Marriage Counseling Therapists in Chicago, IL

Photo of Joseph Shoshana, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Joseph Shoshana
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60607
My practice is comprised of a team of certified professionals skilled in general mental health issues, marriage and families, and neuropsychological testing.
I have been in private practice for over 20 years and have treated thousands of clients including individuals, families, children and adults. People often come in seeking relief from a range of struggles including depression, anxiety, ADHD, and family conflicts. Through my work with many families I began to also address issues of parenting and family dynamics as well as children and adolescents facing a variety of disorders, self-esteem issues, and acting out behaviors. Over the span of my career I have also treated substance abuse, bipolar, psychotic and personality disorders.
My practice is comprised of a team of certified professionals skilled in general mental health issues, marriage and families, and neuropsychological testing.
I have been in private practice for over 20 years and have treated thousands of clients including individuals, families, children and adults. People often come in seeking relief from a range of struggles including depression, anxiety, ADHD, and family conflicts. Through my work with many families I began to also address issues of parenting and family dynamics as well as children and adolescents facing a variety of disorders, self-esteem issues, and acting out behaviors. Over the span of my career I have also treated substance abuse, bipolar, psychotic and personality disorders.
(847) 457-4046 View (847) 457-4046
Photo of Debra Steele, Marriage & Family Therapist in Chicago, IL
Debra Steele
Marriage & Family Therapist, MSMFT
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657  (Online Only)
I am a passionate therapist with a Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy from Northwestern who worked at the Studio For Change for six years. I use client strengths, humor, parts therapy, and goal setting to resolve problems and work with individuals, couples and families from diverse backgrounds. I take a holistic approach to all my cases combing elements of mental, physical, spiritual, and emotional wellness to bring healing into client's lives. I am a level 1 graduate of Internal Family Systems therapy, and a "Prepare-Enrich" premarital counselor.
I am a passionate therapist with a Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy from Northwestern who worked at the Studio For Change for six years. I use client strengths, humor, parts therapy, and goal setting to resolve problems and work with individuals, couples and families from diverse backgrounds. I take a holistic approach to all my cases combing elements of mental, physical, spiritual, and emotional wellness to bring healing into client's lives. I am a level 1 graduate of Internal Family Systems therapy, and a "Prepare-Enrich" premarital counselor.
(847) 984-0599 View (847) 984-0599
Photo of Dr Robert John Zagar PC A Professional, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Dr Robert John Zagar PC A Professional
Psychologist, PhD, MPH
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60611
As a clinical & school psychologist & Cook County Circuit Court officer (Northwestern University, research design & statistics) with 2 fellowships (NIH sleep disorders, Rush, & NIMH public health, UIC), 2 years each premedical & basic medical sciences, I offer individual, family, marital therapy, forensic neuropsychological tests & expert witness testimony.
I discover objectively what is the issue, applying the best treatment for abuse, aging, alcohol/substance use, anger, anxiety, attention deficit, autism spectrum disorders, bereavement, cancer, career consultation, coping, criminal charges, custody, delinquency, dementia, depression, divorce, DUI, dyslexia, hyperactivity, hypnosis, individualized education plans, insomnia, job loss, learning disability, lower productivity, neuropsychological exams, panic attacks, parenting, personal injury, personality tests, post automobile accident, relationships, stress, trauma, TBI, underachievement, vocational guidance, workers compensation.
As a clinical & school psychologist & Cook County Circuit Court officer (Northwestern University, research design & statistics) with 2 fellowships (NIH sleep disorders, Rush, & NIMH public health, UIC), 2 years each premedical & basic medical sciences, I offer individual, family, marital therapy, forensic neuropsychological tests & expert witness testimony.
I discover objectively what is the issue, applying the best treatment for abuse, aging, alcohol/substance use, anger, anxiety, attention deficit, autism spectrum disorders, bereavement, cancer, career consultation, coping, criminal charges, custody, delinquency, dementia, depression, divorce, DUI, dyslexia, hyperactivity, hypnosis, individualized education plans, insomnia, job loss, learning disability, lower productivity, neuropsychological exams, panic attacks, parenting, personal injury, personality tests, post automobile accident, relationships, stress, trauma, TBI, underachievement, vocational guidance, workers compensation.
(312) 266-3411 View (312) 266-3411
Photo of Jordan White, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Jordan White
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601
Are you scouring the internet, consumed by worry and racing thoughts, heart pounding in your chest? Perhaps you're grappling with distraction, irritability, and marital discord. The struggle to focus or find peace leaves you restless and disconnected. You've exhausted every avenue and now seek a fresh approach, craving proactive guidance and practical solutions. You yearn for a therapist who offers more than just conversation—someone who understands, assigns homework, and collaborates with you to tackle challenges head-on.
Are you scouring the internet, consumed by worry and racing thoughts, heart pounding in your chest? Perhaps you're grappling with distraction, irritability, and marital discord. The struggle to focus or find peace leaves you restless and disconnected. You've exhausted every avenue and now seek a fresh approach, craving proactive guidance and practical solutions. You yearn for a therapist who offers more than just conversation—someone who understands, assigns homework, and collaborates with you to tackle challenges head-on.
(708) 480-9837 View (708) 480-9837
Peter A. Reiner
Psychologist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60611
I am a warm, flexible, thoughtful and experienced licensed psychologist, licensed marriage and family therapist, and psychoanalyst located just north Chicago's Loop. I establish supportive and comfortable therapeutic relationships with individuals and couples. Sessions are customized to the unique needs, goals, and strengths of each client. Typical challenges include the following: depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, work difficulties, grief or loss, relationship issues or patterns, substance or alcohol abuse, divorce, parenting, stress management, painful emotional symptoms, personality disorders, and renewing hope.
I am a warm, flexible, thoughtful and experienced licensed psychologist, licensed marriage and family therapist, and psychoanalyst located just north Chicago's Loop. I establish supportive and comfortable therapeutic relationships with individuals and couples. Sessions are customized to the unique needs, goals, and strengths of each client. Typical challenges include the following: depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, work difficulties, grief or loss, relationship issues or patterns, substance or alcohol abuse, divorce, parenting, stress management, painful emotional symptoms, personality disorders, and renewing hope.
(312) 854-2036 View (312) 854-2036
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 Claudia Minner, Marriage & Family Therapist in Chicago, IL
Claudia Minner
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60606
I specialize in helping clients holistically work through anxiety, depression, imposter syndrome, work-life balance, marital/relationship issues, communication, and family of origin issues. Whether it is managing anxious symptoms, navigating inhibiting conflict, or even just tackling the stressors that come up in the day-to-day, I work with you to uncover your inherent strengths, and help you leverage them with quality strategies to achieve healthy, desired change. Each session, I collaborate with you to lift your biggest constraints, offer quality guidance, and provide the tools to connect with yourself and others more freely.
I specialize in helping clients holistically work through anxiety, depression, imposter syndrome, work-life balance, marital/relationship issues, communication, and family of origin issues. Whether it is managing anxious symptoms, navigating inhibiting conflict, or even just tackling the stressors that come up in the day-to-day, I work with you to uncover your inherent strengths, and help you leverage them with quality strategies to achieve healthy, desired change. Each session, I collaborate with you to lift your biggest constraints, offer quality guidance, and provide the tools to connect with yourself and others more freely.
(773) 830-3693 x1 View (773) 830-3693 x1
Photo of Sabita Nandy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Chicago, IL
Sabita Nandy
Marriage & Family Therapist, EdS, MSc, LMFT
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60606
My specialties are: Couples Therapy, Marriage Counseling, Relationship Counseling, Anger Management,Individal therapy, Family Therapy, Counseling in Sexual Abuse, Adolescent Counseling Depression, Anxiety Management, Life Coaching, Eating Disorder, Same Sex Couples and other mental health issues.
My Philosophy Strength based therapy - resolve your problems based on your ;strengths. Empower yourself, and gain back your personal self. Balance between independence and togetherness. Effectively communicate. Free yourself from the oppression of your problems; You, and not your problems, are in charge.
My specialties are: Couples Therapy, Marriage Counseling, Relationship Counseling, Anger Management,Individal therapy, Family Therapy, Counseling in Sexual Abuse, Adolescent Counseling Depression, Anxiety Management, Life Coaching, Eating Disorder, Same Sex Couples and other mental health issues.
My Philosophy Strength based therapy - resolve your problems based on your ;strengths. Empower yourself, and gain back your personal self. Balance between independence and togetherness. Effectively communicate. Free yourself from the oppression of your problems; You, and not your problems, are in charge.
(224) 803-3283 View (224) 803-3283
Photo of Taylor Ariel Pettway, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Chicago, IL
Taylor Ariel Pettway
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60605
I hold my MS in Marriage and Family Therapy from Northwestern University in and a BA in Psychology from Spelman College.
There is power in seeking the help of others along our journey, and it is my hope that therapy can represent a unique healing environment, focused on your reality and your needs. The change that we all seek lies within our stories being validated and understood. As we witness the power of our stories in light of culture, race, gender, sexual orientation, and other intersections of identity through therapy, we partner in using your strengths to lessen your limitations. By developing your self-awareness, we can work to heal from past wounds, develop more understanding of your Self and those around you, and create better relationships.
I hold my MS in Marriage and Family Therapy from Northwestern University in and a BA in Psychology from Spelman College.
There is power in seeking the help of others along our journey, and it is my hope that therapy can represent a unique healing environment, focused on your reality and your needs. The change that we all seek lies within our stories being validated and understood. As we witness the power of our stories in light of culture, race, gender, sexual orientation, and other intersections of identity through therapy, we partner in using your strengths to lessen your limitations. By developing your self-awareness, we can work to heal from past wounds, develop more understanding of your Self and those around you, and create better relationships.
(312) 626-6658 View (312) 626-6658
Ardent Counseling Center
PsyD, LCPC, LMFT, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657
Our therapists on staff are specially trained, clinical professional counselors, social workers and marriage and family therapist who provide, group therapy, and family therapy, Christian counseling, LGBT issues, eating disorders and a range of other specialized therapies.
The Ardent Counseling Center is a comprehensive psychotherapy practice providing counseling services to children, adolescents, adults, couples and families since 1988. We have 9 Chicagoland locations including, Hoffman Estates, Schaumburg, Lakeview (Chicago) and 5 Iowa Locations.
Our therapists on staff are specially trained, clinical professional counselors, social workers and marriage and family therapist who provide, group therapy, and family therapy, Christian counseling, LGBT issues, eating disorders and a range of other specialized therapies.
The Ardent Counseling Center is a comprehensive psychotherapy practice providing counseling services to children, adolescents, adults, couples and families since 1988. We have 9 Chicagoland locations including, Hoffman Estates, Schaumburg, Lakeview (Chicago) and 5 Iowa Locations.
(312) 766-9320 View (312) 766-9320
Photo of Anita A Chlipala, Marriage & Family Therapist in Chicago, IL
Anita A Chlipala
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA, MEd
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
Common problems I help address: deciding who is the "right" person to marry; figuring out why you are single; working on your anxious or avoidant attachment style; managing different partner attachment styles; infidelity: figuring out why you cheated, healing from the infidelity, rebuilding trust and prevention; figuring out if you can make your relationship or marriage work; communication such as arguments that go nowhere; effective conflict resolution; feeling unappreciated/taken for granted; disconnection; healing from a break up. The information & tools I teach are proven to be effective in making relationships successful.
Common problems I help address: deciding who is the "right" person to marry; figuring out why you are single; working on your anxious or avoidant attachment style; managing different partner attachment styles; infidelity: figuring out why you cheated, healing from the infidelity, rebuilding trust and prevention; figuring out if you can make your relationship or marriage work; communication such as arguments that go nowhere; effective conflict resolution; feeling unappreciated/taken for granted; disconnection; healing from a break up. The information & tools I teach are proven to be effective in making relationships successful.
(312) 800-1849 View (312) 800-1849
Photo of Francesco Belviso, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Francesco Belviso
Psychologist, PhD, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
I offer engaged, purposeful therapy, focusing on relationships, professional and academic challenges, and life transitions. My specialty lies in supporting adults as they navigate increasing responsibilities in their careers while also managing personal life phases such as dating, marriage, parenting, and losses. Many of my clients are dealing with stress, anxiety, sadness, or depression. I integrate current research and traditional approaches: many clients find value in acquiring skills for emotional regulation and interpersonal effectiveness, while others explore larger issues related to their personal values and life's purpose.
I offer engaged, purposeful therapy, focusing on relationships, professional and academic challenges, and life transitions. My specialty lies in supporting adults as they navigate increasing responsibilities in their careers while also managing personal life phases such as dating, marriage, parenting, and losses. Many of my clients are dealing with stress, anxiety, sadness, or depression. I integrate current research and traditional approaches: many clients find value in acquiring skills for emotional regulation and interpersonal effectiveness, while others explore larger issues related to their personal values and life's purpose.
(773) 530-2633 View (773) 530-2633
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 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 Michela Stevenson, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Chicago, IL
Michela Stevenson
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, ALMFT
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60611  (Online Only)
I work exclusively with couples who are navigating major life transitions (marriage, new baby, grief & loss), boundary and communication struggles, infidelity and other relationship crises. I am especially passionate about perinatal mental health issues, and helping couples manage their roles as parents while preserving their relationship.
I work exclusively with couples who are navigating major life transitions (marriage, new baby, grief & loss), boundary and communication struggles, infidelity and other relationship crises. I am especially passionate about perinatal mental health issues, and helping couples manage their roles as parents while preserving their relationship.
(312) 465-4937 View (312) 465-4937
Photo of Mona Sterling, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Chicago, IL
Mona Sterling
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, LAMFT
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60647  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Associate Marriage and Family Therapist in Illinois and earned my Master of Science in Psychology from California Polytechnic State University. Recognizing the immense courage it takes to begin therapy, I offer a warm, nonjudgmental energy throughout my sessions and engage in my clients’ concerns with open curiosity and empathy. I am deeply committed to accompanying my clients as they confront their toughest avoidances, uncover their vulnerabilities, and create meaning out of their difficult life experiences. Through their healing journey, I fosters my clients’ process towards achieving their own self-actualization.
I am a Licensed Associate Marriage and Family Therapist in Illinois and earned my Master of Science in Psychology from California Polytechnic State University. Recognizing the immense courage it takes to begin therapy, I offer a warm, nonjudgmental energy throughout my sessions and engage in my clients’ concerns with open curiosity and empathy. I am deeply committed to accompanying my clients as they confront their toughest avoidances, uncover their vulnerabilities, and create meaning out of their difficult life experiences. Through their healing journey, I fosters my clients’ process towards achieving their own self-actualization.
(773) 687-6258 View (773) 687-6258
Photo of Heather Gunderson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Chicago, IL
Heather Gunderson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60606  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Illinois who helps people who are struggling emotionally, socially, and relationally. Everyone goes through challenges and conflicts in life and it can be frustrating to know when and where to get help. I can help with those struggles so that you can create real and lasting change.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Illinois who helps people who are struggling emotionally, socially, and relationally. Everyone goes through challenges and conflicts in life and it can be frustrating to know when and where to get help. I can help with those struggles so that you can create real and lasting change.
(224) 385-0762 View (224) 385-0762
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 Payton Larsen, LPC Intern in Chicago, IL
Payton Larsen
LPC Intern, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60642  (Online Only)
I love working with women, young adults, teens, college students, pre-marital couples and couples transitioning in cohabitation.
Hi! I’m a Counselor and EMDR Therapist. I’m a San Diego native and am new to the Chicago area! I am extremely passionate about helping clients find healing and freedom from the past, leading them to deep and meaningful relationships to themselves and others. My role as a therapist is to come along side my clients to empower them to compassionately examine and transform the parts of themselves that feel heavy, stuck, or destructive. In our sessions, you’ll be met with a therapist that values therapy that is both effective and intentional. It’s important to me that we both feel confident and hopeful about our work together.
I love working with women, young adults, teens, college students, pre-marital couples and couples transitioning in cohabitation.
Hi! I’m a Counselor and EMDR Therapist. I’m a San Diego native and am new to the Chicago area! I am extremely passionate about helping clients find healing and freedom from the past, leading them to deep and meaningful relationships to themselves and others. My role as a therapist is to come along side my clients to empower them to compassionately examine and transform the parts of themselves that feel heavy, stuck, or destructive. In our sessions, you’ll be met with a therapist that values therapy that is both effective and intentional. It’s important to me that we both feel confident and hopeful about our work together.
(708) 742-6579 View (708) 742-6579
Photo of Sacha Olan, Marriage & Family Therapist in Chicago, IL
Sacha Olan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist who believes healthy relationships are the stepping stones to healing, processing, and understanding not only each other but also ourselves. While utilizing Gottman, emotion-focused, strategic, and experiential approaches, I seek to create a space for clients to feel safe in their therapeutic process. I also provide a space for couples to reconnect, rebuild, and redefine their relationship at each stage of their lives. I acknowledge each client’s experiences as their own while providing a systemic perspective to assist them in their process to self-discovery.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist who believes healthy relationships are the stepping stones to healing, processing, and understanding not only each other but also ourselves. While utilizing Gottman, emotion-focused, strategic, and experiential approaches, I seek to create a space for clients to feel safe in their therapeutic process. I also provide a space for couples to reconnect, rebuild, and redefine their relationship at each stage of their lives. I acknowledge each client’s experiences as their own while providing a systemic perspective to assist them in their process to self-discovery.
(312) 584-9734 View (312) 584-9734
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.