Therapists in Downtown, San Francisco, CA

Photo of Jill Fishman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Downtown, San Francisco, CA
Jill Fishman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downtown, San Francisco, CA 94109
Are you struggling in a relationship? Are you struggling to understand why you feel depressed or angry most of the time? Meaningful relationships are central to happiness. This can pertain to any relationship you find difficult and/or challenging. Dating, marriage, children, divorce, work, extended family, college, career choices are all areas that can be overwhelming and create stress in individuals, couples and families. Counseling provides help in areas where you are feeling stuck and presents healthy alternatives to stay connected to your goals and the important people in your life.
Are you struggling in a relationship? Are you struggling to understand why you feel depressed or angry most of the time? Meaningful relationships are central to happiness. This can pertain to any relationship you find difficult and/or challenging. Dating, marriage, children, divorce, work, extended family, college, career choices are all areas that can be overwhelming and create stress in individuals, couples and families. Counseling provides help in areas where you are feeling stuck and presents healthy alternatives to stay connected to your goals and the important people in your life.
(415) 689-4797 View (415) 689-4797
Photo of Jeanna Eichenbaum, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Downtown, San Francisco, CA
Jeanna Eichenbaum
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Downtown, San Francisco, CA 94102
My speciaties include marriage and relationship work, including monogamous and polyamorous relationships, alternative sexuality concerns (kink/BDSM/vanilla), transgender and non-binary issues and transition support, LGBTQQI supportive therapy, and recovery from depression, anxiety, and trauma/PTSD related disorders.
Longing for a different outcome? Want to write a new story? You are probably hoping to find support with the process of healing something that isn't feeling right. Psychotherapy can help by offering an accepting space to look, non-judgmentally, at whatever feels stuck, painful, or unresolved. Use my support and encouragement to help you approach these challenges in new ways, and find new solutions. My goal is to provide you with acceptance and ways to access your own innate wisdom and energy. I offer individual and relationship psychotherapy. Short and long term therapy options are available, depending on your concerns and goals.
My speciaties include marriage and relationship work, including monogamous and polyamorous relationships, alternative sexuality concerns (kink/BDSM/vanilla), transgender and non-binary issues and transition support, LGBTQQI supportive therapy, and recovery from depression, anxiety, and trauma/PTSD related disorders.
Longing for a different outcome? Want to write a new story? You are probably hoping to find support with the process of healing something that isn't feeling right. Psychotherapy can help by offering an accepting space to look, non-judgmentally, at whatever feels stuck, painful, or unresolved. Use my support and encouragement to help you approach these challenges in new ways, and find new solutions. My goal is to provide you with acceptance and ways to access your own innate wisdom and energy. I offer individual and relationship psychotherapy. Short and long term therapy options are available, depending on your concerns and goals.
(415) 799-4049 View (415) 799-4049
Photo of Estelle Rubenstein, Marriage & Family Therapist in Downtown, San Francisco, CA
Estelle Rubenstein
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Downtown, San Francisco, CA 94102  (Online Only)
I have over 25 years of experience as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (CA LMFT 39471).
Welcome. I know that choosing a therapist can be hard. How can a therapist help you? How can you find the right therapist? I hope the information here helps. I work with all age groups - and especially well with clients whose challenges include gender identity and sexuality, life transitions, alcohol and drug addiction, foster care and adoption issues, parenting, ageing, depression, anxiety, veterans and active duty military, relationships, grief, loss, and trauma. I can work within short-term and long-term frameworks, depending on your goals and expectations. I am kink-, gender-, and ENM/poly-affirming.
I have over 25 years of experience as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (CA LMFT 39471).
Welcome. I know that choosing a therapist can be hard. How can a therapist help you? How can you find the right therapist? I hope the information here helps. I work with all age groups - and especially well with clients whose challenges include gender identity and sexuality, life transitions, alcohol and drug addiction, foster care and adoption issues, parenting, ageing, depression, anxiety, veterans and active duty military, relationships, grief, loss, and trauma. I can work within short-term and long-term frameworks, depending on your goals and expectations. I am kink-, gender-, and ENM/poly-affirming.
(415) 639-3834 View (415) 639-3834
Photo of Mary Joye, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Downtown, San Francisco, CA
Mary Joye
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Downtown, San Francisco, CA 94102
Trauma, Anxiety, Codependency, Post-traumatic stress disorder, Couples and marriage counseling, Family counseling, Grief counseling , Highly sensitive person (empath), Personality disorders, Narcissistic abuse, Domestic violence recovery, Sexual abuse recovery, Career counseling, Divorce counseling, Obsessive-compulsive disorder.
Hello, I'm Mary Joye, and I am here to help you listen to yourself from a new and nonjudgmental perspective. We will work together to make connections between the past and the present to help you enjoy a brighter and better future.
Trauma, Anxiety, Codependency, Post-traumatic stress disorder, Couples and marriage counseling, Family counseling, Grief counseling , Highly sensitive person (empath), Personality disorders, Narcissistic abuse, Domestic violence recovery, Sexual abuse recovery, Career counseling, Divorce counseling, Obsessive-compulsive disorder.
Hello, I'm Mary Joye, and I am here to help you listen to yourself from a new and nonjudgmental perspective. We will work together to make connections between the past and the present to help you enjoy a brighter and better future.
(415) 993-3792 View (415) 993-3792
Photo of Ivan Belyaev, Associate Marriage & Family Therapist in Downtown, San Francisco, CA
Ivan Belyaev
Associate Marriage & Family Therapist, MEd
Verified Verified
Downtown, San Francisco, CA 94108
I have been registered as an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (AMFT) by the Board OF Behavioral Sciences in California; my Registration number is AMFT144021. I provide psychotherapy to individuals, couples, and families. MEd in Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) and Professional Clinical Counselling (PCC). Supervised by Anastasia Berezovskaya, Clinical Psychologist PsyD, PSY 25100
I have been registered as an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (AMFT) by the Board OF Behavioral Sciences in California; my Registration number is AMFT144021. I provide psychotherapy to individuals, couples, and families. MEd in Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) and Professional Clinical Counselling (PCC). Supervised by Anastasia Berezovskaya, Clinical Psychologist PsyD, PSY 25100
(415) 723-5655 View (415) 723-5655
Photo of Clyde C. Wayne, Pastoral Counselor in Downtown, San Francisco, CA
Clyde C. Wayne
Pastoral Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downtown, San Francisco, CA 94102
I specialize in pre-marital and marriage concerns, grief recovery, anxiety and addiction to pornography.
I don't "fix" people's lives, I help "fit" people for their lives. You absolutely deserve your second chance for a first class life. I will help you discover talents for accessing your unique reservoir of resources. I will hold forth a safe environment for you to manage your makeover. I am passionately positive about your possibilities to be productive. I have studied the human mind thoroughly presenting myself competent to provide profound insights into your thoughts and emotions. I employ strength-based, evidence-proven techniques to create satisfying long lasting results. Together we can achieve progress in your life's process.
I specialize in pre-marital and marriage concerns, grief recovery, anxiety and addiction to pornography.
I don't "fix" people's lives, I help "fit" people for their lives. You absolutely deserve your second chance for a first class life. I will help you discover talents for accessing your unique reservoir of resources. I will hold forth a safe environment for you to manage your makeover. I am passionately positive about your possibilities to be productive. I have studied the human mind thoroughly presenting myself competent to provide profound insights into your thoughts and emotions. I employ strength-based, evidence-proven techniques to create satisfying long lasting results. Together we can achieve progress in your life's process.
(510) 674-0740 View (510) 674-0740
Photo of Jenna Kemp, Marriage & Family Therapist in Downtown, San Francisco, CA
Jenna Kemp
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Downtown, San Francisco, CA 94125
Hi! I am Jenna. I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in San Francisco. I meet with clients online, so if you are located anywhere in California, we can work together. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process of honoring each individual's unique experience to foster growth, healing, and change. I provide a safe, authentic, confidential, judgment-free environment. I draw from a Cognitive Behavioral and Client-Centered approach, believing that the client is an expert on their life. My approach is collaborative, genuine, caring, and directive.
Hi! I am Jenna. I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in San Francisco. I meet with clients online, so if you are located anywhere in California, we can work together. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process of honoring each individual's unique experience to foster growth, healing, and change. I provide a safe, authentic, confidential, judgment-free environment. I draw from a Cognitive Behavioral and Client-Centered approach, believing that the client is an expert on their life. My approach is collaborative, genuine, caring, and directive.
(415) 862-8186 View (415) 862-8186
Photo of Sandra M Carlson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Downtown, San Francisco, CA
Sandra M Carlson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Downtown, San Francisco, CA 94101
I am a Bilingual (English and Spanish) Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, ready to accompany you on your journey of healing. Beyond the title LMFT, I am just another human being. My goal is to provide you with the guidance, support, and tools you need to process emotions, overcome obstacles, and embrace life's unexpected turns. Healing from trauma is a courageous process, and you don't have to go through it alone. I am here to walk beside you, offering compassionate guidance, validation, and understanding. Whether you're an individual, couple, or family, my experience extends to working with clients of all ages.
I am a Bilingual (English and Spanish) Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, ready to accompany you on your journey of healing. Beyond the title LMFT, I am just another human being. My goal is to provide you with the guidance, support, and tools you need to process emotions, overcome obstacles, and embrace life's unexpected turns. Healing from trauma is a courageous process, and you don't have to go through it alone. I am here to walk beside you, offering compassionate guidance, validation, and understanding. Whether you're an individual, couple, or family, my experience extends to working with clients of all ages.
(442) 241-0088 View (442) 241-0088
Photo of Dr. Bryony Shaw, Marriage & Family Therapist in Downtown, San Francisco, CA
Dr. Bryony Shaw
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Downtown, San Francisco, CA 94101  (Online Only)
Are you struggling? I can help. As an eclectic marriage and family therapist, I embrace the uniqueness of every individual or couple that walks through my virtual door. My approach is a blend of diverse therapeutic modalities, tailored to cater to the specific needs of each client. In my practice, I envision an ideal client who seeks to navigate the complexities of their relationships with authenticity and compassion. You may be a couple experiencing communication breakdowns, seeking to reignite the spark in your bond, or you may be an individual struggling with personal challenges that impact your relationships or your career.
Are you struggling? I can help. As an eclectic marriage and family therapist, I embrace the uniqueness of every individual or couple that walks through my virtual door. My approach is a blend of diverse therapeutic modalities, tailored to cater to the specific needs of each client. In my practice, I envision an ideal client who seeks to navigate the complexities of their relationships with authenticity and compassion. You may be a couple experiencing communication breakdowns, seeking to reignite the spark in your bond, or you may be an individual struggling with personal challenges that impact your relationships or your career.
(707) 244-7306 View (707) 244-7306
Photo of Kathryn Jane Brown, Marriage & Family Therapist in Downtown, San Francisco, CA
Kathryn Jane Brown
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Downtown, San Francisco, CA 94108
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist working with adolescents, young adults (COLLEGE students), adults and families. I believe you are capable of accessing and making use of dynamic, healing, empowering capacities in order to shift habits of negative thinking, self-doubt and problematic behaviors. The relationship between therapist and client is vital in facilitating healing, self-compassion and growth. My hope is to assist you in finding and expressing your greatest strengths and potential; as well as working through barriers to express your vibrant self, experience happiness, peace and self-acceptance.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist working with adolescents, young adults (COLLEGE students), adults and families. I believe you are capable of accessing and making use of dynamic, healing, empowering capacities in order to shift habits of negative thinking, self-doubt and problematic behaviors. The relationship between therapist and client is vital in facilitating healing, self-compassion and growth. My hope is to assist you in finding and expressing your greatest strengths and potential; as well as working through barriers to express your vibrant self, experience happiness, peace and self-acceptance.
(415) 592-7886 View (415) 592-7886
Photo of Mártir Therapy – Helping Families, Couples, Adults, Marriage & Family Therapist in Downtown, San Francisco, CA
Mártir Therapy – Helping Families, Couples, Adults
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, AAMFT, 98858
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downtown, San Francisco, CA 94101
Are you or your family having a difficult time? Have you been affected by sexual assault or community- level violence? Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unable to move forward in your life or your relationships? Anxiety, marital problems, family conflict, relationship difficulties, depression, and other emotional challenges can be the result of abuse or violence that you or your family experienced. In therapy, we will build towards empowerment, meaning, and identity so that you can achieve your goals. You can function better at work and at home. Contact me via phone, text, or email. I am looking forward to helping!
Are you or your family having a difficult time? Have you been affected by sexual assault or community- level violence? Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unable to move forward in your life or your relationships? Anxiety, marital problems, family conflict, relationship difficulties, depression, and other emotional challenges can be the result of abuse or violence that you or your family experienced. In therapy, we will build towards empowerment, meaning, and identity so that you can achieve your goals. You can function better at work and at home. Contact me via phone, text, or email. I am looking forward to helping!
(858) 751-4392 View (858) 751-4392
Photo of Dr. Diana L Wong, Marriage & Family Therapist in Downtown, San Francisco, CA
Dr. Diana L Wong
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Downtown, San Francisco, CA 94108
Waitlist for new clients
As a bicultural & multilingual licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in California & Ohio, I provide individual (celebrity & adult), children, & couples therapy in private practice & in outpatient settings. I received my Doctorate of Psychology in Clinical Psychology from the California School of Professional Psychology/Alliant International University. I have completed an APA-accredited doctoral internship at UCSF, Child & Adolescent Services Multicultural Training Program at San Francisco General Hospital and Trauma Center. I have a Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology with a concentration in marriage & family therapy from USF.
As a bicultural & multilingual licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in California & Ohio, I provide individual (celebrity & adult), children, & couples therapy in private practice & in outpatient settings. I received my Doctorate of Psychology in Clinical Psychology from the California School of Professional Psychology/Alliant International University. I have completed an APA-accredited doctoral internship at UCSF, Child & Adolescent Services Multicultural Training Program at San Francisco General Hospital and Trauma Center. I have a Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology with a concentration in marriage & family therapy from USF.
(415) 942-9287 View (415) 942-9287
Photo of Sydelcis Mendez, Marriage & Family Therapist in Downtown, San Francisco, CA
Sydelcis Mendez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Downtown, San Francisco, CA 94101  (Online Only)
Sydelcis Mendez (Syd) is a bilingual Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in crisis, trauma, anxiety, and stress management as it relates to individuals, couples, and families during life transitions. Raised in the Bronx by her Dominican family, she witnessed the gaps in resources and opportunities for individuals of different backgrounds.
Sydelcis Mendez (Syd) is a bilingual Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in crisis, trauma, anxiety, and stress management as it relates to individuals, couples, and families during life transitions. Raised in the Bronx by her Dominican family, she witnessed the gaps in resources and opportunities for individuals of different backgrounds.
(310) 634-1086 View (310) 634-1086
Photo of Healing Hearts Mental Health Services , Marriage & Family Therapist in Downtown, San Francisco, CA
Healing Hearts Mental Health Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Downtown, San Francisco, CA 94101  (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Marylune Im and I am an Asian-American Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in CA and NV with years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families providing mental health services in a community-based setting and private practice setting. I am here to provide support for whatever your needs may be and to overcome any challenges in your life from the past or currently in order to help you grow and succeed at your goals. If you have questions, feel free to email me. Only tele-health services at this time.
Hello! My name is Marylune Im and I am an Asian-American Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in CA and NV with years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families providing mental health services in a community-based setting and private practice setting. I am here to provide support for whatever your needs may be and to overcome any challenges in your life from the past or currently in order to help you grow and succeed at your goals. If you have questions, feel free to email me. Only tele-health services at this time.
(661) 228-5175 View (661) 228-5175
Photo of Jesselyn S Fernandez, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Downtown, San Francisco, CA
Jesselyn S Fernandez
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
Downtown, San Francisco, CA 94108  (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Jesselyn, I am a Filipina-American LGBTQIA+ affirming Associate Marriage and Family Therapist and Associate Professional Clinical Counselor with Modern Life Solutions. I strive to create a safe and inclusive space for individuals of all sexual orientations and gender identities to explore their mental health and well-being. My approach is strength-based, rooted in empathy, cultural awareness, and client-centered care. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, relationship issues, or identity exploration, I am committed to working collaboratively to help you navigate your true authentic self.
Hello! My name is Jesselyn, I am a Filipina-American LGBTQIA+ affirming Associate Marriage and Family Therapist and Associate Professional Clinical Counselor with Modern Life Solutions. I strive to create a safe and inclusive space for individuals of all sexual orientations and gender identities to explore their mental health and well-being. My approach is strength-based, rooted in empathy, cultural awareness, and client-centered care. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, relationship issues, or identity exploration, I am committed to working collaboratively to help you navigate your true authentic self.
(657) 571-1245 View (657) 571-1245
Photo of Allyson Gayle Moore, Marriage & Family Therapist in Downtown, San Francisco, CA
Allyson Gayle Moore
Marriage & Family Therapist, BCBA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Downtown, San Francisco, CA 94101  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and Licensed Marriage Family Therapist (LMFT) with comprehensive knowledge and extensive experience serving individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and other developmental, intellectual, and mental health disabilities, as well as supporting, collaborating, and coordinating care with their families and other service providers.
I am a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and Licensed Marriage Family Therapist (LMFT) with comprehensive knowledge and extensive experience serving individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and other developmental, intellectual, and mental health disabilities, as well as supporting, collaborating, and coordinating care with their families and other service providers.
(415) 301-2529 View (415) 301-2529
Photo of Kristine San Mateo Virgen, Marriage & Family Therapist in Downtown, San Francisco, CA
Kristine San Mateo Virgen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Downtown, San Francisco, CA 94102  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Are you in search of support to gain self-awareness, navigate challenging emotions and experiences, enhance coping strategies, and cultivate more fulfilling relationships? Welcome! I'm Kristine San Mateo, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist practicing in California, Hawaii, and Washington State. Since 2015, I have had the privilege of working with a diverse range of individuals, addressing a multitude of mental health concerns that impact their overall well-being. Although I have experience working with children, teenagers, and families, my current focus is providing individual and couples therapy primarily to adults.
Are you in search of support to gain self-awareness, navigate challenging emotions and experiences, enhance coping strategies, and cultivate more fulfilling relationships? Welcome! I'm Kristine San Mateo, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist practicing in California, Hawaii, and Washington State. Since 2015, I have had the privilege of working with a diverse range of individuals, addressing a multitude of mental health concerns that impact their overall well-being. Although I have experience working with children, teenagers, and families, my current focus is providing individual and couples therapy primarily to adults.
(661) 443-6728 View (661) 443-6728
Photo of Ipek Aykol, Marriage & Family Therapist in Downtown, San Francisco, CA
Ipek Aykol
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Downtown, San Francisco, CA 94102
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and EMDR therapist in Newport Beach, CA.
Are you waking up every day and realizing that your life is not where you want it to be? Are you feeling stuck in certain areas of your life and not able to find a solution? I am able to help you by providing you a safe environment where you can express yourself without feeling judged or criticized.  I have been helping people find peace, calm, and hope in their lives. 
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and EMDR therapist in Newport Beach, CA.
Are you waking up every day and realizing that your life is not where you want it to be? Are you feeling stuck in certain areas of your life and not able to find a solution? I am able to help you by providing you a safe environment where you can express yourself without feeling judged or criticized.  I have been helping people find peace, calm, and hope in their lives. 
(562) 275-3206 View (562) 275-3206
Photo of Robin Greenblat - Neurodiverse Couples Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Downtown, San Francisco, CA
Robin Greenblat - Neurodiverse Couples Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, MHA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Downtown, San Francisco, CA 94101  (Online Only)
I am passionate about helping individuals and couples in NEURODIVERSE RELATIONSHIPS. Do you feel lost or misunderstood in your marriage? With 30 years of marriage and having adult children, I understand the challenges of communication, emotional connection, and emotional safety. I have worked with elder couples who have adult children struggling with mental illnesses such as addiction, depression, and anxiety. I have experience working in diverse cultures and backgrounds in outpatient clinics, large healthcare systems, and private practices. I believe everyone has a voice and deserves to feel safe, respected, loved, and heard.
I am passionate about helping individuals and couples in NEURODIVERSE RELATIONSHIPS. Do you feel lost or misunderstood in your marriage? With 30 years of marriage and having adult children, I understand the challenges of communication, emotional connection, and emotional safety. I have worked with elder couples who have adult children struggling with mental illnesses such as addiction, depression, and anxiety. I have experience working in diverse cultures and backgrounds in outpatient clinics, large healthcare systems, and private practices. I believe everyone has a voice and deserves to feel safe, respected, loved, and heard.
(408) 669-3565 View (408) 669-3565
Photo of Natasha Griffin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Downtown, San Francisco, CA
Natasha Griffin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Downtown, San Francisco, CA 94101  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor.
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Do you notice symptoms of anxiety and depression impacting your daily life? Are you searching for tools to overcome stress and relational strains?
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor.
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Do you notice symptoms of anxiety and depression impacting your daily life? Are you searching for tools to overcome stress and relational strains?
(925) 281-3064 View (925) 281-3064

See more therapy options for Downtown, San Francisco

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.