Photo of Kathleen Gettelfinger, Marriage & Family Therapist in Chicago, IL
Kathleen Gettelfinger
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I specialize in working with individuals, couples, and families. I know firsthand the power of a safe and secure space that allows for exploration and examination. Seeking help is an act of both courage and vulnerability, and I meet these strengths with compassion, warmth, and understanding. Together, I work with clients to co-create an experience that facilitates honest reflection and a movement toward the change they seek. In addition to talk therapy, I also utilize EMDR therapy. It is my privilege to accompany and support clients on this powerful journey of self-discovery.
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I specialize in working with individuals, couples, and families. I know firsthand the power of a safe and secure space that allows for exploration and examination. Seeking help is an act of both courage and vulnerability, and I meet these strengths with compassion, warmth, and understanding. Together, I work with clients to co-create an experience that facilitates honest reflection and a movement toward the change they seek. In addition to talk therapy, I also utilize EMDR therapy. It is my privilege to accompany and support clients on this powerful journey of self-discovery.
(312) 548-6186 View (312) 548-6186
Photo of Dr. Alan P. Childs and Associates, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Dr. Alan P. Childs and Associates
Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60646
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with over 20 years of experience in assisting children, adults, and families in overcoming personal and environmental challenges. My approach to counseling is interactive and respectful, aimed at helping you discover the best solutions in a safe and trusting environment. With expertise in individual and marital therapy, divorce, and child custody hearings, I frequently serve as an expert witness in divorce proceedings concerning the well-being of the child. Our commitment to providing exceptional, empathetic, and compassionate care is at the core of our practice's success and client well-being.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with over 20 years of experience in assisting children, adults, and families in overcoming personal and environmental challenges. My approach to counseling is interactive and respectful, aimed at helping you discover the best solutions in a safe and trusting environment. With expertise in individual and marital therapy, divorce, and child custody hearings, I frequently serve as an expert witness in divorce proceedings concerning the well-being of the child. Our commitment to providing exceptional, empathetic, and compassionate care is at the core of our practice's success and client well-being.
(708) 501-7075 View (708) 501-7075
Photo of Amanda Atkins, Marriage & Family Therapist in Chicago, IL
Amanda Atkins
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, PMH-C
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60625
I am a member of the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapists, an LMFT (in IL, CO, and FL) and a graduate of the Family Institute at Northwestern.
My specialties are in couple's issues, anxiety, depression, grief and loss (particularly partner, parent, or child loss), chronic or terminal illness, as well as infertility and postpartum mood disorders. I enjoy treating issues related to parenting, including the complex demands placed on parents of disabled children. I’ve partnered with corporations to provide on-site therapy in the midst of workplace crisis and tragedy, as well as presenting on mental health issues in the workplace. My first book is coming out in spring of 2025 with Workman Publishing on the topic of disability parenting.
I am a member of the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapists, an LMFT (in IL, CO, and FL) and a graduate of the Family Institute at Northwestern.
My specialties are in couple's issues, anxiety, depression, grief and loss (particularly partner, parent, or child loss), chronic or terminal illness, as well as infertility and postpartum mood disorders. I enjoy treating issues related to parenting, including the complex demands placed on parents of disabled children. I’ve partnered with corporations to provide on-site therapy in the midst of workplace crisis and tragedy, as well as presenting on mental health issues in the workplace. My first book is coming out in spring of 2025 with Workman Publishing on the topic of disability parenting.
(312) 651-6909 View (312) 651-6909
Photo of Angie Mapura, Marriage & Family Therapist in Chicago, IL
Angie Mapura
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60618
I am a bilingual (English/Spanish) marriage and family therapist who is passionate about empowering couples and individuals to improve their relationships, strengthen their boundaries, embrace vulnerability, and most importantly - address and heal from trauma. I believe in the importance of helping clients identify and understand the root cause of their issues to facilitate long-term healing.
I am a bilingual (English/Spanish) marriage and family therapist who is passionate about empowering couples and individuals to improve their relationships, strengthen their boundaries, embrace vulnerability, and most importantly - address and heal from trauma. I believe in the importance of helping clients identify and understand the root cause of their issues to facilitate long-term healing.
(773) 232-4294 View (773) 232-4294
Photo of Dr. Valentina Marieyah Pacheco-Cornejo, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Dr. Valentina Marieyah Pacheco-Cornejo
Psychologist, PsyD, ABPP, CMHIMP
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60643
Specialties include depression, anxiety, parent-child conflict, marital discord, anger management, civil injustices, the integration of spirituality into care, giftedness and neuropsychological concerns such as ADHD, ASD, ID and LD.
Are you tired of arguing with your spouse? How about concerned about your child? Do you think you have ADHD because of recent concerns with inattention, distractibility, stress or impulsivity? If you are sick and tired of being sick and tired, call/email my staff today. We are known for our ability to truly get to the root of the matter. We know how to get through to people, mostly because we understand where they are coming from, and how to identify and capitalize on their strengths. Clients often report improvement in a few short weeks. With therapy and neuropsych testing available, this is a one-stop shop for many of your needs.
Specialties include depression, anxiety, parent-child conflict, marital discord, anger management, civil injustices, the integration of spirituality into care, giftedness and neuropsychological concerns such as ADHD, ASD, ID and LD.
Are you tired of arguing with your spouse? How about concerned about your child? Do you think you have ADHD because of recent concerns with inattention, distractibility, stress or impulsivity? If you are sick and tired of being sick and tired, call/email my staff today. We are known for our ability to truly get to the root of the matter. We know how to get through to people, mostly because we understand where they are coming from, and how to identify and capitalize on their strengths. Clients often report improvement in a few short weeks. With therapy and neuropsych testing available, this is a one-stop shop for many of your needs.
(708) 564-3597 View (708) 564-3597
Photo of Mimoza Paloj, Marriage & Family Therapist in Chicago, IL
Mimoza Paloj
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60616
I am passionate about helping individuals and their families navigate various life transitions such as marriage, parenthood, and divorce. Through evidence-based therapeutic approaches, empathetic guidance, and collaboration, I empower my clients to navigate life's challenges with resilience and insight. My theoretical orientations are interactive approaches with CBT and DBT, along with family systems and culturally-sensitive components. My goal is to foster self-awareness, nurture healthy relationships, and cultivate emotional balance in every aspect of a clients' lives.I also supervise students and interns in child focused therapy.
I am passionate about helping individuals and their families navigate various life transitions such as marriage, parenthood, and divorce. Through evidence-based therapeutic approaches, empathetic guidance, and collaboration, I empower my clients to navigate life's challenges with resilience and insight. My theoretical orientations are interactive approaches with CBT and DBT, along with family systems and culturally-sensitive components. My goal is to foster self-awareness, nurture healthy relationships, and cultivate emotional balance in every aspect of a clients' lives.I also supervise students and interns in child focused therapy.
(872) 278-3607 View (872) 278-3607
Photo of Dian Medrano, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Dian Medrano
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60661
If you are experiencing hardships in anxiety, depression, trauma, imposter syndrome, work-life balance, marital issues, communication, and emotional regulation, I work to find both practical and insightful tools to handle an array of conflicts. I will help you navigate your patterns, from a holistic lens, utilize your strengths, and find meaning in the desired change you seek. In each session, You will be provided with a comfortable atmosphere where you can freely feel openness, honesty, and the trust to convey what ails you while receiving guidance and tools.
If you are experiencing hardships in anxiety, depression, trauma, imposter syndrome, work-life balance, marital issues, communication, and emotional regulation, I work to find both practical and insightful tools to handle an array of conflicts. I will help you navigate your patterns, from a holistic lens, utilize your strengths, and find meaning in the desired change you seek. In each session, You will be provided with a comfortable atmosphere where you can freely feel openness, honesty, and the trust to convey what ails you while receiving guidance and tools.
(630) 931-8008 View (630) 931-8008
Photo of Nadia Hallak, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Nadia Hallak
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60611  (Online Only)
My Doctoral Dissertation examined the effect of negative emotion amongst couples on marital satisfaction.
With all the stressors in our society today, you may benefit from a caring clinician who can be a main source of support and offer effective therapeutic treatment. I believe the most important element in a therapeutic relationship is empathy and rapport. I try to understand your world and the experiences that you have had, because only then can we process your emotions and perspectives together. I hope to help you reach your goals while offering a supportive and safe environment.
My Doctoral Dissertation examined the effect of negative emotion amongst couples on marital satisfaction.
With all the stressors in our society today, you may benefit from a caring clinician who can be a main source of support and offer effective therapeutic treatment. I believe the most important element in a therapeutic relationship is empathy and rapport. I try to understand your world and the experiences that you have had, because only then can we process your emotions and perspectives together. I hope to help you reach your goals while offering a supportive and safe environment.
(872) 241-2284 View (872) 241-2284
Photo of Oli Soto, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Oli Soto
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601
I have a background in working with family, marriage, couple’s therapy, caregivers, immigrants, gender identity, eating disorders, self-esteem, domestic and sexual abuse, work-related issues, aging, and life transitions.
Hi, my name is Oli Soto, and I am the Clinical Director at Latinx Talk Therapy. I am a licensed clinical social worker with experience working with individuals, adults, children, and groups on issues related to depression, stress, anxiety, trauma, grief, and loss. I believe that psychotherapy is a gift to the self and should be accessible to all. Therapy is also a tool for personal growth, and I will guide you in applying what you learn in our sessions to your everyday life. I am bilingual (English/Spanish) and bicultural.
I have a background in working with family, marriage, couple’s therapy, caregivers, immigrants, gender identity, eating disorders, self-esteem, domestic and sexual abuse, work-related issues, aging, and life transitions.
Hi, my name is Oli Soto, and I am the Clinical Director at Latinx Talk Therapy. I am a licensed clinical social worker with experience working with individuals, adults, children, and groups on issues related to depression, stress, anxiety, trauma, grief, and loss. I believe that psychotherapy is a gift to the self and should be accessible to all. Therapy is also a tool for personal growth, and I will guide you in applying what you learn in our sessions to your everyday life. I am bilingual (English/Spanish) and bicultural.
(312) 554-3466 x1 View (312) 554-3466 x1
Photo of Wendy Malcolm, Marriage & Family Therapist in Chicago, IL
Wendy Malcolm
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60642  (Online Only)
Congratulations. You have taken the first big step for yourself and/or your relationship. The thought of therapy may feel a bit intimidating, but you won't know the difference it could make until you try. As a therapist with a specialization in Marriage and Family Counseling, I also help individuals, that may be struggling with anxiety, depression, infidelity, substance abuse, grief, divorce, and navigating a blended family. Together, we will set goals, acquire tools and develop coping mechanisms that will strengthen relationships, build confidence and uncover the true potential within each individual.
Congratulations. You have taken the first big step for yourself and/or your relationship. The thought of therapy may feel a bit intimidating, but you won't know the difference it could make until you try. As a therapist with a specialization in Marriage and Family Counseling, I also help individuals, that may be struggling with anxiety, depression, infidelity, substance abuse, grief, divorce, and navigating a blended family. Together, we will set goals, acquire tools and develop coping mechanisms that will strengthen relationships, build confidence and uncover the true potential within each individual.
(630) 454-9472 View (630) 454-9472
Photo of Rossana Sierra-Swiech, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Rossana Sierra-Swiech
Counselor, PhD, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60622  (Online Only)
Treating Anxiety and Phobia, Child & Adolescent Trauma, Treating Sexual Trauma, and Marriage and Couple's therapy.
Trauma is an adverse emotional, mental, and physical reaction that individuals encounter when confronted with negative experiences such as abuse, sexual assault, interpersonal violence, emotional/psychological harm, neglect, disaster, terrorism, and war. In some cases, when trauma has occurred during early developmental stages, a person can experience complex trauma, which can result in severe posttraumatic stress disorder (e.g., intrusive memories, images, thoughts, dreams), including emotional dysregulation, acute depression, anxiety, dissociation/numbness, relational problems, and suicidal ideation.
Treating Anxiety and Phobia, Child & Adolescent Trauma, Treating Sexual Trauma, and Marriage and Couple's therapy.
Trauma is an adverse emotional, mental, and physical reaction that individuals encounter when confronted with negative experiences such as abuse, sexual assault, interpersonal violence, emotional/psychological harm, neglect, disaster, terrorism, and war. In some cases, when trauma has occurred during early developmental stages, a person can experience complex trauma, which can result in severe posttraumatic stress disorder (e.g., intrusive memories, images, thoughts, dreams), including emotional dysregulation, acute depression, anxiety, dissociation/numbness, relational problems, and suicidal ideation.
(872) 241-1008 View (872) 241-1008
Photo of Katie Lavery, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Katie Lavery
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60612
The individuals who come to me for support are those struggling with eating disorders. We work together to identify goals that are important to you, and address some underlying self esteem concerns and lack of power within your life. Together, we take your power back, eliminating the compulsive need to control food. The second population I serve are those with marital and relationship issues. I have completed Level 1 training of the Gottman method and utilize the strategies to help couples identify the ways in which they sabotage their relationship and restore the friendship that originally brought you together as a couple.
The individuals who come to me for support are those struggling with eating disorders. We work together to identify goals that are important to you, and address some underlying self esteem concerns and lack of power within your life. Together, we take your power back, eliminating the compulsive need to control food. The second population I serve are those with marital and relationship issues. I have completed Level 1 training of the Gottman method and utilize the strategies to help couples identify the ways in which they sabotage their relationship and restore the friendship that originally brought you together as a couple.
(630) 728-1744 View (630) 728-1744
Photo of Cardenas Institute, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Cardenas Institute
Counselor, LCPC, MA, EMDR, CADC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60612
We are also experienced in the areas of marital and family therapy.
We love our work and we are very committed to be a part of the global community that strives to bring an effective blend of experience, expertise, and action to the counseling process in order to provide genuine healing and wholeness to children, young adults, adults, marriages, and families. Over the last eighteen years or so we have learned wonderful therapy approaches such as EMDR, somatic work, CBT, Sandtray, Theraplay, ACT, and others. We understand that each person needs to receive an individualized approach and this involves going beyond Western approaches... Our family legacies, our ancestors, our history matter....
We are also experienced in the areas of marital and family therapy.
We love our work and we are very committed to be a part of the global community that strives to bring an effective blend of experience, expertise, and action to the counseling process in order to provide genuine healing and wholeness to children, young adults, adults, marriages, and families. Over the last eighteen years or so we have learned wonderful therapy approaches such as EMDR, somatic work, CBT, Sandtray, Theraplay, ACT, and others. We understand that each person needs to receive an individualized approach and this involves going beyond Western approaches... Our family legacies, our ancestors, our history matter....
(312) 997-5265 View (312) 997-5265
Photo of O2 Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist in Chicago, IL
O2 Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60625
O2 Counseling is group of therapists specializing in relationship therapy for individuals, couples and adult families. All of our therapists are whole-heartedly dedicated to your progress and invested in your well-being. Our Marriage and Family Therapists help couples understand triggers, communicate more effectively and change unhealthy patterns. All therapists also work with individuals who are struggling with anxiety, stress, depression, low self-worth and life transitions such as divorce, job loss or parenthood.
O2 Counseling is group of therapists specializing in relationship therapy for individuals, couples and adult families. All of our therapists are whole-heartedly dedicated to your progress and invested in your well-being. Our Marriage and Family Therapists help couples understand triggers, communicate more effectively and change unhealthy patterns. All therapists also work with individuals who are struggling with anxiety, stress, depression, low self-worth and life transitions such as divorce, job loss or parenthood.
(773) 786-9958 View (773) 786-9958
Photo of Maggie Bishay, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Maggie Bishay
Counselor, PsyD, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601
I am trained and certified in the SYMBIS (Save Your Marriage Before it Starts) and Prepare/Enrich assessments.
I specialize in working with couples, families and individuals. My experience has covered the full gamut of socioeconomic statuses and diagnoses. I hold a PsyD. from the Illinois School of Professional Psychology. I also have a Masters from the Chicago school of Professional Psychology. I work with clients by meeting them at the stage in their life and walking with them in their journey towards a better self."
I am trained and certified in the SYMBIS (Save Your Marriage Before it Starts) and Prepare/Enrich assessments.
I specialize in working with couples, families and individuals. My experience has covered the full gamut of socioeconomic statuses and diagnoses. I hold a PsyD. from the Illinois School of Professional Psychology. I also have a Masters from the Chicago school of Professional Psychology. I work with clients by meeting them at the stage in their life and walking with them in their journey towards a better self."
(773) 839-0230 View (773) 839-0230
Photo of Flourish Counseling & Wellness, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Flourish Counseling & Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60614
Flourish Counseling & Wellness is a group practice providing counseling, advocacy and resources focused on women's and perinatal mental health - from fertility to pregnancy, through postpartum and parenthood. We envision a world where families have the information and support they need to heal, connect and flourish. To support that vision, we have assembled an experienced group of clinicians to serve clients in Chicago, Oak Park, and throughout Illinois. Our team consists of clinical social workers, psychologists, PhDs, marriage/family therapists, certified perinatal mental health clinicians, and a psychiatric nurse practitioner.
Flourish Counseling & Wellness is a group practice providing counseling, advocacy and resources focused on women's and perinatal mental health - from fertility to pregnancy, through postpartum and parenthood. We envision a world where families have the information and support they need to heal, connect and flourish. To support that vision, we have assembled an experienced group of clinicians to serve clients in Chicago, Oak Park, and throughout Illinois. Our team consists of clinical social workers, psychologists, PhDs, marriage/family therapists, certified perinatal mental health clinicians, and a psychiatric nurse practitioner.
(630) 394-8367 x1 View (630) 394-8367 x1
Photo of Angelika Danek, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Angelika Danek
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CRADC, SAP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60631
I am a psychotherapist with extensive experience offering in-person and online counseling. My great passion is helping people to regain their emotional wellbeing and strengthen their relationships so they can feel peaceful, complete, whole and safe. I work with individuals, couples and families and specialize in treating depression, anxiety, substance abuse, trauma and marital problems. Being a certified Metabolic Balance coach, I offer a holistic weight management program. Also, I provide psychological immigration evaluations: Hardship; VAWA, U Visa; T Visa; Asylum; Cancelation of Removal etc.
I am a psychotherapist with extensive experience offering in-person and online counseling. My great passion is helping people to regain their emotional wellbeing and strengthen their relationships so they can feel peaceful, complete, whole and safe. I work with individuals, couples and families and specialize in treating depression, anxiety, substance abuse, trauma and marital problems. Being a certified Metabolic Balance coach, I offer a holistic weight management program. Also, I provide psychological immigration evaluations: Hardship; VAWA, U Visa; T Visa; Asylum; Cancelation of Removal etc.
(773) 830-3743 View (773) 830-3743
Photo of Melinda Lupfer Yachnin, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Melinda Lupfer Yachnin
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60611
I work with couples on a variety of issues: dealing with conflicts, working through marital crises, improving communication, and preparing for marriage.
I see therapy as a way for you to get free of the habits and perspectives that bind you, so that you can create the life you really want. So much of what makes us suffer is the chasm between how we think things ought to be and how they actually are. Therapy is an ideal way to reconcile these differences, to identify tools that will help you cope with challenges and make the most of your strengths. I use existential and cognitive-behavioral psychotherapy to work with clients on issues including life transitions, anxiety, depression, stress and career concerns.
I work with couples on a variety of issues: dealing with conflicts, working through marital crises, improving communication, and preparing for marriage.
I see therapy as a way for you to get free of the habits and perspectives that bind you, so that you can create the life you really want. So much of what makes us suffer is the chasm between how we think things ought to be and how they actually are. Therapy is an ideal way to reconcile these differences, to identify tools that will help you cope with challenges and make the most of your strengths. I use existential and cognitive-behavioral psychotherapy to work with clients on issues including life transitions, anxiety, depression, stress and career concerns.
(312) 789-5410 View (312) 789-5410
Photo of Lindsay Keisman, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Lindsay Keisman
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60614
I have advanced training in The Gottman Method and am a trained facilitator of The 7 Principles for Making Marriage Work workshops.
All people have THAT moment. The big one, where we question if we are with the right person. We find ourselves loving someone, but falling into a pattern that we can't find our way out of. Communication, betrayals, falling out of sync, the fights that lead nowhere, someone shutting down, lack of emotional or physical intimacy, or not seeing eye to eye on important issues are all reasons people can benefit from an intensive look into their relationship. You want your person to be "your" person again. To love openly with affection, but also with the ability to resolve conflicts is what I wish for each couple I work with.
I have advanced training in The Gottman Method and am a trained facilitator of The 7 Principles for Making Marriage Work workshops.
All people have THAT moment. The big one, where we question if we are with the right person. We find ourselves loving someone, but falling into a pattern that we can't find our way out of. Communication, betrayals, falling out of sync, the fights that lead nowhere, someone shutting down, lack of emotional or physical intimacy, or not seeing eye to eye on important issues are all reasons people can benefit from an intensive look into their relationship. You want your person to be "your" person again. To love openly with affection, but also with the ability to resolve conflicts is what I wish for each couple I work with.
(815) 664-3005 View (815) 664-3005
Photo of Comprehensive Services of Illinois, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Comprehensive Services of Illinois
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SAP, CADC, CPLC, CWLC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60612
We specialize in Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR), Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), Solution Foscused Brief Therapy (SFBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Family Systems Therapy and Family Marital Therapy.
Welcome to Comprehensive Services of Illinois! CSI staff members are looking forward to servicing you. They are phenomenal, providing comprehensive, high quality, accessible, affordable and effective services to children, adolescent and adults. Professional services are tailored to individual, couple and family need. Their goals are to assist, empower, and respond to your needs. While demonstrating the Comprehensive Services of Illinois philosophy: commitment, compassion, confidentiality, dignity, empathy, empowerment, excellence, genuineness, purpose, respect, support and understanding. Call today to schedule an appointment.
We specialize in Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR), Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), Solution Foscused Brief Therapy (SFBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Family Systems Therapy and Family Marital Therapy.
Welcome to Comprehensive Services of Illinois! CSI staff members are looking forward to servicing you. They are phenomenal, providing comprehensive, high quality, accessible, affordable and effective services to children, adolescent and adults. Professional services are tailored to individual, couple and family need. Their goals are to assist, empower, and respond to your needs. While demonstrating the Comprehensive Services of Illinois philosophy: commitment, compassion, confidentiality, dignity, empathy, empowerment, excellence, genuineness, purpose, respect, support and understanding. Call today to schedule an appointment.
(708) 318-1401 View (708) 318-1401
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.