Marriage Counseling Therapists in Chicago, IL

Photo of Aysha Ali Hagene, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Aysha Ali Hagene
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60625  (Online Only)
I have additional training in art therapy and marriage counseling.
Are you feeling depressed, anxious or having family issues? You are not alone. Let me help you get back to being you again. I am a Northwestern University trained clinician with over 22 years of experience using proven methodologies to help people begin to live healthier, more satisfying lives. I am the lead counselor and supervisor of my group practice, Simply Counseling, LLC. I also help couples communicate more effectively. Please reach out with any questions and I’m happy to help.
I have additional training in art therapy and marriage counseling.
Are you feeling depressed, anxious or having family issues? You are not alone. Let me help you get back to being you again. I am a Northwestern University trained clinician with over 22 years of experience using proven methodologies to help people begin to live healthier, more satisfying lives. I am the lead counselor and supervisor of my group practice, Simply Counseling, LLC. I also help couples communicate more effectively. Please reach out with any questions and I’m happy to help.
(773) 692-4118 View (773) 692-4118
Thomas J Wilda
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60613
I have been trained in marital and familly therapy, psychodynamic individual therapy, and group therapy.
I have a wide range of expereince dealing with emotional difficulties and relationship difficulties. I want my clients to experience their "self" as good and true. I want them to learn to trust themselves, and to experience a sense of vitality and accomplishment in living.
I have been trained in marital and familly therapy, psychodynamic individual therapy, and group therapy.
I have a wide range of expereince dealing with emotional difficulties and relationship difficulties. I want my clients to experience their "self" as good and true. I want them to learn to trust themselves, and to experience a sense of vitality and accomplishment in living.
(773) 683-3199 View (773) 683-3199
Photo of Joel T. Meyer, MA, LCPC, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Joel T. Meyer, MA, LCPC
Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60610
Everyone experiences challenges in life. However, we may not always know how to handle the challenges that occur. We believe in a person's innate ability to overcome and change using her or his strengths. The experienced clinicians at The Meyer Group don't have an ideal client. We have a reputation for providing effective treatment to people who have difficult problems. We specialize in multiple and complicated problems and issues, ranging from mood disorders and anxiety disorders to marital and family problems.
Everyone experiences challenges in life. However, we may not always know how to handle the challenges that occur. We believe in a person's innate ability to overcome and change using her or his strengths. The experienced clinicians at The Meyer Group don't have an ideal client. We have a reputation for providing effective treatment to people who have difficult problems. We specialize in multiple and complicated problems and issues, ranging from mood disorders and anxiety disorders to marital and family problems.
(312) 262-3762 View (312) 262-3762
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 Profound Peace Psychotherapy Collective, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Profound Peace Psychotherapy Collective
Counselor
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60637
How are you feeling these days? If stress, anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, relationships, marriage, parenting challenges, career or job stress, the weight of the pandemic (just to name a few) has affected you, we want to help. Our clients are people like you who are problem aware. You know when something is wrong, it's time for a change or even that something is just "off". Simply put - you know what you want and how you want to feel but you need some support or guidance on how to get there.
How are you feeling these days? If stress, anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, relationships, marriage, parenting challenges, career or job stress, the weight of the pandemic (just to name a few) has affected you, we want to help. Our clients are people like you who are problem aware. You know when something is wrong, it's time for a change or even that something is just "off". Simply put - you know what you want and how you want to feel but you need some support or guidance on how to get there.
(773) 234-9905 View (773) 234-9905
Photo of Couples Counseling Associates, Marriage & Family Therapist in Chicago, IL
Couples Counseling Associates
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60611
Sara Schwarzbaum, a licensed marriage and family therapist is the founder of the practice.
Expert couples counselors can help if you are fighting too much, feeling distant or not sure if you want to stay together. We help couples who want to find a better way of communicating, fight less, and feel more connected. Experienced and effective. Working with couples is our only specialty. Choosing a professional you can trust can be challenging. We have a problem-solving approach that combines education, coaching and the latest research.
Sara Schwarzbaum, a licensed marriage and family therapist is the founder of the practice.
Expert couples counselors can help if you are fighting too much, feeling distant or not sure if you want to stay together. We help couples who want to find a better way of communicating, fight less, and feel more connected. Experienced and effective. Working with couples is our only specialty. Choosing a professional you can trust can be challenging. We have a problem-solving approach that combines education, coaching and the latest research.
(312) 488-1968 View (312) 488-1968
Photo of Karen Jacobson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Chicago, IL
Karen Jacobson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LCPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640
People come to me when feeling stressed, anxious, overwhelmed with fear and stuck - whether it's a relationship concern, a challenge with a child, a loss or life has taken an unexpected turn. As an experienced Clinical Professional Counselor and Marriage and Family Therapist, I can help. I partner with clients to change limiting beliefs and defeating patterns, discover strengths and embrace possibilities. I provide a safe, nonjudgmental space to explore difficult emotions, understand triggers, process deep wounds and become curious about all parts of ourselves.
People come to me when feeling stressed, anxious, overwhelmed with fear and stuck - whether it's a relationship concern, a challenge with a child, a loss or life has taken an unexpected turn. As an experienced Clinical Professional Counselor and Marriage and Family Therapist, I can help. I partner with clients to change limiting beliefs and defeating patterns, discover strengths and embrace possibilities. I provide a safe, nonjudgmental space to explore difficult emotions, understand triggers, process deep wounds and become curious about all parts of ourselves.
(312) 284-3236 View (312) 284-3236
Photo of Sophie Tobin, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern in Chicago, IL
Sophie Tobin
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601
Do you struggle with sexual desire and feel like your partner is always more in the mood than you are (or vice-versa)? Are you currently struggling with dating and worried you won’t find a good match? Do you want to explore kink or non-monogamy, but aren’t sure how to go about doing so? Did you wait until marriage to have sex for the first time, but are now struggling to enjoy sex with your partner? If any of these questions resonated with you, you’re in luck! I would be honored to work with any and all people who may be having these experiences. I work with any issues related to sex, intimacy, relationships, queerness.
Do you struggle with sexual desire and feel like your partner is always more in the mood than you are (or vice-versa)? Are you currently struggling with dating and worried you won’t find a good match? Do you want to explore kink or non-monogamy, but aren’t sure how to go about doing so? Did you wait until marriage to have sex for the first time, but are now struggling to enjoy sex with your partner? If any of these questions resonated with you, you’re in luck! I would be honored to work with any and all people who may be having these experiences. I work with any issues related to sex, intimacy, relationships, queerness.
(312) 756-0495 View (312) 756-0495
Photo of Takisha Brooks, Pre-Licensed Professional in Chicago, IL
Takisha Brooks
Pre-Licensed Professional, ALMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602  (Online Only)
Takisha is an associate Marriage and Family Therapist. Her clinical interest includes working with couples/family systems and empowering clients from culturally diverse backgrounds to work on communication, parenting, and intimacy. She has an empathetic and energetic personality, which helps clients find and understand their voices, regain trust, and have more fun together in their relationship. Takisha uses a narrative and solution-focused systemic approach in therapy. She believes in the power of stories to help strengthen the core aspects of familial relationships, and she affirms collaboration and creativity in all of sessions.
Takisha is an associate Marriage and Family Therapist. Her clinical interest includes working with couples/family systems and empowering clients from culturally diverse backgrounds to work on communication, parenting, and intimacy. She has an empathetic and energetic personality, which helps clients find and understand their voices, regain trust, and have more fun together in their relationship. Takisha uses a narrative and solution-focused systemic approach in therapy. She believes in the power of stories to help strengthen the core aspects of familial relationships, and she affirms collaboration and creativity in all of sessions.
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Photo of Christine Aiello, Marriage & Family Therapist in Chicago, IL
Christine Aiello
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CST
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60661  (Online Only)
I'm a Certified Sex Therapist and Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist specializing in relationships and sex therapy.
I help individuals and couples with relationship conflict, sexual concerns, and adjustment to life transitions. Clients often come to therapy with some common issues: feeling disconnected in their relationship, having the same argument on repeat, unsatisfying sex, discomfort or awkwardness talking about sex and intimacy, mismatched desire, painful intercourse, wondering "is this normal?" and more. With advanced training in relationship and sex therapy, I’ll help you to identify your needs and goals, build skills and knowledge, and improve connection, trust, empathy, and intimacy in your life and relationships.
I'm a Certified Sex Therapist and Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist specializing in relationships and sex therapy.
I help individuals and couples with relationship conflict, sexual concerns, and adjustment to life transitions. Clients often come to therapy with some common issues: feeling disconnected in their relationship, having the same argument on repeat, unsatisfying sex, discomfort or awkwardness talking about sex and intimacy, mismatched desire, painful intercourse, wondering "is this normal?" and more. With advanced training in relationship and sex therapy, I’ll help you to identify your needs and goals, build skills and knowledge, and improve connection, trust, empathy, and intimacy in your life and relationships.
(312) 766-7025 View (312) 766-7025
Photo of Wendy Charness, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Wendy Charness
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60614
I'm an experienced psychologist who can assist you with relationship challenges, life transitions (marriage/parenting/divorce/retirement/illness/caregiving), ADHD & parenting, low self-esteem, grief/loss, depression, anxiety, infertility & life dissatisfaction.
Do you feel your life doesn't reflect your hopes and dreams? Do your relationships lack the satisfaction & warmth you wish and deserve? Are you finding it challenging to be the spouse or parent you want to be? Have you been diagnosed with a medical condition and struggling to adjust? Are you caring for a loved one with an illness and feeling the stress? As your partner and guide, I can help you remove unhealthy patterns and develop more constructive ways of coping. I can assist you in feeling happier, more resilient in the face of life challenges, developing stronger relationships and achieving your full potential.
I'm an experienced psychologist who can assist you with relationship challenges, life transitions (marriage/parenting/divorce/retirement/illness/caregiving), ADHD & parenting, low self-esteem, grief/loss, depression, anxiety, infertility & life dissatisfaction.
Do you feel your life doesn't reflect your hopes and dreams? Do your relationships lack the satisfaction & warmth you wish and deserve? Are you finding it challenging to be the spouse or parent you want to be? Have you been diagnosed with a medical condition and struggling to adjust? Are you caring for a loved one with an illness and feeling the stress? As your partner and guide, I can help you remove unhealthy patterns and develop more constructive ways of coping. I can assist you in feeling happier, more resilient in the face of life challenges, developing stronger relationships and achieving your full potential.
(312) 548-9270 View (312) 548-9270
Photo of Bailey Kraft, Marriage & Family Therapist in Chicago, IL
Bailey Kraft
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60647  (Online Only)
Bailey Kraft graduated from Purdue University with a Masters Degree in Child Development and Family Studies with a specialization in Marriage and Family Therapy. She is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Illinois (license no. 166.001459) and Indiana (license no. 35002245A). Bailey is a LGBTQ-affirmative therapist and has worked with a variety of clients, including children, adolescents, families, and couples. She utilizes a solution-focused approach with an emphasis on how our lives are affected by the many different intersectional aspects of ourselves, our relationships, and our world.
Bailey Kraft graduated from Purdue University with a Masters Degree in Child Development and Family Studies with a specialization in Marriage and Family Therapy. She is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Illinois (license no. 166.001459) and Indiana (license no. 35002245A). Bailey is a LGBTQ-affirmative therapist and has worked with a variety of clients, including children, adolescents, families, and couples. She utilizes a solution-focused approach with an emphasis on how our lives are affected by the many different intersectional aspects of ourselves, our relationships, and our world.
(872) 713-5251 View (872) 713-5251
Photo of Devon Spencer, Marriage & Family Therapist in Chicago, IL
Devon Spencer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
Life, though beautiful, is also marked by all sorts of suffering, and my job is to help you heal and grow from that. I am an attachment and trauma-informed Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), who works with individuals, families, and couples, to address communication; couple and family conflict; relational and attachment trauma; infidelity; family of origin issues; self-development and identity; PTSD; depression; anxiety; and a host of other problems that arise in life.
Life, though beautiful, is also marked by all sorts of suffering, and my job is to help you heal and grow from that. I am an attachment and trauma-informed Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), who works with individuals, families, and couples, to address communication; couple and family conflict; relational and attachment trauma; infidelity; family of origin issues; self-development and identity; PTSD; depression; anxiety; and a host of other problems that arise in life.
(312) 663-8905 View (312) 663-8905
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 Sammy Peachey, Marriage & Family Therapist in Chicago, IL
Sammy Peachey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613
Meet Sammy, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) dedicated to fostering positive and affirming relationships. With a passion for relational work, Sammy sees people in the context of their relationships and specializes in providing support for individuals and couples exploring non-monogamous and polyamorous dynamics, as well as monogamous relationships. In their practice, Sammy embraces a sex-positive and inclusive approach, recognizing the unique needs and experiences within the queer community. As a sex therapist, they are committed to creating a safe space for clients to explore and navigate their sexual well-being.
Meet Sammy, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) dedicated to fostering positive and affirming relationships. With a passion for relational work, Sammy sees people in the context of their relationships and specializes in providing support for individuals and couples exploring non-monogamous and polyamorous dynamics, as well as monogamous relationships. In their practice, Sammy embraces a sex-positive and inclusive approach, recognizing the unique needs and experiences within the queer community. As a sex therapist, they are committed to creating a safe space for clients to explore and navigate their sexual well-being.
Photo of Antonina (Nina) Lunetta in Chicago, IL
Antonina (Nina) Lunetta
MA, LCPC, NCC, IMH-E
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60611  (Online Only)
I specialize in relationships (including LGBTQIA+, Poly, ENM, monogamy, marital, pre-marital, & divorce), individual work (anxiety, ADHD, cultural, racial, sexual & gender identity exploration, trauma, holistic wellness, and career), and family work (parenting, teenagers, & parents with adult children).
Relationships! We all have them, and at times, we all struggle with navigating them. As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, I offer a relatable & validating space where I assist my clients in improving direct & healthy communication, setting personal and professional goals and boundaries, and identifying, processing, and addressing life obstacles as they arise. And hopefully a touch of humor too ;D Now accepting new clients - email for soonest availability. To read more about Antonina, go to: www.24-7pressrelease.com/press-release-service/495366
I specialize in relationships (including LGBTQIA+, Poly, ENM, monogamy, marital, pre-marital, & divorce), individual work (anxiety, ADHD, cultural, racial, sexual & gender identity exploration, trauma, holistic wellness, and career), and family work (parenting, teenagers, & parents with adult children).
Relationships! We all have them, and at times, we all struggle with navigating them. As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, I offer a relatable & validating space where I assist my clients in improving direct & healthy communication, setting personal and professional goals and boundaries, and identifying, processing, and addressing life obstacles as they arise. And hopefully a touch of humor too ;D Now accepting new clients - email for soonest availability. To read more about Antonina, go to: www.24-7pressrelease.com/press-release-service/495366
(312) 517-2940 View (312) 517-2940
Photo of Wendi Lev, LCSW, ACSW, CADC-Lev Counseling Chicago, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Wendi Lev, LCSW, ACSW, CADC-Lev Counseling Chicago
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW, CADC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60602
Areas of specialization include anxiety, male issues, depression, couples & marital counseling, high-achieving professionals, dating/breakup recovery, infidelity, divorce, sexual problems, substance abuse/addictive behaviors, and self-esteem—the ability to form an authentic alliance with you.
Are you the person you want to be? Are you having difficulty in your relationship or career? Do you often feel as if you are not good enough? As a man, do you avoid or deny your feelings? Are you stung by a recent breakup/divorce? Ask yourself a different question. Are you ready to feel empowered and thrive? My goal is to help you increase self-awareness & make positive lasting changes in thoughts and behavior. I provide integrated therapy and consulting customized to your unique situation, goals, personality, strengths, and history. To help you become a better version of yourself and reach your unlimited potential.
Areas of specialization include anxiety, male issues, depression, couples & marital counseling, high-achieving professionals, dating/breakup recovery, infidelity, divorce, sexual problems, substance abuse/addictive behaviors, and self-esteem—the ability to form an authentic alliance with you.
Are you the person you want to be? Are you having difficulty in your relationship or career? Do you often feel as if you are not good enough? As a man, do you avoid or deny your feelings? Are you stung by a recent breakup/divorce? Ask yourself a different question. Are you ready to feel empowered and thrive? My goal is to help you increase self-awareness & make positive lasting changes in thoughts and behavior. I provide integrated therapy and consulting customized to your unique situation, goals, personality, strengths, and history. To help you become a better version of yourself and reach your unlimited potential.
(773) 312-7918 View (773) 312-7918
Photo of Jenny Choi LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Jenny Choi LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
I have specific credentials and experiences relative to today's complicated situations, including; family genograms, marital/intimate and workplace relationships and conflicts, sexual identity, racial equality/intolerance, cross-cultural stigmas, abuse/battering, bullying, alcohol and substance abuse, legal/court intervention, play therapy, neurofeedback, adolescence/young adult guidance, and grief counseling.
I passionately and compassionately care for the emotional well-being and behavioral health of my individual, couple, family and group clients for over 20 years. I draw upon unique combinations of clinical principals and innovative methods to best support all people within our vastly diverse community. I draw upon my deep understanding of culture, age, gender, race, class, family structure, and the type of or the lack of a support system can have on most all situations. I always provide a totally non-judgmental, safe, and confidential space to help my clients deal with their problems, issues or crisis.
I have specific credentials and experiences relative to today's complicated situations, including; family genograms, marital/intimate and workplace relationships and conflicts, sexual identity, racial equality/intolerance, cross-cultural stigmas, abuse/battering, bullying, alcohol and substance abuse, legal/court intervention, play therapy, neurofeedback, adolescence/young adult guidance, and grief counseling.
I passionately and compassionately care for the emotional well-being and behavioral health of my individual, couple, family and group clients for over 20 years. I draw upon unique combinations of clinical principals and innovative methods to best support all people within our vastly diverse community. I draw upon my deep understanding of culture, age, gender, race, class, family structure, and the type of or the lack of a support system can have on most all situations. I always provide a totally non-judgmental, safe, and confidential space to help my clients deal with their problems, issues or crisis.
(917) 563-4037 View (917) 563-4037
Photo of Priscilla R. De Llovio, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Priscilla R. De Llovio
Counselor, LMFT, LCPC, CADC, CST
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
I am a Bilingual (Spanish) Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor, and Certified Sex Therapist who is committed to working with individuals, couples, and families. As part of my specialties and professional interests, I work with adults and couples experiencing relationship and intimacy issues, sexual difficulties/dysfunctions, pre-marital counseling, infidelity, anxiety, depression, trauma, anger management, and compulsive and addictive disorders.
I am a Bilingual (Spanish) Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor, and Certified Sex Therapist who is committed to working with individuals, couples, and families. As part of my specialties and professional interests, I work with adults and couples experiencing relationship and intimacy issues, sexual difficulties/dysfunctions, pre-marital counseling, infidelity, anxiety, depression, trauma, anger management, and compulsive and addictive disorders.
(312) 874-6132 View (312) 874-6132
Photo of Alexandra Faure, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Alexandra Faure
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640
I am also a certified PREPARE/ENRICH counselor and work on pre-marital preparation.
Do you find yourself overwhelmed? Does it sometimes feel like your to-do list is never ending no matter how many things you cross off? I want to help you find your balance. To accomplish this, I work with you to tailor therapy to your needs and to your comfort. As a person centered therapist, I approach therapy as a collaborative experience where I join you in your self-exploring. I aim to help increase your understanding of yourself and of your needs. Understanding and highlighting yourself, you can work to advocate for you, your boundaries and your balance.
I am also a certified PREPARE/ENRICH counselor and work on pre-marital preparation.
Do you find yourself overwhelmed? Does it sometimes feel like your to-do list is never ending no matter how many things you cross off? I want to help you find your balance. To accomplish this, I work with you to tailor therapy to your needs and to your comfort. As a person centered therapist, I approach therapy as a collaborative experience where I join you in your self-exploring. I aim to help increase your understanding of yourself and of your needs. Understanding and highlighting yourself, you can work to advocate for you, your boundaries and your balance.
(312) 202-0303 View (312) 202-0303
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.