Photo of Bay Area Psychotherapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Bay Area Psychotherapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94109
The individuals I work with come from many different backgrounds and lifestyles. Depression, anxiety, alcoholism, addiction, relationships challenges and other issues do not discriminate, but affect all races, religions, lifestyles, education levels, and income brackets. My approach to each individual situation varies based on clients' needs and preferences. I may choose from cognitive behavioral, object-relations, humanistic, transcendental, family systems, or other therapeutic approaches, based upon a client's needs. Couples may be involved in traditional marriage or an alternative lifestyle.
The individuals I work with come from many different backgrounds and lifestyles. Depression, anxiety, alcoholism, addiction, relationships challenges and other issues do not discriminate, but affect all races, religions, lifestyles, education levels, and income brackets. My approach to each individual situation varies based on clients' needs and preferences. I may choose from cognitive behavioral, object-relations, humanistic, transcendental, family systems, or other therapeutic approaches, based upon a client's needs. Couples may be involved in traditional marriage or an alternative lifestyle.
(415) 741-2141 View (415) 741-2141
Photo of Ruth Krumbhaar, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Ruth Krumbhaar
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, MA, CYT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94118
While I work with clients on many of life's challenges, I bring specific experience in life transitions whether it be marriage, career, a new home, or any other transition as well as a focus on holistic wellness and the mind-body connection.
Do you want to feel comfortable in your skin? Do you need support dealing with overwhelming emotions, a traumatic life event, or a life transition. I offer a grounding space where you can let your guard down and get to the heart of your personal work. With years of experience and training paired with a warm, playful, and pragmatic spirit. I encourage clients to explore their edge and find the connection between mind, body, behavior, and heart. Clients' unique cultural identity is honored throughout this process. I believe you are the expert on You and I help you connect with this innate wisdom to find your balance and potential.
While I work with clients on many of life's challenges, I bring specific experience in life transitions whether it be marriage, career, a new home, or any other transition as well as a focus on holistic wellness and the mind-body connection.
Do you want to feel comfortable in your skin? Do you need support dealing with overwhelming emotions, a traumatic life event, or a life transition. I offer a grounding space where you can let your guard down and get to the heart of your personal work. With years of experience and training paired with a warm, playful, and pragmatic spirit. I encourage clients to explore their edge and find the connection between mind, body, behavior, and heart. Clients' unique cultural identity is honored throughout this process. I believe you are the expert on You and I help you connect with this innate wisdom to find your balance and potential.
(415) 528-5711 View (415) 528-5711
Photo of Nancy Scotton, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Nancy Scotton
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94118
Member of the California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists.
I am available for telehealth appointments with current clients and those who have worked with me in the past.
Member of the California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists.
I am available for telehealth appointments with current clients and those who have worked with me in the past.
(415) 689-8984 View (415) 689-8984
Photo of Laurie Agee MFT Certified Gottman Therapist, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Laurie Agee MFT Certified Gottman Therapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114  (Online Only)
I am certified in the Gottman Method, a world famous research based approach to making marriage succeed.
I am a Certified Gottman Therapist specializing in helping couples apply cinically proven methods to manage painful conflict and restore friendship, romance and passion to their relationship. Most couples call because the love they feel has been lost or buried under increasingly frequent or more intense arguing and conflict. Many couples find themselves avoiding important discussions altogether, or flaring into go-nowhere fights. Scientifically proven methods help couples learn healthy ways to clear the air when are hurt, compromise in a way that is a win-win and build a rich and rewarding friendship that fuels passion and romance.
I am certified in the Gottman Method, a world famous research based approach to making marriage succeed.
I am a Certified Gottman Therapist specializing in helping couples apply cinically proven methods to manage painful conflict and restore friendship, romance and passion to their relationship. Most couples call because the love they feel has been lost or buried under increasingly frequent or more intense arguing and conflict. Many couples find themselves avoiding important discussions altogether, or flaring into go-nowhere fights. Scientifically proven methods help couples learn healthy ways to clear the air when are hurt, compromise in a way that is a win-win and build a rich and rewarding friendship that fuels passion and romance.
(415) 534-6268 View (415) 534-6268
Photo of The Clinic Without Walls, Pre-Licensed Professional in San Francisco, CA
The Clinic Without Walls
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94103
Therapists are marriage and family trainees in the Community Mental Health Program at the California Institute of Integral Studies.
The Clinic Without Walls (TCWOW) offers FREE SERVICES to Bay Area residents. Our clinic provides a wide range of psychological services including individual, couple, family, and group therapy. We work with children, adults, and families. The clinic aims to increase clients' capacity to identify mental health needs and to access services through which they will be respected and effectively treated.The clinic is oriented to serving the needs of diverse populations and particularly those people historically discriminated against on the basis of race, sexual orientation, economic status, and other socio-cultural factors.
Therapists are marriage and family trainees in the Community Mental Health Program at the California Institute of Integral Studies.
The Clinic Without Walls (TCWOW) offers FREE SERVICES to Bay Area residents. Our clinic provides a wide range of psychological services including individual, couple, family, and group therapy. We work with children, adults, and families. The clinic aims to increase clients' capacity to identify mental health needs and to access services through which they will be respected and effectively treated.The clinic is oriented to serving the needs of diverse populations and particularly those people historically discriminated against on the basis of race, sexual orientation, economic status, and other socio-cultural factors.
(415) 325-2763 View (415) 325-2763
Photo of Wendi Baptist-McGehee, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Wendi Baptist-McGehee
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94105  (Online Only)
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist I have experience working with clients and families of all ages and backgrounds who have experienced a variety of challenges.
My goal is to provide a non-judgmental, and collaborative setting for my clients to share their thoughts and their feelings and feel safe while doing so. It is important to allow each person to feel empowered, to let them know how resilient they are, and to be better equipped to handle life's everyday stressors. Seeking out mental health services can be overwhelming and scary at first. But it is my goal as a therapist to help my clients feel safe and to allow them to truly be themselves.
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist I have experience working with clients and families of all ages and backgrounds who have experienced a variety of challenges.
My goal is to provide a non-judgmental, and collaborative setting for my clients to share their thoughts and their feelings and feel safe while doing so. It is important to allow each person to feel empowered, to let them know how resilient they are, and to be better equipped to handle life's everyday stressors. Seeking out mental health services can be overwhelming and scary at first. But it is my goal as a therapist to help my clients feel safe and to allow them to truly be themselves.
(415) 917-2279 View (415) 917-2279
Photo of Jill Fishman, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Jill Fishman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
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
April Suzanne Perkins
Counselor, LMFT
Not Verified Not Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114  (Online Only)
I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety Self Esteem, women issues, marital and premarital, life transitions, spirituality,.
Going through life's journey is like riding a roller coaster full of ups, downs, twists, and turns. On a roller coaster, you often have someone sitting next to you regardless of if you know the person. Think of life the same way. It is challenging and shouldn't be done alone. My passion is to help clients go through life transitions and challenges with more ease by identifying and rediscovering their strengths to develop a healthy lifestyle.
I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety Self Esteem, women issues, marital and premarital, life transitions, spirituality,.
Going through life's journey is like riding a roller coaster full of ups, downs, twists, and turns. On a roller coaster, you often have someone sitting next to you regardless of if you know the person. Think of life the same way. It is challenging and shouldn't be done alone. My passion is to help clients go through life transitions and challenges with more ease by identifying and rediscovering their strengths to develop a healthy lifestyle.
(209) 255-5266 View (209) 255-5266
Photo of Kavitha Goldowitz, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Kavitha Goldowitz
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94104  (Online Only)
My areas of interest also includes helping women with anxiety, depression and stress that arises from various life transitions (relationships, marriage, divorce, birth of a child).
I have over 10 years experience working with individuals and couples. My area of expertise includes working with ethnic and multicultural population and addressing issues related to couples in inter-racial marriages, struggles with cultural assimilation and family relationship dynamics. I speak 5 languages and I am keenly aware of the specific issues faced by Indian-Americans in particular and Asian Americans and Latinos in general, especially with regards to struggles with personal and cultural identity. I offer brief and long term models of therapy. I also provide tele-therapy (online) in addition to face-to-face counseling.
My areas of interest also includes helping women with anxiety, depression and stress that arises from various life transitions (relationships, marriage, divorce, birth of a child).
I have over 10 years experience working with individuals and couples. My area of expertise includes working with ethnic and multicultural population and addressing issues related to couples in inter-racial marriages, struggles with cultural assimilation and family relationship dynamics. I speak 5 languages and I am keenly aware of the specific issues faced by Indian-Americans in particular and Asian Americans and Latinos in general, especially with regards to struggles with personal and cultural identity. I offer brief and long term models of therapy. I also provide tele-therapy (online) in addition to face-to-face counseling.
(707) 549-6681 View (707) 549-6681
Photo of Sara Alexander, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Sara Alexander
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94118  (Online Only)
Underneath depression, anxiety, marital conflict, eating disorders, substance abuse, and other troubles there lies a single, painful, relentless problem: self judgement. Feelings are transient, and there are not good ones or bad ones, but we are not all raised to understand that. Encouraged by our culture to appear strong and happy, we feel pressured to hide our true feelings from each other. But when we take the time and care to pay attention to our authentic experience, it is possible to grow an enormous love for ourselves and great tenderness towards others, and even deep inner peace and great humor.
Underneath depression, anxiety, marital conflict, eating disorders, substance abuse, and other troubles there lies a single, painful, relentless problem: self judgement. Feelings are transient, and there are not good ones or bad ones, but we are not all raised to understand that. Encouraged by our culture to appear strong and happy, we feel pressured to hide our true feelings from each other. But when we take the time and care to pay attention to our authentic experience, it is possible to grow an enormous love for ourselves and great tenderness towards others, and even deep inner peace and great humor.
(415) 969-7119 View (415) 969-7119
Photo of Sonia Troiani Doulton in San Francisco, CA
Sonia Troiani Doulton
MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94123
I work with adults experiencing depression, anxiety, PTSD, eating disorders, low self-esteem, life transitions, parenting issues, migration issues, aging challenges, neurodivergence, childhood trauma, and marital issues. In the last 15 yrs I've helped people find relief from emotional distress, gain insight into their thoughts and behaviors, improve coping skills, and foster resilience. I can help you achieve mental well-being, build healthier relationships, rediscover purpose and meaning in life, cultivate a sense of self-acceptance and fulfillment, and navigate life's challenges with greater ease, understanding, and authenticity.
I work with adults experiencing depression, anxiety, PTSD, eating disorders, low self-esteem, life transitions, parenting issues, migration issues, aging challenges, neurodivergence, childhood trauma, and marital issues. In the last 15 yrs I've helped people find relief from emotional distress, gain insight into their thoughts and behaviors, improve coping skills, and foster resilience. I can help you achieve mental well-being, build healthier relationships, rediscover purpose and meaning in life, cultivate a sense of self-acceptance and fulfillment, and navigate life's challenges with greater ease, understanding, and authenticity.
(415) 727-8694 View (415) 727-8694
Photo of Megan Sullivan-Tuba, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in San Francisco, CA
Megan Sullivan-Tuba
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115  (Online Only)
Couples come to me for many different reasons, from wanting to prepare for a successful marriage, to navigating the changes that come with parenthood.
Therapy isn’t easy — but that doesn't mean it has to be joyless. If you’re looking for a therapist who can delve into the dark stuff with both the compassionate support and the sense of humor that it deserves, you’ve come to the right place. I'm an Associate Marriage and Family therapist who works with individuals and couples of all genders and orientations to improve their relationships. I love working with clients to improve communication and increasing intimacy, especially when partners come from different cultural backgrounds and hold different values.
Couples come to me for many different reasons, from wanting to prepare for a successful marriage, to navigating the changes that come with parenthood.
Therapy isn’t easy — but that doesn't mean it has to be joyless. If you’re looking for a therapist who can delve into the dark stuff with both the compassionate support and the sense of humor that it deserves, you’ve come to the right place. I'm an Associate Marriage and Family therapist who works with individuals and couples of all genders and orientations to improve their relationships. I love working with clients to improve communication and increasing intimacy, especially when partners come from different cultural backgrounds and hold different values.
(415) 741-5533 View (415) 741-5533
Photo of CK Olivieri Blackmore, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
CK Olivieri Blackmore
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94114  (Online Only)
CK Olivieri Blackmore is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who approaches life with warmth, compassion, and creativity. CK specializes in relationship dynamics, post-traumatic stress disorders, and developmental life transitions. She is particularly adept at issues pertaining to the queer community and their loved ones. CK utilizes eclectic modalities such as CBT, DBT, EMDR, EFT, Gottman, and IFS to navigate the nuanced needs of her diverse clientele and the associated sexual and gendered concerns that arise. Blending insight-oriented and behavioral change practices, CK works from a quirky and truly innovative lens.
CK Olivieri Blackmore is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who approaches life with warmth, compassion, and creativity. CK specializes in relationship dynamics, post-traumatic stress disorders, and developmental life transitions. She is particularly adept at issues pertaining to the queer community and their loved ones. CK utilizes eclectic modalities such as CBT, DBT, EMDR, EFT, Gottman, and IFS to navigate the nuanced needs of her diverse clientele and the associated sexual and gendered concerns that arise. Blending insight-oriented and behavioral change practices, CK works from a quirky and truly innovative lens.
(518) 269-5458 View (518) 269-5458
Photo of Claire Morrison, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Claire Morrison
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94117  (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Claire, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a passion for connecting with humans like you. I view therapy as an intricate piece of your wellness routine, kind of like skincare for your mind. As your therapist I will be real, direct and provide you with a safe space to feel understood (I'll use a lot of humor too). I believe in the power of validation and the need to release our most inner thoughts to maintain our mental health and a positive outlook on life; together we can fuel yours.
Hi, I'm Claire, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a passion for connecting with humans like you. I view therapy as an intricate piece of your wellness routine, kind of like skincare for your mind. As your therapist I will be real, direct and provide you with a safe space to feel understood (I'll use a lot of humor too). I believe in the power of validation and the need to release our most inner thoughts to maintain our mental health and a positive outlook on life; together we can fuel yours.
(707) 582-0755 View (707) 582-0755
Photo of Graham Gallivan, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Graham Gallivan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94102
I hold Marriage and Family Therapist Licenses in California (LMFT 137223) and South Carolina (LMFT 7955).
Thank you for stopping by my profile! I'm a queer-identified therapist practicing in the Hayes Valley neighborhood of San Francisco. In my practice, I bring a comprehensive, holistic approach to healing, integrating all domains of life - from relationship, to spirituality, to work, and beyond - and draw on my own experience of healing in these areas to support your well-being. I have a strong belief in the positive power of change and am passionate about helping you find your strengths and achieve true healing.
I hold Marriage and Family Therapist Licenses in California (LMFT 137223) and South Carolina (LMFT 7955).
Thank you for stopping by my profile! I'm a queer-identified therapist practicing in the Hayes Valley neighborhood of San Francisco. In my practice, I bring a comprehensive, holistic approach to healing, integrating all domains of life - from relationship, to spirituality, to work, and beyond - and draw on my own experience of healing in these areas to support your well-being. I have a strong belief in the positive power of change and am passionate about helping you find your strengths and achieve true healing.
(415) 480-7106 View (415) 480-7106
Photo of Ivan Belyaev, Associate Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Ivan Belyaev
Associate Marriage & Family Therapist, MEd
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94118
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 Wing Shall Lem, Pre-Licensed Professional in San Francisco, CA
Wing Shall Lem
Pre-Licensed Professional, D Min, M Div, BCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94127
Areas Of Focus: Premarital Therapy and Marital Therapy; Cultural/Generational Issues, Interpersonal Relationships, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Intensive Short Term Dynamic Psychotherapy, Anxiety, Spiritual Issues Client population: Adults and Adolescents, Couples and Families (inter-generational and cultural) and Clergy.
Rev. Wing Lem has counseled couples and individuals for 30 years as an ordained pastor. Wing is currently attending Western Seminary for his Masters Degree in Marriage and Family Counseling and is a MFT Trainee. Wing is excited to help men and women who are "stuck" in their relationships whether you are single, married, part of a growing family or single again. Wing can help you feel less anxious and gain mastery in art of communication, which is vital to having successful relationships. He enjoys working with individuals and couples like you who desire to enrich, strengthen, and increase joy in your lives.
Areas Of Focus: Premarital Therapy and Marital Therapy; Cultural/Generational Issues, Interpersonal Relationships, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Intensive Short Term Dynamic Psychotherapy, Anxiety, Spiritual Issues Client population: Adults and Adolescents, Couples and Families (inter-generational and cultural) and Clergy.
Rev. Wing Lem has counseled couples and individuals for 30 years as an ordained pastor. Wing is currently attending Western Seminary for his Masters Degree in Marriage and Family Counseling and is a MFT Trainee. Wing is excited to help men and women who are "stuck" in their relationships whether you are single, married, part of a growing family or single again. Wing can help you feel less anxious and gain mastery in art of communication, which is vital to having successful relationships. He enjoys working with individuals and couples like you who desire to enrich, strengthen, and increase joy in your lives.
(415) 841-2629 x233 View (415) 841-2629 x233
Photo of Dr. Diana L Wong, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Dr. Diana L Wong
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94132
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 Kavoos Ghane Bassiri, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Kavoos Ghane Bassiri
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC-S, IMFT, CGP
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94132  (Online Only)
I am a bicultural & bilingual, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), in California and Ohio.
It takes courage to ask for help, and therapy is not always an easy process, but it's something important & rewarding that you can do for yourself and those you care about. I offer individual and couples therapy as well as leadership consultation.
I am a bicultural & bilingual, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), in California and Ohio.
It takes courage to ask for help, and therapy is not always an easy process, but it's something important & rewarding that you can do for yourself and those you care about. I offer individual and couples therapy as well as leadership consultation.
(614) 412-1582 View (614) 412-1582
Photo of Mollie Tobias, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Mollie Tobias
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114  (Online Only)
Certified Prepared and Enriched facilitator, working with pre marital couples to process their relationship.
Taking new clients via Telehealth- Are you finding yourself STUCK in personal and/or work relationships? Do you struggle communicating with your partner or in dating? Sometimes a person lacks the support system or the inner resources to make a change after a hard blow and could become depressed or anxious. I work with clients to help build up their strengths, attain the personal growth they want to accomplish, while bringing together the important components of physical, emotional, and spiritual health. I have extensive experience working with clients who are dealing with difficult relationships, sadness, anxiety, self-esteem, etc.
Certified Prepared and Enriched facilitator, working with pre marital couples to process their relationship.
Taking new clients via Telehealth- Are you finding yourself STUCK in personal and/or work relationships? Do you struggle communicating with your partner or in dating? Sometimes a person lacks the support system or the inner resources to make a change after a hard blow and could become depressed or anxious. I work with clients to help build up their strengths, attain the personal growth they want to accomplish, while bringing together the important components of physical, emotional, and spiritual health. I have extensive experience working with clients who are dealing with difficult relationships, sadness, anxiety, self-esteem, etc.
(415) 237-4307 View (415) 237-4307

See more therapy options for 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.