Marriage Counseling Therapists in Garner, NC

Photo of Ana Krah, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Garner, NC
Ana Krah
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Garner, NC 27529
My graduate degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Appalachian State University allows me to assess, diagnose, and treat, psychological, social, and behavioral disorders.
If you have been hoping to acquire skills to better navigate emotional challenges like anxiety and depression, improve your communication in relationships, learn to affirm yourself and others, and uncover your strengths, you are in the right place. Hi, I’m Ana Krah. A Therapist for teens, adults, couples, and families. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Associate at Bridges Family Life Center, a family owned and operated practice. My hope is to empower clients to advocate for themselves to live the life they desire.
My graduate degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Appalachian State University allows me to assess, diagnose, and treat, psychological, social, and behavioral disorders.
If you have been hoping to acquire skills to better navigate emotional challenges like anxiety and depression, improve your communication in relationships, learn to affirm yourself and others, and uncover your strengths, you are in the right place. Hi, I’m Ana Krah. A Therapist for teens, adults, couples, and families. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Associate at Bridges Family Life Center, a family owned and operated practice. My hope is to empower clients to advocate for themselves to live the life they desire.
(919) 822-5381 View (919) 822-5381
Photo of Lora S. Williams, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Garner, NC
Lora S. Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Garner, NC 27529
Your child will love coming to therapy! For marriage counseling, I bring twenty-eight years of successful marital experience to the process of restoring and enhancing your relationship.
As we partner together to find real-life solutions to real-world problems, we begin with the conviction that with God's help, we can find healing and restoration. As a Christian counselor with more than twenty years of experience, I have found that Christian counseling is not only unique, but also facilitates an excellent therapeutic outcome for the client. When applicable, we will apply Biblical principles during the process of counseling. When appropriate I will be blessed to pray for you during our session. Combined with sound therapeutic techniques, Christian counseling has proven to help people experience healing.
Your child will love coming to therapy! For marriage counseling, I bring twenty-eight years of successful marital experience to the process of restoring and enhancing your relationship.
As we partner together to find real-life solutions to real-world problems, we begin with the conviction that with God's help, we can find healing and restoration. As a Christian counselor with more than twenty years of experience, I have found that Christian counseling is not only unique, but also facilitates an excellent therapeutic outcome for the client. When applicable, we will apply Biblical principles during the process of counseling. When appropriate I will be blessed to pray for you during our session. Combined with sound therapeutic techniques, Christian counseling has proven to help people experience healing.
(919) 343-0609 View (919) 343-0609
Photo of Cicely Simon, Marriage & Family Therapist in Garner, NC
Cicely Simon
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Garner, NC 27529
We serve clients with various life stressors including PTSD, marital and parenting issues, ADHD, Depression.
Life brings about many different challenges. Perhaps you’ve had a life altering event that you’re trying to make sense of. Maybe you’re trying to figure out if you can heal or trust again after this experience. Maybe you’re a mother who is trying to find some ways to bond with your little one. Or maybe just a parent who needs some new tools in their parenting tool belt. Maybe you’re struggling to connect your spiritual and mental wellness. Whatever challenges you are facing, you want to see some change. We are here to help with that.
We serve clients with various life stressors including PTSD, marital and parenting issues, ADHD, Depression.
Life brings about many different challenges. Perhaps you’ve had a life altering event that you’re trying to make sense of. Maybe you’re trying to figure out if you can heal or trust again after this experience. Maybe you’re a mother who is trying to find some ways to bond with your little one. Or maybe just a parent who needs some new tools in their parenting tool belt. Maybe you’re struggling to connect your spiritual and mental wellness. Whatever challenges you are facing, you want to see some change. We are here to help with that.
(984) 228-2535 View (984) 228-2535
Photo of Tammy Spears Miller, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Garner, NC
Tammy Spears Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Garner, NC 27529
I especially enjoy providing faith-based counseling; other approaches to counseling that I use include CBT, Family/Marital, Eclectic, and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy.
Hello! Finding the right therapist can make all the difference in coping with life's challenges. If you are looking for an interactive, caring therapist that genuinely wants to partner with you to achieve your goals, I would love to meet with you. My approach is personalized and strength-based; you can trust we will get busy working towards your goals right away. Please take a look at www.newsolutionscounseling-nc.com to learn more about services, and our counselors.
I especially enjoy providing faith-based counseling; other approaches to counseling that I use include CBT, Family/Marital, Eclectic, and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy.
Hello! Finding the right therapist can make all the difference in coping with life's challenges. If you are looking for an interactive, caring therapist that genuinely wants to partner with you to achieve your goals, I would love to meet with you. My approach is personalized and strength-based; you can trust we will get busy working towards your goals right away. Please take a look at www.newsolutionscounseling-nc.com to learn more about services, and our counselors.
(919) 261-1694 View (919) 261-1694
Photo of Enfinity Dobson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Garner, NC
Enfinity Dobson
Marriage & Family Therapist, QP, MS, LCAS-A, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Garner, NC 27529  (Online Only)
As a fully licensed marriage and family therapist and a licensed clinical addiction specialist, I come with unique and diverse experiences as a mental health professional that has crafted my systemic art of psychotherapy.
The journey begins with you! You have made it this far but may not know where to go from here. Well that’s okay! Challenges, interactions, experiences, and daily life has all impacted us in various forms. Whether you are a friend, partner, sibling, parent, or professional, the art of therapy can be life changing. Though therapy may not always be sunshine and rainbows, I can promise you that your future will thank you. It will thank you for challenging yourself, it will thank you for your strength, and it will also will thank you for the growth that you will obtain just by participating in therapy.
As a fully licensed marriage and family therapist and a licensed clinical addiction specialist, I come with unique and diverse experiences as a mental health professional that has crafted my systemic art of psychotherapy.
The journey begins with you! You have made it this far but may not know where to go from here. Well that’s okay! Challenges, interactions, experiences, and daily life has all impacted us in various forms. Whether you are a friend, partner, sibling, parent, or professional, the art of therapy can be life changing. Though therapy may not always be sunshine and rainbows, I can promise you that your future will thank you. It will thank you for challenging yourself, it will thank you for your strength, and it will also will thank you for the growth that you will obtain just by participating in therapy.
(919) 873-4845 View (919) 873-4845
Photo of Janelle A. Johnson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Garner, NC
Janelle A. Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Not Verified Not Verified
2 Endorsed
Garner, NC 27529
We serve clients with various life stressors including Post-Partum Depression, depression across the lifespan, marital and parenting issues, ADHD and Social Anxiety.
There could be countless reasons that you are here. Perhaps you have trouble managing your day-to-day stress and don't want to get out of bed. Maybe you and your spouse or children are facing a great disruption that seems too much to handle. Or maybe you seem like a different person since being pregnant, and you're concerned that you will never be your old self again. No matter the case, the real reason you're here is to get well. We are committed to helping you do just that.
We serve clients with various life stressors including Post-Partum Depression, depression across the lifespan, marital and parenting issues, ADHD and Social Anxiety.
There could be countless reasons that you are here. Perhaps you have trouble managing your day-to-day stress and don't want to get out of bed. Maybe you and your spouse or children are facing a great disruption that seems too much to handle. Or maybe you seem like a different person since being pregnant, and you're concerned that you will never be your old self again. No matter the case, the real reason you're here is to get well. We are committed to helping you do just that.
(919) 514-2273 View (919) 514-2273
Photo of Bridges Family Life Center, PLLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Garner, NC
Bridges Family Life Center, PLLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Garner, NC 27529
Our team of clinicians serve children and adults with a wide variety of concerns like depression, anxiety, autism, ADHD, marital and parenting issues, postpartum depression, child/family trauma, and much more.
There could be many reasons why you are here, looking for a therapist. Perhaps you have trouble managing day-to-day stress that used to roll off your back, but now you can barely function. Maybe you and your spouse or children are stuck in more ways than one, and you’re feeling overwhelmed. Or maybe you seem like a different person since being pregnant, and you're concerned that you will never be your old self again. No matter the case, the real reason you're here is to feel better and find answers. At Bridges Family Life Center we are committed to helping you do just that.
Our team of clinicians serve children and adults with a wide variety of concerns like depression, anxiety, autism, ADHD, marital and parenting issues, postpartum depression, child/family trauma, and much more.
There could be many reasons why you are here, looking for a therapist. Perhaps you have trouble managing day-to-day stress that used to roll off your back, but now you can barely function. Maybe you and your spouse or children are stuck in more ways than one, and you’re feeling overwhelmed. Or maybe you seem like a different person since being pregnant, and you're concerned that you will never be your old self again. No matter the case, the real reason you're here is to feel better and find answers. At Bridges Family Life Center we are committed to helping you do just that.
(919) 246-9645 View (919) 246-9645
Photo of Ronnie Ibrahim Rizek, Counselor in Garner, NC
Ronnie Ibrahim Rizek
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Garner, NC 27529
Do you and your partner find yourselves constantly arguing, unable to get on the same page? Have you found yourselves in a loveless marriage or relationship lacking an emotional and physical connection? For couple's suffering from relationship conflict, poor communication, broken trust, and a non-existent sex life. I am here to provide Gottman inspired couple's therapy. In addition, I do provide individual services for those suffering from anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD, and Bipolar Disorder.
Do you and your partner find yourselves constantly arguing, unable to get on the same page? Have you found yourselves in a loveless marriage or relationship lacking an emotional and physical connection? For couple's suffering from relationship conflict, poor communication, broken trust, and a non-existent sex life. I am here to provide Gottman inspired couple's therapy. In addition, I do provide individual services for those suffering from anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD, and Bipolar Disorder.
(919) 276-8683 View (919) 276-8683
Photo of Lastenia Francis, Marriage & Family Therapist in Garner, NC
Lastenia Francis
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Garner, NC 27529  (Online Only)
I have worked with individuals (adults, adolescents, children), families, couples, and veterans as a licensed marriage & family therapist in outpatient mental health settings.
Perhaps you're down or anxious - maybe you're unsure about the future of a relationship, or just feel that you aren't living the life you were meant to lead. Whatever your needs may be, I am here to offer support. Therapy is a process of growth and self-discovery, and in my sessions, I promote behavioral transformation by encouraging a positive outlook and the adoption of new attitudes and reactions. I have the tools and professional experience to help you redefine who you are, and make meaningful change.
I have worked with individuals (adults, adolescents, children), families, couples, and veterans as a licensed marriage & family therapist in outpatient mental health settings.
Perhaps you're down or anxious - maybe you're unsure about the future of a relationship, or just feel that you aren't living the life you were meant to lead. Whatever your needs may be, I am here to offer support. Therapy is a process of growth and self-discovery, and in my sessions, I promote behavioral transformation by encouraging a positive outlook and the adoption of new attitudes and reactions. I have the tools and professional experience to help you redefine who you are, and make meaningful change.
(919) 246-8771 View (919) 246-8771
Photo of Linda B Evans, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Garner, NC
Linda B Evans
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC, BCC, CSOTS
Verified Verified
Garner, NC 27529
Our therapists address the following treatment concerns: anxiety; depression; grief and loss; stress and anger management; ADHD; self-esteem; behavior disorders; marriage and family issues; women's issues; work place challenges, and phase of life changes.
Are you feeling sad more days than not? Loosing interest in activities that used to be fun? Need to talk? LifeBridge is here to listen! With over thirteen years of experience working with individuals/families, I have helped children, adolescents and adults move from where they are to where they want to be. Working collaborative with my clients, I start where you are, use what you have and allow you to do what you can to develop a treatment plan to meet your individual needs. I utilize a person-centered, eclectic approach that includes cognitive behavior, solution focused, family systems therapies and motivational interviewing.
Our therapists address the following treatment concerns: anxiety; depression; grief and loss; stress and anger management; ADHD; self-esteem; behavior disorders; marriage and family issues; women's issues; work place challenges, and phase of life changes.
Are you feeling sad more days than not? Loosing interest in activities that used to be fun? Need to talk? LifeBridge is here to listen! With over thirteen years of experience working with individuals/families, I have helped children, adolescents and adults move from where they are to where they want to be. Working collaborative with my clients, I start where you are, use what you have and allow you to do what you can to develop a treatment plan to meet your individual needs. I utilize a person-centered, eclectic approach that includes cognitive behavior, solution focused, family systems therapies and motivational interviewing.
(919) 887-9120 View (919) 887-9120
Photo of John H Blackshear, Psychologist in Garner, NC
John H Blackshear
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Garner, NC 27529
My clients have presented with a range of concerns from: Forensic Psychology Marital distress Divorce and Child Custody Resolution Anxiety/Depression Learning/ADHD Issues Eating Disorders Oppositional and Conduct Disorders Sexual Orientation Identity Formation Existential Crises Parenting Struggles -and many other mental distress causing issues.
I am a clinical psychologist. I am available for individual, couples, and family therapy. My preference is to work with adolescents and older clients. I am culturally competent and have had great success working with clients regardless of background or lifestyle orientation. I am also comfortable addressing issues of spirituality, identity formation, and self-actualization.
My clients have presented with a range of concerns from: Forensic Psychology Marital distress Divorce and Child Custody Resolution Anxiety/Depression Learning/ADHD Issues Eating Disorders Oppositional and Conduct Disorders Sexual Orientation Identity Formation Existential Crises Parenting Struggles -and many other mental distress causing issues.
I am a clinical psychologist. I am available for individual, couples, and family therapy. My preference is to work with adolescents and older clients. I am culturally competent and have had great success working with clients regardless of background or lifestyle orientation. I am also comfortable addressing issues of spirituality, identity formation, and self-actualization.
(919) 759-6775 View (919) 759-6775
Photo of Kelly Johnson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Garner, NC
Kelly Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Garner, NC 27529
I work with all differing issues including depression, mood disorders, marriage/couples issues, ADHD, anxiety, addiction, and many others.
Kelly is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and certified in dialectical behavioral therapy. She has extensive experience with helping individuals struggling with substance use disorders, dually diagnosed individuals; mood disorders; anxiety disorders; ADHD; and suicidal ideation/self harm. While embracing a passion for working with vulnerable populations, Kelly seeks to support individuals on their therapeutic journey using different methods of therapy such as CBT, DBT, Gottman Method, and EFT. Kelly received her Master's degree from University of St. Francis. She provides individual, family, and couples. She is also a ADHD - CCSP.
I work with all differing issues including depression, mood disorders, marriage/couples issues, ADHD, anxiety, addiction, and many others.
Kelly is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and certified in dialectical behavioral therapy. She has extensive experience with helping individuals struggling with substance use disorders, dually diagnosed individuals; mood disorders; anxiety disorders; ADHD; and suicidal ideation/self harm. While embracing a passion for working with vulnerable populations, Kelly seeks to support individuals on their therapeutic journey using different methods of therapy such as CBT, DBT, Gottman Method, and EFT. Kelly received her Master's degree from University of St. Francis. She provides individual, family, and couples. She is also a ADHD - CCSP.
(984) 209-1121 View (984) 209-1121
Photo of Carla J Andersson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Garner, NC
Carla J Andersson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Garner, NC 27529
Anxiety Disorders, Bereavement-Grief Counseling, Clinical Social Work, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectic Behavioral Therapy, Health-Disabilities, Life Management Counseling, Marriage and Family Therapy, Mood Disorders, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Stress Management, Womens Issues.
Carla Andersson received her graduate degree with a Masters in Social Work (MSW) from The University of Kentucky and now works as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) providing Psychotherapy. Carla spent more than two decades working with individuals and their families challenged by advanced disease management issues that culminated into accessing end of life care. Carla describes her role as helping others to become emotionally intelligent and learn mental health tips and tricks to grow into one's best self. When quality of life is desired, why not invest in oneself? The rewards are endless.
Anxiety Disorders, Bereavement-Grief Counseling, Clinical Social Work, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectic Behavioral Therapy, Health-Disabilities, Life Management Counseling, Marriage and Family Therapy, Mood Disorders, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Stress Management, Womens Issues.
Carla Andersson received her graduate degree with a Masters in Social Work (MSW) from The University of Kentucky and now works as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) providing Psychotherapy. Carla spent more than two decades working with individuals and their families challenged by advanced disease management issues that culminated into accessing end of life care. Carla describes her role as helping others to become emotionally intelligent and learn mental health tips and tricks to grow into one's best self. When quality of life is desired, why not invest in oneself? The rewards are endless.
(984) 833-3422 View (984) 833-3422
Photo of Destiny Counseling Connection, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Garner, NC
Destiny Counseling Connection, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Garner, NC 27529
I counsel children, adults and families. I'm a solutions based Christian Counselor that offers many specialties for those who are in need of counseling for Outpatient Behavioral Health Issues, Learning Disorders, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and many other Disorders. Call for specific issues you are needing and we can help you determine if we treat your needs.
I counsel children, adults and families. I'm a solutions based Christian Counselor that offers many specialties for those who are in need of counseling for Outpatient Behavioral Health Issues, Learning Disorders, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and many other Disorders. Call for specific issues you are needing and we can help you determine if we treat your needs.
(919) 608-8259 View (919) 608-8259
Photo of Jessica Miceli, Counselor in Garner, NC
Jessica Miceli
Counselor, MSc, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Garner, NC 27529
Life’s journey is filled with peaks and valleys, and it’s okay to seek guidance when the path feels unclear. Embarking on a therapeutic journey can be a transformative experience, providing individuals with the tools to overcome challenges, improve relationships, and achieve a greater sense of fulfillment. I am here to support you on this journey towards healing and self-discovery. If you are seeking wisdom on how to redirect your life, step into a space of healing and transformation, where individuals and couples are empowered to rewrite their stories.
Life’s journey is filled with peaks and valleys, and it’s okay to seek guidance when the path feels unclear. Embarking on a therapeutic journey can be a transformative experience, providing individuals with the tools to overcome challenges, improve relationships, and achieve a greater sense of fulfillment. I am here to support you on this journey towards healing and self-discovery. If you are seeking wisdom on how to redirect your life, step into a space of healing and transformation, where individuals and couples are empowered to rewrite their stories.
(919) 899-1752 View (919) 899-1752
Photo of Maria O'Tuel, Psychologist in Garner, NC
Maria O'Tuel
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Garner, NC 27529
Life can be hard. Still it is my desire that you flourish in your life, and sometimes counseling is a wise path to pursue to help heal a broken heart and address challenges. I tailor counseling to your goals and needs. Counseling has many facets: healing from past/present pain, improving relationships, exploring one's self, taking responsibility, changing as needed, growing, finding solutions and developing hope for the future plus tools to succeed there. I believe therapy takes much courage. I continue to be humbled as each person shares their life story with me, and I consider it an honor and seek to value what is entrusted to me.
Life can be hard. Still it is my desire that you flourish in your life, and sometimes counseling is a wise path to pursue to help heal a broken heart and address challenges. I tailor counseling to your goals and needs. Counseling has many facets: healing from past/present pain, improving relationships, exploring one's self, taking responsibility, changing as needed, growing, finding solutions and developing hope for the future plus tools to succeed there. I believe therapy takes much courage. I continue to be humbled as each person shares their life story with me, and I consider it an honor and seek to value what is entrusted to me.
(919) 594-1235 View (919) 594-1235
Photo of Amanda Pahl, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern in Garner, NC
Amanda Pahl
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Verified Verified
Garner, NC 27529
Are you feeling "stuck" with a problem in your life, relationship, or family and feeling intimidated by the idea of tackling it? I understand how overwhelming it can feel to face these problems head-on but I am here to be a source of support and collaboration, guiding you through the process of change. I am studying at National University and am supervised by a team of experienced therapists who provide ongoing feedback and support: you get multiple therapists in one!
Are you feeling "stuck" with a problem in your life, relationship, or family and feeling intimidated by the idea of tackling it? I understand how overwhelming it can feel to face these problems head-on but I am here to be a source of support and collaboration, guiding you through the process of change. I am studying at National University and am supervised by a team of experienced therapists who provide ongoing feedback and support: you get multiple therapists in one!
(919) 635-9394 View (919) 635-9394
Steve Pinette
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-A
Verified Verified
Garner, NC 27529  (Online Only)
My clients are people who have tried to live with their life experiences but some of those experiences have interfered with the life they want. They are people who are now seeking the changes that will improve their present and future, that will help them achieve a happier, healthier life.
My clients are people who have tried to live with their life experiences but some of those experiences have interfered with the life they want. They are people who are now seeking the changes that will improve their present and future, that will help them achieve a happier, healthier life.
(984) 213-5798 x271 View (984) 213-5798 x271
Photo of Jasmine N Johnson, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Garner, NC
Jasmine N Johnson
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LPC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Garner, NC 27529
If you are a woman experiencing trauma, challenges or pressures from your present or past. Let me be of service to you. I want to help you through your healing journey, so that you can fulfill your God given purpose on the Earth. Are you in a place where you believe that life, your past, and trauma has shaped who you are or where you are going? It is my goal to empower and provide women with positive change which will redefine, reshape, reignite the imprints of their past to press towards a positive hope for their future.
If you are a woman experiencing trauma, challenges or pressures from your present or past. Let me be of service to you. I want to help you through your healing journey, so that you can fulfill your God given purpose on the Earth. Are you in a place where you believe that life, your past, and trauma has shaped who you are or where you are going? It is my goal to empower and provide women with positive change which will redefine, reshape, reignite the imprints of their past to press towards a positive hope for their future.
(984) 201-7516 View (984) 201-7516
Photo of Annalise Barnette, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern in Garner, NC
Annalise Barnette
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Verified Verified
Garner, NC 27529
Navigating life’s challenges can often feel like steering through a storm without a compass. It’s in these times that finding a supportive guide to help you sort through your thoughts, feelings, and experiences becomes invaluable. My approach to therapy isn’t just about tackling issues as they arise; it’s about looking at the bigger picture—your culture, your family roots, who you are and what you believe in, and all the roles you juggle day in and day out. I use a range of approaches including cognitive behavioral therapy, narrative therapy, and emotionally focused therapy or the Gottman method for couples.
Navigating life’s challenges can often feel like steering through a storm without a compass. It’s in these times that finding a supportive guide to help you sort through your thoughts, feelings, and experiences becomes invaluable. My approach to therapy isn’t just about tackling issues as they arise; it’s about looking at the bigger picture—your culture, your family roots, who you are and what you believe in, and all the roles you juggle day in and day out. I use a range of approaches including cognitive behavioral therapy, narrative therapy, and emotionally focused therapy or the Gottman method for couples.
(984) 265-2436 View (984) 265-2436
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.