Photo of Alessana Fordin, Counselor in Downtown, Miami, FL
Alessana Fordin
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Downtown, Miami, FL 33129
Specializing in guiding clients towards meaningful and enduring transformations in their lives is my focus—be it navigating the aftermath of a marriage, achieving weight loss goals, conquering addictions or eating disorders, fostering and sustaining relationships, or mastering anger management.
If you're facing challenges within your relationships or want to enact positive changes in your life but find yourself stuck, there's a path forward. Overcoming feelings of depression and anxiety, along with learning to manage anger effectively, are entirely within your reach. Break away the barriers that prevent you from living a life filled with satisfaction, fulfillment, and joy. As a highly trained psychotherapist, I employ a holistic and personalized approach tailored to your individual needs. For further details, I invite you to visit my website at www.lotuscounseling.com.
Specializing in guiding clients towards meaningful and enduring transformations in their lives is my focus—be it navigating the aftermath of a marriage, achieving weight loss goals, conquering addictions or eating disorders, fostering and sustaining relationships, or mastering anger management.
If you're facing challenges within your relationships or want to enact positive changes in your life but find yourself stuck, there's a path forward. Overcoming feelings of depression and anxiety, along with learning to manage anger effectively, are entirely within your reach. Break away the barriers that prevent you from living a life filled with satisfaction, fulfillment, and joy. As a highly trained psychotherapist, I employ a holistic and personalized approach tailored to your individual needs. For further details, I invite you to visit my website at www.lotuscounseling.com.
(305) 834-4115 View (305) 834-4115
Photo of Melanie Juli, Marriage & Family Therapist in Downtown, Miami, FL
Melanie Juli
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Downtown, Miami, FL 33131  (Online Only)
Melanie is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. She completed her BA in Interdisciplinary Arts and Humanities from Florida Atlantic University and then went on to complete her MS in Marriage and Family Therapy from Nova Southeastern University in 2012. Melanie has extensive experience treating clients with addiction disorders as well as working with their family’s and loved ones who were working on they’re own program of recovery as well. Melanie has also worked within a community health setting and focused on assisting clients with processing past trauma and mental health issues as well. Melanie’s specialties include:
Melanie is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. She completed her BA in Interdisciplinary Arts and Humanities from Florida Atlantic University and then went on to complete her MS in Marriage and Family Therapy from Nova Southeastern University in 2012. Melanie has extensive experience treating clients with addiction disorders as well as working with their family’s and loved ones who were working on they’re own program of recovery as well. Melanie has also worked within a community health setting and focused on assisting clients with processing past trauma and mental health issues as well. Melanie’s specialties include:
(786) 933-4164 View (786) 933-4164
Photo of Dr. Jeff J. Rocker, Counselor in Downtown, Miami, FL
Dr. Jeff J. Rocker
Counselor, PhD, NCC, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Downtown, Miami, FL 33131
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) 661-1562 View (786) 661-1562
Photo of Sunny Khachatryan, Counselor in Downtown, Miami, FL
Sunny Khachatryan
Counselor, PhD, LMHC, CAP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Downtown, Miami, FL 33131  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My treatment areas include: Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, PTSD, Marriage & Family, Mood Disorders, Addiction, PostPartum Depression, & Autism Spectrum.
Don't let the struggle become your identity. Your present circumstances don't determine where you can go, they merely determine where you start. My goal is to help my clients to replace unhealthy coping skills, encourage a healthy sense of self, & promote a lifestyle full of satisfying relationships & experiences.
My treatment areas include: Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, PTSD, Marriage & Family, Mood Disorders, Addiction, PostPartum Depression, & Autism Spectrum.
Don't let the struggle become your identity. Your present circumstances don't determine where you can go, they merely determine where you start. My goal is to help my clients to replace unhealthy coping skills, encourage a healthy sense of self, & promote a lifestyle full of satisfying relationships & experiences.
(305) 771-5959 View (305) 771-5959
Photo of Tanya Aliki, Marriage & Family Therapist in Downtown, Miami, FL
Tanya Aliki
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Downtown, Miami, FL 33131  (Online Only)
Hello, I'm Tanya Aliki, an LMFT. My aim is to guide you towards a powerful, intentional life. In our sessions, you'll gain self-understanding, make changes, and find solutions. With a background in teaching and a Marriage and Family Therapy degree, I've spent 14 years helping individuals, couples, and families rewrite their stories. If you're a military member or spouse, I understand the unique challenges you face.
Hello, I'm Tanya Aliki, an LMFT. My aim is to guide you towards a powerful, intentional life. In our sessions, you'll gain self-understanding, make changes, and find solutions. With a background in teaching and a Marriage and Family Therapy degree, I've spent 14 years helping individuals, couples, and families rewrite their stories. If you're a military member or spouse, I understand the unique challenges you face.
(786) 839-3030 View (786) 839-3030
Photo of Christopher Santini, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Downtown, Miami, FL
Christopher Santini
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downtown, Miami, FL 33131  (Online Only)
I feel that building a positive rapport and non judgmental therapeutic alliance with my clients the key to processing important underlying emotional challenges and conflicts in order to effect meaningful change. I use a cognitive based-person centered and task oriented approach with my clients. My specialties include: anxiety, depression, self-esteem, bereavement, couples counseling and marital/family conflict, as well as unique training and insight into issues affecting the LGBTQ+ community.
I feel that building a positive rapport and non judgmental therapeutic alliance with my clients the key to processing important underlying emotional challenges and conflicts in order to effect meaningful change. I use a cognitive based-person centered and task oriented approach with my clients. My specialties include: anxiety, depression, self-esteem, bereavement, couples counseling and marital/family conflict, as well as unique training and insight into issues affecting the LGBTQ+ community.
(786) 823-3594 View (786) 823-3594
Photo of Lotus Counseling Center, Counselor in Downtown, Miami, FL
Lotus Counseling Center
Counselor, MS, LMHC, LMFT, PhD
Verified Verified
Downtown, Miami, FL 33129
We specialize in aiding clients in achieving lasting changes—from overcoming addictions and managing anger to moving on from a marriage.
At Lotus Counseling Center, we understand the challenges of navigating relationship difficulties, the desire for life changes, and the obstacles that may seem insurmountable. Whether you're grappling with depression or anxiety or seeking ways to manage anger, we're here to guide you through. Uncover what's holding you back from living a life filled with satisfaction, fulfillment, and joy. Our skilled psychotherapists in Boca Raton can help you pinpoint those parts of your life that you can change and tailor their approach to your needs. For more insight into how we can assist you, please visit our website at www.lotuscounseling.com.
We specialize in aiding clients in achieving lasting changes—from overcoming addictions and managing anger to moving on from a marriage.
At Lotus Counseling Center, we understand the challenges of navigating relationship difficulties, the desire for life changes, and the obstacles that may seem insurmountable. Whether you're grappling with depression or anxiety or seeking ways to manage anger, we're here to guide you through. Uncover what's holding you back from living a life filled with satisfaction, fulfillment, and joy. Our skilled psychotherapists in Boca Raton can help you pinpoint those parts of your life that you can change and tailor their approach to your needs. For more insight into how we can assist you, please visit our website at www.lotuscounseling.com.
(786) 655-4233 View (786) 655-4233
Photo of Lotus Counseling Center, Counselor in Downtown, Miami, FL
Lotus Counseling Center
Counselor, MS, PhD, LMHC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Downtown, Miami, FL 33129
Whether it's moving past a marriage, losing weight, overcoming addictions, maintaining relationships, or managing anger, our therapy services are designed to facilitate significant transformations.
At Lotus Counseling Center, located in Aventura, we understand the challenges you may be facing with relationship issues, the yearning for life changes, or the battle against depression, anxiety, and anger management. Our team of psychotherapists is here to help you uncover the obstacles that prevent you from leading a life full of satisfaction, fulfillment, and joy. We offer a holistic and personalized therapy approach designed just for you. For more details on how we can support your journey towards well-being, please visit our website at www.lotuscounseling.com.
Whether it's moving past a marriage, losing weight, overcoming addictions, maintaining relationships, or managing anger, our therapy services are designed to facilitate significant transformations.
At Lotus Counseling Center, located in Aventura, we understand the challenges you may be facing with relationship issues, the yearning for life changes, or the battle against depression, anxiety, and anger management. Our team of psychotherapists is here to help you uncover the obstacles that prevent you from leading a life full of satisfaction, fulfillment, and joy. We offer a holistic and personalized therapy approach designed just for you. For more details on how we can support your journey towards well-being, please visit our website at www.lotuscounseling.com.
(786) 563-4810 View (786) 563-4810
Photo of Dr. Carol Messmore, Marriage & Family Therapist in Downtown, Miami, FL
Dr. Carol Messmore
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Downtown, Miami, FL 33130  (Online Only)
Hi I am Carol Messmore, a brief solution-focused marriage and family therapist with over 20 years of experience with individuals, couples and families. Are you feeling overwhelmed, struggling with relationship problems, or experiencing anxiety or self-regulation issues? Do you want things to be different in your life?
Hi I am Carol Messmore, a brief solution-focused marriage and family therapist with over 20 years of experience with individuals, couples and families. Are you feeling overwhelmed, struggling with relationship problems, or experiencing anxiety or self-regulation issues? Do you want things to be different in your life?
(954) 417-8901 View (954) 417-8901
Photo of Richard M. Correa, Marriage & Family Therapist in Downtown, Miami, FL
Richard M. Correa
Marriage & Family Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
Downtown, Miami, FL 33130
I am dual-licensed as both a clinical social worker and marriage and family therapist.
Don't suffer in silence anymore. Contact me today for an appointment. I work with individuals and couples, covering issues ranging from anxiety and phobias to relationship issues and divorce. I guide each individual through his or her own personal journey of discovery and growth. I hope to have the pleasure of meeting you soon to start work immediately on resolving your conflicts and challenges.
I am dual-licensed as both a clinical social worker and marriage and family therapist.
Don't suffer in silence anymore. Contact me today for an appointment. I work with individuals and couples, covering issues ranging from anxiety and phobias to relationship issues and divorce. I guide each individual through his or her own personal journey of discovery and growth. I hope to have the pleasure of meeting you soon to start work immediately on resolving your conflicts and challenges.
(786) 882-2169 View (786) 882-2169
Photo of Elizabeth Delicio, Counselor in Downtown, Miami, FL
Elizabeth Delicio
Counselor, MS, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Downtown, Miami, FL 33131
SE HABLA ESPANOL. We are a group of Mental Health Professionals. Our job as a therapist is to assist you in figuring out and overcoming obstacles that may be preventing you from getting there. We have experience working with clients of all ages from diverse backgrounds on a wide range of issues, such as couples and relationship conflict, anger management, sexual difficulties, and infidelity. We specialize in marital problems, children, and adolescents, as well as parenting concerns.
SE HABLA ESPANOL. We are a group of Mental Health Professionals. Our job as a therapist is to assist you in figuring out and overcoming obstacles that may be preventing you from getting there. We have experience working with clients of all ages from diverse backgrounds on a wide range of issues, such as couples and relationship conflict, anger management, sexual difficulties, and infidelity. We specialize in marital problems, children, and adolescents, as well as parenting concerns.
(786) 789-1855 View (786) 789-1855
Photo of Counseling, Ltd., Counselor in Downtown, Miami, FL
Counseling, Ltd.
Counselor, MS, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Downtown, Miami, FL 33107
We are a professional counseling firm with experienced counselors in Sexual Abuse, Relationship/Marital Counseling, Family counseling, Codependency Counseling, Gender Identity, Incarceration/Probation Counseling, and specialize in Alcohol and Substance Abuse Counseling for adults and teens, as well as Trauma and PTSD.
We are a professional counseling firm with experienced counselors in Sexual Abuse, Relationship/Marital Counseling, Family counseling, Codependency Counseling, Gender Identity, Incarceration/Probation Counseling, and specialize in Alcohol and Substance Abuse Counseling for adults and teens, as well as Trauma and PTSD.
(614) 932-2425 View (614) 932-2425
Photo of Norman Goldwasser, Psychologist in Downtown, Miami, FL
Norman Goldwasser
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Downtown, Miami, FL 33110
My experience of 30 years of clinical practice has encompassed a wide range of issues and clients, including Narcissistic Personality; Gottman-trained, goal-oriented marital therapy; divorce mediation and co-parenting; multi-modal treatment of OCD and other anxiety-related disorders; substance abuse and behavior addictions, including sex, gambling, spending, and internet addictions; Adult and adolescent ADD; and trauma, and trauma-related phobias. With 25 years of intensive training and experience as an EMDR clinician and consultant, I use EMDR extensively, and use it to achieve timely and effective achievement of clients' goals.
My experience of 30 years of clinical practice has encompassed a wide range of issues and clients, including Narcissistic Personality; Gottman-trained, goal-oriented marital therapy; divorce mediation and co-parenting; multi-modal treatment of OCD and other anxiety-related disorders; substance abuse and behavior addictions, including sex, gambling, spending, and internet addictions; Adult and adolescent ADD; and trauma, and trauma-related phobias. With 25 years of intensive training and experience as an EMDR clinician and consultant, I use EMDR extensively, and use it to achieve timely and effective achievement of clients' goals.
(561) 288-8095 View (561) 288-8095
Photo of Doreen Mullarney, Licensed Professional Counselor in Downtown, Miami, FL
Doreen Mullarney
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ACS
Verified Verified
Downtown, Miami, FL 33101  (Online Only)
I work with those struggling with anxiety, mood disorders, marriage/relationship problems, substance use, school problems, family and codependency issues and more.
With over 35 years in the counseling field, I consider my easy-going compassionate manner as an opening to make clients feel comfortable. Seeking help with therapy is one of the most difficult and courageous things a person can do. Quite often, avoiding or escaping or making poor/unhealthy choices becomes a way to cope with uncomfortable life experiences. As a team, we will uncover and identify the issues, decide what it is that you want, set realistic and attainable goals, and practice ways to reach those goals.
I work with those struggling with anxiety, mood disorders, marriage/relationship problems, substance use, school problems, family and codependency issues and more.
With over 35 years in the counseling field, I consider my easy-going compassionate manner as an opening to make clients feel comfortable. Seeking help with therapy is one of the most difficult and courageous things a person can do. Quite often, avoiding or escaping or making poor/unhealthy choices becomes a way to cope with uncomfortable life experiences. As a team, we will uncover and identify the issues, decide what it is that you want, set realistic and attainable goals, and practice ways to reach those goals.
(561) 782-0822 View (561) 782-0822
Photo of Craig Lampkin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Downtown, Miami, FL
Craig Lampkin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Downtown, Miami, FL 33101  (Online Only)
I became a Marriage and Family Therapist because I enjoy processing with individuals and listening to personal journeys to find a resolution. I was a High School performance art major and find this skill set benefical in providing supports through visual cues using various therapeutic approaches and modalities. I specialize in working with children and families in child welfare. I enjoy working with young children and teens as these are challenging developmental years, trauma and distress from systemic and familial patterns of behaviors, coupled with low parenting, coping, decision-making and problem-solving skills.
I became a Marriage and Family Therapist because I enjoy processing with individuals and listening to personal journeys to find a resolution. I was a High School performance art major and find this skill set benefical in providing supports through visual cues using various therapeutic approaches and modalities. I specialize in working with children and families in child welfare. I enjoy working with young children and teens as these are challenging developmental years, trauma and distress from systemic and familial patterns of behaviors, coupled with low parenting, coping, decision-making and problem-solving skills.
(850) 900-2218 View (850) 900-2218
Photo of Cheryl Marye Allen-Freeman, Counselor in Downtown, Miami, FL
Cheryl Marye Allen-Freeman
Counselor, MS, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Downtown, Miami, FL 33101
VIRTUAL VISITS-Telehealth. We specialize in sessions via the internet on high encrypted, Hipaa Compliant systems (similar to FaceTime, Skype, etc.) It allows for same day sessions for clients who are not able to make it into one of our physical locations. Clients can use their phones, tablets, laptops, and PC's. We are a professional counseling firm with experienced counselors in Sexual Abuse, Relationship/Marital Counseling, Family Counseling, Codependency Counseling, Gender Identity, Incarceration/Probation Counseling, and specialize in Alcohol and Substance Abuse Counseling for adults and teens, as well as Trauma and PTSD.
VIRTUAL VISITS-Telehealth. We specialize in sessions via the internet on high encrypted, Hipaa Compliant systems (similar to FaceTime, Skype, etc.) It allows for same day sessions for clients who are not able to make it into one of our physical locations. Clients can use their phones, tablets, laptops, and PC's. We are a professional counseling firm with experienced counselors in Sexual Abuse, Relationship/Marital Counseling, Family Counseling, Codependency Counseling, Gender Identity, Incarceration/Probation Counseling, and specialize in Alcohol and Substance Abuse Counseling for adults and teens, as well as Trauma and PTSD.
(865) 205-6190 View (865) 205-6190
Photo of Anita A Daniels, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Downtown, Miami, FL
Anita A Daniels
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downtown, Miami, FL 33107  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Specialties: depression, workplace conflict, grief/loss, marital discord, stress, anxiety, the transition from sport (current/former athletes), drug/alcohol/gambling addictions.
actualities limited was incorporated February 1, 2002, to encourage individuals seeking counseling to be real with themselves about their strengths, limitations, desires, and fears. No games. No masks. No facades. No excuses. If you are ready to tackle the challenges that are blocking your progress - - actualities limited is right for you, and today is the perfect day for you to contact us. We can help you meet your personal, professional, athletic, and spiritual goals. We're waiting to hear from you . . . . #norolloverminutesinlife #mentalwellness https://actualitiesltd.clientssecure.me
Specialties: depression, workplace conflict, grief/loss, marital discord, stress, anxiety, the transition from sport (current/former athletes), drug/alcohol/gambling addictions.
actualities limited was incorporated February 1, 2002, to encourage individuals seeking counseling to be real with themselves about their strengths, limitations, desires, and fears. No games. No masks. No facades. No excuses. If you are ready to tackle the challenges that are blocking your progress - - actualities limited is right for you, and today is the perfect day for you to contact us. We can help you meet your personal, professional, athletic, and spiritual goals. We're waiting to hear from you . . . . #norolloverminutesinlife #mentalwellness https://actualitiesltd.clientssecure.me
(919) 429-8674 View (919) 429-8674
Photo of Camila Quintero, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Downtown, Miami, FL
Camila Quintero
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Downtown, Miami, FL 33130  (Online Only)
I believe one of the bravest things you can do is to begin to understand your own story and heal through the journey of self love. You really can have It all. You deserve to live a life that leaves you excited to wake up every morning. In therapy my goal is to cultivate an environment where you will feel safe to heal from all the emotional wounds and pain you've been carrying around all your life. Calling a therapist can be an intimidating thing todo but I hope you take a moment to pick up the phone and see how I can help.
I believe one of the bravest things you can do is to begin to understand your own story and heal through the journey of self love. You really can have It all. You deserve to live a life that leaves you excited to wake up every morning. In therapy my goal is to cultivate an environment where you will feel safe to heal from all the emotional wounds and pain you've been carrying around all your life. Calling a therapist can be an intimidating thing todo but I hope you take a moment to pick up the phone and see how I can help.
(786) 244-2873 View (786) 244-2873
Photo of Dr. Silvina Nancy Belmonte, Counselor in Downtown, Miami, FL
Dr. Silvina Nancy Belmonte
Counselor, PhD, LMHC
Verified Verified
Downtown, Miami, FL 33129
One or more of these issues may be affecting you: Depression, Stress and Anxiety, Love and Intimacy, Sexual Dysfunctions, Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, Low Self Esteem/Lack of Self Confidence, Low Self Image, Relationship Concerns, Guilt, Loneliness. I offer you a confidential and safe place to explore and process what is emotionally affecting you. Let's Talk! I can Help!
One or more of these issues may be affecting you: Depression, Stress and Anxiety, Love and Intimacy, Sexual Dysfunctions, Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, Low Self Esteem/Lack of Self Confidence, Low Self Image, Relationship Concerns, Guilt, Loneliness. I offer you a confidential and safe place to explore and process what is emotionally affecting you. Let's Talk! I can Help!
(305) 982-7961 View (305) 982-7961
Photo of Jo Lyda Aparicio, Counselor in Downtown, Miami, FL
Jo Lyda Aparicio
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Downtown, Miami, FL 33143  (Online Only)
I focus on helping you reach your highest and truest potential through inner healing. My therapeutic approach is holistic, recognizing the interconnectedness of mental, emotional, and existential well-being. I draw from evidence-based practices such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Existential-Humanistic approaches. Through compassionate collaboration, we work together to develop strategies for managing symptoms, fostering resilience, and achieving a more fulfilling life.
I focus on helping you reach your highest and truest potential through inner healing. My therapeutic approach is holistic, recognizing the interconnectedness of mental, emotional, and existential well-being. I draw from evidence-based practices such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Existential-Humanistic approaches. Through compassionate collaboration, we work together to develop strategies for managing symptoms, fostering resilience, and achieving a more fulfilling life.
(786) 699-8691 View (786) 699-8691

See more therapy options for Downtown, Miami

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.