Frustrated? Unhappy? Anxious? In emotional pain? Want some validation, insight, and change? I believe that everyone is the expert of their own experience; you have lived your life longer than I have known you. With encouragement, I often use the metaphor of being a flashlight in a dark cave, shedding light on different things, however, you, as the client are in the driver's seat; I am in the passenger seat, as a co-driver. Together, we will explore your personal meanings and experiences while making larger connections to your goals. I invite you to our journey together in creating new meaning.
(949) 441-5655 View (949) 441-5655
Photo of Chanin Hardwick, Counselor in Sacramento, CA
Chanin Hardwick
Counselor, MA-MFT, LPCC, C-IAYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95816
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and have a Master' Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy.
Transition, trauma, and transformation are my specialties. Life transition, career transition, transition in relationships, racial trauma, the trauma of loss, sexual assault trauma, imposter syndrome, and personal transformation. Much comes with each and using the mind, body, soul connection I support you in finding healing, and a new sense of being. Healing is done in connection with others through embodied connection, awareness, and meaning or faith. Together through connection, you can bring healing into your life.
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and have a Master' Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy.
Transition, trauma, and transformation are my specialties. Life transition, career transition, transition in relationships, racial trauma, the trauma of loss, sexual assault trauma, imposter syndrome, and personal transformation. Much comes with each and using the mind, body, soul connection I support you in finding healing, and a new sense of being. Healing is done in connection with others through embodied connection, awareness, and meaning or faith. Together through connection, you can bring healing into your life.
(916) 318-3850 View (916) 318-3850
Photo of Ursula Lewis, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sacramento, CA
Ursula Lewis
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95831
Are you feeling disconnected from the important people in your life? Does your life feel overwhelming or out of control ? Are you worried about your marriage or relationship ? Do you feel overwhelmed with being a parent & wonder if you are doing a "good enough" job? Are you frustrated you can't kick certain compulsive or addictive habits? Are you still affected by past traumatic experiences ? I know this can feel tiring and overwhelming. Let me help. You don't have to feel like this any longer.
Are you feeling disconnected from the important people in your life? Does your life feel overwhelming or out of control ? Are you worried about your marriage or relationship ? Do you feel overwhelmed with being a parent & wonder if you are doing a "good enough" job? Are you frustrated you can't kick certain compulsive or addictive habits? Are you still affected by past traumatic experiences ? I know this can feel tiring and overwhelming. Let me help. You don't have to feel like this any longer.
(530) 303-7013 View (530) 303-7013
Photo of Stephen Taft, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sacramento, CA
Stephen Taft
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95816  (Online Only)
Hello! I am Stephen Taft, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. We all reach points in our life when we need some additional support to break out of problem patterns or to manage difficult issues. If you have been experiencing trouble in your relationships, anxiety, depression or have been feeling overwhelmed; it may be a good time to start therapy. Together we can work to build upon your personal strengths to support your growth in order to create a happier and healthier life.
Hello! I am Stephen Taft, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. We all reach points in our life when we need some additional support to break out of problem patterns or to manage difficult issues. If you have been experiencing trouble in your relationships, anxiety, depression or have been feeling overwhelmed; it may be a good time to start therapy. Together we can work to build upon your personal strengths to support your growth in order to create a happier and healthier life.
(530) 517-6130 View (530) 517-6130
Photo of Mankowski Mental Health Clinic, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sacramento, CA
Mankowski Mental Health Clinic
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95825
Wendy Fischer, LMFT, has a master’s degree in Marriage & Family Therapy from California Family Study Center, and has been working in this field for 30 years.
Rebecca Mankowski, LMFT, is the owner of MMHC, a Clinical Supervisor and certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). As a former Graduate level instructor at CSUS, she teaches and effectively practices crisis and trauma counseling, assessment, diagnosis and treatment of most DSM V disorders. She has extensive experience working with clients from various socio-economic and cultural backgrounds. With experience in the Peace Corps, she is comfortable working globally having lived and traveled on three continents and 17 countries.
Wendy Fischer, LMFT, has a master’s degree in Marriage & Family Therapy from California Family Study Center, and has been working in this field for 30 years.
Rebecca Mankowski, LMFT, is the owner of MMHC, a Clinical Supervisor and certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). As a former Graduate level instructor at CSUS, she teaches and effectively practices crisis and trauma counseling, assessment, diagnosis and treatment of most DSM V disorders. She has extensive experience working with clients from various socio-economic and cultural backgrounds. With experience in the Peace Corps, she is comfortable working globally having lived and traveled on three continents and 17 countries.
(916) 675-3807 View (916) 675-3807
Photo of Life and Liberation, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sacramento, CA
Life and Liberation
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95821
I primarily work with Farsi and Dari speaking refugees who have been exposed to hardship and war. I also see teenagers who are going through identity crisis and transitional periods from childhood to adulthood. I see couples coming from traditional backgrounds trying to save their marriage by adjusting to mainstream culture. Finally, I see individuals with low-self esteem, confidence, and decision making issues.
I primarily work with Farsi and Dari speaking refugees who have been exposed to hardship and war. I also see teenagers who are going through identity crisis and transitional periods from childhood to adulthood. I see couples coming from traditional backgrounds trying to save their marriage by adjusting to mainstream culture. Finally, I see individuals with low-self esteem, confidence, and decision making issues.
(650) 866-1151 View (650) 866-1151
Photo of Barbara Eggenberger, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sacramento, CA
Barbara Eggenberger
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95816  (Online Only)
I am a licensed Marriage Family Therapist serving clients via zoom in California and Oregon. If you struggle with chronic issues and have tried other therapists and are still struggling, I may be the therapist for you. I am a specialist in accessing early trauma and clearing it through the use of brain-based therapies such as EMDR and Brainspotting. I am certified in Brainspotting and Systemic Family Constellations and trained in EMDR I/II. I combine these three methods plus my natural empathic abilities to access blockages and clear them. You will feel immediately better!
I am a licensed Marriage Family Therapist serving clients via zoom in California and Oregon. If you struggle with chronic issues and have tried other therapists and are still struggling, I may be the therapist for you. I am a specialist in accessing early trauma and clearing it through the use of brain-based therapies such as EMDR and Brainspotting. I am certified in Brainspotting and Systemic Family Constellations and trained in EMDR I/II. I combine these three methods plus my natural empathic abilities to access blockages and clear them. You will feel immediately better!
(916) 571-9297 View (916) 571-9297
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.