Marriage Counseling Therapists in Brooklyn, NY

Photo of Paige Ellison, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Paige Ellison
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11211  (Online Only)
Paige's goal is to meet you where you are in your journey, and work towards gently challenging you in the areas where you are feeling stuck. Paige's ideal client is someone who may be apprehensive to what the benefits could be regarding psychotherapy. She has interest in working with clients who may be experiencing symptoms and feelings of depression, anxiety, interpersonal stress, symptom management, relationship or marital problems, as well as life transitions/changes and grief. She also has significant experience working with individuals diagnosed with mood disorders, personality disorders, and psychotic disorders.
Paige's goal is to meet you where you are in your journey, and work towards gently challenging you in the areas where you are feeling stuck. Paige's ideal client is someone who may be apprehensive to what the benefits could be regarding psychotherapy. She has interest in working with clients who may be experiencing symptoms and feelings of depression, anxiety, interpersonal stress, symptom management, relationship or marital problems, as well as life transitions/changes and grief. She also has significant experience working with individuals diagnosed with mood disorders, personality disorders, and psychotic disorders.
(347) 252-3920 View (347) 252-3920
Photo of Vanessa A. Williams, Counselor in Brooklyn, NY
Vanessa A. Williams
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11238
I also have experience working with couples experiencing challenges with sex, pre-marital concerns, separation/divorce, and general communication and conflict.
“There is no greater agony than bearing the untold story inside you.” - Maya Angelou. Each person’s story shapes them and a burden to carry alone that is relieved when met with empathy. I consider it an honor to be present with clients as they share their untold story, gain greater self-knowledge, and manifest the story that is yet to come. I come from a place of curiosity and non-judgement around each individual’s lived experience. I hope to create a warm, accepting space where you can be your authentic self, feel safe to express your uncensored thoughts and share both laughter and tears.
I also have experience working with couples experiencing challenges with sex, pre-marital concerns, separation/divorce, and general communication and conflict.
“There is no greater agony than bearing the untold story inside you.” - Maya Angelou. Each person’s story shapes them and a burden to carry alone that is relieved when met with empathy. I consider it an honor to be present with clients as they share their untold story, gain greater self-knowledge, and manifest the story that is yet to come. I come from a place of curiosity and non-judgement around each individual’s lived experience. I hope to create a warm, accepting space where you can be your authentic self, feel safe to express your uncensored thoughts and share both laughter and tears.
(718) 865-3709 View (718) 865-3709
Photo of Linden Van Cantfort, Pre-Licensed Professional in Brooklyn, NY
Linden Van Cantfort
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11201  (Online Only)
Linden Van Cantfort is a Pre-Licensed MFT Therapist with over eight months of experience in providing high-quality, inclusive, and trauma-informed therapy for adults and adolescents. She is a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) and a member of the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapists (AAMFT). She works with clients to dismantle limiting beliefs, heal from trauma, and create healthier narratives for themselves and their relationships.
Linden Van Cantfort is a Pre-Licensed MFT Therapist with over eight months of experience in providing high-quality, inclusive, and trauma-informed therapy for adults and adolescents. She is a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) and a member of the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapists (AAMFT). She works with clients to dismantle limiting beliefs, heal from trauma, and create healthier narratives for themselves and their relationships.
(347) 417-5762 View (347) 417-5762
Photo of David London, Psychologist in Brooklyn, NY
David London
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11217  (Online Only)
I focus on conflict resolution, resolving the effects of life changes (marriage, divorce, children), the expected anxieties and worries along the way.
A good therapist helps clarify what we already do well and separates out what's useful from what's not. Therapy is about expanding your repertoire, spotting better choices, and enhancing communication skills. When insecurities worm their way into everyday life, and you're more or less "stuck" at an unsatisfying plateau, that's exactly when therapy makes a meaningful difference. On the road from confusion to clarity: a good place to be.
I focus on conflict resolution, resolving the effects of life changes (marriage, divorce, children), the expected anxieties and worries along the way.
A good therapist helps clarify what we already do well and separates out what's useful from what's not. Therapy is about expanding your repertoire, spotting better choices, and enhancing communication skills. When insecurities worm their way into everyday life, and you're more or less "stuck" at an unsatisfying plateau, that's exactly when therapy makes a meaningful difference. On the road from confusion to clarity: a good place to be.
(718) 514-7576 View (718) 514-7576
Brenda Beth Szulman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11238
I have been a full time private practitioner for the past 20 years with a myriad of experience in the areas of anxiety and depression, parenting skills, post-partum depression, pre and post marital couple's therapy, and body image issues. I also have experience with varied addictive behaviors. I work both psycho-dynamically and cognitively, providing a warm and safe environment for talking to begin. Please feel free to contact me anytime to set up an initial consultation. Will look forward to hearing from you.
I have been a full time private practitioner for the past 20 years with a myriad of experience in the areas of anxiety and depression, parenting skills, post-partum depression, pre and post marital couple's therapy, and body image issues. I also have experience with varied addictive behaviors. I work both psycho-dynamically and cognitively, providing a warm and safe environment for talking to begin. Please feel free to contact me anytime to set up an initial consultation. Will look forward to hearing from you.
(646) 600-8166 View (646) 600-8166
Photo of Kizzy Joseph, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern in Brooklyn, NY
Kizzy Joseph
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11203  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I believe that with intention therapists are activists. I envision therapy as a radical healing space where communities of color, especially Black communities, can feel empowered and validated in spite of life’s messiness and structural oppression. As a co-parenting Black mama and marriage and family therapist intern, it is important for me to serve Black families of all kinds in order to help them cultivate deeper love, safety, and healing.
I believe that with intention therapists are activists. I envision therapy as a radical healing space where communities of color, especially Black communities, can feel empowered and validated in spite of life’s messiness and structural oppression. As a co-parenting Black mama and marriage and family therapist intern, it is important for me to serve Black families of all kinds in order to help them cultivate deeper love, safety, and healing.
(347) 658-5467 View (347) 658-5467
Photo of Galina Savinkin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Galina Savinkin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11235
By using therapeutic techniques tailored to each individual, Galina is determined to help her clients be productive in the often-challenging journey of therapy. Galina specializes in all mental health struggles included but not limited to anxiety, panic, depression, low confidence/self-esteem, addiction (substances, gambling, food, love, sex), ADHD, ODD, behavioral issues, emotional distress, relationship/marriage issues, family dynamics, grief, loss and bereavement. Galina works with children, adolescents, and adults.
By using therapeutic techniques tailored to each individual, Galina is determined to help her clients be productive in the often-challenging journey of therapy. Galina specializes in all mental health struggles included but not limited to anxiety, panic, depression, low confidence/self-esteem, addiction (substances, gambling, food, love, sex), ADHD, ODD, behavioral issues, emotional distress, relationship/marriage issues, family dynamics, grief, loss and bereavement. Galina works with children, adolescents, and adults.
(929) 492-2067 View (929) 492-2067
Photo of Rebecca Sainte, Pre-Licensed Professional in Brooklyn, NY
Rebecca Sainte
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11242
That is why I have filled my therapeutic toolbox with a range of modalities, including Solution-Focused Therapy, Play Therapy, Family and Pre-Marital Therapy, etc.
“True healing always begins with your thoughts. Master your thoughts, and you will master your life” - April Peerless My passion has always been helping people navigate whatever life has or will throw their way, and the best way to do so is to change how an individual perceives what has been or/and is happening around them. I want to be an outlet that people can use to start decluttering their minds and hearts, leading to a change in behavior and a positive and refreshing outlook on their lives.
That is why I have filled my therapeutic toolbox with a range of modalities, including Solution-Focused Therapy, Play Therapy, Family and Pre-Marital Therapy, etc.
“True healing always begins with your thoughts. Master your thoughts, and you will master your life” - April Peerless My passion has always been helping people navigate whatever life has or will throw their way, and the best way to do so is to change how an individual perceives what has been or/and is happening around them. I want to be an outlet that people can use to start decluttering their minds and hearts, leading to a change in behavior and a positive and refreshing outlook on their lives.
(929) 810-2088 View (929) 810-2088
Photo of Dr. Mitch and Lisa Marriages/Couples Workshops in Brooklyn, NY
Dr. Mitch and Lisa Marriages/Couples Workshops
PsyD, MSW, Life, Coach
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11215
Relationships in Crisis: We Have Several Private Couples/Marriage Workshops & Individual Sessions, in order to Rapidly Accelerate Your Healing & Your Communication Process (Traditional 45 min. sessions Simply Does Not Work). During these 2 to 4 weeks, we will see both of you Together & Individually, as well as Help each of you Learn the Art of Empathy, Sensitivity & Compassion. These Workshops are Informative & Powerful, in order to Accelerate the Healing Process & Stop any further Damage from Occurring. In Addition, Our Success RATE is 85% of Our Couples that have Successfully Completed Our Couples Workshops or Alcohol Treatment.
Relationships in Crisis: We Have Several Private Couples/Marriage Workshops & Individual Sessions, in order to Rapidly Accelerate Your Healing & Your Communication Process (Traditional 45 min. sessions Simply Does Not Work). During these 2 to 4 weeks, we will see both of you Together & Individually, as well as Help each of you Learn the Art of Empathy, Sensitivity & Compassion. These Workshops are Informative & Powerful, in order to Accelerate the Healing Process & Stop any further Damage from Occurring. In Addition, Our Success RATE is 85% of Our Couples that have Successfully Completed Our Couples Workshops or Alcohol Treatment.
(332) 286-1693 View (332) 286-1693
Photo of NuSeasons Marriage and Family Therapy, PC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
NuSeasons Marriage and Family Therapy, PC
Marriage & Family Therapist, DMH(c), LMFT, ICADC, CASAC-2
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11221  (Online Only)
James founded NuSeasons Marriage and Family Therapy, a private practice in Brooklyn, New York.
James is a St. Joseph's University graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Community Health and Human Services, majoring in Counseling and Alcoholism and Addiction Counseling; Mercy University, Master of Science in Psychology, Master of Science from Iona University, Marriage and Family Therapy. Candidate for DMH, in Medical Health and Humanities, Drew University. Intl. Certified Alcoholism and Drug Counselor (ICADC), and Credential Alcoholism Substance Abuse Counselor (CASAC) from the New York State Office of Alcohol and Substance Abuse Services; Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Individual and Group Psychotherapist.
James founded NuSeasons Marriage and Family Therapy, a private practice in Brooklyn, New York.
James is a St. Joseph's University graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Community Health and Human Services, majoring in Counseling and Alcoholism and Addiction Counseling; Mercy University, Master of Science in Psychology, Master of Science from Iona University, Marriage and Family Therapy. Candidate for DMH, in Medical Health and Humanities, Drew University. Intl. Certified Alcoholism and Drug Counselor (ICADC), and Credential Alcoholism Substance Abuse Counselor (CASAC) from the New York State Office of Alcohol and Substance Abuse Services; Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Individual and Group Psychotherapist.
(718) 557-9464 View (718) 557-9464
Photo of Center For Psychotherapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Center For Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EdS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11203
Waitlist for new clients
Are you feeling tired, depressed or can’t keep up with your daily routine, have relational skill deficits, need to strengthen your marriage, become a realistic parent, or just need to take a journey into self-awareness? We are here to assist you, preventative or corrective, in your self-improvement and/or self-empowerment pursuits.
Are you feeling tired, depressed or can’t keep up with your daily routine, have relational skill deficits, need to strengthen your marriage, become a realistic parent, or just need to take a journey into self-awareness? We are here to assist you, preventative or corrective, in your self-improvement and/or self-empowerment pursuits.
(929) 205-4929 x11203 View (929) 205-4929 x11203
Photo of Michael Fischman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Michael Fischman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LCSW-R, CGP, CAMS-I
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11201
As an Individual, Group and Marital therapist I diagnose the problem and set the means for resolution.
Hello and welcome to my profile. By now I would assume that you've read several profiles on the "Psychology Today" site and by this point they are probably all sounding astonishingly similar. That's got to be frustrating. I hope that the following information concerning my practice doesn't have the same effect. Let me be brief: I work with a multitude of issues and problems that relate to: couples, anxiety, depression and anger management. I also work with addictions including eating disorders. My approach can help you work through unconscious conflict (repeating patterns again and again without understanding why) as well as compulsive behaviors such as drinking, thought ruminating and habitual behaviors that are difficult to control.I can help you 'evolve' out of your particular problem. I am supportive and reality based while I can always find humor in the worst and the best of times. Together we can turn this all around and get you to where you want to be.
As an Individual, Group and Marital therapist I diagnose the problem and set the means for resolution.
Hello and welcome to my profile. By now I would assume that you've read several profiles on the "Psychology Today" site and by this point they are probably all sounding astonishingly similar. That's got to be frustrating. I hope that the following information concerning my practice doesn't have the same effect. Let me be brief: I work with a multitude of issues and problems that relate to: couples, anxiety, depression and anger management. I also work with addictions including eating disorders. My approach can help you work through unconscious conflict (repeating patterns again and again without understanding why) as well as compulsive behaviors such as drinking, thought ruminating and habitual behaviors that are difficult to control.I can help you 'evolve' out of your particular problem. I am supportive and reality based while I can always find humor in the worst and the best of times. Together we can turn this all around and get you to where you want to be.
(917) 725-5173 View (917) 725-5173
Photo of Joan Zimmerman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Joan Zimmerman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MEd, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11215  (Online Only)
Marriage and Relationship Counseling for same sex and heterosexual couples is one of my specialties. As relationships change and evolve it is not uncommon to find ourselves stuck in a place of conflict or distance. We may find ourselves feeling misunderstood, angry, and alone. One of the tools I have found most helpful in working with couples is the Intentional Dialogue. It is the foundation of Imago Relationship Therapy of which I am a trained and certified practitioner. With this tool and other related approaches, I can teach and have couples experience effective communication, which is essential to restoring connection and transforming conflict into growth.
Marriage and Relationship Counseling for same sex and heterosexual couples is one of my specialties. As relationships change and evolve it is not uncommon to find ourselves stuck in a place of conflict or distance. We may find ourselves feeling misunderstood, angry, and alone. One of the tools I have found most helpful in working with couples is the Intentional Dialogue. It is the foundation of Imago Relationship Therapy of which I am a trained and certified practitioner. With this tool and other related approaches, I can teach and have couples experience effective communication, which is essential to restoring connection and transforming conflict into growth.
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Photo of Tania Protsenko, Marriage & Family Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Tania Protsenko
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EdD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11217
As a licensed marriage and family therapist, I have more than 20 years of psychotherapy experience with children, adults, and families.
You are seeking a therapist to act as a collaborator and partner in helping you live a happier life. Maybe you are struggling with anxiety and depression, your marriage is in trouble, or your relationships aren’t fulfilling. No matter the situation, I can work with you to build a better, more connected life. I am particularly passionate about working with those who are living with mental illnesses or have experienced trauma. I’m trained in multiple therapy modalities and can assist individuals who are struggling to manage their mental health as they learn new coping strategies and heal old traumas.
As a licensed marriage and family therapist, I have more than 20 years of psychotherapy experience with children, adults, and families.
You are seeking a therapist to act as a collaborator and partner in helping you live a happier life. Maybe you are struggling with anxiety and depression, your marriage is in trouble, or your relationships aren’t fulfilling. No matter the situation, I can work with you to build a better, more connected life. I am particularly passionate about working with those who are living with mental illnesses or have experienced trauma. I’m trained in multiple therapy modalities and can assist individuals who are struggling to manage their mental health as they learn new coping strategies and heal old traumas.
(718) 550-1533 View (718) 550-1533
Photo of Meghan McDonough, Marriage & Family Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Meghan McDonough
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11211
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in Upstate NY and work with clients statewide through telehealth. I enjoy working with both individuals and couples. My approach varies on the specific needs of each client, but I feel that I am a guide who is learning alongside you. I will always be coming from a systems perspective, meaning I am thinking about outside influences (family, romantic partners, friends, job, etc.) and how they interplay/impact you.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in Upstate NY and work with clients statewide through telehealth. I enjoy working with both individuals and couples. My approach varies on the specific needs of each client, but I feel that I am a guide who is learning alongside you. I will always be coming from a systems perspective, meaning I am thinking about outside influences (family, romantic partners, friends, job, etc.) and how they interplay/impact you.
(929) 494-1780 View (929) 494-1780
Photo of Ashley Gentil, Counselor in Brooklyn, NY
Ashley Gentil
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11201  (Online Only)
These include anxiety, depression, trauma, marital/relationship issues, family issues, life transitions, grief and loss, ADHD, behavioral issues and substance abuse.
I specialize in working with teenagers and young to middle-aged adults. We can sometimes feel lonely, misunderstood, overwhelmed or even embarrassed when it comes to our inner thoughts, feelings or struggles. We might have difficulty figuring out exactly what it is that is making us feel the way we do. If you’re experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, relationship/family dynamic issues, currently going through a life transition, or are just feeling overwhelmed, I am eager to assist and be part of your journey of self-awareness. Together, we will create goals and find tools specific to you and help you live your best life.
These include anxiety, depression, trauma, marital/relationship issues, family issues, life transitions, grief and loss, ADHD, behavioral issues and substance abuse.
I specialize in working with teenagers and young to middle-aged adults. We can sometimes feel lonely, misunderstood, overwhelmed or even embarrassed when it comes to our inner thoughts, feelings or struggles. We might have difficulty figuring out exactly what it is that is making us feel the way we do. If you’re experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, relationship/family dynamic issues, currently going through a life transition, or are just feeling overwhelmed, I am eager to assist and be part of your journey of self-awareness. Together, we will create goals and find tools specific to you and help you live your best life.
(718) 557-9483 View (718) 557-9483
Photo of Jamey Baumbusch, Marriage & Family Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Jamey Baumbusch
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11201  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over a dacade of experience working with individuals, couples, and families. I make sure that all my time with clients feels genuine and personable. I find it a lot easier, and frankly more fun, when you can enjoy talking with your therapist, and the mental health work doesn’t feel like a chore. I primarily work from systemic theories, and incorporate solution-focused work into my practice. After a thorough exploration of presenting issues, I aim to set clear goals for therapy in the initial sessions. I find it is important to evolve solution attempts to get change started.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over a dacade of experience working with individuals, couples, and families. I make sure that all my time with clients feels genuine and personable. I find it a lot easier, and frankly more fun, when you can enjoy talking with your therapist, and the mental health work doesn’t feel like a chore. I primarily work from systemic theories, and incorporate solution-focused work into my practice. After a thorough exploration of presenting issues, I aim to set clear goals for therapy in the initial sessions. I find it is important to evolve solution attempts to get change started.
(929) 205-4866 View (929) 205-4866
Photo of Ander Camino, Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Brooklyn, NY
Ander Camino
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11231
Extensive experience working with neurodiverse populations and with families/couples in addressing marital and pre-marital issues, incorporating CBT and Structural Family Therapy.
I am a bilingual-Spanish licensed mental health counselor with +10 years of experience working with individuals, families and couples. I understand healing as a collaborative process where multiple factors intervene, and my approach focuses on giving the individual the tools and agency to overcome whatever challenges might find on the way to healing. Issues ranging from depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, to relationship conflict, motivational issues, family conflict, anger management, and school or career issues. Insight and mindfulness are key components of my approach.
Extensive experience working with neurodiverse populations and with families/couples in addressing marital and pre-marital issues, incorporating CBT and Structural Family Therapy.
I am a bilingual-Spanish licensed mental health counselor with +10 years of experience working with individuals, families and couples. I understand healing as a collaborative process where multiple factors intervene, and my approach focuses on giving the individual the tools and agency to overcome whatever challenges might find on the way to healing. Issues ranging from depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, to relationship conflict, motivational issues, family conflict, anger management, and school or career issues. Insight and mindfulness are key components of my approach.
(917) 525-4546 View (917) 525-4546
Photo of Couples Therapy With Sonjia, Marriage & Family Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Couples Therapy With Sonjia
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11233  (Online Only)
Welcome! I'm Sonjia Smith, LMFT, a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist ready to empower you on your healing journey. With a Master's in Marriage and Family Therapy from Long Island University Brooklyn, I specialize in helping individuals, couples, and families aged 13 and above.   If you're dealing with emotional reactivity, anger issues, or a history of intimate partner violence in your relationship, you're not alone. I provide a safe, supportive space to help you transform conflict into healthier, happier connections.
Welcome! I'm Sonjia Smith, LMFT, a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist ready to empower you on your healing journey. With a Master's in Marriage and Family Therapy from Long Island University Brooklyn, I specialize in helping individuals, couples, and families aged 13 and above.   If you're dealing with emotional reactivity, anger issues, or a history of intimate partner violence in your relationship, you're not alone. I provide a safe, supportive space to help you transform conflict into healthier, happier connections.
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Photo of James Hunter LCSW Counseling Services PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
James Hunter LCSW Counseling Services PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11203  (Online Only)
I assist individuals, couples and groups navigate their way through the challenges of being a parent, being in a relationship with a survivor of domestic violence, being part of a blended family, pre-marital counseling, marriage counseling, divorce, crisis, anger management, death of a loved one, the loss of a relationship, finding companionship, sexual harassment, lack of family support, depression, stress, trauma and other difficulties. I also assist consumers with finding their way through the foster care system, child protective service agencies and identifying the rights of a parent/guardian with a child in a school system.
I assist individuals, couples and groups navigate their way through the challenges of being a parent, being in a relationship with a survivor of domestic violence, being part of a blended family, pre-marital counseling, marriage counseling, divorce, crisis, anger management, death of a loved one, the loss of a relationship, finding companionship, sexual harassment, lack of family support, depression, stress, trauma and other difficulties. I also assist consumers with finding their way through the foster care system, child protective service agencies and identifying the rights of a parent/guardian with a child in a school system.
(718) 736-2174 View (718) 736-2174
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.