Photo of Brian L Burgess, Psychologist in Red Bank, NJ
Brian L Burgess
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Red Bank, NJ 07701
Dr. Burgess is a counseling psychologist and the owner of BB Counseling. Dr. Burgess received his Bachelor's degree from the University of Massachusetts. Upon graduation, he went on to receive his Master's Degree and Doctorate in Counseling Psychology from Seton Hall University. Dr. Burgess treats a variety of disorders including but not limited to anxiety, mood disorders, personality disorders, ocd, oppositional defiant disorder, ADHD, anger, chronic pain, marriage counseling, and parental counseling. Treatment also includes psychological evaluations for bariatric surgery, spinal cord stimulators, and long term pain medication.
Dr. Burgess is a counseling psychologist and the owner of BB Counseling. Dr. Burgess received his Bachelor's degree from the University of Massachusetts. Upon graduation, he went on to receive his Master's Degree and Doctorate in Counseling Psychology from Seton Hall University. Dr. Burgess treats a variety of disorders including but not limited to anxiety, mood disorders, personality disorders, ocd, oppositional defiant disorder, ADHD, anger, chronic pain, marriage counseling, and parental counseling. Treatment also includes psychological evaluations for bariatric surgery, spinal cord stimulators, and long term pain medication.
(732) 655-6138 View (732) 655-6138
Photo of James Devone, Licensed Professional Counselor in Red Bank, NJ
James Devone
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Red Bank, NJ 07701
These pages become a lifeline to some or a saved marriage, college degree or just figuring out how to get somewhere.
A lot of focus on people with anxiety and depression disorder. Mood swings or other emotional midsections that are causing some level of conflict in their family, social, educational or financial life. A majority of the people I work vary in what they know about themselves from just knowing somethings and wanting to fix it to others being forced by a friend, family member or just some stranger that passed along my name to someone. Range of symptoms from minor to discharges from high levels of care.
These pages become a lifeline to some or a saved marriage, college degree or just figuring out how to get somewhere.
A lot of focus on people with anxiety and depression disorder. Mood swings or other emotional midsections that are causing some level of conflict in their family, social, educational or financial life. A majority of the people I work vary in what they know about themselves from just knowing somethings and wanting to fix it to others being forced by a friend, family member or just some stranger that passed along my name to someone. Range of symptoms from minor to discharges from high levels of care.
(732) 479-7101 View (732) 479-7101
Photo of David Amar, Licensed Professional Counselor in Red Bank, NJ
David Amar
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS CMHC, LPC NCC, MAJED
Verified Verified
Red Bank, NJ 07701
Are you seeking compassionate and effective counseling support for yourself or a loved one? Imagine a counselor with exceptional communication skills, a strong work ethic, and a deep commitment to understanding your unique needs. Whether you're facing Depression, ADHD, anxiety, anger management, marital issues/couples and family therapy, or grief, I provide a safe, supportive space for healing and growth. In addition, I have vast experience in pastoral care, premarital, couples, and grief counseling, offering a solution-focused approach tailored to your specific challenges. I can be available and accessible to meet your needs now.
Are you seeking compassionate and effective counseling support for yourself or a loved one? Imagine a counselor with exceptional communication skills, a strong work ethic, and a deep commitment to understanding your unique needs. Whether you're facing Depression, ADHD, anxiety, anger management, marital issues/couples and family therapy, or grief, I provide a safe, supportive space for healing and growth. In addition, I have vast experience in pastoral care, premarital, couples, and grief counseling, offering a solution-focused approach tailored to your specific challenges. I can be available and accessible to meet your needs now.
(732) 538-9344 View (732) 538-9344
Photo of Red Bank Couples Therapy & Individual Counseling, Psychologist in Red Bank, NJ
Red Bank Couples Therapy & Individual Counseling
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Red Bank, NJ 07701  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
DO YOU LONG FOR CLOSENESS AND CONNECTION but end up stuck in the same old conflicts? Do you want to improve communication and rekindle love and affection? Have you been harmed by an affair? As a specialist in marriage counseling and couples therapy, I help couples of all ages improve communication, end feelings of loneliness, and create intimacy, trust and true connection. I specialize in healing from affairs and infidelity. I am the first therapist in Monmouth County to be fully certified in Emotionally Focused Therapy, widely regarded as the most effective form of couples therapy available today.
DO YOU LONG FOR CLOSENESS AND CONNECTION but end up stuck in the same old conflicts? Do you want to improve communication and rekindle love and affection? Have you been harmed by an affair? As a specialist in marriage counseling and couples therapy, I help couples of all ages improve communication, end feelings of loneliness, and create intimacy, trust and true connection. I specialize in healing from affairs and infidelity. I am the first therapist in Monmouth County to be fully certified in Emotionally Focused Therapy, widely regarded as the most effective form of couples therapy available today.
(732) 936-1212 View (732) 936-1212
Sharon Beskin Goodman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Red Bank, NJ 07701
Within a warm and nuturing environment, I provide therapy as an collaboration between you and myself. Although our focus is current an understanding of family history and early experiences are an integral part of out time together. Because of my working with divorce related issues, I have a high regard and respect for marriage...I have trained in couples therapy, EMDR which is trauma based treatment, hypnosis and family therapy. Please feel free to contact me if you would like more information. I look forward to hearing from you.
Within a warm and nuturing environment, I provide therapy as an collaboration between you and myself. Although our focus is current an understanding of family history and early experiences are an integral part of out time together. Because of my working with divorce related issues, I have a high regard and respect for marriage...I have trained in couples therapy, EMDR which is trauma based treatment, hypnosis and family therapy. Please feel free to contact me if you would like more information. I look forward to hearing from you.
(732) 662-2711 View (732) 662-2711
Photo of Richard F Bundy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Red Bank, NJ
Richard F Bundy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ThM
Verified Verified
Red Bank, NJ 07701
--Clinical Member and Fellow American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AMFT) --Recipient of AMFT Division Contribution award for Exceptional Work In the Field --Two terms as President of the New Jersey Association for Marriage and Family Therapy.
An important, positive, life event occurs when you decide to seek therapy. It is not an easy decision. Should you decide to call me, you can anticipate that it will be a gentle, informative and positive experience. Clients describe me as being upbeat, easygoing and knowledgable. While I generally use Cognitive, Behavioral Treatment, I am trained in a variety of treatment modalities which can be tailored to your needs. What will always happen is hope as we work together to repair what I often describe as "broken dreams."
--Clinical Member and Fellow American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AMFT) --Recipient of AMFT Division Contribution award for Exceptional Work In the Field --Two terms as President of the New Jersey Association for Marriage and Family Therapy.
An important, positive, life event occurs when you decide to seek therapy. It is not an easy decision. Should you decide to call me, you can anticipate that it will be a gentle, informative and positive experience. Clients describe me as being upbeat, easygoing and knowledgable. While I generally use Cognitive, Behavioral Treatment, I am trained in a variety of treatment modalities which can be tailored to your needs. What will always happen is hope as we work together to repair what I often describe as "broken dreams."
(732) 204-6194 View (732) 204-6194
Photo of Melissa Kramer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Red Bank, NJ
Melissa Kramer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Red Bank, NJ 07701
You feel like something is holding you back...whether it's at work, in your relationship, as a parent, or just in where you thought your life would be by now. For the most part your life, career, or marriage is ok;but you envision better. You want to feel the depth and intimacy you once felt with your partner and stop the ongoing arguments. You want to stop holding back at work; or feeling inadequate as a parent because you just don't know what to do next about your child's behavior. You are stressed and overwhelmed, feeling like no one truly gets it. Your relationships are well enough, but you are missing depth, connection and meaning. Perhaps you are waiting for motivation to strike you? As you wait, the days, months, and years fly by and you remain stuck, vowing that next week...month...year...or time, things will be different. Why wait? You deserve NOW. You want to thrive in your life and change the way things feel at this moment. You want to stop repeating the same patterns, arguments, and situations that keep you unhappy. Perhaps you can do it alone, but what if nothing changes? There is a better solution. Seeking outside support is a sign of strength and readiness for change
You feel like something is holding you back...whether it's at work, in your relationship, as a parent, or just in where you thought your life would be by now. For the most part your life, career, or marriage is ok;but you envision better. You want to feel the depth and intimacy you once felt with your partner and stop the ongoing arguments. You want to stop holding back at work; or feeling inadequate as a parent because you just don't know what to do next about your child's behavior. You are stressed and overwhelmed, feeling like no one truly gets it. Your relationships are well enough, but you are missing depth, connection and meaning. Perhaps you are waiting for motivation to strike you? As you wait, the days, months, and years fly by and you remain stuck, vowing that next week...month...year...or time, things will be different. Why wait? You deserve NOW. You want to thrive in your life and change the way things feel at this moment. You want to stop repeating the same patterns, arguments, and situations that keep you unhappy. Perhaps you can do it alone, but what if nothing changes? There is a better solution. Seeking outside support is a sign of strength and readiness for change
(732) 443-0331 View (732) 443-0331
Photo of Corinne Reilly, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Red Bank, NJ
Corinne Reilly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Red Bank, NJ 07701  (Online Only)
Hello, I'm Corinne Reilly, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in New Jersey. My approach is rooted in treating every individual with utmost respect, dignity, and compassion. With a commitment to facilitating healing and personal growth, I bring experience from various settings including outpatient community and private practice mental health, in-community therapy, and supportive housing for intellectual and developmental disabilities. My goal is to cultivate a safe, non-judgmental space where you feel comfortable sharing even the most challenging aspects of your life.
Hello, I'm Corinne Reilly, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in New Jersey. My approach is rooted in treating every individual with utmost respect, dignity, and compassion. With a commitment to facilitating healing and personal growth, I bring experience from various settings including outpatient community and private practice mental health, in-community therapy, and supportive housing for intellectual and developmental disabilities. My goal is to cultivate a safe, non-judgmental space where you feel comfortable sharing even the most challenging aspects of your life.
(848) 359-5529 View (848) 359-5529
Photo of Nicole Dericks, Licensed Professional Counselor in Red Bank, NJ
Nicole Dericks
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Red Bank, NJ 07701
I work from a holistic, person centered, trauma informed approach to care to meet clients where they are right now. I have experience working with clients of all ages, and difficulties including but not limited to stress management, codependency, boundary setting, relationship concerns, self-esteem/identity, emotion regulation, anxiety, depression, OCD, and eating disorders.
I work from a holistic, person centered, trauma informed approach to care to meet clients where they are right now. I have experience working with clients of all ages, and difficulties including but not limited to stress management, codependency, boundary setting, relationship concerns, self-esteem/identity, emotion regulation, anxiety, depression, OCD, and eating disorders.
(724) 578-4655 View (724) 578-4655
Photo of Alicia Zielinski Straub, Licensed Professional Counselor in Red Bank, NJ
Alicia Zielinski Straub
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Red Bank, NJ 07701
You are tired of struggling. Self-doubt, anxiety and sadness serve as internal barriers to functioning in more healthy ways. Tremendous uncertainty can feel paralyzing and you have trouble coping with change. If you no longer want to be fearful but are caught in repetitive patterns, conflict, and emotional pain, know that there is hope and you are not alone. As your therapist, I am your instrument for change and will help you reach your fuller potential. You will change old behaviors and develop new ones that contribute to increased confidence and self-esteem. You will learn how to better trust yourself and in the process of life.
You are tired of struggling. Self-doubt, anxiety and sadness serve as internal barriers to functioning in more healthy ways. Tremendous uncertainty can feel paralyzing and you have trouble coping with change. If you no longer want to be fearful but are caught in repetitive patterns, conflict, and emotional pain, know that there is hope and you are not alone. As your therapist, I am your instrument for change and will help you reach your fuller potential. You will change old behaviors and develop new ones that contribute to increased confidence and self-esteem. You will learn how to better trust yourself and in the process of life.
(732) 408-6879 View (732) 408-6879
Photo of Jessica Adena Senick, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Red Bank, NJ
Jessica Adena Senick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Red Bank, NJ 07701
Are you feeling really low and no matter what you do you cannot get out of this funk? Is your stress level so high you feel like you can barely function? Do you feel your thoughts are constantly racing and consuming your life? Are you repeating the same negative relationship patterns? These may be symptoms of illnesses that may require professional attention. People underestimate the intense pain that one can feel from these and other issues. I have spent my career helping people feel better again. As hopeless or helpless as you may feel therapy can help. Allow me the privilege to assist you toward much deserved relief.
Are you feeling really low and no matter what you do you cannot get out of this funk? Is your stress level so high you feel like you can barely function? Do you feel your thoughts are constantly racing and consuming your life? Are you repeating the same negative relationship patterns? These may be symptoms of illnesses that may require professional attention. People underestimate the intense pain that one can feel from these and other issues. I have spent my career helping people feel better again. As hopeless or helpless as you may feel therapy can help. Allow me the privilege to assist you toward much deserved relief.
(848) 207-4993 View (848) 207-4993
Photo of Leah Maselli, Psychologist in Red Bank, NJ
Leah Maselli
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Red Bank, NJ 07701
I'm glad you are here. Are you ready to start feeling better? You deserve it. Therapy can be an important step to begin to live the life you have imagined. Often our own negative thinking patterns deeply impact our mood but it can be so hard to just “feel better”. I strive to make counseling a space that is supportive and empathetic to promote personal growth. Life can feel really overwhelming and therapy can be a place that you begin to explore your thoughts, your relationships, and past experiences while beginning to implement daily changes to lead a fulfilling and joyful life.
I'm glad you are here. Are you ready to start feeling better? You deserve it. Therapy can be an important step to begin to live the life you have imagined. Often our own negative thinking patterns deeply impact our mood but it can be so hard to just “feel better”. I strive to make counseling a space that is supportive and empathetic to promote personal growth. Life can feel really overwhelming and therapy can be a place that you begin to explore your thoughts, your relationships, and past experiences while beginning to implement daily changes to lead a fulfilling and joyful life.
(732) 838-5518 View (732) 838-5518
Photo of Deidra Kozlowski, Licensed Professional Counselor in Red Bank, NJ
Deidra Kozlowski
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
Red Bank, NJ 07701
My practice specializes in helping children, teens, adults, couples, and families to grow mentally and emotionally through increasing insight, resilience, and general wellbeing. Typically, I work with people who are looking for 1. personal growth: people who are looking to grow personally, maximize on their potential, and improve themselves and their relationships. 2. challenges & transitions: people going through transitions or challenges in their life. These challenges could include but are not limited to substance abuse/addictions, family problems, behavioral problems, anger management, trauma, loss and grief, infertility, sexual problems, divorce, job stress, etc.
My practice specializes in helping children, teens, adults, couples, and families to grow mentally and emotionally through increasing insight, resilience, and general wellbeing. Typically, I work with people who are looking for 1. personal growth: people who are looking to grow personally, maximize on their potential, and improve themselves and their relationships. 2. challenges & transitions: people going through transitions or challenges in their life. These challenges could include but are not limited to substance abuse/addictions, family problems, behavioral problems, anger management, trauma, loss and grief, infertility, sexual problems, divorce, job stress, etc.
(908) 660-0786 View (908) 660-0786
Photo of Stacy Liss, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Red Bank, NJ
Stacy Liss
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Red Bank, NJ 07701
I have enjoyed working with adolescents, adults & families for nearly three decades. While I have maintained a private practice for many years, during my career I've provided therapy & advocacy for high school students in school-based settings. I've had extensive experience with individual, group & family work, as well as with crisis intervention. I'm especially interested in issues of identity development, as I believe that a healthy sense of self is essential for wellness. I've participated in advanced trainings to work with those who identify as LGBTQIA+ & provide Gender Affirming Care.
I have enjoyed working with adolescents, adults & families for nearly three decades. While I have maintained a private practice for many years, during my career I've provided therapy & advocacy for high school students in school-based settings. I've had extensive experience with individual, group & family work, as well as with crisis intervention. I'm especially interested in issues of identity development, as I believe that a healthy sense of self is essential for wellness. I've participated in advanced trainings to work with those who identify as LGBTQIA+ & provide Gender Affirming Care.
(732) 372-0985 View (732) 372-0985
Photo of Liz Cleerdin, MSW, LCSW, RPT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Red Bank, NJ
Liz Cleerdin, MSW, LCSW, RPT
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, RPT
Verified Verified
Red Bank, NJ 07701
I am a licensed clinical social worker and registered play therapist with over 25 years of experience. (headway.co/providers/liz-cleerdin for scheduling). My career has encompassed many different developmental stages as well as diverse clients. I have worked with both individuals as well as parents and their child(ren) to improve parenting skills and family functioning. The concerns have been wide ranging. I have considerable experience working with traumatized clients. Focus is frequently of family-of-origin issues. More information about me and my practice: www.lizcleerdinlcsw.com
I am a licensed clinical social worker and registered play therapist with over 25 years of experience. (headway.co/providers/liz-cleerdin for scheduling). My career has encompassed many different developmental stages as well as diverse clients. I have worked with both individuals as well as parents and their child(ren) to improve parenting skills and family functioning. The concerns have been wide ranging. I have considerable experience working with traumatized clients. Focus is frequently of family-of-origin issues. More information about me and my practice: www.lizcleerdinlcsw.com
(848) 283-6466 View (848) 283-6466
Photo of Integrative Therapy Institute of NJ, Psychologist in Red Bank, NJ
Integrative Therapy Institute of NJ
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Red Bank, NJ 07701
The Integrative Therapy Institute of New Jersey (ITI-NJ) is a group practice in clinical and counseling psychology that provides psychotherapy services for individuals, couples, and families. ITI-NJ operates at a number of locations throughout the state of NJ and the great majority of our therapists are in-network with all major insurance plans.
The Integrative Therapy Institute of New Jersey (ITI-NJ) is a group practice in clinical and counseling psychology that provides psychotherapy services for individuals, couples, and families. ITI-NJ operates at a number of locations throughout the state of NJ and the great majority of our therapists are in-network with all major insurance plans.
(732) 517-7658 View (732) 517-7658
Photo of Red Bank Counseling, Psychologist in Red Bank, NJ
Red Bank Counseling
Psychologist, PhD, ACC
Verified Verified
Red Bank, NJ 07701
I am at ease in working with trauma, stress, anxiety, depression, grief and anger management. Whether due to current difficulties with relationships, work health or change, or longstanding issues with self esteem, addictions or behavioral problems, my practical, interpersonal style is comforting and effective. I can provide clarity in many cases, and support deep, value-driven insight, when the problems you are facing are confusing and you are having difficulty making authentic choices. My clients receive attention on multiple levels including body-brain-mind-energy-emotion-thought-heart-spirit and soul and grow in awareness of themselves on these different levels.
I am at ease in working with trauma, stress, anxiety, depression, grief and anger management. Whether due to current difficulties with relationships, work health or change, or longstanding issues with self esteem, addictions or behavioral problems, my practical, interpersonal style is comforting and effective. I can provide clarity in many cases, and support deep, value-driven insight, when the problems you are facing are confusing and you are having difficulty making authentic choices. My clients receive attention on multiple levels including body-brain-mind-energy-emotion-thought-heart-spirit and soul and grow in awareness of themselves on these different levels.
(732) 800-4498 View (732) 800-4498
Photo of Donna Phair, Psychologist in Red Bank, NJ
Donna Phair
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Red Bank, NJ 07701
I am a licensed Clinical Health Psychologist with extensive training and experience in treating anxiety-related disorders, especially OCD & Perfectionism (OCPD), relationship issues, and eating disorders, specifically obesity and binge eating. Additionally, I have sustained success in treating individuals with sleep issues and medical issues. I am predominately CBT focused, but will incorporate my training in analysis and mindfullness into the treatment plan to offer a more well-rounded and balanced approach to your psychological concerns
I am a licensed Clinical Health Psychologist with extensive training and experience in treating anxiety-related disorders, especially OCD & Perfectionism (OCPD), relationship issues, and eating disorders, specifically obesity and binge eating. Additionally, I have sustained success in treating individuals with sleep issues and medical issues. I am predominately CBT focused, but will incorporate my training in analysis and mindfullness into the treatment plan to offer a more well-rounded and balanced approach to your psychological concerns
(646) 863-4438 View (646) 863-4438
Photo of Robert Misurell, Marriage & Family Therapist in Red Bank, NJ
Robert Misurell
Marriage & Family Therapist, EdD
Verified Verified
Red Bank, NJ 07701  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Life has changed beyond expectations. Many of our careers, educational life and values have become unsettled. I am a good fit for highly sensitive people, who amidst this change, are in a life transition such as college disruption, trauma, relationship problems and work issues. The pervasive stress, resulting in depression, confusion, anxiety, OCD, addiction and disruption, will be met with deep listening, reflection and compassion. For those whose minds have been effected by psychedelic drugs, marijuana, childhood trauma or bipolar tendencies, we will work together to create clear, practical strategies for health/recovery.
Life has changed beyond expectations. Many of our careers, educational life and values have become unsettled. I am a good fit for highly sensitive people, who amidst this change, are in a life transition such as college disruption, trauma, relationship problems and work issues. The pervasive stress, resulting in depression, confusion, anxiety, OCD, addiction and disruption, will be met with deep listening, reflection and compassion. For those whose minds have been effected by psychedelic drugs, marijuana, childhood trauma or bipolar tendencies, we will work together to create clear, practical strategies for health/recovery.
(732) 733-6795 View (732) 733-6795
Photo of Lifebulb Counseling & Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Red Bank, NJ
Lifebulb Counseling & Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Red Bank, NJ 07701
We're confident we can help you achieve your therapy goals. We believe you're best served by a therapist passionate about not only their work, but who they work with as well. That's why we started Lifebulb - We're committed to helping therapists to get back to enjoying their work, so you, our client, can receive the highest quality therapy services, whether in person at one of our locations or online through telehealth. We hire only highly trained and educated, licensed clinicians dedicated to the therapy process. Working with us, you'll get results.
We're confident we can help you achieve your therapy goals. We believe you're best served by a therapist passionate about not only their work, but who they work with as well. That's why we started Lifebulb - We're committed to helping therapists to get back to enjoying their work, so you, our client, can receive the highest quality therapy services, whether in person at one of our locations or online through telehealth. We hire only highly trained and educated, licensed clinicians dedicated to the therapy process. Working with us, you'll get results.
(848) 420-8058 View (848) 420-8058
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.