Marriage Counseling Therapists in Garment District, New York, NY

Photo of Melissa Pennica, Marriage & Family Therapist in Garment District, New York, NY
Melissa Pennica
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Garment District, New York, NY 10018
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a Master's Degree in Human Development and Family Studies, as well as Bachelor's Degrees in both Psychology and Sociology. I strive to provide clients with the space to explore life's obstacles in a nonjudgmental environment. Whether it is relational hardships, family concerns, or individual stressors, I believe that everyone can benefit from the space that therapy can provide to work through these issues. I work with clients to explore issues from all angles, while providing a listening ear and the helpful tools to work through the issues they are grappling with.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a Master's Degree in Human Development and Family Studies, as well as Bachelor's Degrees in both Psychology and Sociology. I strive to provide clients with the space to explore life's obstacles in a nonjudgmental environment. Whether it is relational hardships, family concerns, or individual stressors, I believe that everyone can benefit from the space that therapy can provide to work through these issues. I work with clients to explore issues from all angles, while providing a listening ear and the helpful tools to work through the issues they are grappling with.
(347) 647-2140 View (347) 647-2140
Photo of Lydia Bell in Garment District, New York, NY
Lydia Bell
MA, MHC-LP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Garment District, New York, NY 10001
Welcome! I'm Lydia and I'm a psychotherapist who works with couples and individuals on relationship issues. Are you struggling to communicate effectively in your relationship? Looking for a space where you can talk through conflicts, intimacy, or parenting issues? I offer a non-judgmental space for growth, change, and deeper connection. I offer compassionate, LGBTQIA+ inclusive, culturally sensitive care. I specialize in working with artists, parents, and intercultural/interracial/interfaith couples. I also offer pre-marital counseling and counseling for people considering ethical non-monogamy.
Welcome! I'm Lydia and I'm a psychotherapist who works with couples and individuals on relationship issues. Are you struggling to communicate effectively in your relationship? Looking for a space where you can talk through conflicts, intimacy, or parenting issues? I offer a non-judgmental space for growth, change, and deeper connection. I offer compassionate, LGBTQIA+ inclusive, culturally sensitive care. I specialize in working with artists, parents, and intercultural/interracial/interfaith couples. I also offer pre-marital counseling and counseling for people considering ethical non-monogamy.
(929) 222-6492 View (929) 222-6492
Photo of Robert M Schwartz, Psychologist in Garment District, New York, NY
Robert M Schwartz
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Garment District, New York, NY 10118  (Online Only)
Renowned marital researcher John Gottman and sex therapy innovator David Schnarch were my mentors.
You're ready to confront the problems that are holding you back from happiness, unsatisfying relationships, or professional growth. Perhaps you hit rock bottom or have mild issues that need fine-tuning of emotional skills. We'll first clarify your life goals, identify the barriers to achieving them, and learn how deep you need to dig to get what you want. I've developed a scientific method that lets you" take your mental temperature" to see if you are in a normal or dysfunctional state of mind and to pinpoint areas that need improvement. Whatever, the problems, they are a springboard to transformation and growth.
Renowned marital researcher John Gottman and sex therapy innovator David Schnarch were my mentors.
You're ready to confront the problems that are holding you back from happiness, unsatisfying relationships, or professional growth. Perhaps you hit rock bottom or have mild issues that need fine-tuning of emotional skills. We'll first clarify your life goals, identify the barriers to achieving them, and learn how deep you need to dig to get what you want. I've developed a scientific method that lets you" take your mental temperature" to see if you are in a normal or dysfunctional state of mind and to pinpoint areas that need improvement. Whatever, the problems, they are a springboard to transformation and growth.
(412) 223-7929 View (412) 223-7929
Photo of Melissa Pennica, Marriage & Family Therapist in Garment District, New York, NY
Melissa Pennica
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Garment District, New York, NY 10018
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a Master's Degree in Human Development and Family Studies, as well as Bachelor's Degrees in both Psychology and Sociology. I strive to provide clients with the space to explore life's obstacles in a nonjudgmental environment. Whether it is relational hardships, family concerns, or individual stressors, I believe that everyone can benefit from the space that therapy can provide to work through these issues. I work with clients to explore issues from all angles, while providing a listening ear and the helpful tools to work through the issues they are grappling with.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a Master's Degree in Human Development and Family Studies, as well as Bachelor's Degrees in both Psychology and Sociology. I strive to provide clients with the space to explore life's obstacles in a nonjudgmental environment. Whether it is relational hardships, family concerns, or individual stressors, I believe that everyone can benefit from the space that therapy can provide to work through these issues. I work with clients to explore issues from all angles, while providing a listening ear and the helpful tools to work through the issues they are grappling with.
(646) 762-6346 View (646) 762-6346
Photo of Andreau Charles, Areale Counseling & Wellness, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Garment District, New York, NY
Andreau Charles, Areale Counseling & Wellness, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, PhD(s)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Garment District, New York, NY 10016
As a depth oriented therapist and life coach, I offer a safe, emotionally warm, non-judgmental therapeutic space for individuals and couples to examine behavioral patterns, explore and develop strategies to issues of anxiety, depression, confidence, shame, self-worth, self-esteem, grief, life transitions, and dating. I provide a safe and warm space for men, LGBTQ, multicultural and diasporic identities to express, and process their issues and concerns. Together, we will collaborate and explore mindful ways to remove potential barriers to the marital or professional relationship, career or academic progress you can achieve.
As a depth oriented therapist and life coach, I offer a safe, emotionally warm, non-judgmental therapeutic space for individuals and couples to examine behavioral patterns, explore and develop strategies to issues of anxiety, depression, confidence, shame, self-worth, self-esteem, grief, life transitions, and dating. I provide a safe and warm space for men, LGBTQ, multicultural and diasporic identities to express, and process their issues and concerns. Together, we will collaborate and explore mindful ways to remove potential barriers to the marital or professional relationship, career or academic progress you can achieve.
(917) 905-4463 View (917) 905-4463
Photo of Holly Friedlander, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Garment District, New York, NY
Holly Friedlander
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, MFT-LP
Verified Verified
Garment District, New York, NY 10018
I am trained in Marriage and Family Therapy, meaning I see individual clients, couples, and families through a systems lens.
It is my belief and the foundation of my practice that humans have an innate propensity towards growth. Inevitably though, we come across obstacles and difficult situations blocking us from reaching our full potential. It is my goal as a therapist to help clients identify these roadblocks through careful exploration of the self, and overcome them in order to reach our full potential. We have no “rule book” for life, but therapy provides a safe space to explore our inner and outer worlds, and learn evidence based tools to grow and live a fulfilling life.
I am trained in Marriage and Family Therapy, meaning I see individual clients, couples, and families through a systems lens.
It is my belief and the foundation of my practice that humans have an innate propensity towards growth. Inevitably though, we come across obstacles and difficult situations blocking us from reaching our full potential. It is my goal as a therapist to help clients identify these roadblocks through careful exploration of the self, and overcome them in order to reach our full potential. We have no “rule book” for life, but therapy provides a safe space to explore our inner and outer worlds, and learn evidence based tools to grow and live a fulfilling life.
(646) 904-4695 View (646) 904-4695
Photo of Tanya Siff, Psychologist in Garment District, New York, NY
Tanya Siff
Psychologist, PhD
Not Verified Not Verified
Garment District, New York, NY 10119  (Online Only)
Areas of expertise include: * Depression * Addictions * Anxiety * 12-Step Recovery * Eating Disorders * Stress Management * Marriage Counseling * Infertility * Work & Career issues * Child & Adolescent Behavior Problems * Emotional Trauma * Relational Issues * Spirituality and Religion * Weight Loss Counseling.
Overcome your personal obstacles and maximize your potential. I can help you gain awareness and control of your emotions, build improved relationships with others, and effect positive practical changes in your life. Treatment can be brief or long-term. Both in-person or video therapy is available from the comfort of your home.
Areas of expertise include: * Depression * Addictions * Anxiety * 12-Step Recovery * Eating Disorders * Stress Management * Marriage Counseling * Infertility * Work & Career issues * Child & Adolescent Behavior Problems * Emotional Trauma * Relational Issues * Spirituality and Religion * Weight Loss Counseling.
Overcome your personal obstacles and maximize your potential. I can help you gain awareness and control of your emotions, build improved relationships with others, and effect positive practical changes in your life. Treatment can be brief or long-term. Both in-person or video therapy is available from the comfort of your home.
(347) 289-7904 View (347) 289-7904
Photo of Peter A Hill, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Garment District, New York, NY
Peter A Hill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Garment District, New York, NY 10001  (Online Only)
Are your kids driving you crazy? Putting a strain on your marriage? Are you the parent of a young adult who can't seem to leave the nest? Do you worry that your kids don't have the wherewithal to make it on their own? Are you a young adult struggling to find your way? Times of transition can be frustrating and painful for families. It's important to know that it can happen to anyone and it is not your fault. There is a pathway out!
Are your kids driving you crazy? Putting a strain on your marriage? Are you the parent of a young adult who can't seem to leave the nest? Do you worry that your kids don't have the wherewithal to make it on their own? Are you a young adult struggling to find your way? Times of transition can be frustrating and painful for families. It's important to know that it can happen to anyone and it is not your fault. There is a pathway out!
(917) 746-1256 View (917) 746-1256
Photo of Tri State Counseling and MediatIon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Garment District, New York, NY
Tri State Counseling and MediatIon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWR, LCSW
Verified Verified
Garment District, New York, NY 10001
In adults, clients with domestic violence,marital/relations problems, Schizophrenia or anxiety, depression.
Trained in CBT, prefer to use a rational living approach with behavior modification and assist the client. Use DBT, CBT, Behavioral approach in Psychotherapy to achieve practical results, measurable and beneficial to the client. Short term treatment focus on result oriented approach with focus on cognitive or insight or behavioral modification is my style. Specialist in children, work with families and a fair mix of all age groups. I accept major health insurances & accept private pay. ANGER MANAGEMENT, AUTISM, ADHD, MOOD DISORDERS, ANXIETY SUBSTANCE ABUSE, ALCOHOL DOMESTIC RELATIONS/VIOLENCE ISSUES AND FORENSIC EVALUATIONS HANDLED AS WELL.
In adults, clients with domestic violence,marital/relations problems, Schizophrenia or anxiety, depression.
Trained in CBT, prefer to use a rational living approach with behavior modification and assist the client. Use DBT, CBT, Behavioral approach in Psychotherapy to achieve practical results, measurable and beneficial to the client. Short term treatment focus on result oriented approach with focus on cognitive or insight or behavioral modification is my style. Specialist in children, work with families and a fair mix of all age groups. I accept major health insurances & accept private pay. ANGER MANAGEMENT, AUTISM, ADHD, MOOD DISORDERS, ANXIETY SUBSTANCE ABUSE, ALCOHOL DOMESTIC RELATIONS/VIOLENCE ISSUES AND FORENSIC EVALUATIONS HANDLED AS WELL.
(646) 600-5137 View (646) 600-5137
Photo of Paulette Kouffman Sherman, Psychologist in Garment District, New York, NY
Paulette Kouffman Sherman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Garment District, New York, NY 10122  (Online Only)
I'm the author of, 'Dating From the Inside Out,' published by Atria Books and 'The Law of Attraction in Marriage.
I work with clients weekly and focus on fears and patterns that hold them back. I'm a licensed psychologist with a certification in life coaching, so sometimes we will co-create homework assignments to help my clients take 'baby steps' towards their goals in between sessions, in order to integrate our work into your daily life. I accept insurance for individual therapy, not couples therapy. My specialty is seeing couples and individuals re relationship issues. I'm offering a dating group via Zoom & a relationship skills group for those who want to improve their relationship.
I'm the author of, 'Dating From the Inside Out,' published by Atria Books and 'The Law of Attraction in Marriage.
I work with clients weekly and focus on fears and patterns that hold them back. I'm a licensed psychologist with a certification in life coaching, so sometimes we will co-create homework assignments to help my clients take 'baby steps' towards their goals in between sessions, in order to integrate our work into your daily life. I accept insurance for individual therapy, not couples therapy. My specialty is seeing couples and individuals re relationship issues. I'm offering a dating group via Zoom & a relationship skills group for those who want to improve their relationship.
(718) 487-9481 View (718) 487-9481
Photo of Fresh Start Marriage and Family Therapy, PLLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Garment District, New York, NY
Fresh Start Marriage and Family Therapy, PLLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Garment District, New York, NY 10018  (Online Only)
We are a team of Professional Marriage and Family Therapist with specific attention to Individual, Couples and Families.
Now accepting new Clients! There is no perfect being, relationship or parent. Once we get rid of damaging expectations in which we impose on ourselves or that have been imposed on us by others we began to understand who we are. Building or rebuilding a relationship with yourself enables you the ability to experience more meaningful romantic, familial and peer relationships. You are not expected to be perfect, you are expected to show up! Let’s work to get you to a place where you are mentally and physically motivated to be present in your presence.
We are a team of Professional Marriage and Family Therapist with specific attention to Individual, Couples and Families.
Now accepting new Clients! There is no perfect being, relationship or parent. Once we get rid of damaging expectations in which we impose on ourselves or that have been imposed on us by others we began to understand who we are. Building or rebuilding a relationship with yourself enables you the ability to experience more meaningful romantic, familial and peer relationships. You are not expected to be perfect, you are expected to show up! Let’s work to get you to a place where you are mentally and physically motivated to be present in your presence.
(332) 239-6533 View (332) 239-6533
Photo of Ian Lithgow, Marriage & Family Therapist in Garment District, New York, NY
Ian Lithgow
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Garment District, New York, NY 10001
I counsel individuals and couples dealing with anxiety, low self-esteem, depression, trauma, and relationship issues. A member of the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy, I received my undergraduate education at Harvard University before earning a masters degree in Clinical Psychology at Antioch University Los Angeles.
I counsel individuals and couples dealing with anxiety, low self-esteem, depression, trauma, and relationship issues. A member of the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy, I received my undergraduate education at Harvard University before earning a masters degree in Clinical Psychology at Antioch University Los Angeles.
(716) 800-4341 View (716) 800-4341
Photo of Phoenix Marriage & Family Therapy, PLLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Garment District, New York, NY
Phoenix Marriage & Family Therapy, PLLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Garment District, New York, NY 10001  (Online Only)
Greetings! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist providing psychotherapy to individuals, couples and families with ten years’ service in this very rewarding work. Our team works with everyone including BIPOC, the LGBTQ+ Community, all religions and backgrounds, ages 5 to 95. I also provide group therapy to address Domestic Violence and Self-Esteem in addition to Parenting with Purpose, classes for those with ACS involvement and mandated to a parenting program by the court. I have significant experience addressing the effects of racism, chronic illness, depression, anxiety, grief and bereavement, family conflict and more.
Greetings! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist providing psychotherapy to individuals, couples and families with ten years’ service in this very rewarding work. Our team works with everyone including BIPOC, the LGBTQ+ Community, all religions and backgrounds, ages 5 to 95. I also provide group therapy to address Domestic Violence and Self-Esteem in addition to Parenting with Purpose, classes for those with ACS involvement and mandated to a parenting program by the court. I have significant experience addressing the effects of racism, chronic illness, depression, anxiety, grief and bereavement, family conflict and more.
(929) 296-8704 View (929) 296-8704
Photo of Carol Lerner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Garment District, New York, NY
Carol Lerner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Garment District, New York, NY 10001
I have been in practice for more than thirty-five years offering individual treatment, marital and group therapy and couple counseling.
Everyone deserves to have an emotional education. Self-awareness and self-understanding are powerful tools, used constructively are transformative. Can you imagine feeling empowered, feeling positive rather than consumed by depression, anxiety and self-doubt. Living life is not simple, relationships can be strained and conflicts occur at home, at school, at work and in social groups.
I have been in practice for more than thirty-five years offering individual treatment, marital and group therapy and couple counseling.
Everyone deserves to have an emotional education. Self-awareness and self-understanding are powerful tools, used constructively are transformative. Can you imagine feeling empowered, feeling positive rather than consumed by depression, anxiety and self-doubt. Living life is not simple, relationships can be strained and conflicts occur at home, at school, at work and in social groups.
(646) 760-7571 View (646) 760-7571
Photo of Esther Omisore, Pre-Licensed Professional in Garment District, New York, NY
Esther Omisore
Pre-Licensed Professional, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Garment District, New York, NY 10001  (Online Only)
Welcome! I am a Marriage and Family Therapist here at Phoenix Marriage & Family Therapy. My education and experiences have built up my psychological, collaborative, and leadership skills. My services include trauma, emotional wellness, self-care, depression, anxiety, family conflict, and much more servicing BIPOC, all religions and backgrounds, ages 5 to 95. I am determined to end the generational stigmas against going to therapy, especially in the BIPOC and African communities.
Welcome! I am a Marriage and Family Therapist here at Phoenix Marriage & Family Therapy. My education and experiences have built up my psychological, collaborative, and leadership skills. My services include trauma, emotional wellness, self-care, depression, anxiety, family conflict, and much more servicing BIPOC, all religions and backgrounds, ages 5 to 95. I am determined to end the generational stigmas against going to therapy, especially in the BIPOC and African communities.
(929) 416-3523 View (929) 416-3523
Photo of Sarah Margolin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Garment District, New York, NY
Sarah Margolin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Garment District, New York, NY 10001  (Online Only)
Are you having trouble with your teenagers? I can help! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), and a teen expert. I have 20 years of experience treating adolescents and families. This is my passion! I understand teens and young adults, and have developed successful techniques that help family members better understand each other, and communicate more effectively. I consistently incorporate empathy, humor, and intuitive healing into the treatment process. I have extensive experience treating adolescent peer and behavioral issues, substance abuse, divorce-related issues, trauma, and problems related to body image.
Are you having trouble with your teenagers? I can help! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), and a teen expert. I have 20 years of experience treating adolescents and families. This is my passion! I understand teens and young adults, and have developed successful techniques that help family members better understand each other, and communicate more effectively. I consistently incorporate empathy, humor, and intuitive healing into the treatment process. I have extensive experience treating adolescent peer and behavioral issues, substance abuse, divorce-related issues, trauma, and problems related to body image.
(929) 430-2496 View (929) 430-2496
Photo of Ruby Elgar, Marriage & Family Therapist in Garment District, New York, NY
Ruby Elgar
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Garment District, New York, NY 10018
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist with an MA in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in marriage and family therapy from Pepperdine University.
The relationship between the therapist and client is one of the most integral factors in therapy. I offer my clients a relationship that is based on empathetic attunement, honesty, and acceptance. While my approach is informed by psychodynamic thinking, I recognize that each individual, couple, and family is unique and there is no “one size fits all” solution to healing.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist with an MA in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in marriage and family therapy from Pepperdine University.
The relationship between the therapist and client is one of the most integral factors in therapy. I offer my clients a relationship that is based on empathetic attunement, honesty, and acceptance. While my approach is informed by psychodynamic thinking, I recognize that each individual, couple, and family is unique and there is no “one size fits all” solution to healing.
(929) 357-1556 View (929) 357-1556
Photo of Transformation Concepts LLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Garment District, New York, NY
Transformation Concepts LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, DD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Garment District, New York, NY 10001
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
(631) 764-1991 View (631) 764-1991
Photo of Gabriella Azzam, Psychologist in Garment District, New York, NY
Gabriella Azzam
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Garment District, New York, NY 10018
We do this by engaging elements of two verified, marriage-specific techniques known as Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and The Gottman Method.
Is a lack of intimacy or stress in your relationship causing you to feel disconnected as a couple? Do you have a hard time feeling heard and seen in your partnership? Are you worried that you’re no longer on the same page about the goals, values, and visions you once shared together? Has one, or maybe even both, of you been unfaithful in your relationship? Sometimes life has a way of getting between us and our partners, leading us to turn away from—instead of towards—one another. Common obstacles like career stress, parenting, and significant life transitions can take up a lot of space in our lives without ample room to connect.
We do this by engaging elements of two verified, marriage-specific techniques known as Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and The Gottman Method.
Is a lack of intimacy or stress in your relationship causing you to feel disconnected as a couple? Do you have a hard time feeling heard and seen in your partnership? Are you worried that you’re no longer on the same page about the goals, values, and visions you once shared together? Has one, or maybe even both, of you been unfaithful in your relationship? Sometimes life has a way of getting between us and our partners, leading us to turn away from—instead of towards—one another. Common obstacles like career stress, parenting, and significant life transitions can take up a lot of space in our lives without ample room to connect.
(424) 349-5416 View (424) 349-5416
Photo of Amanda Pelcher, Marriage & Family Therapist in Garment District, New York, NY
Amanda Pelcher
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Garment District, New York, NY 10018  (Online Only)
Drawing on 15 years of experience in a range of clinical settings, Amanda combines energy, humor, and empathy to help her clients overcome life's challenges and achieve their goals. A Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Amanda believes there is no cookie-cutter approach to therapy — instead, she offers a personalized blend of traditional talk therapy and practical skills and tools as she builds meaningful relationships with her clients.
Drawing on 15 years of experience in a range of clinical settings, Amanda combines energy, humor, and empathy to help her clients overcome life's challenges and achieve their goals. A Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Amanda believes there is no cookie-cutter approach to therapy — instead, she offers a personalized blend of traditional talk therapy and practical skills and tools as she builds meaningful relationships with her clients.
(929) 822-4787 View (929) 822-4787

See more therapy options for Garment District, New York


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.