Photo of Philip H Yawman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Monroe County, NY
Philip H Yawman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Webster, NY 14580
People that I am currently working with suffer from anxiety, depression, marital distress, and chemical dependency - both drugs and alcohol.
Sherpa is the name for the person in Nepal who carries your baggage when you are climbing up a high mountain. That image fits with my vision of therapy or counseling. I see myself as your servant. I enjoy helping people carry the baggage you bring on the trip. The usefulness of what we do together is dependent on the quality of the relationship we can develop. Do you think that I can help you carry your baggage until you get back on the trail or are high enough on the mountain to see where you want to go?
People that I am currently working with suffer from anxiety, depression, marital distress, and chemical dependency - both drugs and alcohol.
Sherpa is the name for the person in Nepal who carries your baggage when you are climbing up a high mountain. That image fits with my vision of therapy or counseling. I see myself as your servant. I enjoy helping people carry the baggage you bring on the trip. The usefulness of what we do together is dependent on the quality of the relationship we can develop. Do you think that I can help you carry your baggage until you get back on the trail or are high enough on the mountain to see where you want to go?
(585) 348-7899 View (585) 348-7899
Photo of Meghan Crough, Marriage & Family Therapist in Monroe County, NY
Meghan Crough
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rochester, NY 14607
Talking with Meghan helped me balance my personal life, my new marriage and my work life.
Life should be Better than it often is. You know that your life isn't quite where you want it to be. I am committed to helping you achieve high quality answers to your deepest questions. I work with individuals, couples and families to get what you truly want. My therapy is engaging, useful and a powerful support for positive change in your life. Some Testimonials: Just a note to say that you were such a breath of fresh air when I needed it most. I have totally enjoyed talking with you, so affirming and perspective adjusting. Thanks, Meghan! -KW
Talking with Meghan helped me balance my personal life, my new marriage and my work life.
Life should be Better than it often is. You know that your life isn't quite where you want it to be. I am committed to helping you achieve high quality answers to your deepest questions. I work with individuals, couples and families to get what you truly want. My therapy is engaging, useful and a powerful support for positive change in your life. Some Testimonials: Just a note to say that you were such a breath of fresh air when I needed it most. I have totally enjoyed talking with you, so affirming and perspective adjusting. Thanks, Meghan! -KW
(585) 228-0386 View (585) 228-0386
Photo of Collins and Collins Counseling - Shameka Collins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Monroe County, NY
Collins and Collins Counseling - Shameka Collins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Rochester, NY 14618
Helping you become unstuck and begin to move forward is my focus! My husband and I also provide premarital, marriage and couples counseling as a husband and wife team.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS! Are you feeling deep pain, but there's no one who really understands? Are your emotions so powerful that you are beginning to feel like they're in control? Are you feeling unsure about your purpose and unclear about your identity? Are you feeling stuck and unsure how to become free? I am here for you! I understand that beginning therapy can be anxiety-provoking. My goal is to create a safe place for you to explore your emotions, experience healing and grow in understanding your purpose and identity. You can expect to gain perspective and feel empowered after each session.
Helping you become unstuck and begin to move forward is my focus! My husband and I also provide premarital, marriage and couples counseling as a husband and wife team.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS! Are you feeling deep pain, but there's no one who really understands? Are your emotions so powerful that you are beginning to feel like they're in control? Are you feeling unsure about your purpose and unclear about your identity? Are you feeling stuck and unsure how to become free? I am here for you! I understand that beginning therapy can be anxiety-provoking. My goal is to create a safe place for you to explore your emotions, experience healing and grow in understanding your purpose and identity. You can expect to gain perspective and feel empowered after each session.
(585) 432-0806 View (585) 432-0806
Photo of Isaac Jacobs, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Monroe County, NY
Isaac Jacobs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rochester, NY 14607
Isaac specializes in helping people: recover from religious-based trauma, navigating difficult spiritual issues (Deconstruction, Philosophical Changes, Religious Trauma, Purity Culture), marital/relationship problems, family challenges, LGBTQ+-related challenges.
Isaac is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Rochester, NY. Isaac is a Trauma-Informed therapist, Yoga Teacher (200-Hr), and Master Level Reiki Practitioner. Isaac is an experienced clinician with several years of clinical experience and knowledge. Isaac specializes in working with teens (ages 16+), emerging adults, and adults who may these challenges: Anxiety, Depression, Relationship + Family problems, Religious + Spiritual Abuse/Trauma, and Difficult Life Transitions. Isaac is also a LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapist.
Isaac specializes in helping people: recover from religious-based trauma, navigating difficult spiritual issues (Deconstruction, Philosophical Changes, Religious Trauma, Purity Culture), marital/relationship problems, family challenges, LGBTQ+-related challenges.
Isaac is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Rochester, NY. Isaac is a Trauma-Informed therapist, Yoga Teacher (200-Hr), and Master Level Reiki Practitioner. Isaac is an experienced clinician with several years of clinical experience and knowledge. Isaac specializes in working with teens (ages 16+), emerging adults, and adults who may these challenges: Anxiety, Depression, Relationship + Family problems, Religious + Spiritual Abuse/Trauma, and Difficult Life Transitions. Isaac is also a LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapist.
(585) 672-6678 View (585) 672-6678
Photo of Jay W Pruiett, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Monroe County, NY
Jay W Pruiett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rochester, NY 14618
Thank you for visiting my site and for your interest in professional counseling. If you are ready to feel better, please call me for a free telephone consultation and to talk about how therapy can help. If you want to strengthen your marriage, repair a damaged relationship, manage anxiety and depression more effectively, or change bad habits, and if you are motivated to change your life, then you are looking in the right place. After nearly 30 years of practice, I know that psychotherapy works and I encourage you to explore how therapy might work for you.
Thank you for visiting my site and for your interest in professional counseling. If you are ready to feel better, please call me for a free telephone consultation and to talk about how therapy can help. If you want to strengthen your marriage, repair a damaged relationship, manage anxiety and depression more effectively, or change bad habits, and if you are motivated to change your life, then you are looking in the right place. After nearly 30 years of practice, I know that psychotherapy works and I encourage you to explore how therapy might work for you.
(585) 563-1020 View (585) 563-1020
Photo of Sarah Pulinski, Marriage & Family Therapist in Monroe County, NY
Sarah Pulinski
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Rochester, NY 14607
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist.
Therapy offers a space to verbalize your experiences, sort through them, and connect them to feelings. This begins the process of change and self awareness. My priority is to provide a space where you can do this without judgment and feel safe, heard, and understood. I am also the kind of therapist who offers helpful insight and doesn't just sit back and listen, who can help you to see the role you play in your own life and help you grow.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist.
Therapy offers a space to verbalize your experiences, sort through them, and connect them to feelings. This begins the process of change and self awareness. My priority is to provide a space where you can do this without judgment and feel safe, heard, and understood. I am also the kind of therapist who offers helpful insight and doesn't just sit back and listen, who can help you to see the role you play in your own life and help you grow.
(585) 539-7790 View (585) 539-7790
Photo of Christopher J Charleton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Monroe County, NY
Christopher J Charleton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MA
Verified Verified
Penfield, NY 14526
Individual/marital/family counseling and intensive outpatient treatment relating to addictions, eating disorders, Axis-II disorders, psychospiritual formation, attachment disorders, adolescent/adult depression, anger management, shame, trauma-related disorders/dissociation, conflict resolution, family violence, ACOAlcoholics, borderlines, narcissists, codependency, childhood disorders (e.
You are not alone as we partner together to explore, uncover and remove the obstacles that prevent you from becoming your best self and having the quality of life you long for. Using a psychodynamic framework to engage you, build hope, and establish a healing relationship, I specialize in dealing with the cumulative life stresses, traumas, griefs and losses that insidiously sabotage your best efforts, deplete your energy, tempt you into addictions to numb and avoid the pain life has brought you, or turn your long suffering into despair and depression.
Individual/marital/family counseling and intensive outpatient treatment relating to addictions, eating disorders, Axis-II disorders, psychospiritual formation, attachment disorders, adolescent/adult depression, anger management, shame, trauma-related disorders/dissociation, conflict resolution, family violence, ACOAlcoholics, borderlines, narcissists, codependency, childhood disorders (e.
You are not alone as we partner together to explore, uncover and remove the obstacles that prevent you from becoming your best self and having the quality of life you long for. Using a psychodynamic framework to engage you, build hope, and establish a healing relationship, I specialize in dealing with the cumulative life stresses, traumas, griefs and losses that insidiously sabotage your best efforts, deplete your energy, tempt you into addictions to numb and avoid the pain life has brought you, or turn your long suffering into despair and depression.
(585) 302-4198 View (585) 302-4198
Photo of Jason Knupp, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Monroe County, NY
Jason Knupp
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, SAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hilton, NY 14468
Depression and anxiety can hurt and the answer does not always come from a prescription.You deserve to work with someone you trust and feel comfortable with. You deserve someone who will not judge you or tell you that your problems are all in your head. Additionally, if you are struggling with a chemical addiction, we need to treat the addiction AND what is going on with you emotionally. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) specializing in Mental Health/ Addictions therapy. I have 15 years experience helping folks cope with depression, anxiety, marital issues & addictions.
Depression and anxiety can hurt and the answer does not always come from a prescription.You deserve to work with someone you trust and feel comfortable with. You deserve someone who will not judge you or tell you that your problems are all in your head. Additionally, if you are struggling with a chemical addiction, we need to treat the addiction AND what is going on with you emotionally. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) specializing in Mental Health/ Addictions therapy. I have 15 years experience helping folks cope with depression, anxiety, marital issues & addictions.
(585) 682-2433 View (585) 682-2433
Photo of Collins and Collins Counseling- Isaac Collins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Monroe County, NY
Collins and Collins Counseling- Isaac Collins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Rochester, NY 14618
My wife and I also provide pre-marital, marital, and couples counseling as a husband and wife team.
Are you struggling with understanding your emotions? Do you have a hard time identifying your source of trauma? I am here to help, encourage, and empower you on this journey. I have over 15 years of experience working with boys, adolescents and men from all different backgrounds and cultures. I utilize a collection of therapy approaches that place high value on helping clients understand their thoughts and feelings that influence their behaviors. You can expect to gain greater clarity and feel empowered after each session.
My wife and I also provide pre-marital, marital, and couples counseling as a husband and wife team.
Are you struggling with understanding your emotions? Do you have a hard time identifying your source of trauma? I am here to help, encourage, and empower you on this journey. I have over 15 years of experience working with boys, adolescents and men from all different backgrounds and cultures. I utilize a collection of therapy approaches that place high value on helping clients understand their thoughts and feelings that influence their behaviors. You can expect to gain greater clarity and feel empowered after each session.
(585) 432-0806 View (585) 432-0806
Photo of Dawn Garber, Marriage & Family Therapist in Monroe County, NY
Dawn Garber
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, IMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rochester, NY 14602  (Online Only)
As a 40-something with 15+ years of clinical experience in Marriage and Family Therapy, I have found that life is a journey of learning filled with twists and turns, many of which are beyond our power and control. It seems that when we are faced with the choices that naturally proceed from this journey, often we choose something not because it aligns with our highest value, but because it protects our unspoken vulnerabilities. If our greatest loyalty lies with our greatest fear or pain, then that fear or pain holds the potential to be either the cage that imprisons us or the opportunity that grows us to a new level of development.
As a 40-something with 15+ years of clinical experience in Marriage and Family Therapy, I have found that life is a journey of learning filled with twists and turns, many of which are beyond our power and control. It seems that when we are faced with the choices that naturally proceed from this journey, often we choose something not because it aligns with our highest value, but because it protects our unspoken vulnerabilities. If our greatest loyalty lies with our greatest fear or pain, then that fear or pain holds the potential to be either the cage that imprisons us or the opportunity that grows us to a new level of development.
(315) 552-0603 View (315) 552-0603
Photo of Jeffrey R Eveland, Counselor in Monroe County, NY
Jeffrey R Eveland
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsford, NY 14534
We all encounter personal challenges that threaten our sense of well-being and joy. It might be family and relationship tensions, marriage or parenting, or perhaps issues of anxiety or depression. Whatever the need, don't face it alone. Why not reach out and connect with someone who will come alongside you to provide the encouragement and support you need to move forward? You can feel better! Things can change! There is hope! Together we can focus on you gaining a greater measure of emotional, relational, and if faith is important to you, spiritual health. You've shown courage in coming this far! Keep moving forward.
We all encounter personal challenges that threaten our sense of well-being and joy. It might be family and relationship tensions, marriage or parenting, or perhaps issues of anxiety or depression. Whatever the need, don't face it alone. Why not reach out and connect with someone who will come alongside you to provide the encouragement and support you need to move forward? You can feel better! Things can change! There is hope! Together we can focus on you gaining a greater measure of emotional, relational, and if faith is important to you, spiritual health. You've shown courage in coming this far! Keep moving forward.
(315) 329-6291 View (315) 329-6291
Photo of Rachel Astarte • Self Specialist, Marriage & Family Therapist in Monroe County, NY
Rachel Astarte • Self Specialist
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MFA, CLC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rochester, NY 14604  (Online Only)
I am licensed in New York as a Marriage and Family Therapist, I hold an MFA in Creative Writing and have certifications in Transformational Life Coaching and Clinical Hypnotherapy.
Whatever feels “off” in your life—depression, unhealthy boundaries, a dead-end career, anxiety, loneliness, low self-esteem—is a symptom of a larger problem: an unbalanced and under-appreciated Self. Just like a fever lets us know we have an infection, life problems let us know something deep within us isn’t right. We don’t blame the fever, we thank it for alerting us to the bigger problem. Using life’s challenges as a guide, we work together to build the foundation of self you need in order to live an enriching and fully human life. This deep work benefits not only yourself but also your loved ones and the rest of our human family.
I am licensed in New York as a Marriage and Family Therapist, I hold an MFA in Creative Writing and have certifications in Transformational Life Coaching and Clinical Hypnotherapy.
Whatever feels “off” in your life—depression, unhealthy boundaries, a dead-end career, anxiety, loneliness, low self-esteem—is a symptom of a larger problem: an unbalanced and under-appreciated Self. Just like a fever lets us know we have an infection, life problems let us know something deep within us isn’t right. We don’t blame the fever, we thank it for alerting us to the bigger problem. Using life’s challenges as a guide, we work together to build the foundation of self you need in order to live an enriching and fully human life. This deep work benefits not only yourself but also your loved ones and the rest of our human family.
(845) 442-6421 View (845) 442-6421
Photo of Harvest House Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist in Monroe County, NY
Harvest House Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rochester, NY 14626
We are here to help you, your marriage, and your family.
Harvest House is a dream that was born out of a passion for promoting healthy relationships in families, marriages, and individuals as they work toward hope and healing. You don’t have to be going through a difficult personal time, suffering from anxiety, or grieving in order to take advantage of all we have to offer. Therapy is designed to help you find insight, support, and new strategies for life's struggles. With the potentiality to gain benefits such as personal responsibility, self-awareness, objectivity, healthy communication skills, and healthy boundaries, there is little reason to wait any longer.
We are here to help you, your marriage, and your family.
Harvest House is a dream that was born out of a passion for promoting healthy relationships in families, marriages, and individuals as they work toward hope and healing. You don’t have to be going through a difficult personal time, suffering from anxiety, or grieving in order to take advantage of all we have to offer. Therapy is designed to help you find insight, support, and new strategies for life's struggles. With the potentiality to gain benefits such as personal responsibility, self-awareness, objectivity, healthy communication skills, and healthy boundaries, there is little reason to wait any longer.
(315) 800-0011 View (315) 800-0011
Photo of Alicia Bedward, Marriage & Family Therapist in Monroe County, NY
Alicia Bedward
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Rochester, NY 14609
Hey there! If you're reading this, I want to commend you for taking the first step! My name is Alicia and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. My approach to therapy is collaborative, so I fully welcome your input in the session. I believe in meeting you where you are so we can get to where you need to be. I utilize a systemic viewpoint, meaning that together, we consider all the aspects and/or environments in which you interact, to understand how you're affected and how I can best help you.
Hey there! If you're reading this, I want to commend you for taking the first step! My name is Alicia and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. My approach to therapy is collaborative, so I fully welcome your input in the session. I believe in meeting you where you are so we can get to where you need to be. I utilize a systemic viewpoint, meaning that together, we consider all the aspects and/or environments in which you interact, to understand how you're affected and how I can best help you.
(347) 236-3596 View (347) 236-3596
Photo of Edward Jackson Jr., Marriage & Family Therapist in Monroe County, NY
Edward Jackson Jr.
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MDiv, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rochester, NY 14642
As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I work with individuals, couples, and families in their search for healing.
I personally don't believe there is an "ideal" client. My "ideal" client is any amazing person who had the courage to walk through the doors, share their story, and work collaboratively to find healing and happiness. That is the ideal client in my humble opinion!
As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I work with individuals, couples, and families in their search for healing.
I personally don't believe there is an "ideal" client. My "ideal" client is any amazing person who had the courage to walk through the doors, share their story, and work collaboratively to find healing and happiness. That is the ideal client in my humble opinion!
(716) 340-4013 View (716) 340-4013
Photo of Cortnie Valle, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Monroe County, NY
Cortnie Valle
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LPMFT, MS MFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Rochester, NY 14620  (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 Giovanni E Torres, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Monroe County, NY
Giovanni E Torres
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rochester, NY 14626
I love working with individuals, couples, and families to develop better patterns of communication, a greater sense of emotional awareness and expression, and safe places to process trauma and heal. Additionally, I work with men struggling with relationship challenges, porn use, and anger management. Connection, growth, and emotional well-being are cornerstones in my practice. I, therefore, love using trauma informed emotionally focused therapy, IFS, and contextual couples therapy to help clients meet and maintain their goals.
I love working with individuals, couples, and families to develop better patterns of communication, a greater sense of emotional awareness and expression, and safe places to process trauma and heal. Additionally, I work with men struggling with relationship challenges, porn use, and anger management. Connection, growth, and emotional well-being are cornerstones in my practice. I, therefore, love using trauma informed emotionally focused therapy, IFS, and contextual couples therapy to help clients meet and maintain their goals.
(585) 385-6030 View (585) 385-6030
Photo of Joseph Weber, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Monroe County, NY
Joseph Weber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, MSW, MDiv
Verified Verified
Rochester, NY 14610  (Online Only)
I am a psychotherapist specializing in growth-oriented counseling with adults & couples. My clients typically work to increase emotional awareness of their present choices or patterns which lead to various forms of distress. This pain often causes significant disruption in their social, work, physical lives or intimate relationships. Early childhood experiences influence how we all experience our lives today. Insights and associations during talk therapy often bring previously unseen options to light that lead to healthier choices and decreased stress and pain. These sessions take place weekly over the course of many months or more to provide the foundation of lasting growth.
I am a psychotherapist specializing in growth-oriented counseling with adults & couples. My clients typically work to increase emotional awareness of their present choices or patterns which lead to various forms of distress. This pain often causes significant disruption in their social, work, physical lives or intimate relationships. Early childhood experiences influence how we all experience our lives today. Insights and associations during talk therapy often bring previously unseen options to light that lead to healthier choices and decreased stress and pain. These sessions take place weekly over the course of many months or more to provide the foundation of lasting growth.
(585) 271-5610 View (585) 271-5610
Photo of Nadiyasa Badilla, Counselor in Monroe County, NY
Nadiyasa Badilla
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Rochester, NY 14618  (Online Only)
You have the incredible ability to self-heal. I'm here to support you through identifying and letting go of the old habits or patterns that cast you into a narrative that no longer fits the self you want to be in this world. Let's find what works for you and what doesn’t. My role as a therapist is to hold a welcoming, safe space and to provide knowledgeable, dependable support as you discover who you are underneath all those layers of self that you’ve created in order to survive. More and more people are beginning to trust it is safe to relinquish the identity they cling to, the life which they carry so much conflict around.
You have the incredible ability to self-heal. I'm here to support you through identifying and letting go of the old habits or patterns that cast you into a narrative that no longer fits the self you want to be in this world. Let's find what works for you and what doesn’t. My role as a therapist is to hold a welcoming, safe space and to provide knowledgeable, dependable support as you discover who you are underneath all those layers of self that you’ve created in order to survive. More and more people are beginning to trust it is safe to relinquish the identity they cling to, the life which they carry so much conflict around.
View
Photo of Meg Giangreco, Licensed Professional Counselor in Monroe County, NY
Meg Giangreco
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Webster, NY 14580
I believe there are many components that make you who you are. Often we place aspects of ourselves in individual compartments, rejecting the parts we don’t like, or burying them deep in hopes to hide them forever. I want to help you learn to embrace all the parts of yourself. In other words, I want to help you feel comfortable in your own skin!
I believe there are many components that make you who you are. Often we place aspects of ourselves in individual compartments, rejecting the parts we don’t like, or burying them deep in hopes to hide them forever. I want to help you learn to embrace all the parts of yourself. In other words, I want to help you feel comfortable in your own skin!
(585) 440-6907 View (585) 440-6907

See more therapy options for Monroe County

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.