Marriage Counseling Therapists in Grand Rapids, MI

Photo of Kimberly Hoke, Marriage & Family Therapist in Grand Rapids, MI
Kimberly Hoke
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LPC, LLMFT, NCC
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49508
Do you feel stuck having the same arguments where you know how things will end before it begins? Everyone experiences periods of difficulties as life changes and turns in unexpected directions. Whatever difficulties you are facing, you do not need to face them alone. As a marriage and family therapist, I will provide you and your family the tools needed to navigate life’s challenges in a safe, warm and understanding environment. Seeking help is not always easy although it can be rewarding.
Do you feel stuck having the same arguments where you know how things will end before it begins? Everyone experiences periods of difficulties as life changes and turns in unexpected directions. Whatever difficulties you are facing, you do not need to face them alone. As a marriage and family therapist, I will provide you and your family the tools needed to navigate life’s challenges in a safe, warm and understanding environment. Seeking help is not always easy although it can be rewarding.
(616) 236-2672 View (616) 236-2672
Photo of Great Lakes Psychology Group - Grand Rapids, Marriage & Family Therapist in Grand Rapids, MI
Great Lakes Psychology Group - Grand Rapids
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49544
The GLPG support staff will personally match you with a best-fit therapist who accepts your insurance and is available to see you online or in person at a time that works for you. The GLPG provider network comprises doctoral and master’s level psychologists, marriage and family therapists, professional counselors, and social workers. Benefits include online and in-person therapy options, night and weekend availability, and most insurance plans accepted. Additionally, our knowledgeable and helpful support staff are available to answer your questions or help with anything you might need at any point along the therapy journey.
The GLPG support staff will personally match you with a best-fit therapist who accepts your insurance and is available to see you online or in person at a time that works for you. The GLPG provider network comprises doctoral and master’s level psychologists, marriage and family therapists, professional counselors, and social workers. Benefits include online and in-person therapy options, night and weekend availability, and most insurance plans accepted. Additionally, our knowledgeable and helpful support staff are available to answer your questions or help with anything you might need at any point along the therapy journey.
(734) 802-2995 View (734) 802-2995
Photo of Dave Langerak, Limited Licensed Psychologist in Grand Rapids, MI
Dave Langerak
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
Are you searching a positive balance for life? Anxiety, depression, professional burnout, executive/leadership challenges, marital counseling, divorce dynamics, oppressive relationships, and trauma throw off our balance. As a Master Level Psychologist with over 30 years of experience I walk alongside people just like you who are looking for a way to find balance. Building a trusting relationship is the first step toward that path and achieving your goals. I provide a safe, non-judgmental, and confidential environment to explore your story. I use a variety of techniques to maximize your emotional, mental, physical and spiritual self.
Are you searching a positive balance for life? Anxiety, depression, professional burnout, executive/leadership challenges, marital counseling, divorce dynamics, oppressive relationships, and trauma throw off our balance. As a Master Level Psychologist with over 30 years of experience I walk alongside people just like you who are looking for a way to find balance. Building a trusting relationship is the first step toward that path and achieving your goals. I provide a safe, non-judgmental, and confidential environment to explore your story. I use a variety of techniques to maximize your emotional, mental, physical and spiritual self.
(616) 537-2209 View (616) 537-2209
Photo of Diane Schroeder, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Grand Rapids, MI
Diane Schroeder, MA, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
Why hire Diane? Not only is Diane a proficient counselor, she's been through the gamut herself (childhood trauma, depression, anxiety/stress, re-marriage, parenting, corporate relocation/downsizing, and re-education); she understands what it's like to achieve goals and can help you believe and achieve yours too!.
Are life's challenges getting in the way of you living fulfilled and satisfied? Do anxious thoughts, stress, or past hurts control your life? Whatever is holding you back, Diane believes you don't have to stay that way - healing and growth are possible! Diane is a skilled problem solver who can help you figure out what's happening and collaborate with you to make change. She will strategize with you to put together a unique, customized plan (which may include Neurofeedback Brain Training), focused entirely on your specific situation and story.
Why hire Diane? Not only is Diane a proficient counselor, she's been through the gamut herself (childhood trauma, depression, anxiety/stress, re-marriage, parenting, corporate relocation/downsizing, and re-education); she understands what it's like to achieve goals and can help you believe and achieve yours too!.
Are life's challenges getting in the way of you living fulfilled and satisfied? Do anxious thoughts, stress, or past hurts control your life? Whatever is holding you back, Diane believes you don't have to stay that way - healing and growth are possible! Diane is a skilled problem solver who can help you figure out what's happening and collaborate with you to make change. She will strategize with you to put together a unique, customized plan (which may include Neurofeedback Brain Training), focused entirely on your specific situation and story.
(616) 920-8135 View (616) 920-8135
Photo of Katie Peterson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Grand Rapids, MI
Katie Peterson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LLC
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49525
I enjoy working with teens (12 and up), adults and couples to address areas of concern with stress, anxiety, depression, life transitions, self-esteem, marriage/relationship conflict, grief/loss and trauma.
I've been there, making that first call or sending an email to set up a therapy appointment can be intimidating. Whether you have been to therapy before or it's your first time wondering where to even start, it takes courage to take that first step. If you are feeling stuck, overwhelmed or occasionally ask yourself "can my life be better than this?", you are not alone. Regardless of the situation you find yourself in, I am here to help you navigate it. If you are still on the fence, thats okay - book a free 15 minute call or email me to see if we would be a good fit!
I enjoy working with teens (12 and up), adults and couples to address areas of concern with stress, anxiety, depression, life transitions, self-esteem, marriage/relationship conflict, grief/loss and trauma.
I've been there, making that first call or sending an email to set up a therapy appointment can be intimidating. Whether you have been to therapy before or it's your first time wondering where to even start, it takes courage to take that first step. If you are feeling stuck, overwhelmed or occasionally ask yourself "can my life be better than this?", you are not alone. Regardless of the situation you find yourself in, I am here to help you navigate it. If you are still on the fence, thats okay - book a free 15 minute call or email me to see if we would be a good fit!
(616) 366-9193 x634 View (616) 366-9193 x634
Photo of Jeromy Krogman, Counselor in Grand Rapids, MI
Jeromy Krogman
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
Do you struggle with intrusive thoughts? Is it hard to get moving in the mornings? Is your life not what you wanted it to be? Then you have come to the right place. I work with a wide range of clients but specialize helping those with OCD and anxiety. I am also certified in helping couples improve their communication and build trust back into the relationship. I have helped couples deal with marriage infidelity as well as financial hardship. I also specialize in working through men's struggles. I have a very relaxed personality, which helps most clients feel at ease in talking in session.
Do you struggle with intrusive thoughts? Is it hard to get moving in the mornings? Is your life not what you wanted it to be? Then you have come to the right place. I work with a wide range of clients but specialize helping those with OCD and anxiety. I am also certified in helping couples improve their communication and build trust back into the relationship. I have helped couples deal with marriage infidelity as well as financial hardship. I also specialize in working through men's struggles. I have a very relaxed personality, which helps most clients feel at ease in talking in session.
(616) 947-4103 View (616) 947-4103
Photo of Josh Baron Counseling and Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Grand Rapids, MI
Josh Baron Counseling and Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, MDiv
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
I help clients who are experiencing issues related to marriage (I've completed Gottman Method Couples Therapy Level 2 Training), depression, anxiety, OCD, stress, relationships, life transitions, self-esteem, narcissism, family conflict, social skills, grief/loss, dementia, caregiving, and spirituality.
I'm a clinical social worker in Grand Rapids, Mi. I received my Master of Social Work degree from Western Michigan University and my Master of Divinity degree from Western Theological Seminary and have 19 years of experience providing professional care and counseling.
I help clients who are experiencing issues related to marriage (I've completed Gottman Method Couples Therapy Level 2 Training), depression, anxiety, OCD, stress, relationships, life transitions, self-esteem, narcissism, family conflict, social skills, grief/loss, dementia, caregiving, and spirituality.
I'm a clinical social worker in Grand Rapids, Mi. I received my Master of Social Work degree from Western Michigan University and my Master of Divinity degree from Western Theological Seminary and have 19 years of experience providing professional care and counseling.
(616) 920-6445 View (616) 920-6445
Photo of Us And Kids Communication Program, Marriage & Family Therapist in Grand Rapids, MI
Us And Kids Communication Program
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49546  (Online Only)
Couples with young kiddo are particularly at risk for marriage and family strife because they are so busy, and because there is so much that is new to their brains, emotions and relationship. Figuring out how to be both mom and dad as well as husband and wife is often overwhelming and troubling. Tension builds when the relationship energy gets split between kiddos needs (and there are a lot of them!) and marriage needs (and those are valid as well). The energy to figure out how to integrate all those needs, wants, wishes becomes divided and divisive. Disconnected and discontent brew and relationship trouble stews. What to do?
Couples with young kiddo are particularly at risk for marriage and family strife because they are so busy, and because there is so much that is new to their brains, emotions and relationship. Figuring out how to be both mom and dad as well as husband and wife is often overwhelming and troubling. Tension builds when the relationship energy gets split between kiddos needs (and there are a lot of them!) and marriage needs (and those are valid as well). The energy to figure out how to integrate all those needs, wants, wishes becomes divided and divisive. Disconnected and discontent brew and relationship trouble stews. What to do?
(616) 843-0985 View (616) 843-0985
Photo of Rachael J Kelly, Counselor in Grand Rapids, MI
Rachael J Kelly
Counselor, MA, LLPC
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49507
Offering services in; anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma, family/marital therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), behavioral therapy, play therapy, person-centered therapy.
Rachael has been interested in mental health since she can remember. Growing up, this manifested itself into her being a nosy kiddo :). However, as she aged she turned that "nosiness" into a passion, an education, and a career. Rachael is excited about the relief and clarity offered in working through a therapeutic process. Being a Christian, Rachael is also sure that God cares deeply about the wholeness of His people.
Offering services in; anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma, family/marital therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), behavioral therapy, play therapy, person-centered therapy.
Rachael has been interested in mental health since she can remember. Growing up, this manifested itself into her being a nosy kiddo :). However, as she aged she turned that "nosiness" into a passion, an education, and a career. Rachael is excited about the relief and clarity offered in working through a therapeutic process. Being a Christian, Rachael is also sure that God cares deeply about the wholeness of His people.
(616) 369-9206 View (616) 369-9206
Photo of Caleb Charles Rudd, Counselor in Grand Rapids, MI
Caleb Charles Rudd
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
It would be horrible to go to someone for help in working through problems in your relationship, only to find someone convinced you are the problem in your marriage.
After the fresh passion of a new or developing relationship cools, partners in marriages and committed relationships often find they experience a distancing from one another. Often this distancing results in anger and resentment toward partners. Problems which were once minor irritants now seem to be major issues which seem to always be a source of conflict and anger, or may be avoided entirely for fear of conflict. In counseling couples and families using the Gottman method, my passion is helping my clients transform their relationships and gain a new sense of optimism in their relational pursuits.
It would be horrible to go to someone for help in working through problems in your relationship, only to find someone convinced you are the problem in your marriage.
After the fresh passion of a new or developing relationship cools, partners in marriages and committed relationships often find they experience a distancing from one another. Often this distancing results in anger and resentment toward partners. Problems which were once minor irritants now seem to be major issues which seem to always be a source of conflict and anger, or may be avoided entirely for fear of conflict. In counseling couples and families using the Gottman method, my passion is helping my clients transform their relationships and gain a new sense of optimism in their relational pursuits.
(269) 234-1686 View (269) 234-1686
Photo of Heather Hemphill, Licensed Professional Counselor in Grand Rapids, MI
Heather Hemphill
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LLMFT, CAADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
I have worked with individuals, couples, and families experiencing issues such as anxiety, depression, alcohol and drug addiction, marriage problems, and other types of relationship problems.
I believe in the innate capabilities, strength, and wellness of my clients and that the counseling relationship provides the basis from which change can occur. My approach is to walk beside you and validate your personal experiences and invite you to make changes based on your priorities and values. We will work together to decide on your goals and the means for accomplishing them. It can be scary to take the first steps and believe you can achieve your goals. By working together, we can find the path that works for you to heal and grow in all areas of your life.
I have worked with individuals, couples, and families experiencing issues such as anxiety, depression, alcohol and drug addiction, marriage problems, and other types of relationship problems.
I believe in the innate capabilities, strength, and wellness of my clients and that the counseling relationship provides the basis from which change can occur. My approach is to walk beside you and validate your personal experiences and invite you to make changes based on your priorities and values. We will work together to decide on your goals and the means for accomplishing them. It can be scary to take the first steps and believe you can achieve your goals. By working together, we can find the path that works for you to heal and grow in all areas of your life.
(616) 300-2310 View (616) 300-2310
Photo of Kerry Hart, Marriage & Family Therapist in Grand Rapids, MI
Kerry Hart
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Not Verified Not Verified
2 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
Kerry Hart is a Couple and Family Therapist working from a systemic approach. Kerry helps her clients understand their pasts and helps shape their futures by pointing out patterns that have developed in her client's lives, as well as within their families, and family history. Kerry received her Master's in Family Therapy from Drexel University in Philadelphia, PA and is a member of the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT). Kerry enjoys working from a client centered perspective, with individuals, couples, families, teens, and adults.
Kerry Hart is a Couple and Family Therapist working from a systemic approach. Kerry helps her clients understand their pasts and helps shape their futures by pointing out patterns that have developed in her client's lives, as well as within their families, and family history. Kerry received her Master's in Family Therapy from Drexel University in Philadelphia, PA and is a member of the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT). Kerry enjoys working from a client centered perspective, with individuals, couples, families, teens, and adults.
(616) 298-3169 View (616) 298-3169
Photo of Sophia Dykstra, Licensed Professional Counselor in Grand Rapids, MI
Sophia Dykstra
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CAADC, ACS
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Tired of just coping with family problems? Marriage heading in a bad direction? Kids having issues? You don't want to wait around, hoping things will get better. You want actionable steps and to get moving. You want to find healing and wholeness. Don't want to pack up all the kids? We offer therapy in your home. For more information on couples, family, and teen counseling in Michigan and Florida, visit Family-Wholeness.com.
Tired of just coping with family problems? Marriage heading in a bad direction? Kids having issues? You don't want to wait around, hoping things will get better. You want actionable steps and to get moving. You want to find healing and wholeness. Don't want to pack up all the kids? We offer therapy in your home. For more information on couples, family, and teen counseling in Michigan and Florida, visit Family-Wholeness.com.
(616) 236-5483 View (616) 236-5483
Photo of Tim Ulstad, Licensed Professional Counselor in Grand Rapids, MI
Tim Ulstad
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LLPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49505
These area's include: Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Trauma, Spiritual, and Faith Issues for individuals as well as Marriage and Pre-marriage counseling for couples.
As a counselor it is my desire to see people grow and change in order to achieve their goals. I enjoy working with clients to help them see their potential and to take steps in the growth process. Life isn't always easy and sometimes we can all benefit from some guidance as we work to overcome the difficulties and obstacles we face.
These area's include: Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Trauma, Spiritual, and Faith Issues for individuals as well as Marriage and Pre-marriage counseling for couples.
As a counselor it is my desire to see people grow and change in order to achieve their goals. I enjoy working with clients to help them see their potential and to take steps in the growth process. Life isn't always easy and sometimes we can all benefit from some guidance as we work to overcome the difficulties and obstacles we face.
(616) 773-2480 View (616) 773-2480
Photo of Anyssa Grendel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Grand Rapids, MI
Anyssa Grendel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BS, LMSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49525
Anyssa specializes in supporting mental health/medical professionals and areas of depression/anxiety, obsessive/intrusive thinking, psychosomatic experiences, perinatal/parenting and marriage issues. Anyssa provides LLMSW and MSW intern supervision. Also a believer in both the human connection and animal support to our emotional and mental health and conduct ESA assessments. As a group practice we support the needs of children, teens, adults and couples so visit our website for more information on our practice and individual providers.
Anyssa specializes in supporting mental health/medical professionals and areas of depression/anxiety, obsessive/intrusive thinking, psychosomatic experiences, perinatal/parenting and marriage issues. Anyssa provides LLMSW and MSW intern supervision. Also a believer in both the human connection and animal support to our emotional and mental health and conduct ESA assessments. As a group practice we support the needs of children, teens, adults and couples so visit our website for more information on our practice and individual providers.
(616) 877-9050 View (616) 877-9050
Photo of Helen Ceballo-Hernandez, Licensed Professional Counselor in Grand Rapids, MI
Helen Ceballo-Hernandez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LLPC
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
I counsel individuals, families, couples and pre-marital couples.
You will be respected and your story acknowledged. No one has your exact story and circumstance. Together we will work so that the rest of your life's story may be genuine and fulfilling. I practice a predominantly humanistic approach in which you receive unconditional, positive regard. In other words, regardless of what you say, you will be accepted and supported and treated with value. Your healing, progress and strive will be the forefront of our work. Counseling requires work and courage to make healthy changes. I will be honored to work along with you. Let's be courageous together.
I counsel individuals, families, couples and pre-marital couples.
You will be respected and your story acknowledged. No one has your exact story and circumstance. Together we will work so that the rest of your life's story may be genuine and fulfilling. I practice a predominantly humanistic approach in which you receive unconditional, positive regard. In other words, regardless of what you say, you will be accepted and supported and treated with value. Your healing, progress and strive will be the forefront of our work. Counseling requires work and courage to make healthy changes. I will be honored to work along with you. Let's be courageous together.
(616) 427-1787 View (616) 427-1787
Photo of LaDawn N Evans, Counselor in Grand Rapids, MI
LaDawn N Evans
Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
Specifications/Certifications: Prepare and Enrich/Pre-marriage and Marriage Counseling, Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Life Coaching, Trauma-focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy.
Whether dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, or life turmoil, you’ve made a tremendous step in your healing journey and my goal is to help you along the path to restoration and growth! You were gifted with the attributes to reach your dreams and goals. It is my job and joy to supply you with tools to unearth those jewels that are within you. I received my Bachelor’s of Science in Psychology from Cornerstone University and Masters of Arts in Counseling from Spring Arbor University. I have served as a life coach for 15+ years. I provide counseling and life coaching services to adults, couples, and families.
Specifications/Certifications: Prepare and Enrich/Pre-marriage and Marriage Counseling, Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Life Coaching, Trauma-focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy.
Whether dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, or life turmoil, you’ve made a tremendous step in your healing journey and my goal is to help you along the path to restoration and growth! You were gifted with the attributes to reach your dreams and goals. It is my job and joy to supply you with tools to unearth those jewels that are within you. I received my Bachelor’s of Science in Psychology from Cornerstone University and Masters of Arts in Counseling from Spring Arbor University. I have served as a life coach for 15+ years. I provide counseling and life coaching services to adults, couples, and families.
(616) 208-2138 x700 View (616) 208-2138 x700
Photo of Julia Ann McIntire, Counselor in Grand Rapids, MI
Julia Ann McIntire
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
Many of us struggle to get out of the same cycle we're in and we want or need a change. Maybe you're in an unhealthy cycle in your relationship/marriage, in your parenting; or maybe your past trauma/abuse that was never dealt with is contributing to your current hardships. Maybe you're struggling with a cycle of depression, fear/panic, or addiction that you can't get out of. Sometimes it's hard to know where to start changing, but this is hopefully where I can begin helping you. I would love to hear your story and to provide you the clinical insight and direction you want/need to help you find healing, freedom, and contentment. :-)
Many of us struggle to get out of the same cycle we're in and we want or need a change. Maybe you're in an unhealthy cycle in your relationship/marriage, in your parenting; or maybe your past trauma/abuse that was never dealt with is contributing to your current hardships. Maybe you're struggling with a cycle of depression, fear/panic, or addiction that you can't get out of. Sometimes it's hard to know where to start changing, but this is hopefully where I can begin helping you. I would love to hear your story and to provide you the clinical insight and direction you want/need to help you find healing, freedom, and contentment. :-)
(616) 822-4858 View (616) 822-4858
Photo of Hannah Borman, Counselor in Grand Rapids, MI
Hannah Borman
Counselor, MA, LLPC
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
Are you weary of feeling consistently 'stuck' in the fast lane, wondering if your body and mind can remember what it is like to slow down and rest? Or maybe you're feeling shut down and it takes effort to do the bare minimum? Struggling to feel connection in your close relationships, or wondering how to move forward in a partnership or marriage that feels stagnant? I value the opportunity to create an environment where you can breathe, connect with safety in mind and body, and engage in a therapeutic relationship as you journey toward greater self-discovery and freedom.
Are you weary of feeling consistently 'stuck' in the fast lane, wondering if your body and mind can remember what it is like to slow down and rest? Or maybe you're feeling shut down and it takes effort to do the bare minimum? Struggling to feel connection in your close relationships, or wondering how to move forward in a partnership or marriage that feels stagnant? I value the opportunity to create an environment where you can breathe, connect with safety in mind and body, and engage in a therapeutic relationship as you journey toward greater self-discovery and freedom.
(616) 537-6596 View (616) 537-6596
Photo of Benjamin A Taylor, Licensed Professional Counselor in Grand Rapids, MI
Benjamin A Taylor
Licensed Professional Counselor, MDiv, LLPC
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49525
Waitlist for new clients
My experience includes the following areas: Pre-marital, marriage and family, anxiety/depression, faith-specific issues, grief/loss, communication skills, anger, stress, substance abuse, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and other mental illnesses.
My role as a therapist is to help you recognize your needs and wants, and to offer you support during the process of healing and growth. My therapeutic philosophy is a strength-based approach that is based on my belief that you are the expert of your life. We will work together to discover the best way for you to find answers to your problems.
My experience includes the following areas: Pre-marital, marriage and family, anxiety/depression, faith-specific issues, grief/loss, communication skills, anger, stress, substance abuse, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and other mental illnesses.
My role as a therapist is to help you recognize your needs and wants, and to offer you support during the process of healing and growth. My therapeutic philosophy is a strength-based approach that is based on my belief that you are the expert of your life. We will work together to discover the best way for you to find answers to your problems.
(616) 201-3585 View (616) 201-3585

See more therapy options for Grand Rapids

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.