Photo of Kelly Cave, Licensed Professional Counselor in Atlanta, GA
Kelly Cave
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LMFT, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30339
I have a Master's Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy with a specialization in Christian Sex Therapy.
Is your life and your behavior impacted by events from the past? That's a very common side effect of trauma. Trauma impacts the ways in which we respond to every day stimulation and can shape our choices in healthy and unhealthy ways. According to research, more than half of men and women have experienced a trauma in their life time and 2 out of 5 women and 1 out of 6 men have experienced sexual trauma. You're not alone in this pain and I would love to help you through it. Using talk therapy combined with EMDR, we will build a safe place for you to process your hurt and be able to unwind what the brain has been holding on to.
I have a Master's Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy with a specialization in Christian Sex Therapy.
Is your life and your behavior impacted by events from the past? That's a very common side effect of trauma. Trauma impacts the ways in which we respond to every day stimulation and can shape our choices in healthy and unhealthy ways. According to research, more than half of men and women have experienced a trauma in their life time and 2 out of 5 women and 1 out of 6 men have experienced sexual trauma. You're not alone in this pain and I would love to help you through it. Using talk therapy combined with EMDR, we will build a safe place for you to process your hurt and be able to unwind what the brain has been holding on to.
(404) 814-5041 View (404) 814-5041
Photo of Dr. Erika Pluhar, Marriage & Family Therapist in Atlanta, GA
Dr. Erika Pluhar
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, EdS, LMFT, LPC, CST-S
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30324
Thank you for viewing my profile. You also may visit my websites: www.erikapluhar.com and www.wholeheartpsychotherapy.net. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Licensed Professional Counselor, and Certified Sex Therapist and Supervisor. I work with adult individuals and couples who have difficulties with relationships and sexuality. My approach supports the integration of the mind, body, and spirit. I take into consideration each individual's background as well as the dynamics in the relationship. My treatment philosophy combines cognitive-behavioral techniques with deeper emotional process and attachment/EFT work.
Thank you for viewing my profile. You also may visit my websites: www.erikapluhar.com and www.wholeheartpsychotherapy.net. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Licensed Professional Counselor, and Certified Sex Therapist and Supervisor. I work with adult individuals and couples who have difficulties with relationships and sexuality. My approach supports the integration of the mind, body, and spirit. I take into consideration each individual's background as well as the dynamics in the relationship. My treatment philosophy combines cognitive-behavioral techniques with deeper emotional process and attachment/EFT work.
(404) 566-9987 View (404) 566-9987
Photo of Gerald S Drose, Psychologist in Atlanta, GA
Gerald S Drose
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30305
I've been in practice in Atlanta since 1989 helping adults with relationship problems. I have extensive training and experience in couples and sex therapy. I am solution focused and direct in my approach. I wrote for a couple of years about Marriage and Sex for an online magazine. I have collected many of my articles on my blog which will help you get an idea of how I work. Please go to my blog- http://gerald-drose.blogspot.com/
I've been in practice in Atlanta since 1989 helping adults with relationship problems. I have extensive training and experience in couples and sex therapy. I am solution focused and direct in my approach. I wrote for a couple of years about Marriage and Sex for an online magazine. I have collected many of my articles on my blog which will help you get an idea of how I work. Please go to my blog- http://gerald-drose.blogspot.com/
(770) 450-6023 x12 View (770) 450-6023 x12
Photo of The Wives Inc., Licensed Professional Counselor in Atlanta, GA
The Wives Inc.
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC, CPCS, EMDR, CST
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30308
I am committed to helping individuals, couples and families reach their fullest potential by equipping them with the tools/skills to thrive and live their best life. My goal is to assist my clients to be able to overcome past traumas, insecurities, negative relationship habits and other negative patterns that hinder their ability to create and maintain healthy relationships. I also enjoy helping couples prepare for marriage or work through marital issues that all couples experience at some point and time in their marriage such as communication issues, conflict resolution, sexual issues, betrayal, infidelity, and incompatibility.
I am committed to helping individuals, couples and families reach their fullest potential by equipping them with the tools/skills to thrive and live their best life. My goal is to assist my clients to be able to overcome past traumas, insecurities, negative relationship habits and other negative patterns that hinder their ability to create and maintain healthy relationships. I also enjoy helping couples prepare for marriage or work through marital issues that all couples experience at some point and time in their marriage such as communication issues, conflict resolution, sexual issues, betrayal, infidelity, and incompatibility.
(678) 916-9756 View (678) 916-9756
Photo of Drew Phillips, Marriage & Family Therapist in Atlanta, GA
Drew Phillips
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30324
If your life and relationships aren't going the way you'd like, if your marriage feels painful, if you're at your wit's end with your children's behavior, if you want to do things differently but feel stuck- I'd like to help. Anxiety, depression, self-esteem, intimacy, personal boundaries, parenting issues, divorce and its impact on the children- all of these can be overwhelming and difficult to navigate well. I work with children and families (ages 5+), parents, adult men, and couples.
If your life and relationships aren't going the way you'd like, if your marriage feels painful, if you're at your wit's end with your children's behavior, if you want to do things differently but feel stuck- I'd like to help. Anxiety, depression, self-esteem, intimacy, personal boundaries, parenting issues, divorce and its impact on the children- all of these can be overwhelming and difficult to navigate well. I work with children and families (ages 5+), parents, adult men, and couples.
(678) 647-9031 View (678) 647-9031
Photo of OneLove Counseling Services, LLC., Licensed Professional Counselor in Atlanta, GA
OneLove Counseling Services, LLC.
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC, CPCS, NCC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30305
Areas of specialty include but are not limited to: Psychosexual Therapy, Marriage and Relationship Counseling, Sex and Intimacy Counseling, Spiritual Counseling, Sports Psychology, Compatibility Therapy, Infidelity, Self-Esteem, Parenting, Divorce, Stress management, Suicide, Depression, Couple-Dance Therapy, Grief Counseling, and Wedding Officiant.
Empathy, sympathy, active listening, and genuine concern are vital to helping individuals overcome the challenges they face. When a person feels unfulfilled, frustrated or blocked by their current situation, seeking help is where change begins. Our Holistic/Person-Centered approach to healing from the inside out is designed to assess the root of an issue, and then help support individuals, families and couples on the path to thinking differently and therefore creating different, more positive outcomes. Privacy and confidentiality is the cornerstone of OneLove Counseling Services.
Areas of specialty include but are not limited to: Psychosexual Therapy, Marriage and Relationship Counseling, Sex and Intimacy Counseling, Spiritual Counseling, Sports Psychology, Compatibility Therapy, Infidelity, Self-Esteem, Parenting, Divorce, Stress management, Suicide, Depression, Couple-Dance Therapy, Grief Counseling, and Wedding Officiant.
Empathy, sympathy, active listening, and genuine concern are vital to helping individuals overcome the challenges they face. When a person feels unfulfilled, frustrated or blocked by their current situation, seeking help is where change begins. Our Holistic/Person-Centered approach to healing from the inside out is designed to assess the root of an issue, and then help support individuals, families and couples on the path to thinking differently and therefore creating different, more positive outcomes. Privacy and confidentiality is the cornerstone of OneLove Counseling Services.
(678) 218-4992 View (678) 218-4992
Photo of Keaunna J Seabrum, Pre-Licensed Professional in Atlanta, GA
Keaunna J Seabrum
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30316  (Online Only)
My ideal client is navigating life transitions, whether young adults ages 16-25 exploring identity and future paths, or couples seeking pre-marital and relationship support. I specialize in working with military families managing deployment, separation, and children coping with an absent parent. I also work with adults facing anxiety and depression, offering a compassionate and personalized approach to help them find balance and resilience. My goal is to empower clients to embrace positive change and cultivate healthy relationships. Let's connect and start your journey towards growth and healing!
My ideal client is navigating life transitions, whether young adults ages 16-25 exploring identity and future paths, or couples seeking pre-marital and relationship support. I specialize in working with military families managing deployment, separation, and children coping with an absent parent. I also work with adults facing anxiety and depression, offering a compassionate and personalized approach to help them find balance and resilience. My goal is to empower clients to embrace positive change and cultivate healthy relationships. Let's connect and start your journey towards growth and healing!
(470) 735-8526 View (470) 735-8526
Photo of Akila Hill, Marriage & Family Therapist in Atlanta, GA
Akila Hill
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30331
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist dedicated to helping couples improve their relationships.
Are you experiencing communication problems between you and your spouse? Have you guys been experiencing conflict over financial issues, sexual difficulties, lack of intimacy, and or differences in parenting styles? The top five common issues that bring couples into therapy are communication problems, conflicts over finances, sexual difficulties, lack of intimacy, and differences in parenting styles. These issues can create tension and strain in a relationship and may require the assistance of a therapist to help you and your partner work through them.
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist dedicated to helping couples improve their relationships.
Are you experiencing communication problems between you and your spouse? Have you guys been experiencing conflict over financial issues, sexual difficulties, lack of intimacy, and or differences in parenting styles? The top five common issues that bring couples into therapy are communication problems, conflicts over finances, sexual difficulties, lack of intimacy, and differences in parenting styles. These issues can create tension and strain in a relationship and may require the assistance of a therapist to help you and your partner work through them.
(678) 336-5552 View (678) 336-5552
Photo of Jennifer Frisco Bartl, Marriage & Family Therapist in Atlanta, GA
Jennifer Frisco Bartl
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30316  (Online Only)
Are you are stuck in a job you hate, aren’t sure if you should stay in your current relationship, or just feel in a “funk” from time to time? If so, therapy is for you. I use a solution-focused approach to help you find the answers you are looking for. I enjoy working with adults (and older teens) who can’t quite figure out how to live their best lives. I specialize in couples – before marriage, when you still have stars in your eyes, after marriage when things are a bit harder than you thought they’d be, and towards the potential end of marriage, when you need to make the tough decision to either stay together or not.
Are you are stuck in a job you hate, aren’t sure if you should stay in your current relationship, or just feel in a “funk” from time to time? If so, therapy is for you. I use a solution-focused approach to help you find the answers you are looking for. I enjoy working with adults (and older teens) who can’t quite figure out how to live their best lives. I specialize in couples – before marriage, when you still have stars in your eyes, after marriage when things are a bit harder than you thought they’d be, and towards the potential end of marriage, when you need to make the tough decision to either stay together or not.
(678) 931-8843 View (678) 931-8843
Photo of Al Elmore, Counselor in Atlanta, GA
Al Elmore
Counselor, LPC, CSAT, NBCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30339
Al works with individuals and couples who struggle with anxiety, substance abuse, sexual addiction, pornography, marriage issues, and infidelity, as well as achieving emotional and/or spiritual wholeness.
I have been meeting with individuals and couples for over 35 years. I specialize in helping individuals and couples learn how to communicate more effectively. My focus is on helping the client learn how to talk about his/her emotions in a clear and thoughtful manner. My ideal client(s) is an individual who desires to live out of their true self. I love helping couples and individuals learn to connect in a deeper and more authentic manner.
Al works with individuals and couples who struggle with anxiety, substance abuse, sexual addiction, pornography, marriage issues, and infidelity, as well as achieving emotional and/or spiritual wholeness.
I have been meeting with individuals and couples for over 35 years. I specialize in helping individuals and couples learn how to communicate more effectively. My focus is on helping the client learn how to talk about his/her emotions in a clear and thoughtful manner. My ideal client(s) is an individual who desires to live out of their true self. I love helping couples and individuals learn to connect in a deeper and more authentic manner.
(678) 780-4145 View (678) 780-4145
Photo of Alison Leon, Marriage & Family Therapist in Atlanta, GA
Alison Leon
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30311
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who enjoys working with families of teenagers. I also work with individuals and greatly appreciate the opportunity to help others. Before becoming a therapist, I was an educator for 11 years and specialized in prenatal through age 5. I typically work with teenagers and anxiety. I also provide group, couples, and family counseling. Although I do not have any specialization certificates, I like to work with grief and trauma (mostly sexual trauma).
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who enjoys working with families of teenagers. I also work with individuals and greatly appreciate the opportunity to help others. Before becoming a therapist, I was an educator for 11 years and specialized in prenatal through age 5. I typically work with teenagers and anxiety. I also provide group, couples, and family counseling. Although I do not have any specialization certificates, I like to work with grief and trauma (mostly sexual trauma).
(470) 260-6974 View (470) 260-6974
Photo of The Trap House of Healing with Dr. Terri & Co., Marriage & Family Therapist in Atlanta, GA
The Trap House of Healing with Dr. Terri & Co.
Marriage & Family Therapist, DMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30331  (Online Only)
The Trap House of Healing is an unapologetic urbanized practice for Black families to be seen, heard, and supported. The THoH was founded on the principles of building community by integrating Black culture, trap music, and holistic work to help heal those in need. Each therapist at the THoH is clinically trained as a marriage & family therapist, and therefore we take a unique approach in addressing the complex traumas of Black and Brown people/families, and those representing the LBGTQAI+ community... so if you're ready for a spine-tingling transformation, improved communication, and a happier, healthier life, then look no further.
The Trap House of Healing is an unapologetic urbanized practice for Black families to be seen, heard, and supported. The THoH was founded on the principles of building community by integrating Black culture, trap music, and holistic work to help heal those in need. Each therapist at the THoH is clinically trained as a marriage & family therapist, and therefore we take a unique approach in addressing the complex traumas of Black and Brown people/families, and those representing the LBGTQAI+ community... so if you're ready for a spine-tingling transformation, improved communication, and a happier, healthier life, then look no further.
(404) 442-4820 View (404) 442-4820
Photo of Michael E Stoneking in Atlanta, GA
Michael E Stoneking
PhD, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30341
My specialty areas include: marriage conflict, relationship difficulties, anxiety ,depression ,addictions, self-esteem issues.
I DO NOT CHARGE A FEE FOR ANY OF MY SERVICES; donations are appreciated with no expectations . I am well experienced in all areas of Counseling ,. Treatment is individualized and structured for your specific issue The client and myself together develops an individualized plan. I work by listening, hearing and helping my client gain a deeper understanding of obstacles, which are causing repeating patterns of negative behavior,and how to overcome struggles. My clients find me engaging and sensitive to their issues. Phone sessions and E-life advisement for those too busy , or desiring anonymity !
My specialty areas include: marriage conflict, relationship difficulties, anxiety ,depression ,addictions, self-esteem issues.
I DO NOT CHARGE A FEE FOR ANY OF MY SERVICES; donations are appreciated with no expectations . I am well experienced in all areas of Counseling ,. Treatment is individualized and structured for your specific issue The client and myself together develops an individualized plan. I work by listening, hearing and helping my client gain a deeper understanding of obstacles, which are causing repeating patterns of negative behavior,and how to overcome struggles. My clients find me engaging and sensitive to their issues. Phone sessions and E-life advisement for those too busy , or desiring anonymity !
(404) 500-8652 View (404) 500-8652
Photo of Centered Living Cnslng & Coaching Svcs LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Atlanta, GA
Centered Living Cnslng & Coaching Svcs LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30326
I have over 19 years of experience in the behavioral health field working with people from various backgrounds, with 13 of those years being a counselor. I particularly like to work with individuals, couples and families. I believe that, ultimately, the client is the agent of change and I am simply the guide on your journey to wholeness. Together we will identify your goals and, through our work together, I will help you reach them. I work with a myriad of issues, from marital relationship and family conflict, depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, trauma and more!
I have over 19 years of experience in the behavioral health field working with people from various backgrounds, with 13 of those years being a counselor. I particularly like to work with individuals, couples and families. I believe that, ultimately, the client is the agent of change and I am simply the guide on your journey to wholeness. Together we will identify your goals and, through our work together, I will help you reach them. I work with a myriad of issues, from marital relationship and family conflict, depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, trauma and more!
(404) 476-5186 View (404) 476-5186
Photo of Watson Behavioral Health Inc., Licensed Professional Counselor in Atlanta, GA
Watson Behavioral Health Inc.
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30339  (Online Only)
We are suited and skilled in various areas of child and adolescent behavioral issues, mental health, family conflict, marriage issues, etc.
Your new journey starts at Watson Behavioral Health where you will get a combination of therapeutic interventions that are tactical and beneficial to many of life's stresses.
We are suited and skilled in various areas of child and adolescent behavioral issues, mental health, family conflict, marriage issues, etc.
Your new journey starts at Watson Behavioral Health where you will get a combination of therapeutic interventions that are tactical and beneficial to many of life's stresses.
(770) 574-4843 View (770) 574-4843
Photo of Edurne Paula Chopeitia, Licensed Professional Counselor in Atlanta, GA
Edurne Paula Chopeitia
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MBA, LPC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30342
We will talk about relationships, intimacy, sexuality to understand how you relate and connect (family, friends, colleagues, partners); to "unpack" the world around (work, culture, social media); and gain skills to navigate transitions (career, children, immigration, marriage, divorce).
You want to "feel more like yourself" with your children, at work, and in your intimate relationships. You want to love freely, find balance, or prepare for a change. We can explore the WHYs or focus on the HOWs. I can help you understand the repeating patterns that impact your well-being and gain new skills to create and discover choices. I offer consultations for brief focused therapy, long-term psychotherapy, coaching, and referrals to other specialists.
We will talk about relationships, intimacy, sexuality to understand how you relate and connect (family, friends, colleagues, partners); to "unpack" the world around (work, culture, social media); and gain skills to navigate transitions (career, children, immigration, marriage, divorce).
You want to "feel more like yourself" with your children, at work, and in your intimate relationships. You want to love freely, find balance, or prepare for a change. We can explore the WHYs or focus on the HOWs. I can help you understand the repeating patterns that impact your well-being and gain new skills to create and discover choices. I offer consultations for brief focused therapy, long-term psychotherapy, coaching, and referrals to other specialists.
(404) 800-4699 View (404) 800-4699
Photo of Carrie Beck, Counselor in Atlanta, GA
Carrie Beck
Counselor, APC, NCC, CFMHC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30339
Compassion. Collaboration. Change. Seeking help takes courage, and choosing a therapist can be an empowering, but intimidating first step. I strive to cultivate a meaningful relationship with each of my clients, so it can feel safe to explore your story. Together we look for themes and identify next right steps. I specialize in helping clients who struggle with the effects of childhood and complex trauma, addiction, marital and intimacy issues, life transitions, boundary difficulties, and self-esteem. I enjoy working with men and women of all ages and stages of life who want to improve their relationships with themselves and others.
Compassion. Collaboration. Change. Seeking help takes courage, and choosing a therapist can be an empowering, but intimidating first step. I strive to cultivate a meaningful relationship with each of my clients, so it can feel safe to explore your story. Together we look for themes and identify next right steps. I specialize in helping clients who struggle with the effects of childhood and complex trauma, addiction, marital and intimacy issues, life transitions, boundary difficulties, and self-esteem. I enjoy working with men and women of all ages and stages of life who want to improve their relationships with themselves and others.
(678) 293-9047 View (678) 293-9047
Photo of Licia Freeman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Atlanta, GA
Licia Freeman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MEd, LMFT, RLT, CSAT
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30305
At night you lie in bed wondering "Can this marriage really be saved?" You are so tired of feeling lonely, disconnected, and ignored. This is not AT ALL where you thought you'd ever end up. No more interesting conversations, no date nights, no fun, no sex. The thought "I can't wait to get home" turned into "Do I have to go home?" What happened? Will you ever reconnect with your spouse? Will you ever feel cherished and loved again? You've tried to fix it, but it didn't work. You got back defensiveness and criticism instead. You need HELP!. You can't do it alone. Should you stay or should you go?
At night you lie in bed wondering "Can this marriage really be saved?" You are so tired of feeling lonely, disconnected, and ignored. This is not AT ALL where you thought you'd ever end up. No more interesting conversations, no date nights, no fun, no sex. The thought "I can't wait to get home" turned into "Do I have to go home?" What happened? Will you ever reconnect with your spouse? Will you ever feel cherished and loved again? You've tried to fix it, but it didn't work. You got back defensiveness and criticism instead. You need HELP!. You can't do it alone. Should you stay or should you go?
(770) 352-0029 View (770) 352-0029
Photo of Curtis Fox, Marriage & Family Therapist in Atlanta, GA
Curtis Fox
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30305
I am a Marital and Family Therapist and I have been working with individuals, couples, and families for over 25 years. I believe in the worth and value of all humans and support their desire to have joy, fulfillment, creativity, and to have control of their destiny. I recognize that some experiences negatively impact our ability to access our internal and external resources to cope with what life throws at us, and so, we find ourselves needing the support of one who is trained and skilled to assist us on that journey toward growth, healing, and change.
I am a Marital and Family Therapist and I have been working with individuals, couples, and families for over 25 years. I believe in the worth and value of all humans and support their desire to have joy, fulfillment, creativity, and to have control of their destiny. I recognize that some experiences negatively impact our ability to access our internal and external resources to cope with what life throws at us, and so, we find ourselves needing the support of one who is trained and skilled to assist us on that journey toward growth, healing, and change.
(909) 726-5659 View (909) 726-5659
Photo of Robert W Patterson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Atlanta, GA
Robert W Patterson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MEd, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30307
Getting The Love You Want workshop, which I present with my 25-year marriage partner, Wendy Palmer Patterson, is a powerful method for deepening connection, safety and trust.
Committed love relationships are the most powerful and prized of all human healing. Yet, for many, being in a relationship can bring frustration as well as comfort, heartache as well as joy. My specialty is to help couples improve and connect through proven processes and tools developed by Dr Harville Hendrix, author of the seminal New York Times Best Seller, Getting The Love You Want: a guide for couples. As a Certified Imago Therapist and Workshop Presenter, I help couples regain the safety, compassion and energy that brought them together in the first place.
Getting The Love You Want workshop, which I present with my 25-year marriage partner, Wendy Palmer Patterson, is a powerful method for deepening connection, safety and trust.
Committed love relationships are the most powerful and prized of all human healing. Yet, for many, being in a relationship can bring frustration as well as comfort, heartache as well as joy. My specialty is to help couples improve and connect through proven processes and tools developed by Dr Harville Hendrix, author of the seminal New York Times Best Seller, Getting The Love You Want: a guide for couples. As a Certified Imago Therapist and Workshop Presenter, I help couples regain the safety, compassion and energy that brought them together in the first place.
(404) 369-4887 x3 View (404) 369-4887 x3
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.