Therapists in Adams Morgan, Washington, DC

Photo of Weisner Psychotherapy, LLC, Psychologist in Adams Morgan, Washington, DC
Weisner Psychotherapy, LLC
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP, CST
Verified Verified
Adams Morgan, Washington, DC 20009
I have worked extensively with clients to help them address a wide variety of concerns, including: Depression and anxiety • Work-related stress • Academic concerns (learning issues, attention problems) • Time management and organizational skills • Grief, loss, and bereavement • Spiritual and existential issues, including crises of faith and integrating beliefs and values • Life transitions (e.g., entering / leaving the workforce; marriage and divorce) • Identity issues and experiences of bias, discrimination, and oppression • Sexual and gender-related concerns
I have worked extensively with clients to help them address a wide variety of concerns, including: Depression and anxiety • Work-related stress • Academic concerns (learning issues, attention problems) • Time management and organizational skills • Grief, loss, and bereavement • Spiritual and existential issues, including crises of faith and integrating beliefs and values • Life transitions (e.g., entering / leaving the workforce; marriage and divorce) • Identity issues and experiences of bias, discrimination, and oppression • Sexual and gender-related concerns
(703) 457-8710 View (703) 457-8710
Photo of Dr. Michelle R Cook, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Adams Morgan, Washington, DC
Dr. Michelle R Cook
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, PhD, LICSW
Verified Verified
Adams Morgan, Washington, DC 20009  (Online Only)
I have developed a high skill level in several modalities including; Psychodynamic, Relational and Attachment-based Therapy, Trauma Informed, Marriage and Family Therapy/Family Systems Therapy, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Forensic Therapy and Addictions.
Hello and thank you for having the courage and strength to learn more about YOU. Psychotherapy is a process and a process that I will take with you. About me: I began my career over 20 years ago, and have worked in several grassroots organizations with the common mission of empowering individuals. I have a love for service and advocacy particularity for the most vulnerable and disenfranchised groups.
I have developed a high skill level in several modalities including; Psychodynamic, Relational and Attachment-based Therapy, Trauma Informed, Marriage and Family Therapy/Family Systems Therapy, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Forensic Therapy and Addictions.
Hello and thank you for having the courage and strength to learn more about YOU. Psychotherapy is a process and a process that I will take with you. About me: I began my career over 20 years ago, and have worked in several grassroots organizations with the common mission of empowering individuals. I have a love for service and advocacy particularity for the most vulnerable and disenfranchised groups.
(202) 714-3369 View (202) 714-3369
Photo of Turner Lyfe Around Counseling, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Adams Morgan, Washington, DC
Turner Lyfe Around Counseling, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Adams Morgan, Washington, DC 20009  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am experienced in working with traumatized children and families, family violence (victims) and (perpetrators), Marriage and Individual therapy.
My name is Alesia. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 30 years of experience working with Adults, Children, Youth and Families. I obtained my master’s degree in Social Work from Howard University in May 1990. I am a compassionate therapist dedicated to providing the tools necessary to help you overcome obstacles and barriers that are keeping you from living your authentic life.
I am experienced in working with traumatized children and families, family violence (victims) and (perpetrators), Marriage and Individual therapy.
My name is Alesia. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 30 years of experience working with Adults, Children, Youth and Families. I obtained my master’s degree in Social Work from Howard University in May 1990. I am a compassionate therapist dedicated to providing the tools necessary to help you overcome obstacles and barriers that are keeping you from living your authentic life.
(301) 690-9372 View (301) 690-9372
Photo of Jillian Meinhardt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Adams Morgan, Washington, DC
Jillian Meinhardt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Adams Morgan, Washington, DC 20009  (Online Only)
Are you a parent of a child, teen or young adult struggling with big emotions that take over your child's body? Does your child have trouble leaving the house, nervous about new situations, have excess energy, feel low or experience mood swings? Are you a young adult entering a new phase or overwhelmed with today's pressures of work, family, friends and relationships? Are you looking for a clinician that can connect with you and understands the pressures of today? With a background in therapeutic and specials education school settings, we use creative tools to connect with you and your child to support you.
Are you a parent of a child, teen or young adult struggling with big emotions that take over your child's body? Does your child have trouble leaving the house, nervous about new situations, have excess energy, feel low or experience mood swings? Are you a young adult entering a new phase or overwhelmed with today's pressures of work, family, friends and relationships? Are you looking for a clinician that can connect with you and understands the pressures of today? With a background in therapeutic and specials education school settings, we use creative tools to connect with you and your child to support you.
(202) 875-6450 View (202) 875-6450
Photo of Suzanne K Haddad, Psychologist in Adams Morgan, Washington, DC
Suzanne K Haddad
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Adams Morgan, Washington, DC 20009
We all have complicated personal stories that have led us to where we are in life. Your unique thoughts, fears, desires and emotions can affect the quality of your daily experiences and cause you to repeat unhealthy patterns.
We all have complicated personal stories that have led us to where we are in life. Your unique thoughts, fears, desires and emotions can affect the quality of your daily experiences and cause you to repeat unhealthy patterns.
(202) 559-1126 View (202) 559-1126
Photo of Cara Marie Curcio, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Adams Morgan, Washington, DC
Cara Marie Curcio
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Adams Morgan, Washington, DC 20009
Whatever your reason for seeking therapy is—whether it is an addiction, depression, anxiety, body image issues, gender identity—I work to collaboratively to help you get to the root of it to help increase insight about patterns that are playing out in your life. I have a background as a yoga practitioner and teacher so I also work to use mindfulness and meditation in sessions where appropriate. I work to individualize each therapy relationship, using psychodynamic principles, cognitive behavioral therapy, and dialectical behavioral therapy to guide my interventions.
Whatever your reason for seeking therapy is—whether it is an addiction, depression, anxiety, body image issues, gender identity—I work to collaboratively to help you get to the root of it to help increase insight about patterns that are playing out in your life. I have a background as a yoga practitioner and teacher so I also work to use mindfulness and meditation in sessions where appropriate. I work to individualize each therapy relationship, using psychodynamic principles, cognitive behavioral therapy, and dialectical behavioral therapy to guide my interventions.
(202) 410-0234 View (202) 410-0234
Photo of Xanthia Bianca Johnson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Adams Morgan, Washington, DC
Xanthia Bianca Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Adams Morgan, Washington, DC 20009
Everyone deserves a chance to become their best selves. During defining transitions, I provide a safe place for you to be who you are. Whether you are 2 years old or 85 years young, you will enjoy a transformative experience. I know DC Metro folk and am experienced in the nuanced issues they face. If you are in a proactive self-seeking stanz, I can help you discover the panacea for which your heart has always desired. Thank you for considering me to be apart of your journey. I look forward to meeting you.
Everyone deserves a chance to become their best selves. During defining transitions, I provide a safe place for you to be who you are. Whether you are 2 years old or 85 years young, you will enjoy a transformative experience. I know DC Metro folk and am experienced in the nuanced issues they face. If you are in a proactive self-seeking stanz, I can help you discover the panacea for which your heart has always desired. Thank you for considering me to be apart of your journey. I look forward to meeting you.
(240) 949-4168 View (240) 949-4168
Photo of Mali G Parke - Life Coachmediator in Adams Morgan, Washington, DC
Mali G Parke - Life Coachmediator
Coach, CPC
Verified Verified
Adams Morgan, Washington, DC 20009
Are you longing for vitality, a sense of choice or self-love/confidence in your life? Are you looking for authenticity, courageous conversations, resonance or deep trust repair in your relationship/s? Are you hoping to find how to live a meaningful and impactful life? I support authentic, compassionate and empowered relating to yourself and others with courageous journeying opening your full expression, connection and power for change. My clients are individuals, partners, co-parents, educators, caregivers or leaders, teams or groups who want to achieve greater trust, connection, resonance, collaboration and systemic resilience.
Are you longing for vitality, a sense of choice or self-love/confidence in your life? Are you looking for authenticity, courageous conversations, resonance or deep trust repair in your relationship/s? Are you hoping to find how to live a meaningful and impactful life? I support authentic, compassionate and empowered relating to yourself and others with courageous journeying opening your full expression, connection and power for change. My clients are individuals, partners, co-parents, educators, caregivers or leaders, teams or groups who want to achieve greater trust, connection, resonance, collaboration and systemic resilience.
(202) 760-2780 View (202) 760-2780
Photo of Steve Geishecker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Adams Morgan, Washington, DC
Steve Geishecker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LCSW-C, ACSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Adams Morgan, Washington, DC 20009  (Online Only)
Feeling depressed, confused, anxious? Let's talk about how I might be able to help. Creating a safe and supportive space is an important for a good partnership in therapy. Rest assured that you will be entering the therapeutic process without judgment and with unconditional positive regard. I approach therapy as a collaborative process of exploration with the goal of achieving greater self-awareness and the ability to manage life in better balance. Good chemistry and a healthy rapport are essential elements in creating a meaningful working relationship.
Feeling depressed, confused, anxious? Let's talk about how I might be able to help. Creating a safe and supportive space is an important for a good partnership in therapy. Rest assured that you will be entering the therapeutic process without judgment and with unconditional positive regard. I approach therapy as a collaborative process of exploration with the goal of achieving greater self-awareness and the ability to manage life in better balance. Good chemistry and a healthy rapport are essential elements in creating a meaningful working relationship.
(202) 759-4002 View (202) 759-4002
Photo of Bradley Lake, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Adams Morgan, Washington, DC
Bradley Lake
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
Adams Morgan, Washington, DC 20009
I provide individual, couples, and group psychotherapy, as well as supervision to clinicians. I create a safe working environment where I will caringly challenge you to learn, explore, and ultimately grow. Everyone has a rich internal world full of aspirations. Everyone needs to be seen and heard to recognize and achieve their goals. However, we often feel stuck, lost or depressed. We need to be challenged to see from new perspectives, to feel profoundly, and to make life changes. I am here to help you, to see and hear you, to challenge you to grow and make your external life reflect your internal world.
I provide individual, couples, and group psychotherapy, as well as supervision to clinicians. I create a safe working environment where I will caringly challenge you to learn, explore, and ultimately grow. Everyone has a rich internal world full of aspirations. Everyone needs to be seen and heard to recognize and achieve their goals. However, we often feel stuck, lost or depressed. We need to be challenged to see from new perspectives, to feel profoundly, and to make life changes. I am here to help you, to see and hear you, to challenge you to grow and make your external life reflect your internal world.
(202) 517-0967 View (202) 517-0967
Photo of Peggy L Miller, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Adams Morgan, Washington, DC
Peggy L Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MEd, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Adams Morgan, Washington, DC 20009
Not accepting new clients
Welcome to my therapy practice! I am a therapist with over 25 years of experience helping individuals and couples achieve a greater sense of well being and fulfillment in their lives. I believe my role as therapist is to provide a safe, supportive, non-judgmental, and confidential relationship in which we can work collaboratively to understand your current concerns and challenges,then identify and work toward goals and steps for achieving positive change. I am devoted to the individuals I work with and consider it a privilege to have an active role in their pursuit of a more gratifying life.
Welcome to my therapy practice! I am a therapist with over 25 years of experience helping individuals and couples achieve a greater sense of well being and fulfillment in their lives. I believe my role as therapist is to provide a safe, supportive, non-judgmental, and confidential relationship in which we can work collaboratively to understand your current concerns and challenges,then identify and work toward goals and steps for achieving positive change. I am devoted to the individuals I work with and consider it a privilege to have an active role in their pursuit of a more gratifying life.
(202) 831-9574 View (202) 831-9574

Online Therapists

Photo of Beneficence Center for Counseling LLC, Counselor in Adams Morgan, Washington, DC
Beneficence Center for Counseling LLC
Counselor, MEd, LCPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036  (Online Only)
I'd love to be your counselor - whether you would like to do pre-marital/couples counseling, navigate divorce/recent breakup, consciously uncouple/improve co-parenting dynamic, or focus on self-work.
Beneficence Center for Counseling provides online therapy in Maryland and Washington, DC. I spent many years as an educator in public schools and as a counselor. Now I have the privilege to devote my full time to mental health counseling. My focus is to help families and individuals navigate through life's challenges.
I'd love to be your counselor - whether you would like to do pre-marital/couples counseling, navigate divorce/recent breakup, consciously uncouple/improve co-parenting dynamic, or focus on self-work.
Beneficence Center for Counseling provides online therapy in Maryland and Washington, DC. I spent many years as an educator in public schools and as a counselor. Now I have the privilege to devote my full time to mental health counseling. My focus is to help families and individuals navigate through life's challenges.
(301) 701-4253 View (301) 701-4253
Photo of Christopher Barry Hill, Licensed Professional Counselor in Adams Morgan, Washington, DC
Christopher Barry Hill
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20003
Anxiety, Depression, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Substance Abuse/Addiction, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, OCD, Phobias Social Anxiety, Couples/Marital Issues, Adjustment Disorders Personality Disorders, Child/Parenting, Family Issues, Medical Illness, PTSD, TBI, Panic Attacks, Psychosis, Anger, Chronic Pain.
*Now Accepting Tele-therapy Clients* Do you find yourself feeling sad, anxious, unhappy with life circumstances? Are you having relationship difficulties, feel stress from work, or have a child experiencing difficulties? I offer comprehensive assistance to change and work through many of life's challenges. If you find yourself suffering from any of these situations, or if you do not feel quite like yourself, let us help you begin on the road to improvement by addressing patient concerns, including but not limited to the following:
Anxiety, Depression, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Substance Abuse/Addiction, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, OCD, Phobias Social Anxiety, Couples/Marital Issues, Adjustment Disorders Personality Disorders, Child/Parenting, Family Issues, Medical Illness, PTSD, TBI, Panic Attacks, Psychosis, Anger, Chronic Pain.
*Now Accepting Tele-therapy Clients* Do you find yourself feeling sad, anxious, unhappy with life circumstances? Are you having relationship difficulties, feel stress from work, or have a child experiencing difficulties? I offer comprehensive assistance to change and work through many of life's challenges. If you find yourself suffering from any of these situations, or if you do not feel quite like yourself, let us help you begin on the road to improvement by addressing patient concerns, including but not limited to the following:
(202) 759-4221 View (202) 759-4221
Photo of Elana Hoffman, Psychologist in Adams Morgan, Washington, DC
Elana Hoffman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20010  (Online Only)
I also draw from lived experiences with marriage, divorce, solo parenting, and alternative romantic relationships.
I love working with couples and individuals with difficulty in romantic relationships (i.e. sexual issues, communication, infidelity, divorce), adults who come from dysfunctional childhoods, as well as those with anxiety, impulsivity, and addiction. I also enjoy working with those in non-traditional romantic relationships (i.e. ethically non-monogamous, polyamorous). I am LGBTQIA- affirming and sex positive. I work best with clients who are engaged, thoughtful, and motivated for change. My style is empathic and direct, with a sense of humor. I believe strongly in the therapeutic alliance and the client/therapist fit.
I also draw from lived experiences with marriage, divorce, solo parenting, and alternative romantic relationships.
I love working with couples and individuals with difficulty in romantic relationships (i.e. sexual issues, communication, infidelity, divorce), adults who come from dysfunctional childhoods, as well as those with anxiety, impulsivity, and addiction. I also enjoy working with those in non-traditional romantic relationships (i.e. ethically non-monogamous, polyamorous). I am LGBTQIA- affirming and sex positive. I work best with clients who are engaged, thoughtful, and motivated for change. My style is empathic and direct, with a sense of humor. I believe strongly in the therapeutic alliance and the client/therapist fit.
(202) 793-8669 View (202) 793-8669
Photo of Global Psychotherapy Center of Bethesda, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Adams Morgan, Washington, DC
Global Psychotherapy Center of Bethesda
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
You may benefit from participating in therapy in many ways: Attaining a better understanding of yourself, your goals, and values Developing skills for improving your relationships Finding resolution to the issues or concerns that led you to seek therapy Learning new ways to cope with stress and anxiety Managing anger, grief, depression, and other emotional pressures Improving communication and listening skills Changing old behavior patterns and developing new ones Discovering new ways to solve problems in your family or marriage Improving your self-esteem and boosting self-confidence .
We are a team of professionals with clinical expertise who love working together to provide the appropriate treatment in a compassionate, therapeutic environment. We provide services to the international community. Our goal is to provide high-quality psychotherapy and counseling treatment to individuals, couples, and families. We focus on helping our clients find their inner resources to be able to make changes in their lives in a healthy and meaningful way.
You may benefit from participating in therapy in many ways: Attaining a better understanding of yourself, your goals, and values Developing skills for improving your relationships Finding resolution to the issues or concerns that led you to seek therapy Learning new ways to cope with stress and anxiety Managing anger, grief, depression, and other emotional pressures Improving communication and listening skills Changing old behavior patterns and developing new ones Discovering new ways to solve problems in your family or marriage Improving your self-esteem and boosting self-confidence .
We are a team of professionals with clinical expertise who love working together to provide the appropriate treatment in a compassionate, therapeutic environment. We provide services to the international community. Our goal is to provide high-quality psychotherapy and counseling treatment to individuals, couples, and families. We focus on helping our clients find their inner resources to be able to make changes in their lives in a healthy and meaningful way.
(240) 823-5262 View (240) 823-5262
Photo of Dr. Jeff J. Rocker, Licensed Professional Counselor in Adams Morgan, Washington, DC
Dr. Jeff J. Rocker
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, NCC, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006
in Marriage and Family therapy from Nova Southeastern University.
With 12 years of experience working with clients going through individual, relationship, and family issues, Celebrity Therapist Dr. Jeff Rocker has provided therapeutic services to clients nationwide. He is Licensed in 14 states and has served clients from all age groups. Over the years, Dr. Jeff has organized lectures and various events in the community, including excursions and retreats for couples to improve their communication and better understand each other. He has experience working with athletes in the NFL, NBA, and MLB. In addition, Dr. Jeff has also worked with clients in the Movie, Music, and Entertainment Industries.
in Marriage and Family therapy from Nova Southeastern University.
With 12 years of experience working with clients going through individual, relationship, and family issues, Celebrity Therapist Dr. Jeff Rocker has provided therapeutic services to clients nationwide. He is Licensed in 14 states and has served clients from all age groups. Over the years, Dr. Jeff has organized lectures and various events in the community, including excursions and retreats for couples to improve their communication and better understand each other. He has experience working with athletes in the NFL, NBA, and MLB. In addition, Dr. Jeff has also worked with clients in the Movie, Music, and Entertainment Industries.
(786) 526-0294 View (786) 526-0294
Photo of Achieving Joy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Adams Morgan, Washington, DC
Achieving Joy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20017
Achieving Joy's counseling boutique is created to improve the emotional, mental, and spiritual wellness of the LGBTQ community. Our counselor's are diverse, licensed and are active participants within the community. We provide a safe space for individuals and couples to explore monogamous and non-monogamous relationships, complete pre-marital counseling, and create action steps to reach your life goals. We also provide group counseling, workshops, and annual conferences. Our purpose is to help you create a plan of action to achieve your joy.
Achieving Joy's counseling boutique is created to improve the emotional, mental, and spiritual wellness of the LGBTQ community. Our counselor's are diverse, licensed and are active participants within the community. We provide a safe space for individuals and couples to explore monogamous and non-monogamous relationships, complete pre-marital counseling, and create action steps to reach your life goals. We also provide group counseling, workshops, and annual conferences. Our purpose is to help you create a plan of action to achieve your joy.
(301) 691-3874 View (301) 691-3874
Photo of Dr. Livia Freier, Psychologist in Adams Morgan, Washington, DC
Dr. Livia Freier
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20005
Dr. Livia Freier is a Clinical Psychologist who specializes in anxiety and depression, as well as ADHD, adjustment difficulties, eating disorders, and couples/marriage conflicts. Additionally, Dr. Freier works with clients who would like to gain a strong sense of self and build self-confidence both long-term and situational. Her practice is open to individuals, couples, and families. Dr. Freier also focuses on working with college students and their families. Her neuroscience research is affiliated with Brown University and her practice is located within close walking distance of the Brown University campus and RISD.
Dr. Livia Freier is a Clinical Psychologist who specializes in anxiety and depression, as well as ADHD, adjustment difficulties, eating disorders, and couples/marriage conflicts. Additionally, Dr. Freier works with clients who would like to gain a strong sense of self and build self-confidence both long-term and situational. Her practice is open to individuals, couples, and families. Dr. Freier also focuses on working with college students and their families. Her neuroscience research is affiliated with Brown University and her practice is located within close walking distance of the Brown University campus and RISD.
(401) 340-2630 View (401) 340-2630
Photo of Helen Ann Rudinsky, Licensed Professional Counselor in Adams Morgan, Washington, DC
Helen Ann Rudinsky
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20015  (Online Only)
Do you feel misunderstood? Do you have trouble communicating? As a Marriage & Family Therapist, I help couples and individuals turn their relationships around for the better. We work on speaking and listening skills, using "I" statements, setting boundaries and other relationship skills. We use videos, personality tests, role plays and other tools to bring about rapid change. I work with clients on relationship issues, career choices, and other issues. What sets me apart from other therapists is my ability to keep clients on a systematic approach to change with a focused, short term program to help them achieve their goals quickly.
Do you feel misunderstood? Do you have trouble communicating? As a Marriage & Family Therapist, I help couples and individuals turn their relationships around for the better. We work on speaking and listening skills, using "I" statements, setting boundaries and other relationship skills. We use videos, personality tests, role plays and other tools to bring about rapid change. I work with clients on relationship issues, career choices, and other issues. What sets me apart from other therapists is my ability to keep clients on a systematic approach to change with a focused, short term program to help them achieve their goals quickly.
(833) 472-0501 View (833) 472-0501
Photo of Meredith Gardner, Licensed Professional Counselor in Adams Morgan, Washington, DC
Meredith Gardner
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20016
I work with children, adolescents, adults, and families on a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, communication, divorce, grief, relationships and behavior management. I am primarily cognitive behavioral and take an active role in therapy, challenging clients to explore alternative ways to deal with their issues while creating a trusting and caring environment. I am the founder and clinical director of District Therapy Associates, a psychotherapy practice with several diverse therapists who focus on child, adolescent, adult, family, marriage, and group therapy.
I work with children, adolescents, adults, and families on a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, communication, divorce, grief, relationships and behavior management. I am primarily cognitive behavioral and take an active role in therapy, challenging clients to explore alternative ways to deal with their issues while creating a trusting and caring environment. I am the founder and clinical director of District Therapy Associates, a psychotherapy practice with several diverse therapists who focus on child, adolescent, adult, family, marriage, and group therapy.
(202) 609-8914 View (202) 609-8914

See more therapy options for Adams Morgan, Washington

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.