Photo of Debbie Turner, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cumming, GA
Debbie Turner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Cumming, GA 30040
Feeling stuck? Wanting personal or relational healing? I am a marriage and family therapist and enjoy helping individuals, couples, or families discover new pathways of change that they were not aware of and walking that journey with them. Understanding how we may have learned to attach to others makes change more transformational than behavioral. I also seek to walk along side women struggling emotionally with the changes that occur in pregnancy and after. I am a licensed therapist and can provide in person therapy in Cumming or remotely to anyone in the state of GA
Feeling stuck? Wanting personal or relational healing? I am a marriage and family therapist and enjoy helping individuals, couples, or families discover new pathways of change that they were not aware of and walking that journey with them. Understanding how we may have learned to attach to others makes change more transformational than behavioral. I also seek to walk along side women struggling emotionally with the changes that occur in pregnancy and after. I am a licensed therapist and can provide in person therapy in Cumming or remotely to anyone in the state of GA
(470) 239-6444 View (470) 239-6444
Photo of AnchoredHeart Counseling LLC, Christian Counselor in Cumming, GA
AnchoredHeart Counseling LLC
Christian Counselor, MS, BCCT, CCATP
Verified Verified
Cumming, GA 30040
If anyone knew the thoughts that run through my mind, they would think I'm crazy or I feel absolutely overwhelmed & lost. I'm not ready to give up on marriage. I long for change. I hear you. Ready to grow, gain insights, have tools to overcome anxiety, depression, OCD, marital struggles, & traumas? Therapy is a gift & an investment. For over 25 years, I've been facilitating a restorative safe-place for you to come & find healing. My current focus: anxiety, depression, OCD, marriage, conflicts, & communication. At Anchoredheart, you will be heard, equipped, challenged, gain tools & understanding, for a more peaceful productive life.
If anyone knew the thoughts that run through my mind, they would think I'm crazy or I feel absolutely overwhelmed & lost. I'm not ready to give up on marriage. I long for change. I hear you. Ready to grow, gain insights, have tools to overcome anxiety, depression, OCD, marital struggles, & traumas? Therapy is a gift & an investment. For over 25 years, I've been facilitating a restorative safe-place for you to come & find healing. My current focus: anxiety, depression, OCD, marriage, conflicts, & communication. At Anchoredheart, you will be heard, equipped, challenged, gain tools & understanding, for a more peaceful productive life.
(833) 204-2971 View (833) 204-2971
Photo of Kimberly Mulkey, Marriage & Family Therapist in Cumming, GA
Kimberly Mulkey
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Cumming, GA 30040
Do you find yourself struggling to engage in meaningful relationships? Are you unhappy with the current path you are on? Whatever your struggles are, you are not alone! Therapy can be an excellent place for you to work on the things keeping you from feeling fulfilled. I am a licensed marriage and family therapist who provides therapy services for diagnoses including, but not limited to mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and trauma disorders. I enjoy working with teens, adults, and couples and my specialties include anxiety, depression, grief, and relationship issues.
Do you find yourself struggling to engage in meaningful relationships? Are you unhappy with the current path you are on? Whatever your struggles are, you are not alone! Therapy can be an excellent place for you to work on the things keeping you from feeling fulfilled. I am a licensed marriage and family therapist who provides therapy services for diagnoses including, but not limited to mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and trauma disorders. I enjoy working with teens, adults, and couples and my specialties include anxiety, depression, grief, and relationship issues.
(470) 616-9237 View (470) 616-9237
Photo of Max Merritt, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cumming, GA
Max Merritt
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Cumming, GA 30040
Feeling like life has gotten beyond your abilities to handle? Perhaps you're stressed out from work, or the loss of a loved one. Perhaps there are struggles in your marriage, or you're wondering what's going on with your kids. Perhaps you are engaged and simply wanting to set yourself and your partner up for a successful marriage. Maybe your child has been diagnosed with a mental health concern and now you are concerned with how to help them. Or perhaps you or a loved one is struggling with self-harm or thoughts of suicide. Life may be difficult, but it can still be one worth living.
Feeling like life has gotten beyond your abilities to handle? Perhaps you're stressed out from work, or the loss of a loved one. Perhaps there are struggles in your marriage, or you're wondering what's going on with your kids. Perhaps you are engaged and simply wanting to set yourself and your partner up for a successful marriage. Maybe your child has been diagnosed with a mental health concern and now you are concerned with how to help them. Or perhaps you or a loved one is struggling with self-harm or thoughts of suicide. Life may be difficult, but it can still be one worth living.
(678) 403-6845 View (678) 403-6845
Photo of Rachel Menzoian, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cumming, GA
Rachel Menzoian
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Cumming, GA 30040
I work with adults navigating a difficult season in life including; boundary issues, divorce/separation, marriage, anxiety, self-worth, co-dependency, life transitions, co-parenting, blended families and grief.
I have been a Licensed Professional Counselor since 2008. I graduated from Georgia State in 2005 with a Masters in Professional Counseling. For the last 21 years I worked with North Point Ministries as a Director in the Care Network. I started my private practice in 2017 and left my full time job in ministry to focus solely on counseling in 2021.
I work with adults navigating a difficult season in life including; boundary issues, divorce/separation, marriage, anxiety, self-worth, co-dependency, life transitions, co-parenting, blended families and grief.
I have been a Licensed Professional Counselor since 2008. I graduated from Georgia State in 2005 with a Masters in Professional Counseling. For the last 21 years I worked with North Point Ministries as a Director in the Care Network. I started my private practice in 2017 and left my full time job in ministry to focus solely on counseling in 2021.
(678) 726-1376 View (678) 726-1376
Photo of Dr. Michele Harding, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cumming, GA
Dr. Michele Harding
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Cumming, GA 30040
I will meet you where you are at, and assist you with various issues as anxiety, relationship issues, postpartum depression, self-esteem, life transitions, suicidal ideation, marital issues, and school issues to name a few.
In-person or virtual openings: Tues, Wed, & Thurs 8am-2pm. Are you easily angered, can't quit crying, or anxious? Are you frequently irritable, which impacts your relationships? Are your emotions difficult to manage? Are you uncertain as to why you even feel the way you do? I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who is here to walk through this with you. My 18 years experience and a PhD in Counseling allows me to combine an understanding of real-world practicality with a depth of knowledge. I am a mom of two juggling life right along with you (... and even winging motherhood with you too)!
I will meet you where you are at, and assist you with various issues as anxiety, relationship issues, postpartum depression, self-esteem, life transitions, suicidal ideation, marital issues, and school issues to name a few.
In-person or virtual openings: Tues, Wed, & Thurs 8am-2pm. Are you easily angered, can't quit crying, or anxious? Are you frequently irritable, which impacts your relationships? Are your emotions difficult to manage? Are you uncertain as to why you even feel the way you do? I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who is here to walk through this with you. My 18 years experience and a PhD in Counseling allows me to combine an understanding of real-world practicality with a depth of knowledge. I am a mom of two juggling life right along with you (... and even winging motherhood with you too)!
(678) 647-6634 View (678) 647-6634
Photo of Kate Kim, Counselor in Cumming, GA
Kate Kim
Counselor, LAPC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cumming, GA 30040
She received her MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a Certificate in Marriage and Family Therapy.
Kate desires to establish an environment where clients feel safe to be vulnerable in order that they will feel seen, heard, and known. She enjoys working with adults, adolescents, couples and families who are longing for healthier relationships with themselves and others. Kate has experience working with anxiety, depression, OCD, anger management, conflict resolution, substance use issues, blended families and spiritual issues.
She received her MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a Certificate in Marriage and Family Therapy.
Kate desires to establish an environment where clients feel safe to be vulnerable in order that they will feel seen, heard, and known. She enjoys working with adults, adolescents, couples and families who are longing for healthier relationships with themselves and others. Kate has experience working with anxiety, depression, OCD, anger management, conflict resolution, substance use issues, blended families and spiritual issues.
(470) 594-2462 View (470) 594-2462
Photo of Cheryl A. O'Connell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cumming, GA
Cheryl A. O'Connell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CPCS, BC-TMH, TPMC996
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cumming, GA 30028  (Online Only)
Relationships, Marriage, Stress, Anxiety, Depression, Family Conflict, Teenager, Grief (family, friends or pets). With over 20yrs of therapeutic experience my overall passion is helping Individuals, Teens, Couples & Families discover the truth in their current circumstances & together developing a peaceful, livable solution. ALL appointments are Virtual Telemental Health. I look forward to meeting and working with you.
Relationships, Marriage, Stress, Anxiety, Depression, Family Conflict, Teenager, Grief (family, friends or pets). With over 20yrs of therapeutic experience my overall passion is helping Individuals, Teens, Couples & Families discover the truth in their current circumstances & together developing a peaceful, livable solution. ALL appointments are Virtual Telemental Health. I look forward to meeting and working with you.
(404) 919-7334 View (404) 919-7334
Photo of Jaclyn Barnum, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cumming, GA
Jaclyn Barnum
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CMFT, HS-BCP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Cumming, GA 30041
Jaclyn is associated with Hope & Growth Counseling Services, LLC. Jaclyn Barnum is a fully licensed clinical social worker, marriage and family therapy certificate and a Human Services Board Certified practitioner. Jaclyn's biggest focus is listening to her clients, helping them with where they are at, and helping them move forward in the direction they want to go. Jaclyn is kind and feels that listening to her clients is the best way to help. Jaclyn provides several focuses in the areas of DBT and CBT. Jaclyn can also complete several different types of assessments. Currently accepting new clients and looks forward to helping you
Jaclyn is associated with Hope & Growth Counseling Services, LLC. Jaclyn Barnum is a fully licensed clinical social worker, marriage and family therapy certificate and a Human Services Board Certified practitioner. Jaclyn's biggest focus is listening to her clients, helping them with where they are at, and helping them move forward in the direction they want to go. Jaclyn is kind and feels that listening to her clients is the best way to help. Jaclyn provides several focuses in the areas of DBT and CBT. Jaclyn can also complete several different types of assessments. Currently accepting new clients and looks forward to helping you
(770) 501-4673 View (770) 501-4673
Photo of Anna Moriarty, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cumming, GA
Anna Moriarty
Licensed Professional Counselor, MPS, LPC, LMHC, CPCS, ACS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cumming, GA 30040
I specialize in intensive work for pre-marital counseling, couples and families.
I have had over 25 years experience assisting individuals and families with finding successful outcomes. I developed, trademarked and copyrighted Core Belief Therapy. This therapy helps you grow in your awareness of core beliefs and how they affect your thoughts, emotions and behaviors so that you can find healing from painful experiences and ultimately live with lasting happiness and peace.
I specialize in intensive work for pre-marital counseling, couples and families.
I have had over 25 years experience assisting individuals and families with finding successful outcomes. I developed, trademarked and copyrighted Core Belief Therapy. This therapy helps you grow in your awareness of core beliefs and how they affect your thoughts, emotions and behaviors so that you can find healing from painful experiences and ultimately live with lasting happiness and peace.
(678) 835-7830 View (678) 835-7830
Photo of Amorette Jones, Marriage & Family Therapist in Cumming, GA
Amorette Jones
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LAPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cumming, GA 30041
I have a MA degree in sports psychology and a MS degree in Marriage, Couples & Individual Therapy.
I am a passionate wellbeing leader who understands the importance of self-care in order to get the most out life. My unique background has allowed me to work with disabled patients in rehab programs, serve as a coordinator of wrap-around services for children with special needs, and gain experience in corporate positions that require attention to detail and demand work-life balance. This journey has taught me to be empathetic to my client's circumstances. I have a client-centered approach that considers every aspect of their lives, and meet each person where they are in their mental wellness journey.
I have a MA degree in sports psychology and a MS degree in Marriage, Couples & Individual Therapy.
I am a passionate wellbeing leader who understands the importance of self-care in order to get the most out life. My unique background has allowed me to work with disabled patients in rehab programs, serve as a coordinator of wrap-around services for children with special needs, and gain experience in corporate positions that require attention to detail and demand work-life balance. This journey has taught me to be empathetic to my client's circumstances. I have a client-centered approach that considers every aspect of their lives, and meet each person where they are in their mental wellness journey.
(470) 243-8905 View (470) 243-8905
Photo of Michael Sessions, Psychologist in Cumming, GA
Michael Sessions
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Cumming, GA 30040
My practice is fairly evenly divided across individuals, couples and corporations. I address issues ranging from anxiety, depression, marital/relationship, parenting/family concerns to life transitions and executive/organizational development. I received my doctorate in 1986 and went on to serve as president of the Georgia Psychological Association from 1999-2000. I rely on a blend of cognitive behavioral and family systems therapy to help clients develop a practical, common sense path to change. The central premise is that in order to change your life, you must first understand how it used to work and why it doesn't anymore.
My practice is fairly evenly divided across individuals, couples and corporations. I address issues ranging from anxiety, depression, marital/relationship, parenting/family concerns to life transitions and executive/organizational development. I received my doctorate in 1986 and went on to serve as president of the Georgia Psychological Association from 1999-2000. I rely on a blend of cognitive behavioral and family systems therapy to help clients develop a practical, common sense path to change. The central premise is that in order to change your life, you must first understand how it used to work and why it doesn't anymore.
(770) 450-5528 View (770) 450-5528
Photo of Shontel Cargill, Marriage & Family Therapist in Cumming, GA
Shontel Cargill
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Cumming, GA 30040
Shontel Cargill is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) who has been facilitating change for those who are greatly impacted by mental health issues, addictive diseases, and developmental disabilities for 6 years. Shontel has experience working with diverse populations in private practice, community health care, outpatient, and hospital settings. She specializes in marriage and family therapy, couples therapy, and maternal mental health. Shontel also enjoys working with individuals on achieving their personal and professional goals in therapy.
Shontel Cargill is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) who has been facilitating change for those who are greatly impacted by mental health issues, addictive diseases, and developmental disabilities for 6 years. Shontel has experience working with diverse populations in private practice, community health care, outpatient, and hospital settings. She specializes in marriage and family therapy, couples therapy, and maternal mental health. Shontel also enjoys working with individuals on achieving their personal and professional goals in therapy.
(678) 916-9772 View (678) 916-9772
Photo of Focus Forward Counseling and Consulting, Inc., Psychologist in Cumming, GA
Focus Forward Counseling and Consulting, Inc.
Psychologist, PhD, LCSW, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Cumming, GA 30040
We offer day, evening and weekend appointments to help you get "unstuck." We provide pragmatic, down to earth, help for individuals, couples, and families. Our expert psychology and counseling staff offers child and adolescent counseling, adult therapy, individual therapy, couples counseling, marriage and family services, and psychological testing. We treat anxiety and depressive disorders, bipolar disorder, substance abuse, trauma, career concerns, relationship troubles, academic issues, and ADHD.
We offer day, evening and weekend appointments to help you get "unstuck." We provide pragmatic, down to earth, help for individuals, couples, and families. Our expert psychology and counseling staff offers child and adolescent counseling, adult therapy, individual therapy, couples counseling, marriage and family services, and psychological testing. We treat anxiety and depressive disorders, bipolar disorder, substance abuse, trauma, career concerns, relationship troubles, academic issues, and ADHD.
(404) 948-5710 View (404) 948-5710
Photo of Silke at The Counseling Group LLC , Pre-Licensed Professional in Cumming, GA
Silke at The Counseling Group LLC
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cumming, GA 30041
Working with adults and adolescents who suffer from depression, anxiety, Borderline Personality Disorder, marriage issues, and individuals who experience domestic violence are so of my specialties.
Therapy should be a safe place to unload, change behavior, and heal. I am here to support you on this journey. I meet my clients where they are versus telling them how and where to be. I have several years of international working experience in the mental health field to offer and I received education and training in this field oversea.
Working with adults and adolescents who suffer from depression, anxiety, Borderline Personality Disorder, marriage issues, and individuals who experience domestic violence are so of my specialties.
Therapy should be a safe place to unload, change behavior, and heal. I am here to support you on this journey. I meet my clients where they are versus telling them how and where to be. I have several years of international working experience in the mental health field to offer and I received education and training in this field oversea.
(770) 651-0330 View (770) 651-0330
Photo of Carl Dickerson, EdD, LPC Counseling & Consulting, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cumming, GA
Carl Dickerson, EdD, LPC Counseling & Consulting
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Cumming, GA 30041  (Online Only)
Almost everyone needs a counselor at sometime during their life. Some are overwhelmed and facing a crisis. Some need information to better understand and work through a problem. Others need help to change behaviors, work on relationships or simply cope with stress. I would love to help. Anxiety, stress, depression, PTSD, obsessions, grief, anger, relationships, marriage, parenting, adjusting to life situations and dealing with events from the past are some areas where I have extensive training and experience. For marriage and marriage preparation, I often help with communication, personality differences and conflict resolution.
Almost everyone needs a counselor at sometime during their life. Some are overwhelmed and facing a crisis. Some need information to better understand and work through a problem. Others need help to change behaviors, work on relationships or simply cope with stress. I would love to help. Anxiety, stress, depression, PTSD, obsessions, grief, anger, relationships, marriage, parenting, adjusting to life situations and dealing with events from the past are some areas where I have extensive training and experience. For marriage and marriage preparation, I often help with communication, personality differences and conflict resolution.
(404) 724-8596 View (404) 724-8596
Photo of Gerry Ken Crete, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cumming, GA
Gerry Ken Crete
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Cumming, GA 30040
Waitlist for new clients
I help couples work through marital conflicts and help them achieve a relationship based on trust, security, mutual empathy and deeper levels of connection. I also work with individuals struggling with histories of trauma such as sexual, physical or emotional abuse. In addition, I help men who struggle with compulsive sexual behaviors, anxieties, depression, and/or obsessive thoughts. I encourage clients to explore their past in order to identify patterns that are affecting their current relationships and personal goals. I provide a safe place to share personal struggles and work toward change. Upon request, I provide a Christian approach.
I help couples work through marital conflicts and help them achieve a relationship based on trust, security, mutual empathy and deeper levels of connection. I also work with individuals struggling with histories of trauma such as sexual, physical or emotional abuse. In addition, I help men who struggle with compulsive sexual behaviors, anxieties, depression, and/or obsessive thoughts. I encourage clients to explore their past in order to identify patterns that are affecting their current relationships and personal goals. I provide a safe place to share personal struggles and work toward change. Upon request, I provide a Christian approach.
(678) 871-8099 View (678) 871-8099
Photo of New Sun Mental Health Center - Ximena Helm, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cumming, GA
New Sun Mental Health Center - Ximena Helm
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MAC, CAMS-II
Verified Verified
Cumming, GA 30040
I founded New Sun Mental Health Center, Inc., in 2008. I am bilingual, English-Spanish. I am a registered Clinical Evaluator and Treatment Provider by the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities (DBHDD). I hold a Master of Arts in Community Counseling with a concentration in Marriage and Family Therapy program from Argosy University in Atlanta. I received a B.A. in Psychology from Pontificia Bolivariana University in Colombia. I am a National Certified Counselor (NCC) and a License Professional Counselor (LPC) in the State of Georgia. I also have a Master Certified Addiction Counselor (MAC) and a Certified Anger Management Specialist (CAMS-II).
I founded New Sun Mental Health Center, Inc., in 2008. I am bilingual, English-Spanish. I am a registered Clinical Evaluator and Treatment Provider by the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities (DBHDD). I hold a Master of Arts in Community Counseling with a concentration in Marriage and Family Therapy program from Argosy University in Atlanta. I received a B.A. in Psychology from Pontificia Bolivariana University in Colombia. I am a National Certified Counselor (NCC) and a License Professional Counselor (LPC) in the State of Georgia. I also have a Master Certified Addiction Counselor (MAC) and a Certified Anger Management Specialist (CAMS-II).
(404) 382-8338 View (404) 382-8338
Photo of Edward Clark, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cumming, GA
Edward Clark
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCADC
Verified Verified
Cumming, GA 30041
I am passionate about working with adolescents to adults who struggle with the following problems: Depression, hopelessness, relationship problems, low self-worth, substance abuse, post traumatic stress disorder, debilitating traumatic experience, marriage issues, anxiety/fear, sexual brokenness, sexual addiction, pornography addiction and self mutilation.
There are so many times in life that circumstances become overwhelming. It is my desire to connect with you and assist you in determining your current area of distress. My goal is that we can talk, process and work towards healing. I approach counseling from a distinctly Christian perspective, working with both Christian and non-Christian clients. My goal is to work at your pace and not rush you through a therapeutic process. Together, we can discuss your situation and determine a plan that will ultimately provide you with resolution.
I am passionate about working with adolescents to adults who struggle with the following problems: Depression, hopelessness, relationship problems, low self-worth, substance abuse, post traumatic stress disorder, debilitating traumatic experience, marriage issues, anxiety/fear, sexual brokenness, sexual addiction, pornography addiction and self mutilation.
There are so many times in life that circumstances become overwhelming. It is my desire to connect with you and assist you in determining your current area of distress. My goal is that we can talk, process and work towards healing. I approach counseling from a distinctly Christian perspective, working with both Christian and non-Christian clients. My goal is to work at your pace and not rush you through a therapeutic process. Together, we can discuss your situation and determine a plan that will ultimately provide you with resolution.
(678) 729-7945 View (678) 729-7945
Photo of Dr. William L. Buchanan, Psychologist in Cumming, GA
Dr. William L. Buchanan
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Cumming, GA 30040
I am also a Clinical Fellow and Approved Supervisor of the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT).
I specialize in providing comprehensive psychological, psychoeducational and neuropsychological evaluations. I conduct state-of-the-art assessments for ADHD, Learning Disabilities (e.g., Dyslexia), depression, anxiety, TBI, PTSD, OCD, ODD, autism, neurodevelopmental and neurocognitive disorders, personality disorders, etc. Two of the objective assessment tools I use for assessing attention and concentration are the TOVA and the Qb Test. I can assess the effects of medication to treat ADHD, assessing attention off medication vs. assessing attention on medication. I can work with your physician to tritrate the dose.
I am also a Clinical Fellow and Approved Supervisor of the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT).
I specialize in providing comprehensive psychological, psychoeducational and neuropsychological evaluations. I conduct state-of-the-art assessments for ADHD, Learning Disabilities (e.g., Dyslexia), depression, anxiety, TBI, PTSD, OCD, ODD, autism, neurodevelopmental and neurocognitive disorders, personality disorders, etc. Two of the objective assessment tools I use for assessing attention and concentration are the TOVA and the Qb Test. I can assess the effects of medication to treat ADHD, assessing attention off medication vs. assessing attention on medication. I can work with your physician to tritrate the dose.
(678) 929-1306 View (678) 929-1306
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.