Photo of Dr. La'Boris Cole, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bedford, TX
Dr. La'Boris Cole
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Bedford, TX 76021
I received a doctoral degree in Clinical Counseling: Teaching and Supervision with a Speciality in Marriage and Family Therapy.
I am passionate about serving those who are in need of hope, love, joy, peace, healing, and empowerment. My main goal is to assist one in reaching personal/professional goals, addressing trauma, and experiencing healing/wholeness in every area of one's life. My specialties are pre-marital, marital, family conflict, addiction, trauma, anger/stress management, and dual diagnosis. As therapist, it is my role to provide a safe, non judgmental atmosphere to ensure you feel valued, worthy, and safe in order to experience restoration and transformation.
I received a doctoral degree in Clinical Counseling: Teaching and Supervision with a Speciality in Marriage and Family Therapy.
I am passionate about serving those who are in need of hope, love, joy, peace, healing, and empowerment. My main goal is to assist one in reaching personal/professional goals, addressing trauma, and experiencing healing/wholeness in every area of one's life. My specialties are pre-marital, marital, family conflict, addiction, trauma, anger/stress management, and dual diagnosis. As therapist, it is my role to provide a safe, non judgmental atmosphere to ensure you feel valued, worthy, and safe in order to experience restoration and transformation.
(214) 717-6713 View (214) 717-6713
Photo of Dr. Michael Contreras, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bedford, TX
Dr. Michael Contreras
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, LCDC, ADC, ICADC, DOT-SAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bedford, TX 76021  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My clinical interests include: marriage and family counseling, school difficulties and behavior referrals, adolescent issues, crisis intervention, substance abuse, PTSD, and depression.
My client population includes children, adolescents and adults. I work with individuals as well as families. I facilitate numerous groups and skills training curriculum in various topics including adolescent first offenders, anger management, divorce and separation, parenting, and teen issues.
My clinical interests include: marriage and family counseling, school difficulties and behavior referrals, adolescent issues, crisis intervention, substance abuse, PTSD, and depression.
My client population includes children, adolescents and adults. I work with individuals as well as families. I facilitate numerous groups and skills training curriculum in various topics including adolescent first offenders, anger management, divorce and separation, parenting, and teen issues.
(817) 849-6835 View (817) 849-6835
Photo of Cole Associates and Counselors of Texas, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bedford, TX
Cole Associates and Counselors of Texas, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bedford, TX 76021
Therapy areas include: Anxiety, Coping Skills, Stress, Depression, Marital Conflict, Grief/Loss, Eating Disorders, Mood Disorders, Personality Disorders, Dissociation, Family Conflict, Interpersonal Issues, Trauma, Addiction, Child and Teen Counseling, Adult counseling, Couples counseling and so much more.
As you take this step towards achieving wellness, we are honored to walk with you on your personal journey while providing a safe place, healing, hope, restoration, and quality of care. Specifically, Cole Associates and Counselors of Texas is dedicated to providing quality professional care by specializing in prevention, treatment and diagnosis of emotional, behavioral, and mental health issues. CAACOT provides evidence-based counseling and psychiatric services to children, adolescents, adults and couples.
Therapy areas include: Anxiety, Coping Skills, Stress, Depression, Marital Conflict, Grief/Loss, Eating Disorders, Mood Disorders, Personality Disorders, Dissociation, Family Conflict, Interpersonal Issues, Trauma, Addiction, Child and Teen Counseling, Adult counseling, Couples counseling and so much more.
As you take this step towards achieving wellness, we are honored to walk with you on your personal journey while providing a safe place, healing, hope, restoration, and quality of care. Specifically, Cole Associates and Counselors of Texas is dedicated to providing quality professional care by specializing in prevention, treatment and diagnosis of emotional, behavioral, and mental health issues. CAACOT provides evidence-based counseling and psychiatric services to children, adolescents, adults and couples.
(817) 813-6789 View (817) 813-6789
Photo of Farrah Bonnot, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bedford, TX
Farrah Bonnot
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bedford, TX 76021  (Online Only)
I am working on my Gottman Level 1 certification, my AASECT certification in sex therapy, and my PhD in Marriage and Family Therapy at Texas Woman's University.
Do you worry your experiences, preferences, or orientation make the search for a mental health professional difficult? Are there times or situations where you'd like a helping hand, but feel overwhelmed about explaining your background to someone who may not understand? I know what that feels like. My passion lies in helping survivors of trauma and I am deeply invested in serving LGBTQIA+, polyam, consensual non-monogamy (ENM), kink, and all sexual minority communities. I am also sex work allied and provide non-judgmental support for individuals who are, or have been in the sex industry.
I am working on my Gottman Level 1 certification, my AASECT certification in sex therapy, and my PhD in Marriage and Family Therapy at Texas Woman's University.
Do you worry your experiences, preferences, or orientation make the search for a mental health professional difficult? Are there times or situations where you'd like a helping hand, but feel overwhelmed about explaining your background to someone who may not understand? I know what that feels like. My passion lies in helping survivors of trauma and I am deeply invested in serving LGBTQIA+, polyam, consensual non-monogamy (ENM), kink, and all sexual minority communities. I am also sex work allied and provide non-judgmental support for individuals who are, or have been in the sex industry.
(940) 304-0034 View (940) 304-0034
Photo of Cole Associates and Counselors of Texas, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bedford, TX
Cole Associates and Counselors of Texas, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bedford, TX 76021
Therapy areas include: Anxiety, Coping Skills, Stress, Depression, Marital Conflict, Grief/Loss, Eating Disorders, Mood Disorders, Personality Disorders, Dissociation, Family Conflict, Interpersonal Issues, Trauma, Addiction, Child and Teen Counseling, Adult Counseling, Couples Counseling, Clergy Counseling and more.
As you take this step towards achieving wellness, we are honored to walk with you on your personal journey while providing a safe place, healing, hope, restoration, and quality of care. Specifically, Cole Associates and Counselors of Texas are dedicated to providing quality professional care by specializing in prevention, treatment and diagnosis of emotional, behavioral, and mental health issues.CAACOT provides evidence-based counseling and psychiatric services to children, adolescents, adults and couples.
Therapy areas include: Anxiety, Coping Skills, Stress, Depression, Marital Conflict, Grief/Loss, Eating Disorders, Mood Disorders, Personality Disorders, Dissociation, Family Conflict, Interpersonal Issues, Trauma, Addiction, Child and Teen Counseling, Adult Counseling, Couples Counseling, Clergy Counseling and more.
As you take this step towards achieving wellness, we are honored to walk with you on your personal journey while providing a safe place, healing, hope, restoration, and quality of care. Specifically, Cole Associates and Counselors of Texas are dedicated to providing quality professional care by specializing in prevention, treatment and diagnosis of emotional, behavioral, and mental health issues.CAACOT provides evidence-based counseling and psychiatric services to children, adolescents, adults and couples.
(214) 974-4214 View (214) 974-4214
Photo of Francelle Neal, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bedford, TX
Francelle Neal
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAC, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bedford, TX 76021
Society Today is faced with multiple Life stressors ranging from Financial, Marital, Relational, issues with employment and or Life In General. Through Therapy, an Individualized Improvement Plan can be devised and implemented to assist individuals with coping and possibly overcoming the issues they are facing. Adolescents and Teens are complicated, and I am eager to assist. Teen groups are available as well as individualized treatment. Two people working together are always better than one. As a therapist I have learned the more input a client contributes to their therapeutic goals the better the outcomes and success possibility.
Society Today is faced with multiple Life stressors ranging from Financial, Marital, Relational, issues with employment and or Life In General. Through Therapy, an Individualized Improvement Plan can be devised and implemented to assist individuals with coping and possibly overcoming the issues they are facing. Adolescents and Teens are complicated, and I am eager to assist. Teen groups are available as well as individualized treatment. Two people working together are always better than one. As a therapist I have learned the more input a client contributes to their therapeutic goals the better the outcomes and success possibility.
(636) 923-4751 View (636) 923-4751
Photo of Anita Peters, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bedford, TX
Anita Peters
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Bedford, TX 76022
I specialize in working with clients who are struggling with relationship problems. Perhaps you are stuck in a relationship that is abusive, or maybe you are just unhappy because the marriage or relationship is no longer meeting your needs. My twenty years of experience will help you get unstuck and provide you with the tools you need to create a positive difference. Give me a call and let's get to work to make things better.
I specialize in working with clients who are struggling with relationship problems. Perhaps you are stuck in a relationship that is abusive, or maybe you are just unhappy because the marriage or relationship is no longer meeting your needs. My twenty years of experience will help you get unstuck and provide you with the tools you need to create a positive difference. Give me a call and let's get to work to make things better.
(817) 880-6564 View (817) 880-6564
Photo of Susan D Gifford, Psychologist in Bedford, TX
Susan D Gifford
Psychologist, PhD, FICPP, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bedford, TX 76095
I treat adults, adolescents and children with anxiety, depression, relationship or peer issues, communication problems, stress difficulties, marital and family issues and many other psychological factors, I also work with children who are under stress, because of divorce situations or learning differences or stress from school and peer situations.
I have practiced for more than 25 years. I treat individuals and families, marriages, and children, as well as chronic pain patients. I teach skills, and prepare individualized treatment plans which integrate your goals and the skills you can practice to achieve your goals. I also do assessments, for ADHD, learning differences, and personality testing. I use cognitive rational therapy to assist you in working toward your goals as efficiently as you choose.
I treat adults, adolescents and children with anxiety, depression, relationship or peer issues, communication problems, stress difficulties, marital and family issues and many other psychological factors, I also work with children who are under stress, because of divorce situations or learning differences or stress from school and peer situations.
I have practiced for more than 25 years. I treat individuals and families, marriages, and children, as well as chronic pain patients. I teach skills, and prepare individualized treatment plans which integrate your goals and the skills you can practice to achieve your goals. I also do assessments, for ADHD, learning differences, and personality testing. I use cognitive rational therapy to assist you in working toward your goals as efficiently as you choose.
(682) 243-5387 View (682) 243-5387
Photo of Tamra White, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bedford, TX
Tamra White
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Bedford, TX 76021
I specialize in several areas of human behavior, including depression, anxiety, marriage/divorce, as well as child/adolescent counseling.
It takes courage to reach out for assistance. I acknowledge that, and welcome you to an environment that asks questions, and promotes change! In my practice, I strive to make the client feel safe, comfortable, and understood from the moment we meet. The quality of the connection between the client and the therapist is fundamental to emotional growth and genuine change. I understand that there are certain feelings, problems, relationship dynamics and behaviors that one would like to feel better about as soon as possible. My practice does not ignore one's need for change in the here and now!
I specialize in several areas of human behavior, including depression, anxiety, marriage/divorce, as well as child/adolescent counseling.
It takes courage to reach out for assistance. I acknowledge that, and welcome you to an environment that asks questions, and promotes change! In my practice, I strive to make the client feel safe, comfortable, and understood from the moment we meet. The quality of the connection between the client and the therapist is fundamental to emotional growth and genuine change. I understand that there are certain feelings, problems, relationship dynamics and behaviors that one would like to feel better about as soon as possible. My practice does not ignore one's need for change in the here and now!
(940) 202-8321 View (940) 202-8321
Photo of Dr. Mechell Guy, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bedford, TX
Dr. Mechell Guy
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
Bedford, TX 76021
I am, Dr. Guy specializing in treating marriage and family problems, pre-marital, conflictual relationships, divorce recovery, women's issues, anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, anger management, ADHD, school and work-related struggles. My goal is to help individuals, couples, adults, and adolescents discover healthy living and personal wholeness: emotionally, mentally, and physically. I understand the challenges of life and believe healing is a process that involves your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. I would love to use my extensive knowledge of therapeutic techniques and strategies to improve your life.
I am, Dr. Guy specializing in treating marriage and family problems, pre-marital, conflictual relationships, divorce recovery, women's issues, anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, anger management, ADHD, school and work-related struggles. My goal is to help individuals, couples, adults, and adolescents discover healthy living and personal wholeness: emotionally, mentally, and physically. I understand the challenges of life and believe healing is a process that involves your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. I would love to use my extensive knowledge of therapeutic techniques and strategies to improve your life.
(972) 382-6883 View (972) 382-6883
Photo of Samantha Eisenhart-Petkovski, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bedford, TX
Samantha Eisenhart-Petkovski
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bedford, TX 76021  (Online Only)
Immediate Tele-Health Openings: I believe that every individual has the necessary tools to enhance their lives and it is my responsibility as a therapist to help my clients learn how to use their tools effectively. I believe that establishing a strong therapeutic relationship with my clients is essential and primary. I believe having a good connection helps to facilitate effective counseling and provides for the best possible outcomes. Collaboration on treatment goals is a fundamental priority. It takes courage in making the first step to creating a healthier happier you and I would be honored to assist you on your journey!
Immediate Tele-Health Openings: I believe that every individual has the necessary tools to enhance their lives and it is my responsibility as a therapist to help my clients learn how to use their tools effectively. I believe that establishing a strong therapeutic relationship with my clients is essential and primary. I believe having a good connection helps to facilitate effective counseling and provides for the best possible outcomes. Collaboration on treatment goals is a fundamental priority. It takes courage in making the first step to creating a healthier happier you and I would be honored to assist you on your journey!
(817) 380-9489 x102 View (817) 380-9489 x102
Photo of Tobin Ludwig, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bedford, TX
Tobin Ludwig
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Bedford, TX 76021
It is important for individuals to have a safe place to explore themselves without judgment. Counseling allows a person to work through past traumas, identify present stressors, and implement plans to increase quality of life for the future. Counseling is molded around the life goals of the individual. Mental wellness and inner peace is in the hands of each individual, however sometimes it takes the guidance of a professional to find that peace within ourselves. The relationship built, and techniques used are proven to increase quality of life in those suffering from emotional and cognitive (thinking) disturbances.
It is important for individuals to have a safe place to explore themselves without judgment. Counseling allows a person to work through past traumas, identify present stressors, and implement plans to increase quality of life for the future. Counseling is molded around the life goals of the individual. Mental wellness and inner peace is in the hands of each individual, however sometimes it takes the guidance of a professional to find that peace within ourselves. The relationship built, and techniques used are proven to increase quality of life in those suffering from emotional and cognitive (thinking) disturbances.
(682) 310-6981 View (682) 310-6981
Photo of Positive Pathways Counseling And Family Services, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bedford, TX
Positive Pathways Counseling And Family Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCPT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Bedford, TX 76021  (Online Only)
As a professional counselor, I believe in the power of each individual to overcome barriers that prevent their life pathway from taking a more positive direction. I am invested in creating a calm and safe haven where growth and improvement can occur. Using a person-centered approach requires understanding the perspective patients have about issues in their lives to foster open, honest communication within a therapeutic relationship. When people feel comfortable expressing their emotions, an effective counselor is able to gain knowledge of how that person views their problems.
As a professional counselor, I believe in the power of each individual to overcome barriers that prevent their life pathway from taking a more positive direction. I am invested in creating a calm and safe haven where growth and improvement can occur. Using a person-centered approach requires understanding the perspective patients have about issues in their lives to foster open, honest communication within a therapeutic relationship. When people feel comfortable expressing their emotions, an effective counselor is able to gain knowledge of how that person views their problems.
(469) 331-5627 View (469) 331-5627
Photo of Lifebulb Counseling & Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bedford, TX
Lifebulb Counseling & Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bedford, TX 76021
We're here to help you reach your therapy goals at Lifebulb! We’ll connect you with the best possible therapist for your unique goals, someone who genuinely cares about helping you. We’re all about making therapy enjoyable for both therapists and clients. Whether you prefer in-person sessions at our locations or online through telehealth, we've got you covered. Our team consists of highly trained and licensed clinicians who are passionate about the therapy process. Let's work together to achieve your goals!
We're here to help you reach your therapy goals at Lifebulb! We’ll connect you with the best possible therapist for your unique goals, someone who genuinely cares about helping you. We’re all about making therapy enjoyable for both therapists and clients. Whether you prefer in-person sessions at our locations or online through telehealth, we've got you covered. Our team consists of highly trained and licensed clinicians who are passionate about the therapy process. Let's work together to achieve your goals!
(682) 900-6265 View (682) 900-6265
Photo of Genesis E Morales, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bedford, TX
Genesis E Morales
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bedford, TX 76022
Hey there! I’m so happy that you are taking the first steps on your wellness journey! While a new and sometimes scary thing, I hope that you will trust me to support you in this new era of your life. You deserve it! In the therapeutic space, my goal is always to support you and provide a safe environment. I use the Polyvagal Theory, emphasizing the importance of integrating emotions, the body, and the nervous system.
Hey there! I’m so happy that you are taking the first steps on your wellness journey! While a new and sometimes scary thing, I hope that you will trust me to support you in this new era of your life. You deserve it! In the therapeutic space, my goal is always to support you and provide a safe environment. I use the Polyvagal Theory, emphasizing the importance of integrating emotions, the body, and the nervous system.
(682) 243-3627 View (682) 243-3627
Photo of Savannah Honarbakht, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Bedford, TX
Savannah Honarbakht
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bedford, TX 76021
For as long as I can remember, I recognized a fire in me to be able to provide a safe place for those who needed it. Speaking as a queer woman, my lived experiences have directed me towards becoming an advocate for systemic equality and change. My passions lie in trauma-informed care, gender-affirming care, and helping high conflict relationships of all backgrounds navigate through their journey. I strive to cultivate a non-judgmental environment that allows for connection and validty. Together we can identify and utilize your inner potential and strength to nurture the growth you desire to achieve.
For as long as I can remember, I recognized a fire in me to be able to provide a safe place for those who needed it. Speaking as a queer woman, my lived experiences have directed me towards becoming an advocate for systemic equality and change. My passions lie in trauma-informed care, gender-affirming care, and helping high conflict relationships of all backgrounds navigate through their journey. I strive to cultivate a non-judgmental environment that allows for connection and validty. Together we can identify and utilize your inner potential and strength to nurture the growth you desire to achieve.
(682) 327-0083 View (682) 327-0083
Photo of Therron Hume, Psychologist in Bedford, TX
Therron Hume
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Bedford, TX 76021
Despite the vast amounts of challenges that life may throw our way, I truly believe that mental flexibility and perseverance may be cultivated by anyone who would seek it. It allows one to bend in the winds of change without breaking, while adjusting and evaluating new wisdoms and perspectives that may be applied to one's life situations. The mind of an individual can be as flexible as one's ability to imagine it to be, when given the support and permission to do so through my integrative and pragmatic approach to therapy.
Despite the vast amounts of challenges that life may throw our way, I truly believe that mental flexibility and perseverance may be cultivated by anyone who would seek it. It allows one to bend in the winds of change without breaking, while adjusting and evaluating new wisdoms and perspectives that may be applied to one's life situations. The mind of an individual can be as flexible as one's ability to imagine it to be, when given the support and permission to do so through my integrative and pragmatic approach to therapy.
(469) 518-2787 View (469) 518-2787
Photo of Tom Massoll, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bedford, TX
Tom Massoll
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LPC-S, LMFT-S, NCC
Verified Verified
Bedford, TX 76021
I consult with individuals, couples, families, and businesses. This includes problems related to relationships, divorce, children, anxiety, depression, aging parents, or ongoing conflicts in business. I also work with adolescents in wilderness environments for brief periods of time.
I consult with individuals, couples, families, and businesses. This includes problems related to relationships, divorce, children, anxiety, depression, aging parents, or ongoing conflicts in business. I also work with adolescents in wilderness environments for brief periods of time.
(817) 756-9578 View (817) 756-9578
Photo of Intellection Consulting, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bedford, TX
Intellection Consulting
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Bedford, TX 76021
Counseling is recommended for those that may be currently experiencing some type of unwanted or unmanageable emotional or "thinking" difficulty that requires the assistance of a trained mental health professional. Seeking counseling should never carry a negative stigma or feelings of shame. Counseling is a therapeutic process for individuals that may have diagnosed or undiagnosed mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, bi-polar disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, or difficulty in building and maintaining heathy relationships. Coaching is recommended for those that are looking for less intensive guidance in assisting them to enhance their own personal performance.
Counseling is recommended for those that may be currently experiencing some type of unwanted or unmanageable emotional or "thinking" difficulty that requires the assistance of a trained mental health professional. Seeking counseling should never carry a negative stigma or feelings of shame. Counseling is a therapeutic process for individuals that may have diagnosed or undiagnosed mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, bi-polar disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, or difficulty in building and maintaining heathy relationships. Coaching is recommended for those that are looking for less intensive guidance in assisting them to enhance their own personal performance.
(817) 339-6833 View (817) 339-6833
Photo of Bridges To Crossroads Counseling & IOP Care, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bedford, TX
Bridges To Crossroads Counseling & IOP Care
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Bedford, TX 76021
"The treasure is in the work". (J. Kwik). At Bridges To Crossroads Counseling & IOP Care, our clinicians will identify, address and transform the way you are feeling, thinking and behaving to promote positive emotional health. We will help you to develop strategies to reach your goals of emotional and mental well- being. You can be the difference that you want to see in your life.... Allow us to help you discover that difference.
"The treasure is in the work". (J. Kwik). At Bridges To Crossroads Counseling & IOP Care, our clinicians will identify, address and transform the way you are feeling, thinking and behaving to promote positive emotional health. We will help you to develop strategies to reach your goals of emotional and mental well- being. You can be the difference that you want to see in your life.... Allow us to help you discover that difference.
(214) 731-4935 View (214) 731-4935
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.