Photo of Elana Hoffman, Psychologist in North Bethesda, MD
Elana Hoffman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
North Bethesda, MD 20852  (Online Only)
I also draw from lived experiences with marriage, divorce, solo parenting, and alternative romantic relationships.
I love working with couples and individuals with difficulty in romantic relationships (i.e. sexual issues, communication, infidelity, divorce), adults who come from dysfunctional childhoods, as well as those with anxiety, impulsivity, and addiction. I also enjoy working with those in non-traditional romantic relationships (i.e. ethically non-monogamous, polyamorous). I am LGBTQIA- affirming and sex positive. I work best with clients who are engaged, thoughtful, and motivated for change. My style is empathic and direct, with a sense of humor. I believe strongly in the therapeutic alliance and the client/therapist fit.
I also draw from lived experiences with marriage, divorce, solo parenting, and alternative romantic relationships.
I love working with couples and individuals with difficulty in romantic relationships (i.e. sexual issues, communication, infidelity, divorce), adults who come from dysfunctional childhoods, as well as those with anxiety, impulsivity, and addiction. I also enjoy working with those in non-traditional romantic relationships (i.e. ethically non-monogamous, polyamorous). I am LGBTQIA- affirming and sex positive. I work best with clients who are engaged, thoughtful, and motivated for change. My style is empathic and direct, with a sense of humor. I believe strongly in the therapeutic alliance and the client/therapist fit.
(301) 610-3456 View (301) 610-3456
Photo of Dr. Mitch and Lisa Marriages/Couples Workshops in North Bethesda, MD
Dr. Mitch and Lisa Marriages/Couples Workshops
PsyD, MSW, Life, Coach
Verified Verified
North Bethesda, MD 20852
Relationships in Crisis: We Have Several Private Couples/Marriage Workshops & Individual Sessions, in order to Rapidly Accelerate Your Healing & Your Communication Process (Traditional 45 min. session Simply Does Not Work). During these 2 to 4 weeks, we will see both of you Together & Individually, as well as Help each of you Learn the Art of Empathy, Sensitivity & Compassion. These Workshops are Informative & Powerful, in order to Accelerate the Healing Process & Stop any further Damage from Occurring. In Addition, Our Success RATE is 85% of Our Couples that have Successfully Completed Our Couples Workshops or Alcohol Treatment.
Relationships in Crisis: We Have Several Private Couples/Marriage Workshops & Individual Sessions, in order to Rapidly Accelerate Your Healing & Your Communication Process (Traditional 45 min. session Simply Does Not Work). During these 2 to 4 weeks, we will see both of you Together & Individually, as well as Help each of you Learn the Art of Empathy, Sensitivity & Compassion. These Workshops are Informative & Powerful, in order to Accelerate the Healing Process & Stop any further Damage from Occurring. In Addition, Our Success RATE is 85% of Our Couples that have Successfully Completed Our Couples Workshops or Alcohol Treatment.
(301) 691-4094 View (301) 691-4094
Photo of Maurine K Kelly, Psychologist in North Bethesda, MD
Maurine K Kelly
Psychologist, PhD, FIPA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
North Bethesda, MD 20852
I specialize in working with families, couples, groups, and individuals. I treat children as young as three, have experience with school phobia, adoption, blended families, gender issues, gay, lesbian, and transgender individuals, and the challenges of elderly. I am experienced working with psychoses, severe post traumatic stress disorder, eating disorders, body dysmorphic disorder, and problems of every day life. I have special expertise working with the LGBTQ+ population, with adolescents, sexual development, severe mental illness, post traumatic stress disorder, and physical illnesses.
I specialize in working with families, couples, groups, and individuals. I treat children as young as three, have experience with school phobia, adoption, blended families, gender issues, gay, lesbian, and transgender individuals, and the challenges of elderly. I am experienced working with psychoses, severe post traumatic stress disorder, eating disorders, body dysmorphic disorder, and problems of every day life. I have special expertise working with the LGBTQ+ population, with adolescents, sexual development, severe mental illness, post traumatic stress disorder, and physical illnesses.
(240) 242-9949 View (240) 242-9949
Photo of Paula L Ellman, Psychologist in North Bethesda, MD
Paula L Ellman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
North Bethesda, MD 20852
I work to help you address the painful challenges you are facing in your life, whether it be in your relationships, your work, or internally with yourself. With depression, self-esteem worries, anxiety and panic, separation and loss, sexual/intimacy conflicts, work/achievement difficulties, parenting problems or addictions, my efforts with you are to use understanding and problem-solving to find relief and direction. I teach and train other mental health professionals, and emphasize the active collaboration needed to bring about change and growth.
I work to help you address the painful challenges you are facing in your life, whether it be in your relationships, your work, or internally with yourself. With depression, self-esteem worries, anxiety and panic, separation and loss, sexual/intimacy conflicts, work/achievement difficulties, parenting problems or addictions, my efforts with you are to use understanding and problem-solving to find relief and direction. I teach and train other mental health professionals, and emphasize the active collaboration needed to bring about change and growth.
(301) 246-2808 View (301) 246-2808
Photo of Best Life Behavioral Health in North Bethesda, MD
Best Life Behavioral Health
PhD
Verified Verified
North Bethesda, MD 20852  (Online Only)
Has therapy been a waste of time before? At Best Life, we help you start living the life you deserve! Jessica Jeffers LGPC works with mood issues and couples. Vicktoria Molokin LCPC works with life transitions and anxiety. Lindsey Weekley LCPC works with parenting, anger, bipolar, and more. Meredith Futernick, LPC works with anxiety, depression, and DBT. Kat Defilippi LPC works with mood issues, couples, anxiety, and career. Danielle Goldberg LCSW-C works with trauma, depression, and parenting. Stefanie Rider LPC does trauma and EMDR. We also offer life, career, and sex coaching!
Has therapy been a waste of time before? At Best Life, we help you start living the life you deserve! Jessica Jeffers LGPC works with mood issues and couples. Vicktoria Molokin LCPC works with life transitions and anxiety. Lindsey Weekley LCPC works with parenting, anger, bipolar, and more. Meredith Futernick, LPC works with anxiety, depression, and DBT. Kat Defilippi LPC works with mood issues, couples, anxiety, and career. Danielle Goldberg LCSW-C works with trauma, depression, and parenting. Stefanie Rider LPC does trauma and EMDR. We also offer life, career, and sex coaching!
(301) 900-5808 View (301) 900-5808

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Marissa Josiah, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in North Bethesda, MD
Marissa Josiah
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, NCC, LCPC, LPC, CCT, CCISM
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814
I believe marriage is a crucible for personal growth and self-development and my hope for you is a lasting, intimate, and thriving partnership.
Marissa Josiah is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 15 years of experience serving couples and families. She has studied researched-backed models in the couples therapy field (EFT, Relational Therapy, Gottman, Imago, etc) and has advanced experience treating trauma. Marissa specializes in helping couples who are fighting all the time, have experienced infidelity, past or on-going trauma, and couples who have lost that “spark” for each other. Office locations in Columbia, MD and also offering virtual visits for MD, DC & VA. Please call for a free 10 minute consultation.
I believe marriage is a crucible for personal growth and self-development and my hope for you is a lasting, intimate, and thriving partnership.
Marissa Josiah is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 15 years of experience serving couples and families. She has studied researched-backed models in the couples therapy field (EFT, Relational Therapy, Gottman, Imago, etc) and has advanced experience treating trauma. Marissa specializes in helping couples who are fighting all the time, have experienced infidelity, past or on-going trauma, and couples who have lost that “spark” for each other. Office locations in Columbia, MD and also offering virtual visits for MD, DC & VA. Please call for a free 10 minute consultation.
(301) 638-8129 View (301) 638-8129
Photo of Samantha Rodman Whiten, Psychologist in North Bethesda, MD
Samantha Rodman Whiten
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rockville, MD 20852  (Online Only)
My life experiences include parenting 3 kids, marriage, divorce, remarriage, blended family, depression, and 12+ years in practice.
Limited slots as of Jan 2024! Do you like to make progress quickly? I have often been told that clients make more progress with me in ONE session than in months of past therapy. We examine your past, as there cannot be genuine lasting change without insight into how patterns developed, but we are focused on creating the life you want NOW. I work best with motivated, intelligent, verbal clients. Couples with intimacy issues are a specialty. Visit drpsychmom.com & listen to The Dr. Psych Mom Show! I get you in right away, we don't want to slow down the momentum that brought you here. I can also refer to my great colleagues.
My life experiences include parenting 3 kids, marriage, divorce, remarriage, blended family, depression, and 12+ years in practice.
Limited slots as of Jan 2024! Do you like to make progress quickly? I have often been told that clients make more progress with me in ONE session than in months of past therapy. We examine your past, as there cannot be genuine lasting change without insight into how patterns developed, but we are focused on creating the life you want NOW. I work best with motivated, intelligent, verbal clients. Couples with intimacy issues are a specialty. Visit drpsychmom.com & listen to The Dr. Psych Mom Show! I get you in right away, we don't want to slow down the momentum that brought you here. I can also refer to my great colleagues.
(301) 720-1497 View (301) 720-1497
Photo of Christopher Barry Hill, Licensed Professional Counselor in North Bethesda, MD
Christopher Barry Hill
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
Anxiety, Depression, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Substance Abuse/Addiction, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, OCD, Phobias Social Anxiety, Couples/Marital Issues, Adjustment Disorders Personality Disorders, Child/Parenting, Family Issues, Medical Illness, PTSD, TBI, Panic Attacks, Psychosis, Anger, Chronic Pain.
*Now Accepting Tele-therapy Clients* Do you find yourself feeling sad, anxious, unhappy with life circumstances? Are you having relationship difficulties, feel stress from work, or have a child experiencing difficulties? I offer comprehensive assistance to change and work through many of life's challenges. If you find yourself suffering from any of these situations, or if you do not feel quite like yourself, let us help you begin on the road to improvement by addressing patient concerns, including but not limited to the following:
Anxiety, Depression, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Substance Abuse/Addiction, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, OCD, Phobias Social Anxiety, Couples/Marital Issues, Adjustment Disorders Personality Disorders, Child/Parenting, Family Issues, Medical Illness, PTSD, TBI, Panic Attacks, Psychosis, Anger, Chronic Pain.
*Now Accepting Tele-therapy Clients* Do you find yourself feeling sad, anxious, unhappy with life circumstances? Are you having relationship difficulties, feel stress from work, or have a child experiencing difficulties? I offer comprehensive assistance to change and work through many of life's challenges. If you find yourself suffering from any of these situations, or if you do not feel quite like yourself, let us help you begin on the road to improvement by addressing patient concerns, including but not limited to the following:
(202) 759-4221 View (202) 759-4221
Photo of Lisa McPherson Robinson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Bethesda, MD
Lisa McPherson Robinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, BCD, ATR, PhD
Verified Verified
Wheaton, MD 20902
My specialty areas include: Complex trauma, loss/grief, depression, anxiety, alcoholism, dissociative disorder, PTSD, marital issues, separation/divorce, and sexual issues.
I have been in private practice for 43 years. I am a Board Certified Diplomate Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have two years of post graduate training in Family and Couples Therapy and six years of study in Sex Therapy. I completed a five month Intensive Trauma Certification Program. I try to create a safe non judgmental environment so that you can talk about your concerns. Psychotherapy allows you time to think about your life, where you are, and where you would like to be. I am a interactive and relational psychotherapist. I see young adults and adults for individual and couples psychotherapy.
My specialty areas include: Complex trauma, loss/grief, depression, anxiety, alcoholism, dissociative disorder, PTSD, marital issues, separation/divorce, and sexual issues.
I have been in private practice for 43 years. I am a Board Certified Diplomate Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have two years of post graduate training in Family and Couples Therapy and six years of study in Sex Therapy. I completed a five month Intensive Trauma Certification Program. I try to create a safe non judgmental environment so that you can talk about your concerns. Psychotherapy allows you time to think about your life, where you are, and where you would like to be. I am a interactive and relational psychotherapist. I see young adults and adults for individual and couples psychotherapy.
(301) 246-2885 View (301) 246-2885
Photo of DMV Life Coaching & Therapy Services in North Bethesda, MD
DMV Life Coaching & Therapy Services
PhD, CLC, MBA, CBT, NLP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Rockville, MD 20852
Whether it's marriage problems or enhancing communication, I can assist with all challenges.
Self esteem issues, body image problems, self worth are all originating from early problems that were never addressed. By going to the core of the problem, we can fix the problem that keeps on weighing on the individual and help them find a solution. Digging deep is somewhat needed to understand where it all came from and find a treatment plan to allow the person to let go of the negative and focus on the positive. It is crucial to keep an open communication module between client and therapist so we can both find the best alternative plan that will fit the client needs. I cover all groups, all ethnicity, all races in all my groups.
Whether it's marriage problems or enhancing communication, I can assist with all challenges.
Self esteem issues, body image problems, self worth are all originating from early problems that were never addressed. By going to the core of the problem, we can fix the problem that keeps on weighing on the individual and help them find a solution. Digging deep is somewhat needed to understand where it all came from and find a treatment plan to allow the person to let go of the negative and focus on the positive. It is crucial to keep an open communication module between client and therapist so we can both find the best alternative plan that will fit the client needs. I cover all groups, all ethnicity, all races in all my groups.
(301) 685-5999 View (301) 685-5999
Photo of Classen-Miller and Associates, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Bethesda, MD
Classen-Miller and Associates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, MSW
Verified Verified
Rockville, MD 20852
Specialties of our therapists include depression, anxiety, addiction, substance abuse, bipolar, borderline personality, dual diagnosis, self-harm, OCD, psychosis, eating disorders, adoption, learning disability, ADHD, autism, insomnia, divorce, women's issues, infertility, cross-cultural, marital, couples, relationships, family conflict, trauma, PTSD, grief.
TELETHERAPY AND IN-OFFICE APPOINTMENTS with experienced psychotherapists who are licensed at the highest level of their profession. We accept mayor insurance plans and work with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families, Our clinicians reflect the full diversity of our community. We provide a safe and nonjudgmental environment that enables our clients to work towards solutions, develop coping skills and have a better understanding of the issues that interfere with self-esteem and a sense of well being.
Specialties of our therapists include depression, anxiety, addiction, substance abuse, bipolar, borderline personality, dual diagnosis, self-harm, OCD, psychosis, eating disorders, adoption, learning disability, ADHD, autism, insomnia, divorce, women's issues, infertility, cross-cultural, marital, couples, relationships, family conflict, trauma, PTSD, grief.
TELETHERAPY AND IN-OFFICE APPOINTMENTS with experienced psychotherapists who are licensed at the highest level of their profession. We accept mayor insurance plans and work with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families, Our clinicians reflect the full diversity of our community. We provide a safe and nonjudgmental environment that enables our clients to work towards solutions, develop coping skills and have a better understanding of the issues that interfere with self-esteem and a sense of well being.
(301) 918-5312 View (301) 918-5312
Photo of Devon C King, Psychologist in North Bethesda, MD
Devon C King
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Rockville, MD 20852
I have tremendous respect for people who make the difficult decision to enter in to psychotherapy. I work collaboratively with older children, adolescents, and adults, in individual, couples, and family therapy. My goal is to explore collaboratively the troubles that have led them to seek treatment at this time. I try to provide a safe, non-judgemental environment, where one can develop insight to better understand and ultimately change behavioral and relational patterns that get in the way of happiness and fulfillment. I have extensive experience working with depression, anxiety, and trauma, as well as relationship difficulties and life transitions.
I have tremendous respect for people who make the difficult decision to enter in to psychotherapy. I work collaboratively with older children, adolescents, and adults, in individual, couples, and family therapy. My goal is to explore collaboratively the troubles that have led them to seek treatment at this time. I try to provide a safe, non-judgemental environment, where one can develop insight to better understand and ultimately change behavioral and relational patterns that get in the way of happiness and fulfillment. I have extensive experience working with depression, anxiety, and trauma, as well as relationship difficulties and life transitions.
(240) 262-4455 View (240) 262-4455
Photo of Geraldine E McBrinn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Bethesda, MD
Geraldine E McBrinn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Rockville, MD 20852
TELETHERAPY AVAILABLE. The idea of therapy can be overwhelming for anyone that hasn't sought it before or for someone who desires to restart therapy. My job as a licensed clinical social worker is not only to support you with whatever issue is taking place, but also to make you feel comfortable and safe to communicate what is usually very personal.
TELETHERAPY AVAILABLE. The idea of therapy can be overwhelming for anyone that hasn't sought it before or for someone who desires to restart therapy. My job as a licensed clinical social worker is not only to support you with whatever issue is taking place, but also to make you feel comfortable and safe to communicate what is usually very personal.
(301) 273-1728 View (301) 273-1728
Photo of Levi Y. Breuer, Psychologist in North Bethesda, MD
Levi Y. Breuer
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Silver Spring, MD 20902
As a psychologist my number one goal is to approach you with acceptance, empathy, and unconditional positive regard. Through my work as a psychologist I have come to believe in the capacity of people to change. I welcome individuals that are questioning why their own attempts to improve the quality of their lives is not working. Often there can be mixed feelings about change. I recognize that change is difficult. I feel that self exploration is a challenge that often requires courage and risk.
As a psychologist my number one goal is to approach you with acceptance, empathy, and unconditional positive regard. Through my work as a psychologist I have come to believe in the capacity of people to change. I welcome individuals that are questioning why their own attempts to improve the quality of their lives is not working. Often there can be mixed feelings about change. I recognize that change is difficult. I feel that self exploration is a challenge that often requires courage and risk.
(410) 695-6178 View (410) 695-6178
Photo of Lisa T Schlesinger, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Bethesda, MD
Lisa T Schlesinger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, psychoa, lcswc, MSW
Verified Verified
Rockville, MD 20852
Most people would change what is making them unhappy, if they could. I feel my job is to help you become aware of the parts of yourself that are negatively impacting you.I help you look at the patterns that are making you feel stuck. We work together to understand what prevents you from attaining a better relationship with yourself and your loved ones. I believe that all humans desire to understand and to be understood. I create an environment where you can just simply be yourself.
Most people would change what is making them unhappy, if they could. I feel my job is to help you become aware of the parts of yourself that are negatively impacting you.I help you look at the patterns that are making you feel stuck. We work together to understand what prevents you from attaining a better relationship with yourself and your loved ones. I believe that all humans desire to understand and to be understood. I create an environment where you can just simply be yourself.
(301) 852-6885 View (301) 852-6885
Photo of Ken Ovitz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Bethesda, MD
Ken Ovitz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAT
Verified Verified
Rockville, MD 20852  (Online Only)
I am honored that my clients share their deepest secrets with me every day. I am grateful for the trust they place in me and I value their need for confidentiality. I make an effort to listen to my clients and hear what they say to learn what they need to grow. Every client is a person who is much greater than their problem behavior or diagnosis. While I have extensive training in treating trauma and sexual behavior problems, I also have experience and training in treating other mental health problems such as: Depression, Anxiety, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Panic Disorder, ADHD, and chemical as well as process addictions.
I am honored that my clients share their deepest secrets with me every day. I am grateful for the trust they place in me and I value their need for confidentiality. I make an effort to listen to my clients and hear what they say to learn what they need to grow. Every client is a person who is much greater than their problem behavior or diagnosis. While I have extensive training in treating trauma and sexual behavior problems, I also have experience and training in treating other mental health problems such as: Depression, Anxiety, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Panic Disorder, ADHD, and chemical as well as process addictions.
(301) 381-4439 View (301) 381-4439
Photo of Kim Ramsey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Bethesda, MD
Kim Ramsey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, CSAT, CPTT
Verified Verified
Rockville, MD 20852  (Online Only)
I have an eclectic background with a primary focus on treatment of trauma and sex addiction. I believe your therapist should challenge you to push past your comfort zone in a safe and trusting environment. I can teach you the skills you need to explore your emotions without being overwhelmed as you work toward creating real and lasting change in your life.
I have an eclectic background with a primary focus on treatment of trauma and sex addiction. I believe your therapist should challenge you to push past your comfort zone in a safe and trusting environment. I can teach you the skills you need to explore your emotions without being overwhelmed as you work toward creating real and lasting change in your life.
(240) 209-9726 View (240) 209-9726
Photo of Pulchery J Thelusma, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in North Bethesda, MD
Pulchery J Thelusma
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Rockville, MD 20852
TELETHERAPY Ideally, I want to create an environment that allows my clients to find their way, learn about themselves, and grow to be leaders in their treatment. The approaches I use give clients the ability to take the initiative, evaluate and then make a plan of action. Making the decision to enter into therapy is a challenge in itself. But in the end I want to meet the client where they are at and go from there. Where applicable I use Motivational Interviewing, mindfulness, play therapy, career/coaching and other modalities in practice.
TELETHERAPY Ideally, I want to create an environment that allows my clients to find their way, learn about themselves, and grow to be leaders in their treatment. The approaches I use give clients the ability to take the initiative, evaluate and then make a plan of action. Making the decision to enter into therapy is a challenge in itself. But in the end I want to meet the client where they are at and go from there. Where applicable I use Motivational Interviewing, mindfulness, play therapy, career/coaching and other modalities in practice.
(301) 329-6751 View (301) 329-6751
Photo of Parviz Steeds, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Bethesda, MD
Parviz Steeds
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
I believe that psychotherapy is very useful in connecting deeply with oneself and subsequently with others. Anxiety and depression are often related to faulty coping mechanisms developed in childhood that lead to painful relationships. Being happy in work and love are the pillars of a rewarding and fulfilled life and therapy makes this possible.
I believe that psychotherapy is very useful in connecting deeply with oneself and subsequently with others. Anxiety and depression are often related to faulty coping mechanisms developed in childhood that lead to painful relationships. Being happy in work and love are the pillars of a rewarding and fulfilled life and therapy makes this possible.
(301) 852-5242 View (301) 852-5242
Photo of Taylor White, Counselor in North Bethesda, MD
Taylor White
Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockville, MD 20852
I am more interested in what you are experiencing than anything I could tell you about myself. Generally, individuals come to therapy because they have reached a personal impasse and would like an outside perspective.
I am more interested in what you are experiencing than anything I could tell you about myself. Generally, individuals come to therapy because they have reached a personal impasse and would like an outside perspective.
(240) 753-6844 View (240) 753-6844

See more therapy options for North Bethesda

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.