Marriage Counseling Therapists in Cincinnati, OH

Photo of Margaret Pennington, Counselor in Cincinnati, OH
Margaret Pennington
Counselor, MA, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45236  (Online Only)
I can help with… professional help to treat anxiety or depression; empathetic support as you go through crisis or grief; a safe place to heal from trauma in body, mind, and spirit; compassionate marriage counseling to strengthen your relationship and address the deeper issues; confidential support when life struggles or transitions seem overwhelming.
Life is a journey. Where are you in your journey? Are wounds from the past holding you back? Are you in a stage of growth or transitions, or struggling to manage and cope with today’s stresses? Maybe you are looking ahead in your journey and facing life choices, looking for directions, or just want to move forward in a healthier way. Counseling can help empower you to navigate your journey.
I can help with… professional help to treat anxiety or depression; empathetic support as you go through crisis or grief; a safe place to heal from trauma in body, mind, and spirit; compassionate marriage counseling to strengthen your relationship and address the deeper issues; confidential support when life struggles or transitions seem overwhelming.
Life is a journey. Where are you in your journey? Are wounds from the past holding you back? Are you in a stage of growth or transitions, or struggling to manage and cope with today’s stresses? Maybe you are looking ahead in your journey and facing life choices, looking for directions, or just want to move forward in a healthier way. Counseling can help empower you to navigate your journey.
(513) 434-6629 View (513) 434-6629
Photo of Serenity Therapy Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cincinnati, OH
Serenity Therapy Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45211
We offer services to adolescents, teens, adults, couples and families who may struggle with anxiety, depression, traumatic experiences, life adjustments, behavioral issues, marital issues, family conflict and maternal mental health issues.
Thank you for showing interest in our services and congratulations on taking steps to improving your mental health. Overall our role is to assist you with processing and working through any significant life changes, past or current traumas, emotional or behavioral instability. We will assist you in making clear and reasonable goals for yourself and support you as you become a better you for yourself, family, friends etc. Serenity Therapy Services works with both adolescents and adults. Our therapy approach may change given the needs of a specific client. We are currently accepting new clients for evening and weekend appointments.
We offer services to adolescents, teens, adults, couples and families who may struggle with anxiety, depression, traumatic experiences, life adjustments, behavioral issues, marital issues, family conflict and maternal mental health issues.
Thank you for showing interest in our services and congratulations on taking steps to improving your mental health. Overall our role is to assist you with processing and working through any significant life changes, past or current traumas, emotional or behavioral instability. We will assist you in making clear and reasonable goals for yourself and support you as you become a better you for yourself, family, friends etc. Serenity Therapy Services works with both adolescents and adults. Our therapy approach may change given the needs of a specific client. We are currently accepting new clients for evening and weekend appointments.
(513) 993-4459 View (513) 993-4459
Photo of Christine M Jansen, Marriage & Family Therapist in Cincinnati, OH
Christine M Jansen
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PsyD
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45238
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and have a doctorate From The Institute for Contemporary Psychoanalysis.
I believe we are all searching to feel comfortable and whole within ourselves and with others. To have strong healthy relationships and to weather the hardships of life, grieve, and recover. If you're having trouble with any of these things it's my job to help you understand why, and to provide a place for you to "shift" into a better position. Anything can be confronted, understood, and shifted into a healthier, more satisfying way of being if you are willing. I believe everyone deserves a chance to live comfortably within themselves and with others.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and have a doctorate From The Institute for Contemporary Psychoanalysis.
I believe we are all searching to feel comfortable and whole within ourselves and with others. To have strong healthy relationships and to weather the hardships of life, grieve, and recover. If you're having trouble with any of these things it's my job to help you understand why, and to provide a place for you to "shift" into a better position. Anything can be confronted, understood, and shifted into a healthier, more satisfying way of being if you are willing. I believe everyone deserves a chance to live comfortably within themselves and with others.
(513) 854-7472 View (513) 854-7472
Photo of Michelle Maegly Psy. D., Psychologist in Cincinnati, OH
Michelle Maegly Psy. D.
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45219
I have experience working with individuals and couples on issues such as: depression, anxiety, shame, personality disorders, severe mental illness, trauma, conflict resolution, sexuality, gender identity, military veteran issues, aging, parenting, marital difficulties, adjustment problems, feeling out of control, being overwhelmed, and feeling lost.
I have expanded my hours and have immediate availability! We are bombarded daily with messages of stigma, judgments, injustices, -isms, and fear. Yet, wellness is possible. I believe wellness and personal growth are best pursued within a trusting, judgment-free, safe, open, empathic, and honest therapy relationship. To build those relationships, I'm fully committed to exploring and understanding each client's perspective, background, culture, values, lifestyle, and choices. In our work together, I hope to help my clients discover their strengths and learn the skills necessary to develop lives they want to live.
I have experience working with individuals and couples on issues such as: depression, anxiety, shame, personality disorders, severe mental illness, trauma, conflict resolution, sexuality, gender identity, military veteran issues, aging, parenting, marital difficulties, adjustment problems, feeling out of control, being overwhelmed, and feeling lost.
I have expanded my hours and have immediate availability! We are bombarded daily with messages of stigma, judgments, injustices, -isms, and fear. Yet, wellness is possible. I believe wellness and personal growth are best pursued within a trusting, judgment-free, safe, open, empathic, and honest therapy relationship. To build those relationships, I'm fully committed to exploring and understanding each client's perspective, background, culture, values, lifestyle, and choices. In our work together, I hope to help my clients discover their strengths and learn the skills necessary to develop lives they want to live.
(513) 612-9745 View (513) 612-9745
Photo of Karla Tolbert, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Cincinnati, OH
Karla Tolbert
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, PhD, LPCCS
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45241
Most of my experience is in the areas of anxiety, depression, marriage/relationship issues, parenting, and self-esteem.
Let's face it, life can feel really dark at times. Everyone struggles with unwanted thoughts and feelings that seem to plague them. Everyone struggles with relationship conflict at some point in their lives. Most people believe that they are alone in their struggles, and they often believe that there is no answer and no way out. All of us want happy and peaceful lives with safe and nurturing relationships, but we often don't know how to create this kind of life. The good news is that these things are within your reach, if you are willing and ready to work hard to challenge yourself.
Most of my experience is in the areas of anxiety, depression, marriage/relationship issues, parenting, and self-esteem.
Let's face it, life can feel really dark at times. Everyone struggles with unwanted thoughts and feelings that seem to plague them. Everyone struggles with relationship conflict at some point in their lives. Most people believe that they are alone in their struggles, and they often believe that there is no answer and no way out. All of us want happy and peaceful lives with safe and nurturing relationships, but we often don't know how to create this kind of life. The good news is that these things are within your reach, if you are willing and ready to work hard to challenge yourself.
(513) 951-6607 View (513) 951-6607
Photo of Leah Hausman Miller, Counselor in Cincinnati, OH
Leah Hausman Miller
Counselor, MA, PCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45243
These include death/loss, pregnancy/post-partum, relocation, marriage, divorce or separation, parenting challenges, occupational stressors, empty nest, and other transitions.
I believe in every person's ability to heal, change, and grow. I specialize in anxiety and depression, grief, trauma, relationships, fertility, pregnancy and post-partum issues. I can help you identify your unique strengths and resources to work through these issues. I provide strategies to reduce and manage the emotional effects of these, while supporting you in understanding the core issues and building positive coping skills to move forward. Therapy is a collaborative process and we work together to reach your goals. I use a variety of therapeutic techniques to specialize sessions according to your concerns and your life.
These include death/loss, pregnancy/post-partum, relocation, marriage, divorce or separation, parenting challenges, occupational stressors, empty nest, and other transitions.
I believe in every person's ability to heal, change, and grow. I specialize in anxiety and depression, grief, trauma, relationships, fertility, pregnancy and post-partum issues. I can help you identify your unique strengths and resources to work through these issues. I provide strategies to reduce and manage the emotional effects of these, while supporting you in understanding the core issues and building positive coping skills to move forward. Therapy is a collaborative process and we work together to reach your goals. I use a variety of therapeutic techniques to specialize sessions according to your concerns and your life.
(513) 280-8144 View (513) 280-8144
Photo of Brian M Davis, Counselor in Cincinnati, OH
Brian M Davis
Counselor, MS, MA, DMin, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45255
I have experience in Marriage and Family Counseling, Premarital counseling, Child and Adolescent issues and helping people deal with Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, OCD, ADHD as well as many other concerns.
As a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor I look forward to working with you on your journey to overcome whatever struggles or challenges you may be dealing with. I can help you explore your feelings and we will work together to learn new coping skills, positive ways to adapt, and manage stressors that are a part of our ever-changing, busy lives. I look forward to working with you through your journey!
I have experience in Marriage and Family Counseling, Premarital counseling, Child and Adolescent issues and helping people deal with Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, OCD, ADHD as well as many other concerns.
As a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor I look forward to working with you on your journey to overcome whatever struggles or challenges you may be dealing with. I can help you explore your feelings and we will work together to learn new coping skills, positive ways to adapt, and manage stressors that are a part of our ever-changing, busy lives. I look forward to working with you through your journey!
(513) 268-0744 View (513) 268-0744
Photo of Beau G Rootring, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cincinnati, OH
Beau G Rootring
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45236
Are feelings of anxiety or depression stealing your joy? Are you in a difficult life transition (new job, relocation, new baby, marriage, divorce, empty nester, retirement) or amid a major life stressor (health issue, death of a loved one, job loss)? Are your relationships struggling? Do you long for more self-confidence, a clearer sense of purpose or higher career satisfaction? I can help! I will meet you where you are and offer my support and encouragement. Together, we will build an authentic relationship and create a safe space for you to discover hope, healing and positive change. I see couples and individual adult clients.
Are feelings of anxiety or depression stealing your joy? Are you in a difficult life transition (new job, relocation, new baby, marriage, divorce, empty nester, retirement) or amid a major life stressor (health issue, death of a loved one, job loss)? Are your relationships struggling? Do you long for more self-confidence, a clearer sense of purpose or higher career satisfaction? I can help! I will meet you where you are and offer my support and encouragement. Together, we will build an authentic relationship and create a safe space for you to discover hope, healing and positive change. I see couples and individual adult clients.
(513) 643-5561 View (513) 643-5561
Photo of Iten Elyassaki, Counselor in Cincinnati, OH
Iten Elyassaki
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45219  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a compassionate Licensed Professional Counselor experienced in serving many clients with diverse needs. I believe each individual is unique and I want to welcome you to a world of new possibilities. I work with children, adolescents, and adults needing support with navigating life stage transitions, stress management, relationship challenges, self-esteem, behavioral issues, trauma, marital discord, infidelity, parenting difficulties, grief, and addictions. Likewise, I work with those struggling with anxiety, depression and a variety of mood, personality & mental health disorders.
I am a compassionate Licensed Professional Counselor experienced in serving many clients with diverse needs. I believe each individual is unique and I want to welcome you to a world of new possibilities. I work with children, adolescents, and adults needing support with navigating life stage transitions, stress management, relationship challenges, self-esteem, behavioral issues, trauma, marital discord, infidelity, parenting difficulties, grief, and addictions. Likewise, I work with those struggling with anxiety, depression and a variety of mood, personality & mental health disorders.
(513) 952-8826 View (513) 952-8826
Photo of Kairos Christian Counseling, LLC, Counselor in Cincinnati, OH
Kairos Christian Counseling, LLC
Counselor, PCC-S, LICDC-C
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45226
I do marital, group and family therapy as well.
I am a born again, spirit filled professional mental health and drug and alcohol counselor. I rely on the Holy Spirit for guidance during sessions and counsel from a biblical perspective.
I do marital, group and family therapy as well.
I am a born again, spirit filled professional mental health and drug and alcohol counselor. I rely on the Holy Spirit for guidance during sessions and counsel from a biblical perspective.
(513) 802-9215 View (513) 802-9215
Photo of Remington Blackwell, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern in Cincinnati, OH
Remington Blackwell
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45208
My passion for assisting families and improving interpersonal relationships lead me to begin my graduate studies in Marriage and Family Therapy.
I seek to support individuals, couples, and families experiencing a stuck point to navigate to a better emotional and relational state. As an MFT, I have professional training to assist clients with mental health concerns such as depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, and mood disorders.
My passion for assisting families and improving interpersonal relationships lead me to begin my graduate studies in Marriage and Family Therapy.
I seek to support individuals, couples, and families experiencing a stuck point to navigate to a better emotional and relational state. As an MFT, I have professional training to assist clients with mental health concerns such as depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, and mood disorders.
(513) 951-8252 View (513) 951-8252
Photo of Jacob Meyer Rosedale, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cincinnati, OH
Jacob Meyer Rosedale
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSCC, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45237  (Online Only)
I work with individuals experiencing significant psychological distress due to marital difficulties and other personal challenges. Many of my clients have resorted to addictive behaviors as a means of coping, while some engage in self-harming behaviors, which can also be considered addictive in nature. Within the confines of my office, couples can find a secure and supportive environment to address their issues and cultivate more resilient and fulfilling relationships.
I work with individuals experiencing significant psychological distress due to marital difficulties and other personal challenges. Many of my clients have resorted to addictive behaviors as a means of coping, while some engage in self-harming behaviors, which can also be considered addictive in nature. Within the confines of my office, couples can find a secure and supportive environment to address their issues and cultivate more resilient and fulfilling relationships.
(513) 809-1146 View (513) 809-1146
Photo of Stephanie Tunison, Counselor in Cincinnati, OH
Stephanie Tunison
Counselor, MA, LPCC-S, CCTP
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45236
Hurt? Confused? Anxious? Tearful? Betrayed? Lost? Broken? Overwhelmed? Sad? Or do you just need someone to talk to? We all get stuck once in a while and need a "boost over the fence." Individuals, couples, and families face difficult situations and decisions. It's a privilege for me to walk the journey with you, extending God's care and concern for YOU. Whether you are depressed, anxious or going though a life transition, even a happy one, stress can become paralyzing. Areas of competence include Faith Concerns, Marriage and Family, Grief and Loss, Anger Management, Relationship Building and Crisis Intervention.
Hurt? Confused? Anxious? Tearful? Betrayed? Lost? Broken? Overwhelmed? Sad? Or do you just need someone to talk to? We all get stuck once in a while and need a "boost over the fence." Individuals, couples, and families face difficult situations and decisions. It's a privilege for me to walk the journey with you, extending God's care and concern for YOU. Whether you are depressed, anxious or going though a life transition, even a happy one, stress can become paralyzing. Areas of competence include Faith Concerns, Marriage and Family, Grief and Loss, Anger Management, Relationship Building and Crisis Intervention.
(513) 373-4093 View (513) 373-4093
Photo of Roger Gerwe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cincinnati, OH
Roger Gerwe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, LICDC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45230
Are you looking for real solutions to your relationship problems. I can help... I can help you improve your marriage or relationship. If you want a skilled therapist who can connect with you, understand your problems and help you make healthy changes that are good for you and your relationship. I can help... I can help you make healthy decisions and changes in your relationship. I use scientifically validated interventions that are focused, tried and true, healthy change options to meet your specific goals. I can help you improve your relationship Even If your partner does not attend. Call me today. I can help...
Are you looking for real solutions to your relationship problems. I can help... I can help you improve your marriage or relationship. If you want a skilled therapist who can connect with you, understand your problems and help you make healthy changes that are good for you and your relationship. I can help... I can help you make healthy decisions and changes in your relationship. I use scientifically validated interventions that are focused, tried and true, healthy change options to meet your specific goals. I can help you improve your relationship Even If your partner does not attend. Call me today. I can help...
(513) 624-6550 View (513) 624-6550
Photo of Dwonna D. Thompson-Lenoir, Counselor in Cincinnati, OH
Dwonna D. Thompson-Lenoir
Counselor, PsyD, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45242
I am committed to helping people find the strength inside of them to triumph in relationships, overall functioning and living a balanced life. I have worked with young children, adolescents, adults, family and specialized groups. Clients have presented with issues such as anxiety, depression, communication problems, marital concerns, parenting, ADHD, eating disorders, grief/loss, self-injury and social skills development. I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship helping drive individuals and families to reach their full potential and live a life void of unresolved issues.
I am committed to helping people find the strength inside of them to triumph in relationships, overall functioning and living a balanced life. I have worked with young children, adolescents, adults, family and specialized groups. Clients have presented with issues such as anxiety, depression, communication problems, marital concerns, parenting, ADHD, eating disorders, grief/loss, self-injury and social skills development. I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship helping drive individuals and families to reach their full potential and live a life void of unresolved issues.
(513) 276-4008 View (513) 276-4008
Photo of Barbara J Stephens, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cincinnati, OH
Barbara J Stephens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45208
I've had 30 years of experience in helping others who struggle with anxiety, depression, Bipolar, premarital and marital issues, pregnancy and postpartum depression, grief and loss, chronic or life threatening illnesses, relationship and blended family issues, career counseling, divorce recovery as well as trauma and post traumatic stress.
Like so many of us, life has had some unexpected twists and turns. Whether you are grieving, sensing a growing distance with your spouse, having trouble taking care of your family, struggling to form meaningful relationships, recovering from a divorce or break up, unsure how to help your adult children, experiencing mood swings, struggling with work or school, relocating, struggling with pregnancy or learning that being a mom or dad is a lot harder than you imagined, I can help you feel less overwhelmed and more fulfilled. My goal is to help you feel better by providing direct, honest, respectful, and supportive feedback.
I've had 30 years of experience in helping others who struggle with anxiety, depression, Bipolar, premarital and marital issues, pregnancy and postpartum depression, grief and loss, chronic or life threatening illnesses, relationship and blended family issues, career counseling, divorce recovery as well as trauma and post traumatic stress.
Like so many of us, life has had some unexpected twists and turns. Whether you are grieving, sensing a growing distance with your spouse, having trouble taking care of your family, struggling to form meaningful relationships, recovering from a divorce or break up, unsure how to help your adult children, experiencing mood swings, struggling with work or school, relocating, struggling with pregnancy or learning that being a mom or dad is a lot harder than you imagined, I can help you feel less overwhelmed and more fulfilled. My goal is to help you feel better by providing direct, honest, respectful, and supportive feedback.
(513) 854-7173 View (513) 854-7173
Photo of Rod Dunlap, Marriage & Family Therapist in Cincinnati, OH
Rod Dunlap
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, IMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45238
I am an Independent Marriage and Family Therapist (IMFT) in Ohio and a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in Kentucky and Indiana.
Hi, thank you for taking the time to look me up. I hope that you find what you are looking for and that this helps you to learn about my practice of Marriage and Family Therapy. My clinical experience has been with multiple practices serving individuals, married couples, children, adolescents, and families.
I am an Independent Marriage and Family Therapist (IMFT) in Ohio and a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in Kentucky and Indiana.
Hi, thank you for taking the time to look me up. I hope that you find what you are looking for and that this helps you to learn about my practice of Marriage and Family Therapy. My clinical experience has been with multiple practices serving individuals, married couples, children, adolescents, and families.
(513) 640-0556 View (513) 640-0556
Photo of Brett C Larsen, Counselor in Cincinnati, OH
Brett C Larsen
Counselor, MA, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45220
I have experience needed to help those with marriage counseling by using the How we love book and John Gottman therapy methods.
Healthy people seek out help and this is why I have great respect for anyone who takes the first step to seek out counseling. I enjoy working with any person who is motivated to overcome issues such as depression, anxiety, relationship problems, or more severe disorders. I have worked at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center for over 10 years and have seen clients at Telehealth Hope Counseling for over 6 years. I have over 20 years of experience as a licensed professional clinical counselor supervisor and I have the experience needed to treat these problems.
I have experience needed to help those with marriage counseling by using the How we love book and John Gottman therapy methods.
Healthy people seek out help and this is why I have great respect for anyone who takes the first step to seek out counseling. I enjoy working with any person who is motivated to overcome issues such as depression, anxiety, relationship problems, or more severe disorders. I have worked at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center for over 10 years and have seen clients at Telehealth Hope Counseling for over 6 years. I have over 20 years of experience as a licensed professional clinical counselor supervisor and I have the experience needed to treat these problems.
(513) 815-3278 View (513) 815-3278
Photo of Tanya Younce, Counselor in Cincinnati, OH
Tanya Younce
Counselor, MEd, LPCC
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45227
I’ve helped clients face the challenges of midlife, marital disconnection, identity crises, divorce recovery, grief and loss, finding work/life balance, and managing crippling anxiety.
We are all wired to find equilibrium – the state of rest and balance with our body, mind, and spirit. But sometimes outside influences like relationships, work, money, illnesses, politics, and world issues keep that from happening. We take a few steps forward, only to get pushed back much further. If you find yourself struggling to cope and hold things together in the midst of stress, loss, and/or a radical change, Life is likely calling for you to grow. Engaging in therapy is like going on a journey with a trusted guide who sees, hears, teaches, and supports you wholeheartedly.
I’ve helped clients face the challenges of midlife, marital disconnection, identity crises, divorce recovery, grief and loss, finding work/life balance, and managing crippling anxiety.
We are all wired to find equilibrium – the state of rest and balance with our body, mind, and spirit. But sometimes outside influences like relationships, work, money, illnesses, politics, and world issues keep that from happening. We take a few steps forward, only to get pushed back much further. If you find yourself struggling to cope and hold things together in the midst of stress, loss, and/or a radical change, Life is likely calling for you to grow. Engaging in therapy is like going on a journey with a trusted guide who sees, hears, teaches, and supports you wholeheartedly.
(513) 790-5211 View (513) 790-5211
Photo of Guiding Paths Therapy Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cincinnati, OH
Guiding Paths Therapy Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45217  (Online Only)
We offer individual, group, couple/marriage and family therapy.
We are so proud of you taking this first step for your mental health. Guiding Paths Therapy Services is a group of clinicians who are here to guide you on your journey of healing. You may be struggling with depression, anxiety, grief or unsure what's going on. We are here to assist in your needs to meet you right where you are.
We offer individual, group, couple/marriage and family therapy.
We are so proud of you taking this first step for your mental health. Guiding Paths Therapy Services is a group of clinicians who are here to guide you on your journey of healing. You may be struggling with depression, anxiety, grief or unsure what's going on. We are here to assist in your needs to meet you right where you are.
(513) 548-5823 View (513) 548-5823
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.