Therapists in Central Boulder, Boulder, CO

Photo of Gillian Pierce, Registered Psychotherapist in Central Boulder, Boulder, CO
Gillian Pierce
Registered Psychotherapist, NLC, MA, MPA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Central Boulder, Boulder, CO 80304
Welcome! Learning to be in loving relationship with ourselves and others is the greatest gift one can offer the world. When we heal ourselves through improved self-love and self-esteem we are able to cultivate healthier relationships and life gets better. I specialize in relationship issues, especially our most vital relationship, the one with ourselves. I support clients through life-transitions, learning relationship tools, pre-marital counseling, infidelity, divorce, self-esteem, anxiety, co-dependence versus interdependence, boundaries, and addiction issues to name a few. I am PACT Level II certified.
Welcome! Learning to be in loving relationship with ourselves and others is the greatest gift one can offer the world. When we heal ourselves through improved self-love and self-esteem we are able to cultivate healthier relationships and life gets better. I specialize in relationship issues, especially our most vital relationship, the one with ourselves. I support clients through life-transitions, learning relationship tools, pre-marital counseling, infidelity, divorce, self-esteem, anxiety, co-dependence versus interdependence, boundaries, and addiction issues to name a few. I am PACT Level II certified.
(720) 712-3393 View (720) 712-3393
Photo of Darleen Gegich, Licensed Professional Counselor in Central Boulder, Boulder, CO
Darleen Gegich
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Central Boulder, Boulder, CO 80302
Imago can take a marriage or relationship on the brink of break-up, and transform it into something stronger and more fulfilling than ever.
My goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. If you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation, improve your relationship, or you're just ready to move in a new direction in your life, I look forward to working with you.
Imago can take a marriage or relationship on the brink of break-up, and transform it into something stronger and more fulfilling than ever.
My goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. If you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation, improve your relationship, or you're just ready to move in a new direction in your life, I look forward to working with you.
(720) 515-4711 View (720) 515-4711
Photo of Dr. Royce Fitts, Marriage & Family Therapist in Central Boulder, Boulder, CO
Dr. Royce Fitts
Marriage & Family Therapist, D Min, LMFT
Verified Verified
Central Boulder, Boulder, CO 80302  (Online Only)
I'm a Holistic and Spiritual Counselor, Marriage and Family Therapist, Certified in Projective Dream Work and Spiritual Care.
Holistic & Spiritual Counseling & Dream Work. Relationship conflicts and pain? Grief and sorrow in your heart? Disturbing, crazy, scary dreams? Anxiety, depression, loneliness, trauma? You don't have to go it alone! You may be emotionally/spiritually exhausted, wounded by rigid religion and fundamentalism. You may carry anguish about your inner self, the awful voices of shame, guilt, helplessness. Our outer world of war, violence, racism, homophobia, environmental destruction is often despairing! Let's work together for your courageous authenticity, to heal your inner and outer worlds, a life filled with healing, meaning and joy.
I'm a Holistic and Spiritual Counselor, Marriage and Family Therapist, Certified in Projective Dream Work and Spiritual Care.
Holistic & Spiritual Counseling & Dream Work. Relationship conflicts and pain? Grief and sorrow in your heart? Disturbing, crazy, scary dreams? Anxiety, depression, loneliness, trauma? You don't have to go it alone! You may be emotionally/spiritually exhausted, wounded by rigid religion and fundamentalism. You may carry anguish about your inner self, the awful voices of shame, guilt, helplessness. Our outer world of war, violence, racism, homophobia, environmental destruction is often despairing! Let's work together for your courageous authenticity, to heal your inner and outer worlds, a life filled with healing, meaning and joy.
(720) 702-4463 View (720) 702-4463
Photo of Darleen Gegich, LPC, Counselor in Central Boulder, Boulder, CO
Darleen Gegich, LPC
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Central Boulder, Boulder, CO 80302
Imago Relationship Therapy can take a marriage or relationship on the brink of break-up, and transform it into something stronger and more fulfilling than ever.
My goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. If you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation, improve your relationship, or you're just ready to move in a new direction in your life, I look forward to working with you . As a certified Imago Relationship therapist, I offer services for couples, individuals, parents, and families.
Imago Relationship Therapy can take a marriage or relationship on the brink of break-up, and transform it into something stronger and more fulfilling than ever.
My goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. If you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation, improve your relationship, or you're just ready to move in a new direction in your life, I look forward to working with you . As a certified Imago Relationship therapist, I offer services for couples, individuals, parents, and families.
(720) 515-4711 View (720) 515-4711
Photo of Jewel Afflerbaugh, Pre-Licensed Professional in Central Boulder, Boulder, CO
Jewel Afflerbaugh
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Central Boulder, Boulder, CO 80304
Much of my wisdom comes from experiencing the joys and challenges of nearly 20 years of marriage, 13 years of motherhood, and an eclectic professional path.
Are you ready to shift old patterns and catalyze your full power? The challenges and conflicts you are experiencing are painful and they are also an amazing opportunity for connection, learning, and growth. Whether you are experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, or relationship challenges, I believe wholeheartedly in the power of the therapeutic relationship to heal and transform. When you feel safe, secure, and understood you can more easefully create the positive change you most desire in your life.
Much of my wisdom comes from experiencing the joys and challenges of nearly 20 years of marriage, 13 years of motherhood, and an eclectic professional path.
Are you ready to shift old patterns and catalyze your full power? The challenges and conflicts you are experiencing are painful and they are also an amazing opportunity for connection, learning, and growth. Whether you are experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, or relationship challenges, I believe wholeheartedly in the power of the therapeutic relationship to heal and transform. When you feel safe, secure, and understood you can more easefully create the positive change you most desire in your life.
(720) 927-8876 View (720) 927-8876
Photo of Teena Evert, Marriage & Family Therapist in Central Boulder, Boulder, CO
Teena Evert
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, BCC
Verified Verified
16 Endorsed
Central Boulder, Boulder, CO 80304
Few things are more frustrating than repeating the same fight with your partner. Playing out disagreements about money, parenting, sex, or household chores may leave you exhausted, and cut off from the person you want to feel close to. While conflicts in any relationship are inevitable, healing is possible. It’s time to break the cycle and overcome your chronic relationship struggles. I'm here to guide you towards being in each other's care - where you feel safe, connected, and recommitted to the longevity of your marriage, partnership, or couplehood.
Few things are more frustrating than repeating the same fight with your partner. Playing out disagreements about money, parenting, sex, or household chores may leave you exhausted, and cut off from the person you want to feel close to. While conflicts in any relationship are inevitable, healing is possible. It’s time to break the cycle and overcome your chronic relationship struggles. I'm here to guide you towards being in each other's care - where you feel safe, connected, and recommitted to the longevity of your marriage, partnership, or couplehood.
(720) 637-4901 View (720) 637-4901
Photo of Elizabeth M Barton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Central Boulder, Boulder, CO
Elizabeth M Barton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Central Boulder, Boulder, CO 80302
There will always be pain in life but you needn't suffer. You can live a life worth living even as you experience depression, anxiety, negative self evaluation and other psychological symptoms. And you can recover joy and laughter despite mental health issues. Learn practical skills for self regulation and develop mindfulness practices to sustain your ability to be present and effective in your daily life. I can help you with parenting, marital problems, family conflict, trauma, mood disorders, and life transitions. Together we will create a relationship in which you experience acceptance, compassion, empathy--and sometimes humor.
There will always be pain in life but you needn't suffer. You can live a life worth living even as you experience depression, anxiety, negative self evaluation and other psychological symptoms. And you can recover joy and laughter despite mental health issues. Learn practical skills for self regulation and develop mindfulness practices to sustain your ability to be present and effective in your daily life. I can help you with parenting, marital problems, family conflict, trauma, mood disorders, and life transitions. Together we will create a relationship in which you experience acceptance, compassion, empathy--and sometimes humor.
(720) 650-8075 View (720) 650-8075
Photo of Megan Murphy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Central Boulder, Boulder, CO
Megan Murphy
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Central Boulder, Boulder, CO 80302  (Online Only)
Hello! I'm Dr. Megan Murphy and I have been a Marriage and Family Therapist for over 25 years. I have taught in Family Therapy graduate programs for over 20 years. My career focus has been on power dynamics in relationships, most recently focusing on narcissistic abuse in family relationships, intimate relationships, and in the workplace, including academia.
Hello! I'm Dr. Megan Murphy and I have been a Marriage and Family Therapist for over 25 years. I have taught in Family Therapy graduate programs for over 20 years. My career focus has been on power dynamics in relationships, most recently focusing on narcissistic abuse in family relationships, intimate relationships, and in the workplace, including academia.
(720) 776-8586 View (720) 776-8586
Photo of Melissa Graham, Licensed Professional Counselor in Central Boulder, Boulder, CO
Melissa Graham
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LPA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Central Boulder, Boulder, CO 80302  (Online Only)
My goal in therapy is to guide others through their struggles, helping them gain insight and providing tools to resolve the challenges they face. It is always my goal to assist my clients toward the achievement of their fullest potential. I have a passion for working with women as they transition through life events; pregnancy, marriage, divorce, career, empty nest.
My goal in therapy is to guide others through their struggles, helping them gain insight and providing tools to resolve the challenges they face. It is always my goal to assist my clients toward the achievement of their fullest potential. I have a passion for working with women as they transition through life events; pregnancy, marriage, divorce, career, empty nest.
(512) 640-2037 View (512) 640-2037
Photo of Jason Gruhl, Registered Psychotherapist in Central Boulder, Boulder, CO
Jason Gruhl
Registered Psychotherapist, MA
Verified Verified
Central Boulder, Boulder, CO 80302
It’s hard being a human! And sometimes we need help figuring things out. Each of us desires contentment and fulfillment in our lives, but it's hard to access when we don't know what we don't know: what's really in the way?, and why does it keep showing up?what can I DO about this situation?, and who am I? These questions become increasingly loud during major life events, such as divorce, death, marriage, a career change, etc. We ALL experience this pain and confusion, but the good news is, you're not alone.
It’s hard being a human! And sometimes we need help figuring things out. Each of us desires contentment and fulfillment in our lives, but it's hard to access when we don't know what we don't know: what's really in the way?, and why does it keep showing up?what can I DO about this situation?, and who am I? These questions become increasingly loud during major life events, such as divorce, death, marriage, a career change, etc. We ALL experience this pain and confusion, but the good news is, you're not alone.
(720) 637-2581 View (720) 637-2581
Photo of Nicole Dunas, Licensed Professional Counselor in Central Boulder, Boulder, CO
Nicole Dunas
Licensed Professional Counselor, MFA, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Central Boulder, Boulder, CO 80302
I've worked with individuals experiencing addiction, anxiety, depression, relationship/marital issues, grief, attachment issues, suicidal ideation, physical/sexual abuse and mental illness.
Creating a safe environment is where I begin. I see therapy as a collaborative process that can lead you toward a greater capacity for self-awareness, trust, clarity, a sense of meaning and freedom. Life gives us surprising obstacles, which can make us feel stuck, depressed, alone or scared. With therapeutic presence, creativity and guidance, we can change our relationship to obstacles and transform. Our darkest point may mark the moment we realize we want to change. I use yoga and creative writing in my practice, and have training in mindfulness/somatic approaches, gestalt therapy, family systems, DBT, & depth psychology.
I've worked with individuals experiencing addiction, anxiety, depression, relationship/marital issues, grief, attachment issues, suicidal ideation, physical/sexual abuse and mental illness.
Creating a safe environment is where I begin. I see therapy as a collaborative process that can lead you toward a greater capacity for self-awareness, trust, clarity, a sense of meaning and freedom. Life gives us surprising obstacles, which can make us feel stuck, depressed, alone or scared. With therapeutic presence, creativity and guidance, we can change our relationship to obstacles and transform. Our darkest point may mark the moment we realize we want to change. I use yoga and creative writing in my practice, and have training in mindfulness/somatic approaches, gestalt therapy, family systems, DBT, & depth psychology.
(720) 613-6799 View (720) 613-6799
Photo of Lisa Hall, Marriage & Family Therapist in Central Boulder, Boulder, CO
Lisa Hall
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
Central Boulder, Boulder, CO 80302
I work with teens 11 and older, as well as individuals, couples, and families, including co-parenting counseling. If your issues are relationship oriented (parent/child, between partners, co-parents, or family related issues), related to phase of life transitions or changes, such as marital crisis, separation, divorce, marriage, remarriage, blending a family, empty nest, co parenting challenges, retirement, and you're looking for a goal-oriented approach to figuring out a pathway through, I can help. We will pinpoint the issues, set goals, get a plan in place, and work together toward positive change.
I work with teens 11 and older, as well as individuals, couples, and families, including co-parenting counseling. If your issues are relationship oriented (parent/child, between partners, co-parents, or family related issues), related to phase of life transitions or changes, such as marital crisis, separation, divorce, marriage, remarriage, blending a family, empty nest, co parenting challenges, retirement, and you're looking for a goal-oriented approach to figuring out a pathway through, I can help. We will pinpoint the issues, set goals, get a plan in place, and work together toward positive change.
(303) 859-2672 View (303) 859-2672
Photo of Beth O'Brien, Psychologist in Central Boulder, Boulder, CO
Beth O'Brien
Psychologist, PhD, PACT, CERT, Couple, Consult
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Central Boulder, Boulder, CO 80302  (Online Only)
Specialty areas include relationship concerns, marital/premarital counseling, betrayal, anxiety, trauma, and life transitions.
Note:I am seeing couples on Tuesdays/Wednesdays. Do you want to be in a happier, healthier, more secure relationship? As a Psychologist and PACT Certified Couple Therapist, I help partners develop a safe, loving, connected relationship. My work with couples is attachment based, assisting couples with communication, creating trust and deepening emotional and physical intimacy. My counseling approach is active and warm, based on best practices and over 25 years of clinical experience. I also specialize in trauma and I am certified in EMDR. My training as a yoga teacher brings a mindfulness based approach to my work.
Specialty areas include relationship concerns, marital/premarital counseling, betrayal, anxiety, trauma, and life transitions.
Note:I am seeing couples on Tuesdays/Wednesdays. Do you want to be in a happier, healthier, more secure relationship? As a Psychologist and PACT Certified Couple Therapist, I help partners develop a safe, loving, connected relationship. My work with couples is attachment based, assisting couples with communication, creating trust and deepening emotional and physical intimacy. My counseling approach is active and warm, based on best practices and over 25 years of clinical experience. I also specialize in trauma and I am certified in EMDR. My training as a yoga teacher brings a mindfulness based approach to my work.
(970) 458-4403 View (970) 458-4403
Photo of Higher Sights Counseling (Therapy Emdr Medication Management), Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Central Boulder, Boulder, CO
Higher Sights Counseling (Therapy Emdr Medication Management)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LPC, LAC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Central Boulder, Boulder, CO 80305
Our counselors specialize in marital counseling, anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, family and other relationship issues, ADD/ADHD, and addiction/substance abuse.
Accepting New Clients NOW! Immediate openings! At Higher Sights Counseling we understand that being stuck and feeling like everything you have tried has left you hopeless is one of the most painful experiences. We help our clients feel empowered by helping them to see their own strengths and by teaching them new research-based tools to help focus and guide them for lasting change. We believe that therapy is a starting point to healing and changing patterns that have not been working. We work to help each unique client develop a new way to feel confident in approaching life matter what comes their way. A better life starts today.
Our counselors specialize in marital counseling, anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, family and other relationship issues, ADD/ADHD, and addiction/substance abuse.
Accepting New Clients NOW! Immediate openings! At Higher Sights Counseling we understand that being stuck and feeling like everything you have tried has left you hopeless is one of the most painful experiences. We help our clients feel empowered by helping them to see their own strengths and by teaching them new research-based tools to help focus and guide them for lasting change. We believe that therapy is a starting point to healing and changing patterns that have not been working. We work to help each unique client develop a new way to feel confident in approaching life matter what comes their way. A better life starts today.
(303) 952-1463 View (303) 952-1463
Photo of Jeremy Hartke, Licensed Professional Counselor in Central Boulder, Boulder, CO
Jeremy Hartke
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Central Boulder, Boulder, CO 80302
Are you feeling in a funk? Struggling with the stress of life pre or post-pandemic? Do you feel like your marriage is hurting from poor communication or drifting apart over the years? Do you want to feel like you can manage your anxiety? As a therapist, my goal is to help you deepen your understanding of the problem. Understand how and why it exists, and then implement ways to help you feel growth. I want to help you make the changes that you see as important. I want to help you lay a new foundation of living that makes you feel empowered and in control.
Are you feeling in a funk? Struggling with the stress of life pre or post-pandemic? Do you feel like your marriage is hurting from poor communication or drifting apart over the years? Do you want to feel like you can manage your anxiety? As a therapist, my goal is to help you deepen your understanding of the problem. Understand how and why it exists, and then implement ways to help you feel growth. I want to help you make the changes that you see as important. I want to help you lay a new foundation of living that makes you feel empowered and in control.
(719) 212-4021 View (719) 212-4021
Photo of Shevy Jacobs, Marriage & Family Therapist in Central Boulder, Boulder, CO
Shevy Jacobs
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFTC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Central Boulder, Boulder, CO 80302
Schedule instantly through my website link in my bio! Hi, I’m Shevy! I am honored and privileged to be a Marriage and Family Therapist Candidate. I love working with couples as they explore and redefine their relationships. Adults working through introspection and reflection is another population I enjoy working with. Through gentle depth work, I walk with my clients on the journey of self-awareness. Together we explore and discover each person’s unique beauty. Relationship therapy and trauma therapy are often the start to finding the place to thrive.
Schedule instantly through my website link in my bio! Hi, I’m Shevy! I am honored and privileged to be a Marriage and Family Therapist Candidate. I love working with couples as they explore and redefine their relationships. Adults working through introspection and reflection is another population I enjoy working with. Through gentle depth work, I walk with my clients on the journey of self-awareness. Together we explore and discover each person’s unique beauty. Relationship therapy and trauma therapy are often the start to finding the place to thrive.
(303) 647-4863 View (303) 647-4863
Photo of Ray Findley, Clinical Social Work Candidate in Central Boulder, Boulder, CO
Ray Findley
Clinical Social Work Candidate, MSW, SWC
Verified Verified
Central Boulder, Boulder, CO 80302
Your story holds immense value: your challenges, successes, hopes, fears, and joys. I am dedicated to partnering with individuals, guiding them from a state of self-doubt and confusion towards a life characterized by empowerment, connection, and joy. Together, we will delve into every facet of your humanity—your emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual dimensions—examining how your internal world as well as the external world has shaped your journey. I genuinely welcome the depth of your emotional experience, recognizing its significance in our exploration.
Your story holds immense value: your challenges, successes, hopes, fears, and joys. I am dedicated to partnering with individuals, guiding them from a state of self-doubt and confusion towards a life characterized by empowerment, connection, and joy. Together, we will delve into every facet of your humanity—your emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual dimensions—examining how your internal world as well as the external world has shaped your journey. I genuinely welcome the depth of your emotional experience, recognizing its significance in our exploration.
(303) 536-3868 View (303) 536-3868
Photo of Taylor Baird, Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate in Central Boulder, Boulder, CO
Taylor Baird
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Central Boulder, Boulder, CO 80302
I help people move through the stuckness that is blocking their full potential. Together, we will navigate pain and trauma from your past, unearth the parts of yourself that are no longer serving you, and create positive change and movement in your life from this point forward. I work to highlight the strength and wisdom you already possess that have helped carry you to this present moment. We will practice patience with the parts of you that are still growing while infusing new habits and self-care routines into your life to create forward momentum and help you rise into the highest version of yourself.
I help people move through the stuckness that is blocking their full potential. Together, we will navigate pain and trauma from your past, unearth the parts of yourself that are no longer serving you, and create positive change and movement in your life from this point forward. I work to highlight the strength and wisdom you already possess that have helped carry you to this present moment. We will practice patience with the parts of you that are still growing while infusing new habits and self-care routines into your life to create forward momentum and help you rise into the highest version of yourself.
(720) 712-1496 View (720) 712-1496
Photo of Kristin Williams, Marriage & Family Therapist in Central Boulder, Boulder, CO
Kristin Williams
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Central Boulder, Boulder, CO 80302  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
“How can I reconnect intimately with my partner?” “How do we navigate having different levels of sexual desire?” “How do we rebuild trust after it’s been broken?” “Who am I and what does that mean?” These are all questions I have heard many iterations of in my therapy office, so if you’ve found yourself asking some of these same questions, you’re not alone. Whether you're tackling rebuilding trust, cultivating intimacy, exploring sexuality, deconstructing harmful self-narratives, or developing communication skills, it is an honor to walk alongside you during this journey, as you invest in yourself and your relationships.
“How can I reconnect intimately with my partner?” “How do we navigate having different levels of sexual desire?” “How do we rebuild trust after it’s been broken?” “Who am I and what does that mean?” These are all questions I have heard many iterations of in my therapy office, so if you’ve found yourself asking some of these same questions, you’re not alone. Whether you're tackling rebuilding trust, cultivating intimacy, exploring sexuality, deconstructing harmful self-narratives, or developing communication skills, it is an honor to walk alongside you during this journey, as you invest in yourself and your relationships.
(720) 753-5229 View (720) 753-5229
Photo of Luke Walljasper, Counselor in Central Boulder, Boulder, CO
Luke Walljasper
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Central Boulder, Boulder, CO 80304
As we travel along in life, emotional pain and trauma often cause us to fracture and lose touch with ourselves, leaving us scrambling to pick up the pieces–but the good news is we don’t have to go it alone. In a world full of distraction and overstimulation, it is an act of rebellion to slow down, look within, and feel. I see myself as a guide and co-pilot to support you in exploring your emotional landscape and navigating the ever-evolving journey of self-discovery. I’ve had the honor of helping clients work through anxiety, depression, complex trauma, PTSD, addiction, terminal illness, men’s issues, and relationship troubles.
As we travel along in life, emotional pain and trauma often cause us to fracture and lose touch with ourselves, leaving us scrambling to pick up the pieces–but the good news is we don’t have to go it alone. In a world full of distraction and overstimulation, it is an act of rebellion to slow down, look within, and feel. I see myself as a guide and co-pilot to support you in exploring your emotional landscape and navigating the ever-evolving journey of self-discovery. I’ve had the honor of helping clients work through anxiety, depression, complex trauma, PTSD, addiction, terminal illness, men’s issues, and relationship troubles.
(720) 734-8070 View (720) 734-8070

See more therapy options for Central Boulder, Boulder


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.