Marriage Counseling Therapists in Brooklyn, NY
Sandra Estimable
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11208
Hello! I am a licensed therapist with over 13 years of experience working with couples and individuals. I specialize in a wide variety of topics including anxiety, depression, family and marital issues, grief, and more. I take a solution-focused and person-centered approach to therapy. I help guide clients to a new level of self-understanding and acceptance, and have helped many clients overcome self-esteem concerns and relationship insecurities.
Hello! I am a licensed therapist with over 13 years of experience working with couples and individuals. I specialize in a wide variety of topics including anxiety, depression, family and marital issues, grief, and more. I take a solution-focused and person-centered approach to therapy. I help guide clients to a new level of self-understanding and acceptance, and have helped many clients overcome self-esteem concerns and relationship insecurities.
Shterna Levy-Haim
MFT-LP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11203 (Online Only)
Are you looking to improve your quality of life and elevate your relationships? Welcome! I'm Shterna, a Marriage and Family Therapist working with individuals, families, and couples, and I'm glad you're here! Deciding to come to therapy is one of the biggest acts of self-love, and I'd be honored to witness your growth and healing journey. I provide a holistic and personalized approach to therapy that addresses the unique needs of each client and their relationship system. My specialties include relationships, family challenges, life transitions, childhood trauma, self-esteem, and boundaries.
Are you looking to improve your quality of life and elevate your relationships? Welcome! I'm Shterna, a Marriage and Family Therapist working with individuals, families, and couples, and I'm glad you're here! Deciding to come to therapy is one of the biggest acts of self-love, and I'd be honored to witness your growth and healing journey. I provide a holistic and personalized approach to therapy that addresses the unique needs of each client and their relationship system. My specialties include relationships, family challenges, life transitions, childhood trauma, self-esteem, and boundaries.
Dr. Regina Bordieri
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11242 (Online Only)
As a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) I am a "specialist" in family and couple therapy with education and training that has REVOLVED around providing quality couple and family therapy.
I have extensive experience helping couples & families cope with life transitions & heal past relationship injuries. I use Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) to help couples escape negative cycles, reduce conflict & reconnect - research consistently shows 90% report significant improvements. I also offer short-term, skills-based relationship coaching, premarital counseling, and relationship enhancement programs, Discernment Counseling for couples considering divorce, & therapy for couples coping with a bipolar diagnosis. I offer flexible scheduling options including Sat & Sun every weekend & online schedule to self-book appointments.
As a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) I am a "specialist" in family and couple therapy with education and training that has REVOLVED around providing quality couple and family therapy.
I have extensive experience helping couples & families cope with life transitions & heal past relationship injuries. I use Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) to help couples escape negative cycles, reduce conflict & reconnect - research consistently shows 90% report significant improvements. I also offer short-term, skills-based relationship coaching, premarital counseling, and relationship enhancement programs, Discernment Counseling for couples considering divorce, & therapy for couples coping with a bipolar diagnosis. I offer flexible scheduling options including Sat & Sun every weekend & online schedule to self-book appointments.
Daniel Schonbuch
MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11225 (Online Only)
If you are looking for warm and compassionate therapy and to find more meaning in your life, you have come to the right place. I offer online therapy (zoom, phone, etc.) and specialize in treating Depression/Anxiety, Trauma, PTSD for individuals and marriage counseling for couples. My approach includes EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, CBT, Emotionally Focused Therapy and Logotherapy (Viktor Frankl). My warm and empathetic approach has helped thousands of individuals and couples overcome emotional difficulties and get "unstuck" and to start enjoying their lives. I accept insurance and have low fee options if you are paying out of pocket.
If you are looking for warm and compassionate therapy and to find more meaning in your life, you have come to the right place. I offer online therapy (zoom, phone, etc.) and specialize in treating Depression/Anxiety, Trauma, PTSD for individuals and marriage counseling for couples. My approach includes EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, CBT, Emotionally Focused Therapy and Logotherapy (Viktor Frankl). My warm and empathetic approach has helped thousands of individuals and couples overcome emotional difficulties and get "unstuck" and to start enjoying their lives. I accept insurance and have low fee options if you are paying out of pocket.
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.
Destined Horizons, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11234
We are Licensed Mental Health Counselors, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists, and National Certified Counselors.
I am the founder of Destined Horizons, PLLC. We are a private practice of dedicated therapists. In a society where "everyday" life stressors and even trauma have become the norm we have always believed that there is a new horizon of awareness that awaits. With over 20 years of combined experience working with individuals and families, we have promoted change through providing therapy to a variety of clients. Our experiences range from individual therapy, group therapy, family therapy, and couple therapy. We currently serve the states of New York, Georgia and Maryland.
We are Licensed Mental Health Counselors, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists, and National Certified Counselors.
I am the founder of Destined Horizons, PLLC. We are a private practice of dedicated therapists. In a society where "everyday" life stressors and even trauma have become the norm we have always believed that there is a new horizon of awareness that awaits. With over 20 years of combined experience working with individuals and families, we have promoted change through providing therapy to a variety of clients. Our experiences range from individual therapy, group therapy, family therapy, and couple therapy. We currently serve the states of New York, Georgia and Maryland.
Tina Kahn
Counselor, LMHC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11230
I am a NYS Licensed Mental Health Counselor and NYS Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 25+ years of experience working with individuals, couples, and groups. I use guided imagery, and techniques for developing hopefulness. I also use more traditional insight modes of treatment. I also work through Headway which enables many clients to obtain insurance coverage. Please see my profile at headway.co/providers/tina-kahn for more information.
I am a NYS Licensed Mental Health Counselor and NYS Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 25+ years of experience working with individuals, couples, and groups. I use guided imagery, and techniques for developing hopefulness. I also use more traditional insight modes of treatment. I also work through Headway which enables many clients to obtain insurance coverage. Please see my profile at headway.co/providers/tina-kahn for more information.
Tom Bender
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11225
If you are experiencing marital strife, depression/anxiety, feelings of emptiness, anger, grief, or just plain feeling stressed out, we can work together to create the life you want to live.
Many clients are in search of deeper happiness and emotional resilience in their lives and relationships. Often, out of innocence, we look outside ourselves for fulfillment instead of inward, towards our own true hearts. For over 25 years I have worked with couples and individuals seeking a way out of isolation and emotional suffering towards greater joy. This is your time to be on the planet. If you struggle with self-defeating patterns and would like help shifting towards a more vibrant life, please call me for a free consultation.
If you are experiencing marital strife, depression/anxiety, feelings of emptiness, anger, grief, or just plain feeling stressed out, we can work together to create the life you want to live.
Many clients are in search of deeper happiness and emotional resilience in their lives and relationships. Often, out of innocence, we look outside ourselves for fulfillment instead of inward, towards our own true hearts. For over 25 years I have worked with couples and individuals seeking a way out of isolation and emotional suffering towards greater joy. This is your time to be on the planet. If you struggle with self-defeating patterns and would like help shifting towards a more vibrant life, please call me for a free consultation.
William Astwood
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11201
I am a Marriage and Family Psychotherapist in private practice in Brooklyn for over thirty years and formerly Director of Family Services at a large, multi-modal, private counseling center in Manhattan. Although continuing to work with individuals, for the last twenty years my continued training and professional focus has been on couples, children, and families as it became increasingly clear that engaging the family group was so much more effective and efficient. This comes not merely from having the additional information, but from being able to mobilize the inherent strength of the family and its' intrinsic, natural movement towards growth.
I am a Marriage and Family Psychotherapist in private practice in Brooklyn for over thirty years and formerly Director of Family Services at a large, multi-modal, private counseling center in Manhattan. Although continuing to work with individuals, for the last twenty years my continued training and professional focus has been on couples, children, and families as it became increasingly clear that engaging the family group was so much more effective and efficient. This comes not merely from having the additional information, but from being able to mobilize the inherent strength of the family and its' intrinsic, natural movement towards growth.
Transformation Concepts LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, DD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11233
Marital Conflicts and Stress, Step family Issues, Single Parent Family Conflicts, Relationship Conflicts, Sexual issues in marriage, Emotional Issues In Divorce, Bereavement And Illness, Anxiety / Depression, Difficulties With Communication.
Today you are one step closer to a new you where you feel empowered and on a positive path to growth and well-being.
My goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. We can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. We will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
I look forward to working with you to achieve your goals.
www.helpmetransformmylife.com
Marital Conflicts and Stress, Step family Issues, Single Parent Family Conflicts, Relationship Conflicts, Sexual issues in marriage, Emotional Issues In Divorce, Bereavement And Illness, Anxiety / Depression, Difficulties With Communication.
Today you are one step closer to a new you where you feel empowered and on a positive path to growth and well-being.
My goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. We can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. We will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
I look forward to working with you to achieve your goals.
www.helpmetransformmylife.com
Joseph Scotto
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, MS-HRM
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11231
I take an eclectic approach to treatment, focusing on an individuals needs. I have worked in the field for 26 years and have experience working with depression, anxiety, trauma, marriage and family issues, relationship issues, sexual identity issues, foster care, HIV/AIDS, 911 related trauma, etc. Please contact me for more information or an initial consultation.
I take an eclectic approach to treatment, focusing on an individuals needs. I have worked in the field for 26 years and have experience working with depression, anxiety, trauma, marriage and family issues, relationship issues, sexual identity issues, foster care, HIV/AIDS, 911 related trauma, etc. Please contact me for more information or an initial consultation.
15 Second Videos
Shterna Levy-Haim
Dr. Mitch and Lisa Marriages/Couples Workshops
Dr. Mitch and Lisa Marriages/Couples Workshops
Ashley Gentil
Dr. Mitch and Lisa Marriages/Couples Workshops
Applied Behavioral Sciences
Stephania Cajuste
William Joseph Ryan
Carolyn Ella McIntyre
Dr. Alan Singer
Jonathan Tuller
Mary Powell
spiral2grow
David Bricker
Applied Behavioral Sciences
Julia Massay-Donato
Maryann (Mare) Rulapaugh
Lyle N. F. Williams
Sheila Arias
Gretchen Sofocleous
Fresh Start Marriage and Family Therapy, PLLC
Benjamin Sloviter
Anna Richards
Lisa Schneider
Andréa Mortensen
Clark Gentile
Brynley Lazar
Sanjana Pawath @ Connect To Growth
Martina Garza
Jonathan Vargas
Rachel McGlade
Shari Simon
Jennie Kogan
Mary McGregor
Suzanne Eng
Malissa Pansa-ad
Frances Field
Jason V Flemming
Dijellza Zaku
Margo Miller
Fay M Aaronson
Steve Alexander Jr.
Maggie Shi
Anna Spencer
Mollie Aklepi
Stephanie West
Ellen Lourie
Aaron Silverman
Emily Martinez
Viola Blake
Dr. Lana Grinev
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, M-CASAC, SAP/SAE, CPHQ, CCM/DSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11234 (Online Only)
I apply treatment modalities that assist clients through childhood/adult trauma, marital discord, depression, anxiety, anger, poor sense of self, adjustment and loss by using strength and evidence-based treatment modalities.
I have to agree that finding the precise therapist can be quite challenging! Hopefully I can make your search less hectic if given the opportunity. I provide an unbiased, trusting environment necessary to explore vulnerabilities which foster healing. I have success working with clients of various ages from diverse backgrounds. I have received advanced training in Eating Disorders and Substance Abuse, and I am also well-versed in cognitive, behavioral, mindfulness, and psychodynamic approaches. I combine techniques from different therapeutic modalities to help my clients reach their goals to success and overall self-fulfillment.
I apply treatment modalities that assist clients through childhood/adult trauma, marital discord, depression, anxiety, anger, poor sense of self, adjustment and loss by using strength and evidence-based treatment modalities.
I have to agree that finding the precise therapist can be quite challenging! Hopefully I can make your search less hectic if given the opportunity. I provide an unbiased, trusting environment necessary to explore vulnerabilities which foster healing. I have success working with clients of various ages from diverse backgrounds. I have received advanced training in Eating Disorders and Substance Abuse, and I am also well-versed in cognitive, behavioral, mindfulness, and psychodynamic approaches. I combine techniques from different therapeutic modalities to help my clients reach their goals to success and overall self-fulfillment.
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.
Otilia E Rivera
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11208 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I invite those who need support in areas such as anxiety, depression, trauma including PTSD, family and relationship conflicts, low self-esteem, communication issues, affair recovery, lack of emotional intimacy, high conflict levels, gender identity, sexuality exploration, and pre-marital counseling.
We often feel anxious, down, or lonely in their relationships due to unrealistic expectations and constantly being "on the go". Balancing family, school, career, and life obligations creates challenges in maintaining fulfilling relationships and strong connections with our partners, our families and loved ones. My approach to therapy is rooted in empathy, understanding, and collaboration where one can learn relationship skills, coping skills and foster growth and healing.
I invite those who need support in areas such as anxiety, depression, trauma including PTSD, family and relationship conflicts, low self-esteem, communication issues, affair recovery, lack of emotional intimacy, high conflict levels, gender identity, sexuality exploration, and pre-marital counseling.
We often feel anxious, down, or lonely in their relationships due to unrealistic expectations and constantly being "on the go". Balancing family, school, career, and life obligations creates challenges in maintaining fulfilling relationships and strong connections with our partners, our families and loved ones. My approach to therapy is rooted in empathy, understanding, and collaboration where one can learn relationship skills, coping skills and foster growth and healing.
Dr. Mitch and Lisa Marriages/Couples Workshops
PsyD, MSW, Life, Coach
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11217
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. session 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. session 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.
Park Slope Psychologist/Life Lessons Psychological
Psychologist, PhD, NBP, CSOTS, CGCS
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11238
Locating a therapist can be a fearful and daunting process, however, once found can be rewarding as you begin to express your deepest and most personal story. Are you struggling with depression, anxiety or low self-esteem? Are you experiencing marital discord or dealing with a child who presents with attention difficulties, defiancy or truancy? Do you find it difficult to manage your emotions and set limits for your children? Do you often feel overwhelmed and have noone to talk to? I look forward to helping you resolve your varied issues. Most of all I look forward to empowering you.
Locating a therapist can be a fearful and daunting process, however, once found can be rewarding as you begin to express your deepest and most personal story. Are you struggling with depression, anxiety or low self-esteem? Are you experiencing marital discord or dealing with a child who presents with attention difficulties, defiancy or truancy? Do you find it difficult to manage your emotions and set limits for your children? Do you often feel overwhelmed and have noone to talk to? I look forward to helping you resolve your varied issues. Most of all I look forward to empowering you.
Aricia Lewis
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11234
Need help with matters concerning your family life, relationships and/or individual growth. I am the person to service all of your needs. As a certified Marriage and Family Therapist and Educator for over 15 years, I've gained insurmountable experience in navigating life's difficulties, and assisting others in being their authentic selves. If you are in need of help, I implore you to reach out to me, Aricia Lewis at the number listed or at curemft@gmail.com. Please remember, You are Never Alone.
Need help with matters concerning your family life, relationships and/or individual growth. I am the person to service all of your needs. As a certified Marriage and Family Therapist and Educator for over 15 years, I've gained insurmountable experience in navigating life's difficulties, and assisting others in being their authentic selves. If you are in need of help, I implore you to reach out to me, Aricia Lewis at the number listed or at curemft@gmail.com. Please remember, You are Never Alone.
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.
Randi Levinson,MFT,CCS
MFT, CCS
Not Verified Not Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11249 (Online Only)
Welcome! I have been a relationship therapist for both Individuals and couples for 16 years. This therapy/coaching will help you understand what you’re fighting about and how to repair. From infidelity recovery, sexless marriage to dating and all relationship concerns, this is my life’s passion to uncover and help you have a meaningful relationship and sex life. Uneven sexual desire, mismatched libidos, and various sexual challenges is very common in relationships, we offer this kind of help. I offer online Men's Groups and Women's Support Groups for sex and relationship concerns.
Welcome! I have been a relationship therapist for both Individuals and couples for 16 years. This therapy/coaching will help you understand what you’re fighting about and how to repair. From infidelity recovery, sexless marriage to dating and all relationship concerns, this is my life’s passion to uncover and help you have a meaningful relationship and sex life. Uneven sexual desire, mismatched libidos, and various sexual challenges is very common in relationships, we offer this kind of help. I offer online Men's Groups and Women's Support Groups for sex and relationship concerns.
Bela Gershgorin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11229
Life changes can be painful.Through exploration of feelings, symptoms and behavior, I help patients to gain insight into the root of their problems, then we set realistic goals. My clinical practice includes cognitive behavior, insight oriented, reality oriented therapy, family and marriage counseling. I also have special certification in treating anxiety and eating disorders. My experience has also helped me to realize that the number of patients with age-related cognitive, mood and memory problems is also growing and many of them remain under-diagnosed and under-treated. Integrating memory-enhancing strategies and behavioral modifications into individual therapy for seniors leads to tangible results.
Life changes can be painful.Through exploration of feelings, symptoms and behavior, I help patients to gain insight into the root of their problems, then we set realistic goals. My clinical practice includes cognitive behavior, insight oriented, reality oriented therapy, family and marriage counseling. I also have special certification in treating anxiety and eating disorders. My experience has also helped me to realize that the number of patients with age-related cognitive, mood and memory problems is also growing and many of them remain under-diagnosed and under-treated. Integrating memory-enhancing strategies and behavioral modifications into individual therapy for seniors leads to tangible results.
See more therapy options for Brooklyn
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.