Photo of Dr. Mitch and Lisa Marriages/Couples Workshops in Washington, DC
Dr. Mitch and Lisa Marriages/Couples Workshops
PsyD, MSW, Life, Coach
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
Relationships in Crisis: We Have Several Private Couples/Marriage Workshops & Individual Sessions, in order to Rapidly Accelerate Your Healing & Your Communication Process (Traditional 45 min. session Simply Does Not Work). During these 2 to 4 weeks, we will see both of you Together & Individually, as well as Help each of you Learn the Art of Empathy, Sensitivity & Compassion. These Workshops are Informative & Powerful, in order to Accelerate the Healing Process & Stop any further Damage from Occurring. In Addition, Our Success RATE is 85% of Our Couples that have Successfully Completed Our Couples Workshops or Alcohol Treatment.
Relationships in Crisis: We Have Several Private Couples/Marriage Workshops & Individual Sessions, in order to Rapidly Accelerate Your Healing & Your Communication Process (Traditional 45 min. session Simply Does Not Work). During these 2 to 4 weeks, we will see both of you Together & Individually, as well as Help each of you Learn the Art of Empathy, Sensitivity & Compassion. These Workshops are Informative & Powerful, in order to Accelerate the Healing Process & Stop any further Damage from Occurring. In Addition, Our Success RATE is 85% of Our Couples that have Successfully Completed Our Couples Workshops or Alcohol Treatment.
(202) 519-5359 View (202) 519-5359
Photo of Kevin Hollander, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Kevin Hollander
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C, CTP-C
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20005  (Online Only)
I also specialize in marriage counseling.
You may have arrived here because a part of you is ready to shift, even though another part of you is scared. Know that you have a reached a space where you are safe. Know that you have reached a space where your feelings are handled with care. Know that you have reached a space where you are unconditionally accepted. It's nice to meet you.
I also specialize in marriage counseling.
You may have arrived here because a part of you is ready to shift, even though another part of you is scared. Know that you have a reached a space where you are safe. Know that you have reached a space where your feelings are handled with care. Know that you have reached a space where you are unconditionally accepted. It's nice to meet you.
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Photo of Renana Brooks, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Renana Brooks
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20008  (Online Only)
DBT) Diplomate and Board Certified in DBT ,Marriage and Family Therapy and Behavioral Medicine.
Clients with a strong desire to fix their relationships in the most profound ways fit well with my practice .This is true even if you don’t know what is wrong or your partner disagrees about what the problem is. The change is not just communication patterns but also underlying intense emotional distress or explosive patterns of expression. We address complaints such as lack of sex or affection or emotional withdrawal.We stop couples from divorce and fix communication problems by training partners how to best be supportive and to understand underlying psychological messages unwittingly communicated between partners.
DBT) Diplomate and Board Certified in DBT ,Marriage and Family Therapy and Behavioral Medicine.
Clients with a strong desire to fix their relationships in the most profound ways fit well with my practice .This is true even if you don’t know what is wrong or your partner disagrees about what the problem is. The change is not just communication patterns but also underlying intense emotional distress or explosive patterns of expression. We address complaints such as lack of sex or affection or emotional withdrawal.We stop couples from divorce and fix communication problems by training partners how to best be supportive and to understand underlying psychological messages unwittingly communicated between partners.
(703) 420-7312 View (703) 420-7312
Photo of Sasha Taskier, Marriage & Family Therapist in Washington, DC
Sasha Taskier
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20008  (Online Only)
As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I believe relationships can be the most important and empowering parts of our lives; they can bring us immense joy, and they can also cause incredible pain and sorrow.
The therapeutic process is meant to be a collaborative, effective and healing experience. I work with individuals and couples as they work to navigate life's transitions, increase understanding of themselves and their loved ones, heal from past hurts, and work to improve interpersonal relationships. My approach to therapy is culturally sensitive, affirming and focused on strengths. I am committed to joining you where you are in this moment, and walking alongside you on your journey, as an empathic and attuned guide.
As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I believe relationships can be the most important and empowering parts of our lives; they can bring us immense joy, and they can also cause incredible pain and sorrow.
The therapeutic process is meant to be a collaborative, effective and healing experience. I work with individuals and couples as they work to navigate life's transitions, increase understanding of themselves and their loved ones, heal from past hurts, and work to improve interpersonal relationships. My approach to therapy is culturally sensitive, affirming and focused on strengths. I am committed to joining you where you are in this moment, and walking alongside you on your journey, as an empathic and attuned guide.
(202) 949-3457 View (202) 949-3457
Photo of Donna Schwartz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Donna Schwartz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20037
Donna Schwartz is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Assistant Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at the George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences. She has maintained a private practice in Washington, DC for over 25 years. She has over 30 years of experience helping individuals and couples. Donna specializes in the treatment of anxiety, binge eating disorder, couple's counseling to include pre-marital counseling, infertility, pregnancy, postpartum anxiety and depression. In addition to being a prominent psychotherapist, Ms. Schwartz is an Assistant Clinical Professor at George Washington University's School of Medicine and Health Sciences since 2010.
Donna Schwartz is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Assistant Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at the George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences. She has maintained a private practice in Washington, DC for over 25 years. She has over 30 years of experience helping individuals and couples. Donna specializes in the treatment of anxiety, binge eating disorder, couple's counseling to include pre-marital counseling, infertility, pregnancy, postpartum anxiety and depression. In addition to being a prominent psychotherapist, Ms. Schwartz is an Assistant Clinical Professor at George Washington University's School of Medicine and Health Sciences since 2010.
(202) 804-2484 View (202) 804-2484
Photo of Gwen Enfield Pearl, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Gwen Enfield Pearl
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20016
Awarded a "Top Marriage and Sex Therapist" by Washingtonian Magazine in 2009 and 2012, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, a Certified Imago Relationship Couples and Singles Therapist, Advanced Imago Clinician and AASECT Certified Sex Therapist.
There are times when things are not going as well as we'd like in our family, social or work relationships, particularly post-Covid. You may feel alone, depressed, anxious, or have conflict or discomfort with those you care about. In my psychotherapy practice I help couples, individuals & families restore their sense of well being and connection. People learn how to be more present and intentional in accordance with their values. Partners learn to be safely available to each other through a dialogue process that teaches more effective listening, deeper understanding and empathy. In person and Telehealth meetings are offered.
Awarded a "Top Marriage and Sex Therapist" by Washingtonian Magazine in 2009 and 2012, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, a Certified Imago Relationship Couples and Singles Therapist, Advanced Imago Clinician and AASECT Certified Sex Therapist.
There are times when things are not going as well as we'd like in our family, social or work relationships, particularly post-Covid. You may feel alone, depressed, anxious, or have conflict or discomfort with those you care about. In my psychotherapy practice I help couples, individuals & families restore their sense of well being and connection. People learn how to be more present and intentional in accordance with their values. Partners learn to be safely available to each other through a dialogue process that teaches more effective listening, deeper understanding and empathy. In person and Telehealth meetings are offered.
(202) 618-9869 View (202) 618-9869
Photo of Jim Balick, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Jim Balick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20002
Jim is in an inter-faith marriage, and has two grown children.
Jim has been in clinical practice since 1983. He helps individuals and couples work through issues such as: •Relationships •Adjustment and life-stage •Workplace/career •Separation/divorce/recovery issues •Parenting and co-parenting •Aging parents •Substance abuse. He has an active, conversational style, and listens carefully to help develop goals and strategies. He teaches skill-building tools and approaches, especially for improving communications. He encourages constructive dialogue, identifies blind spots, offers valuable suggestions, and facilitates insight to identify and process confusing emotions and ideas.
Jim is in an inter-faith marriage, and has two grown children.
Jim has been in clinical practice since 1983. He helps individuals and couples work through issues such as: •Relationships •Adjustment and life-stage •Workplace/career •Separation/divorce/recovery issues •Parenting and co-parenting •Aging parents •Substance abuse. He has an active, conversational style, and listens carefully to help develop goals and strategies. He teaches skill-building tools and approaches, especially for improving communications. He encourages constructive dialogue, identifies blind spots, offers valuable suggestions, and facilitates insight to identify and process confusing emotions and ideas.
(703) 722-8076 View (703) 722-8076
Photo of Samantha Rodman Whiten, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Samantha Rodman Whiten
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036  (Online Only)
My life experiences include parenting 3 kids, marriage, divorce, remarriage, blended family, depression, and 12+ years in practice.
Limited slots as of Jan 2024! Do you like to make progress quickly? I have often been told that clients make more progress with me in ONE session than in months of past therapy. We examine your past, as there cannot be genuine lasting change without insight into how patterns developed, but we are focused on creating the life you want NOW. I work best with motivated, intelligent, verbal clients. Couples with intimacy issues are a specialty. Visit drpsychmom.com & listen to The Dr. Psych Mom Show! I get you in right away, we don't want to slow down the momentum that brought you here. I can also refer to my great colleagues.
My life experiences include parenting 3 kids, marriage, divorce, remarriage, blended family, depression, and 12+ years in practice.
Limited slots as of Jan 2024! Do you like to make progress quickly? I have often been told that clients make more progress with me in ONE session than in months of past therapy. We examine your past, as there cannot be genuine lasting change without insight into how patterns developed, but we are focused on creating the life you want NOW. I work best with motivated, intelligent, verbal clients. Couples with intimacy issues are a specialty. Visit drpsychmom.com & listen to The Dr. Psych Mom Show! I get you in right away, we don't want to slow down the momentum that brought you here. I can also refer to my great colleagues.
(301) 720-1497 View (301) 720-1497
Photo of David A. Heilman, Psychologist in Washington, DC
David A. Heilman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
26 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
Waitlist for new clients
One of the hardest parts of the therapeutic process is choosing the right therapist for you, and I hope to join you on your journey towards greater self-understanding, compassion, and insight. Many people come to therapy after experiencing emotional distress that has led them to feel overwhelmed and as though they have lost direction in, and control of, their life. In a safe and non-judgmental space, I work collaboratively with my clients to explore ways in which they can effectively regain a sense of empowerment, meaning, and control in their lives.
One of the hardest parts of the therapeutic process is choosing the right therapist for you, and I hope to join you on your journey towards greater self-understanding, compassion, and insight. Many people come to therapy after experiencing emotional distress that has led them to feel overwhelmed and as though they have lost direction in, and control of, their life. In a safe and non-judgmental space, I work collaboratively with my clients to explore ways in which they can effectively regain a sense of empowerment, meaning, and control in their lives.
(202) 831-7813 View (202) 831-7813
Photo of Sarah Charendoff, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Sarah Charendoff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20005
Navigating all the changes and challenges that come in our 20s and 30s can be overwhelming, stressful, and anxiety-filled. Though young adulthood can be an exciting time to explore and deepen your sense of self, many of us feel stuck, lost, or plagued by the pressure to "have it all figured out." You might be thinking, "Why does everyone else seem to know where they’re going and what they’re doing?" You're not alone in these thoughts, fears, and uncertainty. Whether it’s securing and thriving in the right job, breaking out of self-defeating patterns, or finding and maintaining healthy relationships, I’m here to help you get unstuck!
Navigating all the changes and challenges that come in our 20s and 30s can be overwhelming, stressful, and anxiety-filled. Though young adulthood can be an exciting time to explore and deepen your sense of self, many of us feel stuck, lost, or plagued by the pressure to "have it all figured out." You might be thinking, "Why does everyone else seem to know where they’re going and what they’re doing?" You're not alone in these thoughts, fears, and uncertainty. Whether it’s securing and thriving in the right job, breaking out of self-defeating patterns, or finding and maintaining healthy relationships, I’m here to help you get unstuck!
(202) 839-8677 View (202) 839-8677
Photo of Janet Osherow, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Janet Osherow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20016
“Warm and compassionate with a no-nonsense approach” is how my clients describe me. I have been working with children and adolescents for over 25 years and as a licensed clinical social worker for 15 years. I provide therapy to children, adolescents, adults and families. My broad range of experience includes helping clients struggling with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, gender identity & issues related to sexual orientation. I have the unique experience of guiding families through grief and issues related to chronic illness such as HIV and cancer. Often, I engage the whole family to address communication barriers.
“Warm and compassionate with a no-nonsense approach” is how my clients describe me. I have been working with children and adolescents for over 25 years and as a licensed clinical social worker for 15 years. I provide therapy to children, adolescents, adults and families. My broad range of experience includes helping clients struggling with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, gender identity & issues related to sexual orientation. I have the unique experience of guiding families through grief and issues related to chronic illness such as HIV and cancer. Often, I engage the whole family to address communication barriers.
(202) 968-1332 View (202) 968-1332
Photo of Katie Schwartz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Katie Schwartz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
One of my favorite therapy-isms is, "if nothing changes, nothing changes". You deserve the opportunity to feel your best and I would be honored to help you on your journey towards emotional healing and self-discovery. The best part of being a therapist is getting to discover all the unique strengths and coping skills that everyone possesses, and helping them identify and access those gifts. I love working with people in all stages of life, and truly believe in the healing power of a strong, therapeutic relationship.
One of my favorite therapy-isms is, "if nothing changes, nothing changes". You deserve the opportunity to feel your best and I would be honored to help you on your journey towards emotional healing and self-discovery. The best part of being a therapist is getting to discover all the unique strengths and coping skills that everyone possesses, and helping them identify and access those gifts. I love working with people in all stages of life, and truly believe in the healing power of a strong, therapeutic relationship.
(202) 729-9476 View (202) 729-9476
Photo of Ekene Elumelu, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Ekene Elumelu
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006  (Online Only)
Adults clients work with me to gain insight and skills to manage or eliminate anxiety, substance use, overwhelm, mood changes, inadequacy, shame, worry, sadness, concentration, transitions/adjustment, immigrant/expat identity and experiences, relationships, trauma, grief and more. We'll collaborate to complete a comprehensive diagnostic evaluation and treatment plan/goals. We will explore how and why you adopted certain cognitive, behavioral and emotional patterns and identify new skills to manage or eliminate symptoms. I can incorporate your values, faith and traditions.
Adults clients work with me to gain insight and skills to manage or eliminate anxiety, substance use, overwhelm, mood changes, inadequacy, shame, worry, sadness, concentration, transitions/adjustment, immigrant/expat identity and experiences, relationships, trauma, grief and more. We'll collaborate to complete a comprehensive diagnostic evaluation and treatment plan/goals. We will explore how and why you adopted certain cognitive, behavioral and emotional patterns and identify new skills to manage or eliminate symptoms. I can incorporate your values, faith and traditions.
(202) 931-5895 View (202) 931-5895
Photo of Dr. Britt Lindon: Individual And Couples Counselor, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Dr. Britt Lindon: Individual And Couples Counselor
Psychologist, PhD, Anxiety, Couples, Trauma
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20024
Modern relationships are HARD. It’s a struggle to find the right person OR to wonder if your current partner is possibly the wrong person. It’s tough when you feel burned by or totally confused about your path. Maybe you’ve even made choices or overlooked things you now regret. Or, maybe it’s a relationship with a boss or coworkers who undervalue you or play favorites with others. Your work ethic and good ideas have long taken a backseat to putting out fires or just avoiding things way more than you should. You’re past thinking that life’s fair. But, you never thought that things could go THIS wrong or get under your skin THIS much.
Modern relationships are HARD. It’s a struggle to find the right person OR to wonder if your current partner is possibly the wrong person. It’s tough when you feel burned by or totally confused about your path. Maybe you’ve even made choices or overlooked things you now regret. Or, maybe it’s a relationship with a boss or coworkers who undervalue you or play favorites with others. Your work ethic and good ideas have long taken a backseat to putting out fires or just avoiding things way more than you should. You’re past thinking that life’s fair. But, you never thought that things could go THIS wrong or get under your skin THIS much.
(202) 915-1388 View (202) 915-1388
Photo of Emily Lindon, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Emily Lindon
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
Therapy can be a process of both healing and growing. Together we can explore important aspects of your past, while working to improve your present. I foster warm and collaborative relationships with my patients so that they feel understood, supported, and appropriately challenged. As your therapist, I would be committed to helping you develop the tools and mindset necessary to face present and future challenges. I would also support you in achieving greater self-acceptance, authenticity, and more satisfying relationships. I approach each new therapy relationship with curiosity, flexibility, and openness.
Therapy can be a process of both healing and growing. Together we can explore important aspects of your past, while working to improve your present. I foster warm and collaborative relationships with my patients so that they feel understood, supported, and appropriately challenged. As your therapist, I would be committed to helping you develop the tools and mindset necessary to face present and future challenges. I would also support you in achieving greater self-acceptance, authenticity, and more satisfying relationships. I approach each new therapy relationship with curiosity, flexibility, and openness.
(202) 759-7726 View (202) 759-7726
Photo of Madeleine Lawrence, Pre-Licensed Professional in Washington, DC
Madeleine Lawrence
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20012
I am a Masters-level counselor-in-training through Northwestern University currently offering counseling services at The Imago Center of Washington, DC. I am accepting clients with sliding scale pricing/low fee. Together, we can work on areas such as life transitions, grief and loss, self-esteem regulation, sexuality, anxiety, and depression. Using an integrative approach, I hope to work with young adults and couples in exploring areas such as sexual orientation, healthy relationship development, and positive sexuality as well as anxiety regulation and adjustment strategies.
I am a Masters-level counselor-in-training through Northwestern University currently offering counseling services at The Imago Center of Washington, DC. I am accepting clients with sliding scale pricing/low fee. Together, we can work on areas such as life transitions, grief and loss, self-esteem regulation, sexuality, anxiety, and depression. Using an integrative approach, I hope to work with young adults and couples in exploring areas such as sexual orientation, healthy relationship development, and positive sexuality as well as anxiety regulation and adjustment strategies.
(202) 930-8979 View (202) 930-8979
Photo of Kourtney DeBoer, Marriage & Family Therapist in Washington, DC
Kourtney DeBoer
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CCTP, CSTS, MA, MSc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20374  (Online Only)
If you're grappling with the aftermath of sexual or domestic violence, facing challenges in processing a traumatic childhood, or finding it hard to cope with daily life because of PTSD, know that you're not alone. Moving forward as a survivor can feel daunting, overwhelming, confusing, and immobilizing. But it can and does get better. With a background of nearly 20 years advocating and providing clinical support to victims of sexual violence and other violent crimes, Kourtney DeBoer, LMFT, is committed to walking with you every step of the way on your path to healing and reclaiming your voice, mind, body, and spirit.
If you're grappling with the aftermath of sexual or domestic violence, facing challenges in processing a traumatic childhood, or finding it hard to cope with daily life because of PTSD, know that you're not alone. Moving forward as a survivor can feel daunting, overwhelming, confusing, and immobilizing. But it can and does get better. With a background of nearly 20 years advocating and providing clinical support to victims of sexual violence and other violent crimes, Kourtney DeBoer, LMFT, is committed to walking with you every step of the way on your path to healing and reclaiming your voice, mind, body, and spirit.
(202) 902-8326 View (202) 902-8326
Photo of Peter Simon Walsh, Counselor in Washington, DC
Peter Simon Walsh
Counselor, LGPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20006  (Online Only)
I work with create space for BIPOC, AAPI, Latinx, LGBTQ+ (diverse) clients toprocess their experiences and identify ways to advocate for themselves and manage the impact of their experiences. We'll identify cognitive, emotional and behavioral patterns and your strengths as we work to alleviate or eliminate sex or intimacy related challenges, identity related distress, anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, pressure or overwhelm, discrimination or privilege, shame, transitions, self-esteem and more. We'll work to manage or reduce the adverse impact relationships and experiences on current cognitive, emotional and behavioural functioning.
I work with create space for BIPOC, AAPI, Latinx, LGBTQ+ (diverse) clients toprocess their experiences and identify ways to advocate for themselves and manage the impact of their experiences. We'll identify cognitive, emotional and behavioral patterns and your strengths as we work to alleviate or eliminate sex or intimacy related challenges, identity related distress, anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, pressure or overwhelm, discrimination or privilege, shame, transitions, self-esteem and more. We'll work to manage or reduce the adverse impact relationships and experiences on current cognitive, emotional and behavioural functioning.
(202) 519-8350 View (202) 519-8350
Photo of Tiffany E Wicks, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Tiffany E Wicks
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20011  (Online Only)
As your therapist, I genuinely care about you and your well-being. I work with clients 16 and up and see a wide range of presenting issues. My top three specialties are mood disorders, adults with narcissistic loved ones, and spiritual/religious abuse. I use cognitive-behavioral approaches to help you heal and move forward toward your goals.
As your therapist, I genuinely care about you and your well-being. I work with clients 16 and up and see a wide range of presenting issues. My top three specialties are mood disorders, adults with narcissistic loved ones, and spiritual/religious abuse. I use cognitive-behavioral approaches to help you heal and move forward toward your goals.
(833) 322-6173 View (833) 322-6173
Photo of Maury L. Joseph, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Maury L. Joseph
Psychologist, PsyD, MPsy
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036  (Online Only)
Anxiety, depression, and the other experiences that bring us to therapy are some of life's greatest challenges, but in therapy they become valuable opportunities for growth. Through therapy our struggles become an opening to deeper self-understanding, to new ways of living, and even to new beginnings. Our suffering asks us to seek help and to find a place where we may learn to better help ourselves. In the supportive context of therapy we begin to see our symptoms and difficulties in a new way- as the first difficult steps on a journey of learning and growth.
Anxiety, depression, and the other experiences that bring us to therapy are some of life's greatest challenges, but in therapy they become valuable opportunities for growth. Through therapy our struggles become an opening to deeper self-understanding, to new ways of living, and even to new beginnings. Our suffering asks us to seek help and to find a place where we may learn to better help ourselves. In the supportive context of therapy we begin to see our symptoms and difficulties in a new way- as the first difficult steps on a journey of learning and growth.
(202) 968-2530 View (202) 968-2530
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.