Marriage Counseling Therapists in Glenville, NY

Bressler Wakesberg Center for Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Glenville, NY 12302
Waitlist for new clients
Ellen Bressler LCSW and Martin Wakesberg LCSW, SAP Treating all age groups using a variety of modalities including cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused and trauma informed therapy. Most insurances accepted.
Ellen Bressler LCSW and Martin Wakesberg LCSW, SAP Treating all age groups using a variety of modalities including cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused and trauma informed therapy. Most insurances accepted.
(518) 708-6519 View (518) 708-6519
Photo of Ciara Diemer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Glenville, NY
Ciara Diemer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Glenville, NY 12302  (Online Only)
For over a decade, I've dedicated myself to the field of clinical social work, accumulating a wealth of experience along the way. With compassion as my compass, I've embarked on the profound journey of guiding individuals towards emotional well-being for 11 impactful years. This endeavor has been marked by a commitment to understanding, supporting, and empowering those I serve. Each day, I draw upon my depth of knowledge and genuine empathy to facilitate positive change in the lives of others, fostering resilience and facilitating growth.
For over a decade, I've dedicated myself to the field of clinical social work, accumulating a wealth of experience along the way. With compassion as my compass, I've embarked on the profound journey of guiding individuals towards emotional well-being for 11 impactful years. This endeavor has been marked by a commitment to understanding, supporting, and empowering those I serve. Each day, I draw upon my depth of knowledge and genuine empathy to facilitate positive change in the lives of others, fostering resilience and facilitating growth.
(518) 840-1270 View (518) 840-1270
Photo of Meagan McCarthy Rivenburgh, Counselor in Glenville, NY
Meagan McCarthy Rivenburgh
Counselor, CASAC, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glenville, NY 12302
My clients often tell me they seek therapy when beginning to question why their knowledge and hard work is not translating to increased life satisfaction. Some are finding the work-life balance lauded by media, family, friends, and colleagues to feel elusive. Others find quests for self-improvement are resulting in cycles of determined action followed by disappointment, self-doubt, and feelings of shame or inadequacy. Most want to live in a way that is aligned to their identities and values, but find this has often resulted in more pain. If any of these ring true to you- you are not alone, and your efforts have not been in vain.
My clients often tell me they seek therapy when beginning to question why their knowledge and hard work is not translating to increased life satisfaction. Some are finding the work-life balance lauded by media, family, friends, and colleagues to feel elusive. Others find quests for self-improvement are resulting in cycles of determined action followed by disappointment, self-doubt, and feelings of shame or inadequacy. Most want to live in a way that is aligned to their identities and values, but find this has often resulted in more pain. If any of these ring true to you- you are not alone, and your efforts have not been in vain.
(518) 306-1652 View (518) 306-1652

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Mitch and Lisa Marriages/Couples Workshops in Glenville, NY
Dr. Mitch and Lisa Marriages/Couples Workshops
PsyD, MSW, Life, Coach
Verified Verified
Schenectady, NY 12308
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 6 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 6 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.
(518) 901-2753 View (518) 901-2753
Photo of Richard E Madden, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Glenville, NY
Richard E Madden, PhD, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Scotia, NY 12302  (Online Only)
RESCUE LOVE MARITAL TREATMENT FOR INFIDELITY.
PERSONAL THERAPY... most any therapist will do if you only want to talk things out and have someone listen without judging. But if you are looking for more, my post-graduate training and advanced credentials in Rational-Emotive-Behavior Therapy (REBT) and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), enable me to teach you how to effectively manage your stress, sleep, unhealthy emotions and self-defeating behaviors--something I've successfully done for myself and thousands of clients for more than 40 years. Please visit website: www.theSTRESSdoc.com BEFORE calling me, anytime, to discuss your needs.
RESCUE LOVE MARITAL TREATMENT FOR INFIDELITY.
PERSONAL THERAPY... most any therapist will do if you only want to talk things out and have someone listen without judging. But if you are looking for more, my post-graduate training and advanced credentials in Rational-Emotive-Behavior Therapy (REBT) and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), enable me to teach you how to effectively manage your stress, sleep, unhealthy emotions and self-defeating behaviors--something I've successfully done for myself and thousands of clients for more than 40 years. Please visit website: www.theSTRESSdoc.com BEFORE calling me, anytime, to discuss your needs.
(518) 225-7707 View (518) 225-7707
Photo of Karin Earle, Marriage & Family Therapist in Glenville, NY
Karin Earle
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Schenectady, NY 12305  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with teens and adults impacted by grief and loss, trauma, and relationship/marital problems.
There is a universal human need for our stories to be told, heard, and understood. Perhaps your story has painful memories that have caused anxiety, stress, and depression to enter your life. Maybe your family or personal relationships have hurt you and you desire to have healthier relationships. It is my goal to provide you with a safe place to explore and process your past and present stories to access growth, healing, insight, and positive change. As Samwise said to Frodo, “There’s some good in this world, and it’s worth fighting for”- J.R.R. Tolkien.
I specialize in working with teens and adults impacted by grief and loss, trauma, and relationship/marital problems.
There is a universal human need for our stories to be told, heard, and understood. Perhaps your story has painful memories that have caused anxiety, stress, and depression to enter your life. Maybe your family or personal relationships have hurt you and you desire to have healthier relationships. It is my goal to provide you with a safe place to explore and process your past and present stories to access growth, healing, insight, and positive change. As Samwise said to Frodo, “There’s some good in this world, and it’s worth fighting for”- J.R.R. Tolkien.
(680) 201-1729 View (680) 201-1729
Photo of Cortnie Valle, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Glenville, NY
Cortnie Valle
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LPMFT, MS MFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Schenectady, NY 12305  (Online Only)
As a Marriage & Family Therapist I specialize in relational dynamics which means I view both individuals and couples through the lens of their family of origin.
Have you been feeling lost or stuck in your life? Are you not feeling heard by your partner and your connection to them is suffering because of it? Perhaps you are dealing with anxiety or depression to the point where you are finding it difficult to go about your normal routine. These feelings can be overwhelming and leave you feeling unsure as to how to deal with them. As your therapist, I can help you navigate what is going on beneath the surface that is influencing your current situation. I will work alongside of you to gain clarity, understanding and find the joy, freedom and connection you desire!
As a Marriage & Family Therapist I specialize in relational dynamics which means I view both individuals and couples through the lens of their family of origin.
Have you been feeling lost or stuck in your life? Are you not feeling heard by your partner and your connection to them is suffering because of it? Perhaps you are dealing with anxiety or depression to the point where you are finding it difficult to go about your normal routine. These feelings can be overwhelming and leave you feeling unsure as to how to deal with them. As your therapist, I can help you navigate what is going on beneath the surface that is influencing your current situation. I will work alongside of you to gain clarity, understanding and find the joy, freedom and connection you desire!
(518) 839-1664 View (518) 839-1664
Photo of Christina Harrington-Stutzmann, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Glenville, NY
Christina Harrington-Stutzmann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, LMFT, LMHC, GC-C, PhD
Verified Verified
Scotia, NY 12302  (Online Only)
I am licensed as a Clinical Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), a Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) and in Clinical Social Worker (LCSW-R, both in NY and in AZ ).
My approach towards helping you is to create a supportive space to bring you comfort to your current experiences.I believe it's necessary to accept where you are and to understand where you want to go. I have 20+ years of experience providing treatment and consultations with reputable organizations. I invite you in to talk to explore the changes in your life that may facilitate healthy growth.
I am licensed as a Clinical Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), a Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) and in Clinical Social Worker (LCSW-R, both in NY and in AZ ).
My approach towards helping you is to create a supportive space to bring you comfort to your current experiences.I believe it's necessary to accept where you are and to understand where you want to go. I have 20+ years of experience providing treatment and consultations with reputable organizations. I invite you in to talk to explore the changes in your life that may facilitate healthy growth.
(518) 336-5439 x443 View (518) 336-5439 x443
Photo of Pamela Price-Lerner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Glenville, NY
Pamela Price-Lerner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Schenectady, NY 12309  (Online Only)
Are you feeling stuck? Stressed? Anxious? Depressed? Have OCD? Have low self-esteem? Relationship issues? Going through something? We will help you feel less stressed & more empowered as you explore your issues, find your strengths & learn how to use them effectively. You will identify, evaluate & change negative & unhelpful thoughts & behaviors that keep you stuck. I love to work with clients who want to make lasting changes in their lives. I love the deep connections formed with my clients. Contact us today to get started. Virtual individual counseling & marriage counseling. Also now offering intensive sessions.
Are you feeling stuck? Stressed? Anxious? Depressed? Have OCD? Have low self-esteem? Relationship issues? Going through something? We will help you feel less stressed & more empowered as you explore your issues, find your strengths & learn how to use them effectively. You will identify, evaluate & change negative & unhelpful thoughts & behaviors that keep you stuck. I love to work with clients who want to make lasting changes in their lives. I love the deep connections formed with my clients. Contact us today to get started. Virtual individual counseling & marriage counseling. Also now offering intensive sessions.
(516) 469-3495 View (516) 469-3495
Photo of Laurel Burns, Counselor in Glenville, NY
Laurel Burns
Counselor, EdS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Schenectady, NY 12309
Change is hard, whether you are trying to stop anxious thoughts, be a better parent, let go of eating disorder behavior, or save your marriage. If you wish to bring change into your life, and have been unable to do it on your own, I can help. I am an expert in the science of change and hold a certificate in the field of Positive Psychology. I am a strength based therapist. Collaboratively and creatively we can discover the tools to enable you to move from a painful state to comfort and resilience, where you can flourish and become the best version of yourself.
Change is hard, whether you are trying to stop anxious thoughts, be a better parent, let go of eating disorder behavior, or save your marriage. If you wish to bring change into your life, and have been unable to do it on your own, I can help. I am an expert in the science of change and hold a certificate in the field of Positive Psychology. I am a strength based therapist. Collaboratively and creatively we can discover the tools to enable you to move from a painful state to comfort and resilience, where you can flourish and become the best version of yourself.
(518) 864-4056 View (518) 864-4056
Photo of Kate Miechkowski, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Glenville, NY
Kate Miechkowski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Clifton Park, NY 12065
I've got a broad range of experience: homelessness, Alzheimer's/dementia, teens, marriage counseling, depression, anxiety, faith-based approaches, addiction/alcoholism, career changes, managing businesses, among many more.
Clients would describe me as friendly, to-the-point, and practical. I'm genuinely curious about how you got where you are and, more importantly, where you want to go. Whether it's problems in your marriage, questioning your career, grieving a death, or wrestling with addiction, I want to hear about it. I've been around the block and found that building trust and a strong relationship matter more than specific clinical models and coping skills. While I enjoy working with a wide variety of people, I've found that I work very well with men.
I've got a broad range of experience: homelessness, Alzheimer's/dementia, teens, marriage counseling, depression, anxiety, faith-based approaches, addiction/alcoholism, career changes, managing businesses, among many more.
Clients would describe me as friendly, to-the-point, and practical. I'm genuinely curious about how you got where you are and, more importantly, where you want to go. Whether it's problems in your marriage, questioning your career, grieving a death, or wrestling with addiction, I want to hear about it. I've been around the block and found that building trust and a strong relationship matter more than specific clinical models and coping skills. While I enjoy working with a wide variety of people, I've found that I work very well with men.
(518) 415-6980 View (518) 415-6980
Photo of Richard E Madden, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Glenville, NY
Richard E Madden
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Clifton Park, NY 12065  (Online Only)
RESCUE LOVE MARITAL TREATMENT FOR INFIDELITY.
PERSONAL THERAPY...most any therapist will do if you only want to talk things out and have someone listen without judging. But if you are looking for more, my post-graduate training and advanced credentials in Rational-Emotive-Behavior Therapy (REBT) and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) enable me to teach you how to effectively manage your stress, sleep, unhealthy emotions and self-defeating behaviors--something I've successfully done for myself and thousands of clients for more than 40 years. Please visit website: www.theSTRESSdoc.com BEFORE calling me, anytime, to discuss your needs.
RESCUE LOVE MARITAL TREATMENT FOR INFIDELITY.
PERSONAL THERAPY...most any therapist will do if you only want to talk things out and have someone listen without judging. But if you are looking for more, my post-graduate training and advanced credentials in Rational-Emotive-Behavior Therapy (REBT) and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) enable me to teach you how to effectively manage your stress, sleep, unhealthy emotions and self-defeating behaviors--something I've successfully done for myself and thousands of clients for more than 40 years. Please visit website: www.theSTRESSdoc.com BEFORE calling me, anytime, to discuss your needs.
(518) 225-7707 View (518) 225-7707
Photo of Sarah Lockhart-Palladino, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Glenville, NY
Sarah Lockhart-Palladino
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Clifton Park, NY 12065
I also also use various models for marriage/couples counseling, and pre-marital counseling.
If you want to get back to yourself or reach new heights, I know how to help. You may feel that you never reached your true potential, and struggle with managing your life. You may feel that you have lost yourself after going through a traumatic experience. Suffering with anxiety, depression, and feeling at a loss with how to get unstuck. Your marriage or primary relationships have started to suffer. You are ready to find real change. Or maybe you are just hoping to set yourself up for success personally or in your relationships. If you are looking for the added comfort of a lazy, goofy labrador retriever...
I also also use various models for marriage/couples counseling, and pre-marital counseling.
If you want to get back to yourself or reach new heights, I know how to help. You may feel that you never reached your true potential, and struggle with managing your life. You may feel that you have lost yourself after going through a traumatic experience. Suffering with anxiety, depression, and feeling at a loss with how to get unstuck. Your marriage or primary relationships have started to suffer. You are ready to find real change. Or maybe you are just hoping to set yourself up for success personally or in your relationships. If you are looking for the added comfort of a lazy, goofy labrador retriever...
(518) 376-9320 View (518) 376-9320
Photo of Kimberly Susan Martin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Glenville, NY
Kimberly Susan Martin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Clifton Park, NY 12065
My areas of expertise include: marital/couples counseling, anxiety and depression, trauma, divorce, blended family issues, stress, sexual trauma, parenting, and grief.
Life can be hard...stressful things happen. It can be difficult to sort it all out. There are times in our lives where we lose track of who we are and what we need. Therapy can help by providing you with the time, space and support to help you better understand what’s going on and what steps you can take to feel better.
My areas of expertise include: marital/couples counseling, anxiety and depression, trauma, divorce, blended family issues, stress, sexual trauma, parenting, and grief.
Life can be hard...stressful things happen. It can be difficult to sort it all out. There are times in our lives where we lose track of who we are and what we need. Therapy can help by providing you with the time, space and support to help you better understand what’s going on and what steps you can take to feel better.
(518) 501-0164 View (518) 501-0164
Photo of Sherman Stovall Jr., Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Glenville, NY
Sherman Stovall Jr.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, MA, CEAP, Q-SAP, EAS-C
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Clifton Park, NY 12065
Specializing in individual psychotherapy, marriage counseling, substance abuse, trauma, anxiety, abuse, as well as other varied fields of counseling.
Have you ever asked yourself what it would be like to be limitless? Or the best version of yourself? To excel professionally, socially, or even romantically? Do you have problems with feeling like no one understands you, or the way that you feel? Find the answers that you have been searching for with Sherman, at Legacy Behavioral Health. At Legacy, you will receive a specialized treatment regimen that will make you stop negotiating with failure and finally understand your worth and capacity for growth. I promise you that you are strong enough! Let me prove it to you. Come to Legacy, YOUR Behavioral Health Team!
Specializing in individual psychotherapy, marriage counseling, substance abuse, trauma, anxiety, abuse, as well as other varied fields of counseling.
Have you ever asked yourself what it would be like to be limitless? Or the best version of yourself? To excel professionally, socially, or even romantically? Do you have problems with feeling like no one understands you, or the way that you feel? Find the answers that you have been searching for with Sherman, at Legacy Behavioral Health. At Legacy, you will receive a specialized treatment regimen that will make you stop negotiating with failure and finally understand your worth and capacity for growth. I promise you that you are strong enough! Let me prove it to you. Come to Legacy, YOUR Behavioral Health Team!
(518) 278-7170 View (518) 278-7170
Photo of Katina Saxton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Glenville, NY
Katina Saxton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, PMH-C
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Clifton Park, NY 12065
Infertility, pregnancy, perinatal and neonatal loss, pregnancy and birth complications, marital issues, family estrangement, postpartum mood and anxiety disorders, postpartum mood changes in fathers or a non-gestational parent and life role transitions.
As we grow into ourselves, and life changes, we can begin to notice gaps in our story... We can begin to reflect on how we are shaped by our families, our childhood, our own temperament and our experiences in adulthood. Are we living in line with our goals, beliefs, and values? Do we have a strong sense of identity? Do we have quality relationships in our lives? Starting a family is one of life's greatest periods of reflection, adaptation and role change. It is not one cohesive story that is the same for everyone. There are times we need help navigating and adapting to this part of our life story.
Infertility, pregnancy, perinatal and neonatal loss, pregnancy and birth complications, marital issues, family estrangement, postpartum mood and anxiety disorders, postpartum mood changes in fathers or a non-gestational parent and life role transitions.
As we grow into ourselves, and life changes, we can begin to notice gaps in our story... We can begin to reflect on how we are shaped by our families, our childhood, our own temperament and our experiences in adulthood. Are we living in line with our goals, beliefs, and values? Do we have a strong sense of identity? Do we have quality relationships in our lives? Starting a family is one of life's greatest periods of reflection, adaptation and role change. It is not one cohesive story that is the same for everyone. There are times we need help navigating and adapting to this part of our life story.
(518) 254-8265 View (518) 254-8265
Photo of Valerie Malivuk, Counselor in Glenville, NY
Valerie Malivuk
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Schenectady, NY 12305
Hey, welcome. I know the process of trying to find the right therapist can feel overwhelming. When I’ve looked for therapists for myself or as referrals for others, what I generally want to know is who the therapist is, what kind of person they are. Will they get me? Will they judge me? Are they going to actually call me on my stuff, but, in a nice way? These questions make sense. Therapy is vulnerable, it can be raw and real in ways we generally aren’t, even in very close relationships. Change is often hard and sometimes really scary but if you’re ready, I will meet you there.
Hey, welcome. I know the process of trying to find the right therapist can feel overwhelming. When I’ve looked for therapists for myself or as referrals for others, what I generally want to know is who the therapist is, what kind of person they are. Will they get me? Will they judge me? Are they going to actually call me on my stuff, but, in a nice way? These questions make sense. Therapy is vulnerable, it can be raw and real in ways we generally aren’t, even in very close relationships. Change is often hard and sometimes really scary but if you’re ready, I will meet you there.
(518) 252-8146 View (518) 252-8146
Photo of Shelby Rodgers At Nassau Psychology Pc, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Glenville, NY
Shelby Rodgers At Nassau Psychology Pc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Schenectady, NY 12302  (Online Only)
Book an appointment online through our website www.nassaupsychology.org! Shelby is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. She received her masters degree in social work from Adelphi University and has over seven years of experience providing therapy for adolescents, adults, and couples. She has worked with different populations in various settings such as schools, OMH residences, and outpatient clinics.
Book an appointment online through our website www.nassaupsychology.org! Shelby is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. She received her masters degree in social work from Adelphi University and has over seven years of experience providing therapy for adolescents, adults, and couples. She has worked with different populations in various settings such as schools, OMH residences, and outpatient clinics.
(516) 774-3668 View (516) 774-3668
Photo of Farah Delicia, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Glenville, NY
Farah Delicia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, MPH, RYT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Niskayuna, NY 12309  (Online Only)
Do you constantly feel stressed, burned out and generally unfulfilled by life? Maybe you’re facing pressures and expectations from family, school or work, and on top of that, experiencing self-limiting beliefs, leading to anxiety and depression. I support a wide range of clients: career-oriented, professional women who have experienced childhood trauma; young adults dealing with anxiety, depression, or adjustment issues; and anyone drawn to a body-based therapy approach integrating yoga, mindfulness, and breathwork.
Do you constantly feel stressed, burned out and generally unfulfilled by life? Maybe you’re facing pressures and expectations from family, school or work, and on top of that, experiencing self-limiting beliefs, leading to anxiety and depression. I support a wide range of clients: career-oriented, professional women who have experienced childhood trauma; young adults dealing with anxiety, depression, or adjustment issues; and anyone drawn to a body-based therapy approach integrating yoga, mindfulness, and breathwork.
(332) 248-0609 View (332) 248-0609
Photo of Aaron Hoorwitz, Psychologist in Glenville, NY
Aaron Hoorwitz
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Schenectady, NY 12309
“I don't try to use the same type of therapy for everybody because every person is different. First, I figure out what the problem is and only then can I figure out what to do about it.” Attorney Martin Kehoe said this about me:“Dr. Hoorwitz is one of the least pretentious professionals. . .and his humility is matched by his integrity and professional competence.... and he is the most insightful and helpful psychologist available to families .... and I am confident that families who seek his help will be well served." To schedule an appointment, call or text 518-847-4988.
“I don't try to use the same type of therapy for everybody because every person is different. First, I figure out what the problem is and only then can I figure out what to do about it.” Attorney Martin Kehoe said this about me:“Dr. Hoorwitz is one of the least pretentious professionals. . .and his humility is matched by his integrity and professional competence.... and he is the most insightful and helpful psychologist available to families .... and I am confident that families who seek his help will be well served." To schedule an appointment, call or text 518-847-4988.
(518) 847-4988 View (518) 847-4988

See more therapy options for Glenville

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.