Photo of Sherry L. Strahan, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in Missouri
Sherry L. Strahan, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MSFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
Gladstone, MO 64118
I have been a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist since 1997 and can help you with reducing your stress and improving your life. I work with young children(age 3 and up), teens, and adults. I specialize in couple/family therapy, as well as in play therapy. Are you asking yourself questions like "Will I ever feel happy again?" or "Can my spouse/significant other and I really work through our problems?" or "Will my child ever follow the rules without a hassle?". If you are, I can tell you change is possible and I can help you with that change.
I have been a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist since 1997 and can help you with reducing your stress and improving your life. I work with young children(age 3 and up), teens, and adults. I specialize in couple/family therapy, as well as in play therapy. Are you asking yourself questions like "Will I ever feel happy again?" or "Can my spouse/significant other and I really work through our problems?" or "Will my child ever follow the rules without a hassle?". If you are, I can tell you change is possible and I can help you with that change.
(816) 533-7837 View (816) 533-7837
Photo of Johnnetta Cole, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Johnnetta Cole
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Chesterfield, MO 63005
My speciality is depression, mood disorders, anxiety, grief and interpersonal relationships (marriage, pre-marital, infidelity, mom/daughter difficulties).
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who welcomes individuals from all walks of life. Are you feeling down, stuck, overwhelmed, discouraged, hopeless? Are you experiencing difficulties with relationships, work/school or life in general? I would love for us to work together and collaborate a healthy plan of approach. I will walk side by side with you as you take this journey. Congratulations on your decision to utilize self-care and seek professional counseling.
My speciality is depression, mood disorders, anxiety, grief and interpersonal relationships (marriage, pre-marital, infidelity, mom/daughter difficulties).
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who welcomes individuals from all walks of life. Are you feeling down, stuck, overwhelmed, discouraged, hopeless? Are you experiencing difficulties with relationships, work/school or life in general? I would love for us to work together and collaborate a healthy plan of approach. I will walk side by side with you as you take this journey. Congratulations on your decision to utilize self-care and seek professional counseling.
(636) 333-1097 View (636) 333-1097
Photo of Eric Lindhorst M.S.W., L.C.S.W., Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Missouri
Eric Lindhorst M.S.W., L.C.S.W.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63141
I have specialized training in Marriage and Family Therapy from the Family Therapy Institute, a two year intensive training program which included training in drug and alcohol treatment for families.
I offer appointments from 4:30 pm to 9:30 pm to work with your schedule. I work to find the strengths people have within themselves. Individuals, couples, and families who are struggling with a variety of issues, including Anger, Depression, and Anxiety. Clients who benefit from my services appreciate my delicate sense of humor while confronting complex issues. The use of humor can be an uplifting experience in treatment.
I have specialized training in Marriage and Family Therapy from the Family Therapy Institute, a two year intensive training program which included training in drug and alcohol treatment for families.
I offer appointments from 4:30 pm to 9:30 pm to work with your schedule. I work to find the strengths people have within themselves. Individuals, couples, and families who are struggling with a variety of issues, including Anger, Depression, and Anxiety. Clients who benefit from my services appreciate my delicate sense of humor while confronting complex issues. The use of humor can be an uplifting experience in treatment.
(314) 394-8630 View (314) 394-8630
Photo of Linda R Partridge, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Linda R Partridge
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MS, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
O Fallon, MO 63366
My specialities include emotional trauma, financial worry, marital and relationship problems, self-image issues, spiritual insights, parenting issues, grief concerns, depression, school problems, anxiety, phobias, panic attacks, anger management, and others.
Scared to go to counseling? Whether you are an adult or a child, I offer exciting, non-judgmental, state-of-the-art information that provides clear answers to issues that are terrifying to you or seem impossible to fix. Before you leave your first appointment, you will know why your problem is occurring and HOW to begin achieving immediate, positive change in any situation. The process will not be scary but FUN, no matter how serious the problem! Additionally, you will take with you an empowered insight to life that guarantees the way to substantially happier living!
My specialities include emotional trauma, financial worry, marital and relationship problems, self-image issues, spiritual insights, parenting issues, grief concerns, depression, school problems, anxiety, phobias, panic attacks, anger management, and others.
Scared to go to counseling? Whether you are an adult or a child, I offer exciting, non-judgmental, state-of-the-art information that provides clear answers to issues that are terrifying to you or seem impossible to fix. Before you leave your first appointment, you will know why your problem is occurring and HOW to begin achieving immediate, positive change in any situation. The process will not be scary but FUN, no matter how serious the problem! Additionally, you will take with you an empowered insight to life that guarantees the way to substantially happier living!
(636) 240-2240 View (636) 240-2240
Photo of Anthony S Baker, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Anthony S Baker
Licensed Professional Counselor, MDiv, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64151
I am a relationship specialist. If you are experiencing relational distress in your marriage or civil union, I can help. If you are having trouble communicating or your life goals seem not to align anymore with your partner, I can help. If you are at your wits end and all of your attempts to address your situation have failed, then give me a call. You don't have to live in anger, distrust, anxiety, or hopelessness. Happiness and satisfaction in your relationship can be yours.
I am a relationship specialist. If you are experiencing relational distress in your marriage or civil union, I can help. If you are having trouble communicating or your life goals seem not to align anymore with your partner, I can help. If you are at your wits end and all of your attempts to address your situation have failed, then give me a call. You don't have to live in anger, distrust, anxiety, or hopelessness. Happiness and satisfaction in your relationship can be yours.
(816) 578-0437 View (816) 578-0437
Photo of Patricia Alewel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Missouri
Patricia Alewel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LCSW
Verified Verified
With my experience and extensive training, I can offer you individual, couple/marital and family therapy to address the presenting problems in your life.
Are you feeling stuck and confused about how to manage stress in your life? Do you have a problem(s)/decision(s) that you are not sure how to resolve? Sometimes the thought of seeking a therapist can be scary and intimidating. You may discover, it can ease the struggles that often appear in one's life. I have been a clinician for over 20 yrs with experience from a variety of settings, such as, private practice, in-patient and outpatient behavioral health. I am dedicated to making your journey easier. Whether you are faced with a daily stressor or have major concerns, I am here to support you to find comfort and solutions regarding your challenges.
With my experience and extensive training, I can offer you individual, couple/marital and family therapy to address the presenting problems in your life.
Are you feeling stuck and confused about how to manage stress in your life? Do you have a problem(s)/decision(s) that you are not sure how to resolve? Sometimes the thought of seeking a therapist can be scary and intimidating. You may discover, it can ease the struggles that often appear in one's life. I have been a clinician for over 20 yrs with experience from a variety of settings, such as, private practice, in-patient and outpatient behavioral health. I am dedicated to making your journey easier. Whether you are faced with a daily stressor or have major concerns, I am here to support you to find comfort and solutions regarding your challenges.
(573) 284-8225 View (573) 284-8225
Photo of Samantha Anderson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Samantha Anderson
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPC, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Liberty, MO 64068
Hi! I am glad you are here. It takes courage to make the first step whether you are searching for yourself, your marriage, a child, or a loved one. At times we find ourselves in the middle of a life altering transition, struggling with our mental health, and in need of extra support. Asking for help can feel difficult, but getting better does not need to be! Do any of these resonate with you: lack of self love, healing from toxic relationships, wanting to truly know yourself, feel like something is missing in your life, or just anxious and unhappy? If those struggles feel familiar, please reach out to see if we would be a good fit!
Hi! I am glad you are here. It takes courage to make the first step whether you are searching for yourself, your marriage, a child, or a loved one. At times we find ourselves in the middle of a life altering transition, struggling with our mental health, and in need of extra support. Asking for help can feel difficult, but getting better does not need to be! Do any of these resonate with you: lack of self love, healing from toxic relationships, wanting to truly know yourself, feel like something is missing in your life, or just anxious and unhappy? If those struggles feel familiar, please reach out to see if we would be a good fit!
(816) 239-2967 View (816) 239-2967
Photo of Nate Rayburn, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Nate Rayburn
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Grain Valley, MO 64029
I specialize in working with Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Family Issues, Marital Issues, Autism, Adoption Issues, Substance Dependence Disorders, and Sex Addiction.
Hello! My name is Nate Rayburn and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Grain Valley Missouri. I have been practicing counseling in Missouri for the past eight years and look forward to being able to help you with any number of issues you may be battling.
I specialize in working with Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Family Issues, Marital Issues, Autism, Adoption Issues, Substance Dependence Disorders, and Sex Addiction.
Hello! My name is Nate Rayburn and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Grain Valley Missouri. I have been practicing counseling in Missouri for the past eight years and look forward to being able to help you with any number of issues you may be battling.
(816) 443-5279 View (816) 443-5279
Photo of James M Morgan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
James M Morgan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Saint Peters, MO 63376
Whether you are in a marriage that is struggling, having a problem personally with substances, or just need some help clearing out the clutter in your life, my approach to counseling comes from many different counseling theories. I believe that it is important to focus on the here and now, emphasizing future actions, behaviors, and thoughts, rather than deeply exploring the past. While the past has brought us where we are today, how you believe today and how you act today is of more importance. I believe in being directive and intentional in all aspects of therapy.
Whether you are in a marriage that is struggling, having a problem personally with substances, or just need some help clearing out the clutter in your life, my approach to counseling comes from many different counseling theories. I believe that it is important to focus on the here and now, emphasizing future actions, behaviors, and thoughts, rather than deeply exploring the past. While the past has brought us where we are today, how you believe today and how you act today is of more importance. I believe in being directive and intentional in all aspects of therapy.
(636) 400-3311 View (636) 400-3311
Photo of Allison Shipley, Marriage & Family Therapist in Missouri
Allison Shipley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chesterfield, MO 63017
Despite what's happening in the world today, our mental health is VITAL to helping our immune system and overall functioning! I welcome you in taking the first step to health and healing. Every person and family is unique and all can face challenges. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist am trained in Family Systems therapy, which specifically treats the family as one unit, acknowledging that all individuals' actions affect each other collectively.
Despite what's happening in the world today, our mental health is VITAL to helping our immune system and overall functioning! I welcome you in taking the first step to health and healing. Every person and family is unique and all can face challenges. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist am trained in Family Systems therapy, which specifically treats the family as one unit, acknowledging that all individuals' actions affect each other collectively.
(314) 403-7571 View (314) 403-7571
Photo of Holly Hemphill, Marriage & Family Therapist in Missouri
Holly Hemphill
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, DAACS
Verified Verified
Liberty, MO 64068
As a specialist in marriage counseling and family therapy, I can assist with reorganizing your relationship with a focus on an outcome that is best for your couples style and your family.
Everybody has periods in their lives where they find themselves struggling with the circumstances of life. I offer an environment that can address these issues and answers can be found in a positive and supportive atmosphere. Working on improving communication, intimacy and connection can help breathe life into your relationship, and I look forward to contributing to that journey. That journey may include the use of talk therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, EMDR, and emotionally focused therapy.
As a specialist in marriage counseling and family therapy, I can assist with reorganizing your relationship with a focus on an outcome that is best for your couples style and your family.
Everybody has periods in their lives where they find themselves struggling with the circumstances of life. I offer an environment that can address these issues and answers can be found in a positive and supportive atmosphere. Working on improving communication, intimacy and connection can help breathe life into your relationship, and I look forward to contributing to that journey. That journey may include the use of talk therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, EMDR, and emotionally focused therapy.
(816) 607-4221 View (816) 607-4221
Photo of Family Therapy of the Ozarks, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Missouri
Family Therapy of the Ozarks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCDP-D, MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Springfield, MO 65804
I look forward to working with clients whose life path may have created difficulties for them that has led them not be the best of who they can be. Each individual's path may have been sprinkled with physical or emotional abuse, neglect, assault, grief and loss, domestic violence, marital or parental discord or a myriad of other situations. Sometimes these life paths create in my clients a feeling of hopeless and loss of self-worth, sometimes these path end with someone needing to determine a plan to leave an unsafe living situation. Sometimes these paths lead to turning to substances and illegal drugs to cope with the internal turmoil and pain. It is my privlege to work with clients to help them identify and bring forth the best of who they are and what they want for their life, their family and their future through their own individual strengths.
I look forward to working with clients whose life path may have created difficulties for them that has led them not be the best of who they can be. Each individual's path may have been sprinkled with physical or emotional abuse, neglect, assault, grief and loss, domestic violence, marital or parental discord or a myriad of other situations. Sometimes these life paths create in my clients a feeling of hopeless and loss of self-worth, sometimes these path end with someone needing to determine a plan to leave an unsafe living situation. Sometimes these paths lead to turning to substances and illegal drugs to cope with the internal turmoil and pain. It is my privlege to work with clients to help them identify and bring forth the best of who they are and what they want for their life, their family and their future through their own individual strengths.
(417) 497-3016 View (417) 497-3016
Photo of Holly Pfisterer Strelow, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Holly Pfisterer Strelow
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MEd
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63105
Some of these include: mental health, faith journey, marital issues, special needs children, caring for parents, terminal illness, grief, career transitions, sexuality, identity crisis.
About a decade ago I attended a conference at the Omega Institute and was reawakened to the immense suffering in the world and I realized there was no more time to waste. I needed to change careers in order to be of service. All of my life I wanted to be a healer and pursued a Masters degree in Clinical Mental Health. My approach is mindful, practical, respectful and always hopeful. I believe each of us holds the key to our own healing within our highest sense of Self. My role is to help support that discovery process through thoughtful exploration, creativity and a little humor.
Some of these include: mental health, faith journey, marital issues, special needs children, caring for parents, terminal illness, grief, career transitions, sexuality, identity crisis.
About a decade ago I attended a conference at the Omega Institute and was reawakened to the immense suffering in the world and I realized there was no more time to waste. I needed to change careers in order to be of service. All of my life I wanted to be a healer and pursued a Masters degree in Clinical Mental Health. My approach is mindful, practical, respectful and always hopeful. I believe each of us holds the key to our own healing within our highest sense of Self. My role is to help support that discovery process through thoughtful exploration, creativity and a little humor.
(314) 309-3605 View (314) 309-3605
Photo of Rochelle Pruett, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Rochelle Pruett
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lees Summit, MO 64063
Waitlist for new clients
Depression and Anxiety, Couples Counseling; Family Counseling; Pre-Marital Counseling; Life Transitions Work and Career Issues; Moving Beyond the Past Trauma; Faith-Based Individual, Couple, and Family Concerns.
I believe relationships are central to life. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I assist individuals and couples in developing intimate relationships, and in living a richer, fuller life. I work with adolescents, young adults, newly married and experienced adults. I am well prepared to help you gain a deeper understanding of yourself and make the changes you are seeking.
Depression and Anxiety, Couples Counseling; Family Counseling; Pre-Marital Counseling; Life Transitions Work and Career Issues; Moving Beyond the Past Trauma; Faith-Based Individual, Couple, and Family Concerns.
I believe relationships are central to life. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I assist individuals and couples in developing intimate relationships, and in living a richer, fuller life. I work with adolescents, young adults, newly married and experienced adults. I am well prepared to help you gain a deeper understanding of yourself and make the changes you are seeking.
(816) 298-9420 View (816) 298-9420
Photo of Peggy Levinson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Missouri
Peggy Levinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
Clayton, MO 63105
She helps individuals with pre-marital and marital counseling, anxiety, depression, addictions, to develop a healthier response to their relationship, work, and family problems.
With a professional style that blends warmth and caring, Peggy brings in-depth treatment skills and 40 years of experience to her work . A family systems and psychodynamically trained therapist, she devises systems of treatment based on the individual needs of her patients. Peggy has offered workshops at universities and hospitals across the Midwest, including Washington University and the United Way. From her initial work at a New York hospital to her current private practice, Peggy has shown genuine commitment to helping her clients reach their full potential, emphasizing the connection between body, mind, and spirit.
She helps individuals with pre-marital and marital counseling, anxiety, depression, addictions, to develop a healthier response to their relationship, work, and family problems.
With a professional style that blends warmth and caring, Peggy brings in-depth treatment skills and 40 years of experience to her work . A family systems and psychodynamically trained therapist, she devises systems of treatment based on the individual needs of her patients. Peggy has offered workshops at universities and hospitals across the Midwest, including Washington University and the United Way. From her initial work at a New York hospital to her current private practice, Peggy has shown genuine commitment to helping her clients reach their full potential, emphasizing the connection between body, mind, and spirit.
(314) 714-5959 View (314) 714-5959
Photo of Alisha Ross, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Alisha Ross
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ozark, MO 65721
In addition to EMDR and traditional counseling, I work with engaged couples to help them prepare for a healthy marriage.
I work with adolescents, adults, and families to break generational cycles. I guide and empower individuals to take back control of their lives and become their best self. I have had to overcome hardships that were placed in my life and through counseling, I was able to take back my life! I believe that every individual deserves a safe space to heal. I will provide an atmosphere where people are free to experience change. I believe change is capable of everyone. I believe in our scars telling our story of healing. I believe in growth, forgiveness, second, and third chances. I believe in people. I believe in hope.
In addition to EMDR and traditional counseling, I work with engaged couples to help them prepare for a healthy marriage.
I work with adolescents, adults, and families to break generational cycles. I guide and empower individuals to take back control of their lives and become their best self. I have had to overcome hardships that were placed in my life and through counseling, I was able to take back my life! I believe that every individual deserves a safe space to heal. I will provide an atmosphere where people are free to experience change. I believe change is capable of everyone. I believe in our scars telling our story of healing. I believe in growth, forgiveness, second, and third chances. I believe in people. I believe in hope.
(417) 815-7085 View (417) 815-7085
Photo of Jessica Twehous, Pre-Licensed Professional in Missouri
Jessica Twehous
Pre-Licensed Professional, M Ed, PLPC
Verified Verified
Jefferson City, MO 65109  (Online Only)
What if you could wake up tomorrow and finally feel better? What if you were living the life you truly desired? Therapy allows us to find real solutions to our greatest challenges. Perhaps your relationship or marriage is in a rut, your anxiety has left you paralyzed and fearful, or your depression has kept you in bed for weeks. Whatever your struggle is, I am here to offer a warm, helping hand so that we can help you get back to living your life. I seek to provide a safe space to work through your complex and unique challenges to foster lasting transformation. You weren't meant to merely survive, but to thrive.
What if you could wake up tomorrow and finally feel better? What if you were living the life you truly desired? Therapy allows us to find real solutions to our greatest challenges. Perhaps your relationship or marriage is in a rut, your anxiety has left you paralyzed and fearful, or your depression has kept you in bed for weeks. Whatever your struggle is, I am here to offer a warm, helping hand so that we can help you get back to living your life. I seek to provide a safe space to work through your complex and unique challenges to foster lasting transformation. You weren't meant to merely survive, but to thrive.
(573) 261-5982 View (573) 261-5982
Photo of Francelle Neal, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Francelle Neal
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAC, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Saint Charles, MO 63303
Society Today is faced with multiple Life stressors ranging from Financial, Marital, Relational, issues with employment and or Life In General. Through Therapy, an Individualized Improvement Plan can be devised and implemented to assist individuals with coping and possibly overcoming the issues they are facing. Adolescents and Teens are complicated, and I am eager to assist. Teen groups are available as well as individualized treatment. Two people working together are always better than one. As a therapist I have learned the more input a client contributes to their therapeutic goals the better the outcomes and success possibility.
Society Today is faced with multiple Life stressors ranging from Financial, Marital, Relational, issues with employment and or Life In General. Through Therapy, an Individualized Improvement Plan can be devised and implemented to assist individuals with coping and possibly overcoming the issues they are facing. Adolescents and Teens are complicated, and I am eager to assist. Teen groups are available as well as individualized treatment. Two people working together are always better than one. As a therapist I have learned the more input a client contributes to their therapeutic goals the better the outcomes and success possibility.
(636) 923-4751 View (636) 923-4751
Photo of Lanny W Mcfarland, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Lanny W Mcfarland
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63123
If you are reading this, then chances are you or someone you love is in need of professional counseling. I understand this can be a difficult process and cause significant anxiety. But you are just a simple phone call away. So whether you are struggling with depression or anxiety disorder, marital problems, spiritual abuse or issues of faith, trauma from childhood abuse, or some form of addiction, you have turned to the right place. Together, as a relationship of trust begins, we will identify what you hope counseling will provide and a plan to address that hope.
If you are reading this, then chances are you or someone you love is in need of professional counseling. I understand this can be a difficult process and cause significant anxiety. But you are just a simple phone call away. So whether you are struggling with depression or anxiety disorder, marital problems, spiritual abuse or issues of faith, trauma from childhood abuse, or some form of addiction, you have turned to the right place. Together, as a relationship of trust begins, we will identify what you hope counseling will provide and a plan to address that hope.
(314) 736-3593 View (314) 736-3593
Photo of Jennifer Webbe VanLuven, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Missouri
Jennifer Webbe VanLuven
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CM
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Creve Coeur, MO 63141
Relationships are difficult. I specialize in helping clients with their relationship issues, whether they want to stay in the relationship/ marriage or go their separate ways. I assist individuals, and couples in navigating the difficult decisions that lie ahead in their relationships. My expertise are in therapy, with high conflict relationships, and divorce counseling. Being trained in family law, allows me to help individuals navigate through Divorce Mediation for when couples must move on, prioritizing for their mental health and financial well being. I have 20 plus years of experience working in the mental health fields.
Relationships are difficult. I specialize in helping clients with their relationship issues, whether they want to stay in the relationship/ marriage or go their separate ways. I assist individuals, and couples in navigating the difficult decisions that lie ahead in their relationships. My expertise are in therapy, with high conflict relationships, and divorce counseling. Being trained in family law, allows me to help individuals navigate through Divorce Mediation for when couples must move on, prioritizing for their mental health and financial well being. I have 20 plus years of experience working in the mental health fields.
(314) 582-9021 View (314) 582-9021
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.