Marriage Counseling Therapists in Atlanta, GA

Photo of Dr. Lisa Karla, Licensed Professional Counselor in Atlanta, GA
Dr. Lisa Karla
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30303  (Online Only)
Stop the pattern of emotional and physical self-destruction through the discord in marriage, alcohol and substance abuse, anxiety or depression.
Coming to therapy is a courageous effort, especially if it goes against your cultural, familial or religious beliefs. My initial job in the therapeutic journey is to create a therapeutic alliance that affirms you reached out at the right time, hope is possible and you can exhale! This journey we take together won't always be easy, However, knowing you can speak with someone who isn't fixated on fitting you into a mold of some kind of diagnostic criteria; but is more interested in your personal goals - and path to wellness, makes it all worthwhile! My job is to help you become a better YOU..through the renewing of your mind!
Stop the pattern of emotional and physical self-destruction through the discord in marriage, alcohol and substance abuse, anxiety or depression.
Coming to therapy is a courageous effort, especially if it goes against your cultural, familial or religious beliefs. My initial job in the therapeutic journey is to create a therapeutic alliance that affirms you reached out at the right time, hope is possible and you can exhale! This journey we take together won't always be easy, However, knowing you can speak with someone who isn't fixated on fitting you into a mold of some kind of diagnostic criteria; but is more interested in your personal goals - and path to wellness, makes it all worthwhile! My job is to help you become a better YOU..through the renewing of your mind!
(470) 536-4282 View (470) 536-4282
Photo of Mark Torphy, Pre-Licensed Professional in Atlanta, GA
Mark Torphy
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30339
I am a Master's level Marriage & Family Therapist.
Stuck? Let's figure out why. Overwhelmed? Let's work to move through the storm. Not feeling heard by your partner? Let's find avenues to open up clear lines of communication. Frustrated in your relationship? Let's identify the areas of opportunity that can re-ignite that spark. Always down? Let's dig past those triggers and discover a way for you to create a journey that inspires you. Anxious? Let's identify the culprit and establish tools that will lead to internal peace. My name is Mark and I would love to get that smile back in your life, that warmth back in your soul, & that peace back in your spirit.
I am a Master's level Marriage & Family Therapist.
Stuck? Let's figure out why. Overwhelmed? Let's work to move through the storm. Not feeling heard by your partner? Let's find avenues to open up clear lines of communication. Frustrated in your relationship? Let's identify the areas of opportunity that can re-ignite that spark. Always down? Let's dig past those triggers and discover a way for you to create a journey that inspires you. Anxious? Let's identify the culprit and establish tools that will lead to internal peace. My name is Mark and I would love to get that smile back in your life, that warmth back in your soul, & that peace back in your spirit.
(470) 274-3641 View (470) 274-3641
Photo of Kendall Louden, Marriage & Family Therapist in Atlanta, GA
Kendall Louden
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30341  (Online Only)
I am currently accepting clients via phone or secure video calls. I do not take insurance at this time. With help, you will be well. Asking for help can be a vulnerable and scary experience but together we will co-create meaning to make sense of your story. I will walk alongside you as you heal, grow, and learn. I specialize in maternal mental health through the journey of trying to conceive, pregnancy, and postpartum care for moms and dads. I also specialize in anxiety, depression, career counseling, and premarital/marital counseling, and family counseling.
I am currently accepting clients via phone or secure video calls. I do not take insurance at this time. With help, you will be well. Asking for help can be a vulnerable and scary experience but together we will co-create meaning to make sense of your story. I will walk alongside you as you heal, grow, and learn. I specialize in maternal mental health through the journey of trying to conceive, pregnancy, and postpartum care for moms and dads. I also specialize in anxiety, depression, career counseling, and premarital/marital counseling, and family counseling.
(404) 476-5992 View (404) 476-5992
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
Photo of Dr. Taijah Davis, Licensed Professional Counselor in Atlanta, GA
Dr. Taijah Davis
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30339  (Online Only)
Real quick...take a second...close your eyes, breath deep, let it out slowly, open your eyes...okay. Welcome - my name is Dr. Taijah Davis, EdD and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor based in Atlanta, Georgia and working statewide via telehealth. I work with adults 19-45 and specialize in anxiety, depression, issues with self-esteem, and relationship problems using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy. Additionally, I specialize in couples/marriage counseling using The Gottman Approach to address conflict management and issues with communication.
Real quick...take a second...close your eyes, breath deep, let it out slowly, open your eyes...okay. Welcome - my name is Dr. Taijah Davis, EdD and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor based in Atlanta, Georgia and working statewide via telehealth. I work with adults 19-45 and specialize in anxiety, depression, issues with self-esteem, and relationship problems using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy. Additionally, I specialize in couples/marriage counseling using The Gottman Approach to address conflict management and issues with communication.
(470) 863-1884 View (470) 863-1884
Photo of Seek Wise Counsel , Licensed Professional Counselor in Atlanta, GA
Seek Wise Counsel
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30331
In my 14+ years as a Therapist I have gathered the skills, experience and clinical expertise in the following areas: Relationship/Marriage Problems, ADHD, Childhood Trauma, PTSD, Depression, Human Sexuality, Anxiety, Self Love, Self Care, Self Acceptance and Identity issues with internal thoughts such as (Who am I, Is it okay to be who I am, am I worthy.
My name is Deon L Sanders and I am the Ower/CEO of Seek Wise Counsel. I and my staff, specialize in African American psychology, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Existential, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Schema Therapy, Gestalt, Trauma Focused CBT and IFS.  My specific training/education in African American Psychology has provided me knowledge and a deeper subconscious understanding of how the residual effects of slavery, and religious trauma hinders our people. We have both Male and Female therapist on staff. To see staff bios and to book free consultations please visit our website seekwisecounseling.com
In my 14+ years as a Therapist I have gathered the skills, experience and clinical expertise in the following areas: Relationship/Marriage Problems, ADHD, Childhood Trauma, PTSD, Depression, Human Sexuality, Anxiety, Self Love, Self Care, Self Acceptance and Identity issues with internal thoughts such as (Who am I, Is it okay to be who I am, am I worthy.
My name is Deon L Sanders and I am the Ower/CEO of Seek Wise Counsel. I and my staff, specialize in African American psychology, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Existential, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Schema Therapy, Gestalt, Trauma Focused CBT and IFS.  My specific training/education in African American Psychology has provided me knowledge and a deeper subconscious understanding of how the residual effects of slavery, and religious trauma hinders our people. We have both Male and Female therapist on staff. To see staff bios and to book free consultations please visit our website seekwisecounseling.com
(678) 252-5351 View (678) 252-5351
Photo of Steven R. Jones- Marriage Couple Family Therapist, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Atlanta, GA
Steven R. Jones- Marriage Couple Family Therapist
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA-MFT, ICADC, CADC1, SYMBIS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30339
I typically work with individuals with various diagnoses, couples struggling with marital issues and families navigating divorce, blended families, co-parenting, grief, insomnia, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, and OCD. I am well-suited, competent, and clinically trained in a variety of treatment approaches including but not limited to CBT, Trauma, attachment injury, internal family systems, DBT, and childhood trauma. I have an interest in working with substance misuse, and all types of addiction, including gambling and increasingly common tech porn.
I typically work with individuals with various diagnoses, couples struggling with marital issues and families navigating divorce, blended families, co-parenting, grief, insomnia, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, and OCD. I am well-suited, competent, and clinically trained in a variety of treatment approaches including but not limited to CBT, Trauma, attachment injury, internal family systems, DBT, and childhood trauma. I have an interest in working with substance misuse, and all types of addiction, including gambling and increasingly common tech porn.
(678) 324-3648 View (678) 324-3648
Photo of The Couples College, Licensed Professional Counselor in Atlanta, GA
The Couples College
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CHT, LCSW
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30346
Whether you are entering into a serious relationship or have been with your partner for years, Couples College provides support to strengthen your relationship. We offer private marriage counseling, a partner skills-training course and individual counseling. Our work is designed for every age, ability, orientation and relationship stage. Twice a year the Couples College offers "When Love is Not Enough" - a course where couples work together to create a partnership for life. Beginning in September and February every year.
Whether you are entering into a serious relationship or have been with your partner for years, Couples College provides support to strengthen your relationship. We offer private marriage counseling, a partner skills-training course and individual counseling. Our work is designed for every age, ability, orientation and relationship stage. Twice a year the Couples College offers "When Love is Not Enough" - a course where couples work together to create a partnership for life. Beginning in September and February every year.
(404) 445-1232 View (404) 445-1232
Photo of Jocelyn Evans-Shaw, Licensed Professional Counselor in Atlanta, GA
Jocelyn Evans-Shaw
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30329
Hello, I am Jocelyn Evans-Shaw. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who works with adults and adolescents to assist them in achieving a sense of health and wholeness. I work with clients addressing issues including, but not limited to, trauma, relationship stressors, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, grief, and life transitions such as marriage, divorce, and career change. I utilize a variety of therapeutic interventions and techniques, and my primary philosophy of psychotherapy is an attachment-based approach emphasizing increased resilience and self-awareness.
Hello, I am Jocelyn Evans-Shaw. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who works with adults and adolescents to assist them in achieving a sense of health and wholeness. I work with clients addressing issues including, but not limited to, trauma, relationship stressors, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, grief, and life transitions such as marriage, divorce, and career change. I utilize a variety of therapeutic interventions and techniques, and my primary philosophy of psychotherapy is an attachment-based approach emphasizing increased resilience and self-awareness.
(470) 660-3236 View (470) 660-3236
Photo of Anne Shimsky, Licensed Professional Counselor in Atlanta, GA
Anne Shimsky
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30342
Are you awake at night again thinking, "What am I going to do?" Do you have difficulty waking up in the morning? Are you feeling stuck with grief, anxiety, depression, and feeling lost? Do you look in the mirror and cringe? Are the typical losses in life more than you can handle? How much longer do you want to suffer? Help is available.I am trained as a professional counselor, an affiliate member of American Marriage and Family Therapists, and am a Registered Play Therapist.
Are you awake at night again thinking, "What am I going to do?" Do you have difficulty waking up in the morning? Are you feeling stuck with grief, anxiety, depression, and feeling lost? Do you look in the mirror and cringe? Are the typical losses in life more than you can handle? How much longer do you want to suffer? Help is available.I am trained as a professional counselor, an affiliate member of American Marriage and Family Therapists, and am a Registered Play Therapist.
(404) 594-8130 View (404) 594-8130
Photo of Dr. Ashley Weaver, Counselor in Atlanta, GA
Dr. Ashley Weaver
Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30309  (Online Only)
S (Save Your Marriage Before It Starts) certified counselor.
I only see clients via telehealth. We all face difficult times in our life that test our foundations. There are times that we may face situations that are disappointing, frustrating, confusing, overwhelming, or painful. This is when we find ourselves struggling. You are not alone! We can navigate through these struggles together by working together via a collaborative therapeutic relationship. I am here to aid in your healing journey. Hello, I am Dr. Ashley Weaver. I have a diverse background working with a variety people. I have worked in the corporate structure as well as higher education.
S (Save Your Marriage Before It Starts) certified counselor.
I only see clients via telehealth. We all face difficult times in our life that test our foundations. There are times that we may face situations that are disappointing, frustrating, confusing, overwhelming, or painful. This is when we find ourselves struggling. You are not alone! We can navigate through these struggles together by working together via a collaborative therapeutic relationship. I am here to aid in your healing journey. Hello, I am Dr. Ashley Weaver. I have a diverse background working with a variety people. I have worked in the corporate structure as well as higher education.
(470) 837-5447 View (470) 837-5447
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 Meshai Dixon-Olivares, Marriage & Family Therapist in Atlanta, GA
Meshai Dixon-Olivares
Marriage & Family Therapist, MAMFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30312
I currently hold dual licenses as both an Associate Marriage & Family Therapist as well as an Associate Professional Counselor.
Creating safe spaces where disappointments, shame, or fear can be processed through is my goal as a therapist. Whether your journey is short or long, I aim to come along side you for support as you find peace and personal growth. Whether it's working with young adults, families, or couples the goal is to create change that is tailor made for the individual or family unit. My therapeutic style is authentic, warm, and inviting; and I work from a strengths based perspective that promotes inner healing and self compassion.
I currently hold dual licenses as both an Associate Marriage & Family Therapist as well as an Associate Professional Counselor.
Creating safe spaces where disappointments, shame, or fear can be processed through is my goal as a therapist. Whether your journey is short or long, I aim to come along side you for support as you find peace and personal growth. Whether it's working with young adults, families, or couples the goal is to create change that is tailor made for the individual or family unit. My therapeutic style is authentic, warm, and inviting; and I work from a strengths based perspective that promotes inner healing and self compassion.
(478) 561-0804 View (478) 561-0804
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 Kristena Martin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Atlanta, GA
Kristena Martin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30309
I work with women and couples using a variety of approaches to address relational and personal concerns. My clients often seek couples or marriage counseling at a point where they believe their relationships are beyond repair. Communication has broken down, they lack trust, and intimacy no longer exists. Giving yourselves a chance to address this in therapy increases your chance of resolution. The goal of individual therapy to empower you to be your best self and find passion and joy in life. We’ll address everything you’re feeling, explore new options, and together develop a plan to help you reach your dreams and self-potential.
I work with women and couples using a variety of approaches to address relational and personal concerns. My clients often seek couples or marriage counseling at a point where they believe their relationships are beyond repair. Communication has broken down, they lack trust, and intimacy no longer exists. Giving yourselves a chance to address this in therapy increases your chance of resolution. The goal of individual therapy to empower you to be your best self and find passion and joy in life. We’ll address everything you’re feeling, explore new options, and together develop a plan to help you reach your dreams and self-potential.
(404) 800-3863 View (404) 800-3863
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 Meredith Simmons, Pre-Licensed Professional in Atlanta, GA
Meredith Simmons
Pre-Licensed Professional, BS
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30324
It would be an honor to work with you! I especially value helping clients increase self-esteem, navigate life transitions, address anxiety and depression, focus on relational repair, and help clients as they transition to parenthood (as well as women struggling in their identity of motherhood). I am also a certified facilitator of Prepare Enrich, a premarital and marriage assessment tool that uses evidenced-based skills and insights to foster healths relationships. It is a privilege to work with premarital couples building a foundation on curiosity, growth, and awareness.
It would be an honor to work with you! I especially value helping clients increase self-esteem, navigate life transitions, address anxiety and depression, focus on relational repair, and help clients as they transition to parenthood (as well as women struggling in their identity of motherhood). I am also a certified facilitator of Prepare Enrich, a premarital and marriage assessment tool that uses evidenced-based skills and insights to foster healths relationships. It is a privilege to work with premarital couples building a foundation on curiosity, growth, and awareness.
(470) 468-5017 View (470) 468-5017
Photo of Alli Nicolais, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Atlanta, GA
Alli Nicolais
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30309  (Online Only)
At The University of Georgia, I studied Clinical Social Work with a special focus in Marriage and Family Therapy.
Does the state of our current culture leave you drained, unfocused, anxious, jealous, depressed as well as leave you overwhelmed by the barrage of news feeds, tweets, blogs, breaking news, texts, and endless e-mails? As a therapist, I enjoy working with those who want to learn to be more intentional with their time, relationships, behaviors, spirituality and/or professional direction. I work with individuals, couples, families and groups.
At The University of Georgia, I studied Clinical Social Work with a special focus in Marriage and Family Therapy.
Does the state of our current culture leave you drained, unfocused, anxious, jealous, depressed as well as leave you overwhelmed by the barrage of news feeds, tweets, blogs, breaking news, texts, and endless e-mails? As a therapist, I enjoy working with those who want to learn to be more intentional with their time, relationships, behaviors, spirituality and/or professional direction. I work with individuals, couples, families and groups.
(404) 990-4888 View (404) 990-4888
Photo of Katherine Morris, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Atlanta, GA
Katherine Morris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30338
Katherine works with children through adults with various diagnosis but not limited to mood disorders, anxiety, addiction, OCD, ODD, ADHD, marital issues, navigating divorce, co parenting and blending of families, grief and loss, Insomnia and executive functioning challenges.
Katherine has been working as a psychotherapist for over 21 years with children, teens and adults. As a therapist she helps her clients to not only heal but to thrive in life. She is compassionate, intelligent, direct and believes one of the greatest gifts she can give someone is the ability to be heard and understood.
Katherine works with children through adults with various diagnosis but not limited to mood disorders, anxiety, addiction, OCD, ODD, ADHD, marital issues, navigating divorce, co parenting and blending of families, grief and loss, Insomnia and executive functioning challenges.
Katherine has been working as a psychotherapist for over 21 years with children, teens and adults. As a therapist she helps her clients to not only heal but to thrive in life. She is compassionate, intelligent, direct and believes one of the greatest gifts she can give someone is the ability to be heard and understood.
(404) 777-4572 View (404) 777-4572
Photo of Laurie Bradley, Marriage & Family Therapist in Atlanta, GA
Laurie Bradley
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30309
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who enjoys working with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families with a range of problems from anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, impulse control, family/sibling relational issues, parent-child relational and attachment issues, co-parenting, grief and loss, adoption issues, ADHD, substance abuse and major life transitions. I believe in taking a non-directive, client-centered approach, and creating a warm and non-judgmental space where I can help my clients to uncover what is keeping them from moving forward so they can lead happier and healthier lives.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who enjoys working with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families with a range of problems from anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, impulse control, family/sibling relational issues, parent-child relational and attachment issues, co-parenting, grief and loss, adoption issues, ADHD, substance abuse and major life transitions. I believe in taking a non-directive, client-centered approach, and creating a warm and non-judgmental space where I can help my clients to uncover what is keeping them from moving forward so they can lead happier and healthier lives.
(770) 766-8151 View (770) 766-8151

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.