Marriage Counseling Therapists in Portland, OR

Photo of Kristine Born, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Kristine Born
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MFT, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97216
I work with relationships-the dance between the Feminine and Masculine. My interactions with couples & families experiencing conflict, relationship challenges and recovering from wounds leaves them feeling a sense of renewal. My focus on the Feminine specifically aims to help women develop confidence to live the life they desire. I have cared for people experiencing a broad range of struggles including marital betrayal, depression, relationship conflict, decision-making, or grief. It is so important for me to hear the individuals I work with, help make sense of their world and give them valuable tools to make the changes they need.
I work with relationships-the dance between the Feminine and Masculine. My interactions with couples & families experiencing conflict, relationship challenges and recovering from wounds leaves them feeling a sense of renewal. My focus on the Feminine specifically aims to help women develop confidence to live the life they desire. I have cared for people experiencing a broad range of struggles including marital betrayal, depression, relationship conflict, decision-making, or grief. It is so important for me to hear the individuals I work with, help make sense of their world and give them valuable tools to make the changes they need.
(360) 464-9116 View (360) 464-9116
Photo of Karen Maloney, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Karen Maloney
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
I also specialize in couple and marital counseling using the Gottman method.
I believe you will find counseling it to be an integral and valuable part of your life journey in seeking out the changes and goals you desire. In sessions, I provide a safe and trusting environment, will empower you to discover unused resources and strengths and will sift through what areas are ineffective and need changing.
I also specialize in couple and marital counseling using the Gottman method.
I believe you will find counseling it to be an integral and valuable part of your life journey in seeking out the changes and goals you desire. In sessions, I provide a safe and trusting environment, will empower you to discover unused resources and strengths and will sift through what areas are ineffective and need changing.
(503) 822-6195 View (503) 822-6195
Photo of Debbie Bensching, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Debbie Bensching
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW, MSWAC, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97205
Waitlist for new clients
I guide the process to work through problems to enhance performance in activities of daily living in work, relationships, recreation & professional settings. Problem areas include difficulties with relationships: marriage / domestic partner, parent-child, divorce/ separation, parenting, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, anger, grief & loss, women's issues, habit disorders, addictions recovery: drugs, alcohol, food; ACOA, family members effected by addiction, trauma: post traumatic stress, rape, abuse (physical, emotional, sexual), and dissociative disorders. Also work with difficulties with sleep, relaxation, or under performing.
I guide the process to work through problems to enhance performance in activities of daily living in work, relationships, recreation & professional settings. Problem areas include difficulties with relationships: marriage / domestic partner, parent-child, divorce/ separation, parenting, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, anger, grief & loss, women's issues, habit disorders, addictions recovery: drugs, alcohol, food; ACOA, family members effected by addiction, trauma: post traumatic stress, rape, abuse (physical, emotional, sexual), and dissociative disorders. Also work with difficulties with sleep, relaxation, or under performing.
(503) 406-3624 View (503) 406-3624
Photo of Marriage and Relationship Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Marriage and Relationship Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, MA, MBA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232
I am a Relationship Specialist, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and the founder of The Portland Couples Counseling Center.
Hello, my name is Steven Cohn. Since the onset of Covid 19 I am currently conducting all of my couples sessions via teleconferencing. I meet with couples who live anywhere in Oregon, including Bend, Eugene, and Ashland. My clients are reporting that our online sessions feel just as meaningful and productive as our in-office sessions. If love, intimacy, and passion has faded from your relationship, then I'm here to help. Poor communications, financial problems, low sexual desire, blending a family, child rearing, an affair, in-laws, and/or health concerns can slowly erode relationship vitality in even the most loving unions.
I am a Relationship Specialist, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and the founder of The Portland Couples Counseling Center.
Hello, my name is Steven Cohn. Since the onset of Covid 19 I am currently conducting all of my couples sessions via teleconferencing. I meet with couples who live anywhere in Oregon, including Bend, Eugene, and Ashland. My clients are reporting that our online sessions feel just as meaningful and productive as our in-office sessions. If love, intimacy, and passion has faded from your relationship, then I'm here to help. Poor communications, financial problems, low sexual desire, blending a family, child rearing, an affair, in-laws, and/or health concerns can slowly erode relationship vitality in even the most loving unions.
(503) 610-5372 View (503) 610-5372
Photo of Avery Lucas, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Portland, OR
Avery Lucas
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97221
Accepting new clients as of April 12th! I enjoy working with families, couples, individuals and children. Many of us struggle with anxiety, stress, depression, anger, grief, and more. My approach is to walk alongside you and explore and further process the challenges that may be present in your life. I hope to provide an environment where you may feel safe and accepted. As a Marriage and Family Therapist Associate, I use attachment-based, existential, and systems frameworks. Together, we may work together exploring patterns in relationships, support systems, past and present experiences, and emotions.
Accepting new clients as of April 12th! I enjoy working with families, couples, individuals and children. Many of us struggle with anxiety, stress, depression, anger, grief, and more. My approach is to walk alongside you and explore and further process the challenges that may be present in your life. I hope to provide an environment where you may feel safe and accepted. As a Marriage and Family Therapist Associate, I use attachment-based, existential, and systems frameworks. Together, we may work together exploring patterns in relationships, support systems, past and present experiences, and emotions.
(503) 755-8634 View (503) 755-8634
Photo of Heidi Swartzmiller, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Heidi Swartzmiller
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214
I have a Master’s Degree in Marriage, Couples, and Family Therapy from Lewis and Clark with a focus on International Families and Sex Therapy.
Welcome! I enjoy working with individuals and couples, and walking alongside them in their healing. I believe therapy is a collaborative experience between the family and therapist, that each client has the resiliency and resources they need already within, and that it is our job to uncover them. My work with clients considers biological, psychological, social, and spiritual factors. I specialize in working with clients who are experiencing relational distress, sex concerns, infertility/pregnancy issues, transracial/transnational family dynamics, processing trauma, religion and spirituality, body-image concerns, or low self esteem.
I have a Master’s Degree in Marriage, Couples, and Family Therapy from Lewis and Clark with a focus on International Families and Sex Therapy.
Welcome! I enjoy working with individuals and couples, and walking alongside them in their healing. I believe therapy is a collaborative experience between the family and therapist, that each client has the resiliency and resources they need already within, and that it is our job to uncover them. My work with clients considers biological, psychological, social, and spiritual factors. I specialize in working with clients who are experiencing relational distress, sex concerns, infertility/pregnancy issues, transracial/transnational family dynamics, processing trauma, religion and spirituality, body-image concerns, or low self esteem.
(503) 966-8786 View (503) 966-8786
Photo of Pacific Northwest Behavioral Health, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Pacific Northwest Behavioral Health, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202
Pacific Northwest Behavioral Health, LLC has a team of providers with a wide variety of specialties that include medication management, marital, individual, family and group counseling. Our goal is to bring a sense of vitality and wellness to your life through compassion, wisdom and humor!
Pacific Northwest Behavioral Health, LLC has a team of providers with a wide variety of specialties that include medication management, marital, individual, family and group counseling. Our goal is to bring a sense of vitality and wellness to your life through compassion, wisdom and humor!
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Photo of Christina Clark, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Christina Clark
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97232
I am currently accepting new couples clients (self-pay), and individual clients. I offer a personalized and compassionate approach to therapy, informed by years of professional experience as well as in-depth training in somatic approaches, mindfulness techniques, and psychodynamic theory. Specializing in treating people suffering from trauma and eating disorders, I also work with a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, grief, parenting, low self-esteem, addiction, and marital conflicts. I currently offer telehealth sessions to clients in both Oregon and California, as I am fully licensed in both states.
I am currently accepting new couples clients (self-pay), and individual clients. I offer a personalized and compassionate approach to therapy, informed by years of professional experience as well as in-depth training in somatic approaches, mindfulness techniques, and psychodynamic theory. Specializing in treating people suffering from trauma and eating disorders, I also work with a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, grief, parenting, low self-esteem, addiction, and marital conflicts. I currently offer telehealth sessions to clients in both Oregon and California, as I am fully licensed in both states.
(503) 506-4927 View (503) 506-4927
Photo of Don Becker, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Don Becker
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97086  (Online Only)
My Major course work included: counseling theory and practice, counseling psychology, marriage and family counseling, diagnostics and assessments, clinical work with adults, children, families and groups.
No matter how difficult the problem you are facing, there is a solution. My therapeutic approach is designed to help you gain awareness and understanding into whatever is troubling you and to assist you in developing the practical skills to handle these issues more effectively. I believe that within our problems lie the keys to further growth and development when they are unfolded with awareness. Together, we will create a treatment plan that is tailored to meet your desired goals in therapy.
My Major course work included: counseling theory and practice, counseling psychology, marriage and family counseling, diagnostics and assessments, clinical work with adults, children, families and groups.
No matter how difficult the problem you are facing, there is a solution. My therapeutic approach is designed to help you gain awareness and understanding into whatever is troubling you and to assist you in developing the practical skills to handle these issues more effectively. I believe that within our problems lie the keys to further growth and development when they are unfolded with awareness. Together, we will create a treatment plan that is tailored to meet your desired goals in therapy.
(503) 567-5428 View (503) 567-5428
Photo of Dr. Jessica Moran, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Dr. Jessica Moran
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PhD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97229
You are successful. Others often make comments about how "perfect your life is" because from the outside they see someone with a perfect marriage, great kids, and a wonderful job. But on the inside you feel anything but perfect. You are struggling to keep your head above water, you haven't felt connected to your spouse in months, sex has disappeared and you no longer have the energy to even try to initiate intimacy. You're frustrated with most or all areas of your life and feel like you have no one to turn to that will understand.
You are successful. Others often make comments about how "perfect your life is" because from the outside they see someone with a perfect marriage, great kids, and a wonderful job. But on the inside you feel anything but perfect. You are struggling to keep your head above water, you haven't felt connected to your spouse in months, sex has disappeared and you no longer have the energy to even try to initiate intimacy. You're frustrated with most or all areas of your life and feel like you have no one to turn to that will understand.
(971) 351-0738 View (971) 351-0738
Photo of Trish L Gemulla, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Trish L Gemulla
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97211
I specialize in working with individuals and couples through life transitions, including adolescence, marriage/cohabitation, becoming parents, career changes, grief/loss, relocation and retirement.
My passion is helping individuals move through challenges and toward living life as their most authentic self through exploring and utilizing the personal energy and wisdom they already possess. This may include navigating significant transitions while maintaining a sense of self, finding strength and meaning in dark times, or facilitating present moment awareness and joy. Each of us has unique, complex stories which, at times, can create internal conflict, blocking us from moving forward. I work with you to accept and integrate conflictual parts of your experience and self so that you can move forward with increased self-awareness, self-appreciation and openness to experience.
I specialize in working with individuals and couples through life transitions, including adolescence, marriage/cohabitation, becoming parents, career changes, grief/loss, relocation and retirement.
My passion is helping individuals move through challenges and toward living life as their most authentic self through exploring and utilizing the personal energy and wisdom they already possess. This may include navigating significant transitions while maintaining a sense of self, finding strength and meaning in dark times, or facilitating present moment awareness and joy. Each of us has unique, complex stories which, at times, can create internal conflict, blocking us from moving forward. I work with you to accept and integrate conflictual parts of your experience and self so that you can move forward with increased self-awareness, self-appreciation and openness to experience.
(503) 676-5259 View (503) 676-5259
Photo of Nahomie Guillaume, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Nahomie Guillaume
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
I work with couples in the early stages, and those in interracial marriage and intercultural/interfaith relationships.
Are you overwhelmed? Stressed? Are you struggling with thoughts that you find disturbing? Are you in need of hope, healing, and support? If so, I can help. I will help you identify your life's purpose/meaning, develop healthy coping skills as you grow in your relationships. Beside my professional background, I know firsthand the joy and challenges of raising a family, juggling multiple demands; and have experienced the loss of a child through both miscarriage and stillbirth. If you are looking for someone whom you can connect with on an experiential level, I am that therapist. I look forward to assisting you in your life's journey.
I work with couples in the early stages, and those in interracial marriage and intercultural/interfaith relationships.
Are you overwhelmed? Stressed? Are you struggling with thoughts that you find disturbing? Are you in need of hope, healing, and support? If so, I can help. I will help you identify your life's purpose/meaning, develop healthy coping skills as you grow in your relationships. Beside my professional background, I know firsthand the joy and challenges of raising a family, juggling multiple demands; and have experienced the loss of a child through both miscarriage and stillbirth. If you are looking for someone whom you can connect with on an experiential level, I am that therapist. I look forward to assisting you in your life's journey.
(971) 292-3947 View (971) 292-3947
Photo of Jenny Park, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Jenny Park
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSS
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97223  (Online Only)
I am passionate about working with new mothers who are struggling with isolation, postpartum depression, and marital issues during the first few years of their child's life.
The practice of being human is utterly challenging and incredibly complex. I offer empathetic support for individuals, couples, and families who frequently fall back into their own negative thought patterns and family dynamics. Using a mix of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic Psychology, and a Family Systems approach, I can help you recognize and better understand how an individual action may affect yourself and others.
I am passionate about working with new mothers who are struggling with isolation, postpartum depression, and marital issues during the first few years of their child's life.
The practice of being human is utterly challenging and incredibly complex. I offer empathetic support for individuals, couples, and families who frequently fall back into their own negative thought patterns and family dynamics. Using a mix of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic Psychology, and a Family Systems approach, I can help you recognize and better understand how an individual action may affect yourself and others.
(503) 386-0985 View (503) 386-0985
Photo of Alix Land, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Alix Land
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97211
Another focus of my practice is helping people decide whether they wish to stay in a relationship (or marriage) or if it's time to part ways.
My practice is focused on helping people have healthier, more productive relationships, whether with a significant other/spouse, friend, family member or co-worker. I believe that relationships form the foundation of our lives, and when those relationships feel threatened, nothing else seems to matter. I work with both individuals as well as couples, providing a safe, relaxed environment, where clients are free to express themselves and try out new ideas without judgment.
Another focus of my practice is helping people decide whether they wish to stay in a relationship (or marriage) or if it's time to part ways.
My practice is focused on helping people have healthier, more productive relationships, whether with a significant other/spouse, friend, family member or co-worker. I believe that relationships form the foundation of our lives, and when those relationships feel threatened, nothing else seems to matter. I work with both individuals as well as couples, providing a safe, relaxed environment, where clients are free to express themselves and try out new ideas without judgment.
(503) 549-4208 View (503) 549-4208
Photo of Sellwood Counseling Services, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Sellwood Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MFT, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202
Waitlist for new clients
My training as a couples, marriage and family therapist leads me to view client functioning in terms of relationships. My goal is to help clients bring forth a self that feels true and real. I help clients learn to ask for and receive what they need from others, embracing life and life's challenges with courage, renewed spirit, and a sense of wholeness. When clients feel supported, validated, and understood they often find that symptoms of depression and anxiety are relieved. Working with me, clients will learn to access their inner resources as we generate solutions together.
My training as a couples, marriage and family therapist leads me to view client functioning in terms of relationships. My goal is to help clients bring forth a self that feels true and real. I help clients learn to ask for and receive what they need from others, embracing life and life's challenges with courage, renewed spirit, and a sense of wholeness. When clients feel supported, validated, and understood they often find that symptoms of depression and anxiety are relieved. Working with me, clients will learn to access their inner resources as we generate solutions together.
(503) 446-3242 View (503) 446-3242
Photo of Ally Willis, Pre-Licensed Professional in Portland, OR
Ally Willis
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97221
in Marriage and Family Therapy.
Now Accepting New Clients! You are taking the time to make mental health a priority, and that is something to be proud of. I look forward to walking beside you while you navigate life while working towards your goals and aspirations. I think about your problems from a holistic perspective because I believe that everyone contributes to the problem. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming roadblocks along the way.
in Marriage and Family Therapy.
Now Accepting New Clients! You are taking the time to make mental health a priority, and that is something to be proud of. I look forward to walking beside you while you navigate life while working towards your goals and aspirations. I think about your problems from a holistic perspective because I believe that everyone contributes to the problem. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming roadblocks along the way.
(503) 212-6351 View (503) 212-6351
Photo of Daniel Menely, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Daniel Menely
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97210
I also work using The Gottman Method with premarital and marital couples around the country, couples who are often at decision points, dealing with repetitive conflict, and seeking real tools to connect better.
As your therapist, I'm here to provide a warm and supportive space where you can talk freely without being judged. I won't just sit quietly – instead, I'll ask questions, offer suggestions, and reflect on what you share. Together, we'll work on dealing with the things that might be bothering you in your everyday life, whether that be challenges with relationships, work, or family. Our goal is to help you feel better, be true to who you are, and improve your relationships. And along the way, you'll get valuable skills to reduce stress and move your life forward.
I also work using The Gottman Method with premarital and marital couples around the country, couples who are often at decision points, dealing with repetitive conflict, and seeking real tools to connect better.
As your therapist, I'm here to provide a warm and supportive space where you can talk freely without being judged. I won't just sit quietly – instead, I'll ask questions, offer suggestions, and reflect on what you share. Together, we'll work on dealing with the things that might be bothering you in your everyday life, whether that be challenges with relationships, work, or family. Our goal is to help you feel better, be true to who you are, and improve your relationships. And along the way, you'll get valuable skills to reduce stress and move your life forward.
(503) 379-0306 View (503) 379-0306
Photo of Joey Ellen Kramer O'Connell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Joey Ellen Kramer O'Connell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97205
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist with over 13 years of experience working with individuals and families in home, school, and community settings.
All families experience transitions, and even positive change can cause stress. I employ an eclectic approach with a strong emphasis on attachment, structural, and solution-focused family therapies. I work with young children and their caregivers to form secure attachments early on. This leads to more effective communication and problem solving patterns and a higher level of resilience down the road. My work tends to be short term and builds on the existing strengths of your family. My work with couples is attachment informed as we look at past and current relationships to elucidate our most fulfilling ways of connecting.
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist with over 13 years of experience working with individuals and families in home, school, and community settings.
All families experience transitions, and even positive change can cause stress. I employ an eclectic approach with a strong emphasis on attachment, structural, and solution-focused family therapies. I work with young children and their caregivers to form secure attachments early on. This leads to more effective communication and problem solving patterns and a higher level of resilience down the road. My work tends to be short term and builds on the existing strengths of your family. My work with couples is attachment informed as we look at past and current relationships to elucidate our most fulfilling ways of connecting.
(503) 766-5894 View (503) 766-5894
Photo of Claire Colaco, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Claire Colaco, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97227
My areas of expertise include: Depression/Anxiety; Life Transitions; Eating Issues/Body Image Concerns; Spirituality; Parenthood; Survivors of Childhood Abuse and Neglect; Marriage/Partnership; Prenatal, Pregnancy and Postpartum.
My first job as a therapist is to listen and understand. Deep listening is a time honored tradition and fundamental to healing. I strive to create a safe and nurturing relationship with clients that is a source of comfort and inspiration. Clients inspire me too! I practice spiritually grounded psychotherapy. This means I see life's challenges as, fundamentally, opportunities to grow spiritually and as a whole person. To me, the process of healing is beautiful and miraculous, something that gives us glimpses of a benevolent force much greater than ourselves.
My areas of expertise include: Depression/Anxiety; Life Transitions; Eating Issues/Body Image Concerns; Spirituality; Parenthood; Survivors of Childhood Abuse and Neglect; Marriage/Partnership; Prenatal, Pregnancy and Postpartum.
My first job as a therapist is to listen and understand. Deep listening is a time honored tradition and fundamental to healing. I strive to create a safe and nurturing relationship with clients that is a source of comfort and inspiration. Clients inspire me too! I practice spiritually grounded psychotherapy. This means I see life's challenges as, fundamentally, opportunities to grow spiritually and as a whole person. To me, the process of healing is beautiful and miraculous, something that gives us glimpses of a benevolent force much greater than ourselves.
(971) 340-2718 View (971) 340-2718
Photo of Rebecca Putna, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Rebecca Putna
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97221
I work with couples seeking to deepen their bond, to communicate with each other more effectively, to heal from infidelity, to navigate divorce with integrity, and those couples preparing for marriage.
My approach to therapy is rooted in my belief that relationships that are life giving and meaningful are necessary for our well-being. If you are struggling in any of your relationships, especially in your primary one or with self, therapy helps. I offer non-judgmental, warm, compassionate counseling to couples and individuals. If you are seeking help with understanding yourself in relationship, with improving your own sense of identity, or with developing new ways of thinking and being, please reach out. You are not alone.
I work with couples seeking to deepen their bond, to communicate with each other more effectively, to heal from infidelity, to navigate divorce with integrity, and those couples preparing for marriage.
My approach to therapy is rooted in my belief that relationships that are life giving and meaningful are necessary for our well-being. If you are struggling in any of your relationships, especially in your primary one or with self, therapy helps. I offer non-judgmental, warm, compassionate counseling to couples and individuals. If you are seeking help with understanding yourself in relationship, with improving your own sense of identity, or with developing new ways of thinking and being, please reach out. You are not alone.
(503) 766-5032 View (503) 766-5032
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.