Marriage Counseling Therapists in Oak Forest, Houston, TX

Photo of Katherine Mattioli, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oak Forest, Houston, TX
Katherine Mattioli
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CST
Verified Verified
Oak Forest, Houston, TX 77018  (Online Only)
I am a certified PREPARE/ENRICH provider for premarital and marital counseling.
Life is complicated. You may be feeling lost or overwhelmed right now. Having someone to talk to may be the difference between overcoming your challenges or letting them dictate your life. I work to create a warm, welcoming, and respectful environment so you can focus on finding solutions and having the life you want. Many of my clients, individuals and couples, are working on relationship and sexual issues. I also have experience working with people who are recovering from the trauma of physical illness and concerns.
I am a certified PREPARE/ENRICH provider for premarital and marital counseling.
Life is complicated. You may be feeling lost or overwhelmed right now. Having someone to talk to may be the difference between overcoming your challenges or letting them dictate your life. I work to create a warm, welcoming, and respectful environment so you can focus on finding solutions and having the life you want. Many of my clients, individuals and couples, are working on relationship and sexual issues. I also have experience working with people who are recovering from the trauma of physical illness and concerns.
(713) 234-6674 View (713) 234-6674
Photo of Patience Simms, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oak Forest, Houston, TX
Patience Simms
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMFT-A, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oak Forest, Houston, TX 77018
I am a both a marriage/family therapist as well as an individual therapist.
My goal is to create an environment for my clients where change and healing can happen. Many of my clients come to me because nothing else has worked and they're ready to give up. Whether I am working with a a couple trying to stay married or considering divorce or an adolescent struggling with self harm, I believe clients can surpass coping, heal from trauma and thrive. And, I believe that challenging marriages can grow into healthy connected relationships.
I am a both a marriage/family therapist as well as an individual therapist.
My goal is to create an environment for my clients where change and healing can happen. Many of my clients come to me because nothing else has worked and they're ready to give up. Whether I am working with a a couple trying to stay married or considering divorce or an adolescent struggling with self harm, I believe clients can surpass coping, heal from trauma and thrive. And, I believe that challenging marriages can grow into healthy connected relationships.
(713) 903-2764 View (713) 903-2764
Photo of Jennifer Weatherly-Obani LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oak Forest, Houston, TX
Jennifer Weatherly-Obani LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Oak Forest, Houston, TX 77018
I have worked with people dealing with depression,postpartum depression, bipolar disorder,anxiety,pre/post marital issues,addiction,trauma,crisis,sexual abuse and family conflict.
Ready to make a change,improve your communication skills, create more balance in your life? I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with 5+ years of experience working with: children,adolescents,adults,couples and families.
I have worked with people dealing with depression,postpartum depression, bipolar disorder,anxiety,pre/post marital issues,addiction,trauma,crisis,sexual abuse and family conflict.
Ready to make a change,improve your communication skills, create more balance in your life? I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with 5+ years of experience working with: children,adolescents,adults,couples and families.
(713) 597-2213 View (713) 597-2213
Photo of Samantha Gordon, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oak Forest, Houston, TX
Samantha Gordon
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oak Forest, Houston, TX 77092
Hi, my name is Samantha Gordon and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. In my practice, I focus on helping others to manage issues related to relationships with themselves and others, family dynamics, body image, disordered eating, eating disorders, substance abuse, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and all that goes along with this. I help individuals, couples, and their families manage issues related to relationships with themselves and others, family dynamics, body image, disordered eating, eating disorders, substance abuse, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and all that goes along with this.
Hi, my name is Samantha Gordon and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. In my practice, I focus on helping others to manage issues related to relationships with themselves and others, family dynamics, body image, disordered eating, eating disorders, substance abuse, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and all that goes along with this. I help individuals, couples, and their families manage issues related to relationships with themselves and others, family dynamics, body image, disordered eating, eating disorders, substance abuse, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and all that goes along with this.
(346) 485-3884 View (346) 485-3884
Photo of The Counseling Center for Families of Color, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oak Forest, Houston, TX
The Counseling Center for Families of Color
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oak Forest, Houston, TX 77092
Our group offers a variety of treatment styles and modalities, along with an array of topics covered from adolescent behavioral challenges, to pre-marital counseling, grief, depression, anxiety, trauma, and many others.
The Counseling Center for Families of Color (CCFC) is a group of BIPOC therapists focused on meeting the mental health needs of black and brown families and communities. CCFC provides culturally sensitive and equitable community-based services for those seeking mental health counseling for the very first time or returning to therapy.
Our group offers a variety of treatment styles and modalities, along with an array of topics covered from adolescent behavioral challenges, to pre-marital counseling, grief, depression, anxiety, trauma, and many others.
The Counseling Center for Families of Color (CCFC) is a group of BIPOC therapists focused on meeting the mental health needs of black and brown families and communities. CCFC provides culturally sensitive and equitable community-based services for those seeking mental health counseling for the very first time or returning to therapy.
(346) 291-1772 View (346) 291-1772
Photo of Stephanie Laize, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oak Forest, Houston, TX
Stephanie Laize
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Oak Forest, Houston, TX 77092
I am a licensed professional counselor. As a Korean-born woman, I have a unique cultural background but was raised in France. I have made the U.S.-Mexico border my home for the past two decades. I am a very effective counselor because I have the inner gift to connect with my clients very quickly. This facilitates them to disclose a lot of information they have never shared with anyone. I treat many disorders, including depression, anxiety, codependence, trauma, dysfunctional childhood, marital issues, self-esteem, anger, bullying, stress, and career.
I am a licensed professional counselor. As a Korean-born woman, I have a unique cultural background but was raised in France. I have made the U.S.-Mexico border my home for the past two decades. I am a very effective counselor because I have the inner gift to connect with my clients very quickly. This facilitates them to disclose a lot of information they have never shared with anyone. I treat many disorders, including depression, anxiety, codependence, trauma, dysfunctional childhood, marital issues, self-esteem, anger, bullying, stress, and career.
(346) 788-1759 View (346) 788-1759
Photo of Maria E Torres, Provisionally Licensed Psychologist in Oak Forest, Houston, TX
Maria E Torres
Provisionally Licensed Psychologist, PhD, LPC-A
Verified Verified
Oak Forest, Houston, TX 77092
I offer psychotherapy treatment for several mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), marriage issues, academic issues, psychotic disorders among other conditions.
In life, we go through adverse or challenging situations. My purpose is to accompany you with acceptance in your growth process so that you can achieve your personal goals. You deserve to build a life worth living. I have experience working with adults, adolescents, and children. The intervention models I use are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Also, I'm fully trained in Eye Movement and Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR).
I offer psychotherapy treatment for several mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), marriage issues, academic issues, psychotic disorders among other conditions.
In life, we go through adverse or challenging situations. My purpose is to accompany you with acceptance in your growth process so that you can achieve your personal goals. You deserve to build a life worth living. I have experience working with adults, adolescents, and children. The intervention models I use are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Also, I'm fully trained in Eye Movement and Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR).
(832) 653-9638 View (832) 653-9638
Photo of Lee Ann Nichols, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oak Forest, Houston, TX
Lee Ann Nichols
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Oak Forest, Houston, TX 77018
Selecting a counselor can be a daunting process. It may take several introductions or meetings to find a comfortable fit. The client should be an active part of the process of determining a good fit. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor practicing in the state of Texas. My education includes a BA in Psychology from Stephen F. Austin State University and an MA in Marriage and Family Therapy from University of Houston Clear Lake. My work experience in the mental health field includes various settings and populations such as inpatient, outpatient/private practice, psychosocial clubhouse, foster care, adoption/post adoption, and management of chronic pain.
Selecting a counselor can be a daunting process. It may take several introductions or meetings to find a comfortable fit. The client should be an active part of the process of determining a good fit. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor practicing in the state of Texas. My education includes a BA in Psychology from Stephen F. Austin State University and an MA in Marriage and Family Therapy from University of Houston Clear Lake. My work experience in the mental health field includes various settings and populations such as inpatient, outpatient/private practice, psychosocial clubhouse, foster care, adoption/post adoption, and management of chronic pain.
(281) 968-0943 View (281) 968-0943
Photo of Corey D Paulson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oak Forest, Houston, TX
Corey D Paulson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC-S
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Oak Forest, Houston, TX 77018
His other specialties include treating depression and bipolar disorder, marriage and family counseling, life coaching, and grief therapy.
Corey's therapeutic approach is goal driven and works to identify where his client wishes to grow and then, through careful collaboration, determine how it can be achieved. He works primarily with Reality Therapy, which emphasizes personal control of self, the ability for one to meet their needs in a healthy manner, and the acceptance that the actions one chooses are what makes up one's behavior. He is trained in EMDR and hypnosis and applies both in working with PTSD, trauma, anxiety, and for pain management from physical illness.
His other specialties include treating depression and bipolar disorder, marriage and family counseling, life coaching, and grief therapy.
Corey's therapeutic approach is goal driven and works to identify where his client wishes to grow and then, through careful collaboration, determine how it can be achieved. He works primarily with Reality Therapy, which emphasizes personal control of self, the ability for one to meet their needs in a healthy manner, and the acceptance that the actions one chooses are what makes up one's behavior. He is trained in EMDR and hypnosis and applies both in working with PTSD, trauma, anxiety, and for pain management from physical illness.
(832) 234-9871 View (832) 234-9871
Photo of Cheryl Strain, LMFT, LPC, CIMHP | TherapyforAnyone, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oak Forest, Houston, TX
Cheryl Strain, LMFT, LPC, CIMHP | TherapyforAnyone
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC, CIMHP
Verified Verified
Oak Forest, Houston, TX 77018
Therapyforanyone.com | Cheryl Strain, LMFT, LPC, CIMHP | A Houston therapist in private practice since 2002 with over 30 years of experience. We offer in person sessions and/or virtual sessions for individuals, couples or families, in order to explore the aspects of their lives which are most important to each of them. We are dedicated toward aiding clients in realizing and developing their strengths & potential as well as addressing any areas of concern or current challenges. Houston therapist whose education and training focused strongly on the general scope of psychology and marriage & family therapy. Contact us today.
Therapyforanyone.com | Cheryl Strain, LMFT, LPC, CIMHP | A Houston therapist in private practice since 2002 with over 30 years of experience. We offer in person sessions and/or virtual sessions for individuals, couples or families, in order to explore the aspects of their lives which are most important to each of them. We are dedicated toward aiding clients in realizing and developing their strengths & potential as well as addressing any areas of concern or current challenges. Houston therapist whose education and training focused strongly on the general scope of psychology and marriage & family therapy. Contact us today.
(713) 597-3535 View (713) 597-3535
Photo of Juan (Tony) Antonio Lopez, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oak Forest, Houston, TX
Juan (Tony) Antonio Lopez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oak Forest, Houston, TX 77018
English/Spanish services available. My experience as a therapist/counselor goes back at the school setting for 19 years, 12 as a K-12 school counselor. I also have over 3000 professional psychotherapy/counseling hours working with young adults and couples. My clients may be having difficulties with personal relationships, depression, anxiety, stresses of life, or workplace and or trauma. Psychotherapy is about helping people work through struggles and find balance in life. Christian, spiritual psychotherapy is available for clients who prefer a faith focus approach. Seeking help to resolve issues is the first step to healing.
English/Spanish services available. My experience as a therapist/counselor goes back at the school setting for 19 years, 12 as a K-12 school counselor. I also have over 3000 professional psychotherapy/counseling hours working with young adults and couples. My clients may be having difficulties with personal relationships, depression, anxiety, stresses of life, or workplace and or trauma. Psychotherapy is about helping people work through struggles and find balance in life. Christian, spiritual psychotherapy is available for clients who prefer a faith focus approach. Seeking help to resolve issues is the first step to healing.
(713) 999-0190 View (713) 999-0190
Photo of Erin Rasbeary, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oak Forest, Houston, TX
Erin Rasbeary
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oak Forest, Houston, TX 77018  (Online Only)
Deciding to start the journey towards mental wellness can be very daunting, yet here you are embracing the potential unknown and taking the first step for yourself. As you take these steps towards self-discovery, it’s vital to have key elements present, such as, a safe and trusting space that encourages growth, open-mindedness to the process, an understanding that the goal is not perfection but to make progress, and someone who walks with you along that journey with empathy, patience, non-judgement, humility, and respect of who you are, your beliefs and values, and what you want out of life.
Deciding to start the journey towards mental wellness can be very daunting, yet here you are embracing the potential unknown and taking the first step for yourself. As you take these steps towards self-discovery, it’s vital to have key elements present, such as, a safe and trusting space that encourages growth, open-mindedness to the process, an understanding that the goal is not perfection but to make progress, and someone who walks with you along that journey with empathy, patience, non-judgement, humility, and respect of who you are, your beliefs and values, and what you want out of life.
(281) 502-8750 View (281) 502-8750
Photo of Houston Relationship Institute, Couples Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oak Forest, Houston, TX
Houston Relationship Institute, Couples Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT-S
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Oak Forest, Houston, TX 77018
At HRI, all we do is couples. We have couples counselors starting at $75 and will match you with the best fit for your situation. We are trained in the science of couple dynamics and when it comes to your relationship, you want a specialist. We work with couples recovering from infidelity, disconnection, resentment, ambivalence about divorce, sex and intimacy and fighting over the same thing with zero resolution. Resolving conflict without it escalating is a learned skill. We offer a proven three phase approach designed to melt resentment, gain closure on past hurts and find agreement (or compromise) on chronic issues.
At HRI, all we do is couples. We have couples counselors starting at $75 and will match you with the best fit for your situation. We are trained in the science of couple dynamics and when it comes to your relationship, you want a specialist. We work with couples recovering from infidelity, disconnection, resentment, ambivalence about divorce, sex and intimacy and fighting over the same thing with zero resolution. Resolving conflict without it escalating is a learned skill. We offer a proven three phase approach designed to melt resentment, gain closure on past hurts and find agreement (or compromise) on chronic issues.
(281) 957-2874 View (281) 957-2874
Photo of Gardner Counseling Services, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Oak Forest, Houston, TX
Gardner Counseling Services
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCSW, LCDC, CSAT, EMDR-II
Verified Verified
Oak Forest, Houston, TX 77018
About the Facilitator - Doris Gardner-Wilson, LCSW, LCDC, CSAT is a professional speaker, educator, workshop facilitator, certified sex addiction therapist and trained EMDR therapist with years of experience in the field. She currently has private practices in Houston and Katy, Texas and specializes in helping reduce symptoms of panic attacks, past traumas, PTSD phobia, depression, grief, severe anxiety, substance additions, process addictions and other debilitating mental challenges. Previous experience includes Memorial Hermann Prevention & Recovery Center (PaRC), The Right Step, Fort Bend Council of Alcohol & Drug abuse,
About the Facilitator - Doris Gardner-Wilson, LCSW, LCDC, CSAT is a professional speaker, educator, workshop facilitator, certified sex addiction therapist and trained EMDR therapist with years of experience in the field. She currently has private practices in Houston and Katy, Texas and specializes in helping reduce symptoms of panic attacks, past traumas, PTSD phobia, depression, grief, severe anxiety, substance additions, process addictions and other debilitating mental challenges. Previous experience includes Memorial Hermann Prevention & Recovery Center (PaRC), The Right Step, Fort Bend Council of Alcohol & Drug abuse,
(832) 924-0432 View (832) 924-0432
Photo of Willow & Sage Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oak Forest, Houston, TX
Willow & Sage Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Oak Forest, Houston, TX 77018
The two questions I get asked most often are: "Where do I go from here?" and "How do I make the changes I need to make?" My honest answer to both of these questions is always, "I don't know exactly. It's something that we need to figure out together." The journey to a person's happiness, peace, and/or balance is so incredibly unique; and though I realize that my response may not be the one they wish to receive, there is always reassurance that they will not have to traverse this particular part of their journey alone, for together we will explore all the possibilities to formulate the desired path forward.
The two questions I get asked most often are: "Where do I go from here?" and "How do I make the changes I need to make?" My honest answer to both of these questions is always, "I don't know exactly. It's something that we need to figure out together." The journey to a person's happiness, peace, and/or balance is so incredibly unique; and though I realize that my response may not be the one they wish to receive, there is always reassurance that they will not have to traverse this particular part of their journey alone, for together we will explore all the possibilities to formulate the desired path forward.
(281) 709-2782 View (281) 709-2782
Photo of Sonya M Gonzales, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oak Forest, Houston, TX
Sonya M Gonzales
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, LCDC, SAP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Oak Forest, Houston, TX 77018
As an experienced LCSW and LCDC, being a therapist with an honest approach with my clients is important to me. I believe in providing good therapeutic experiences for clients. My experiences include providing services to clients with mood disorders, the LGBTQIA community, clients with gender dysphoria and those affected by addiction issues. I have clinical experience in dealing with clients with trauma history as I am EMDR Certified. I am also Certified by World Professional Assoc. of Transgender Health (WPATH) with the Standards of Care (SOC) 8. I am The Headstrong Project Clinician working with veterans.
As an experienced LCSW and LCDC, being a therapist with an honest approach with my clients is important to me. I believe in providing good therapeutic experiences for clients. My experiences include providing services to clients with mood disorders, the LGBTQIA community, clients with gender dysphoria and those affected by addiction issues. I have clinical experience in dealing with clients with trauma history as I am EMDR Certified. I am also Certified by World Professional Assoc. of Transgender Health (WPATH) with the Standards of Care (SOC) 8. I am The Headstrong Project Clinician working with veterans.
(832) 219-8687 View (832) 219-8687
Photo of Nicholas Ireland, Licensed Master Social Worker in Oak Forest, Houston, TX
Nicholas Ireland
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Forest, Houston, TX 77018  (Online Only)
Do you ever feel like you're constantly playing catch-up? Like your to-do list mocks you with its ever-growing length? Does the pressure to meet expectations leave you feeling overwhelmed and ashamed? You're not alone. Many people grapple with executive dysfunction, often leading to a cycle of self-blame and paralysis. It can feel like your brain operates on a different schedule, making it frustrating to navigate a world built for a different kind of mind. But here's the thing: you are not broken. You are worthy of love and success, just the way you are. I am a queer, white, anti-oppressive therapist who wants the best for you!
Do you ever feel like you're constantly playing catch-up? Like your to-do list mocks you with its ever-growing length? Does the pressure to meet expectations leave you feeling overwhelmed and ashamed? You're not alone. Many people grapple with executive dysfunction, often leading to a cycle of self-blame and paralysis. It can feel like your brain operates on a different schedule, making it frustrating to navigate a world built for a different kind of mind. But here's the thing: you are not broken. You are worthy of love and success, just the way you are. I am a queer, white, anti-oppressive therapist who wants the best for you!
(346) 708-6083 View (346) 708-6083
Photo of Cope365 , Licensed Professional Counselor in Oak Forest, Houston, TX
Cope365
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDC, CCTP, PIT, MBA
Verified Verified
Oak Forest, Houston, TX 77018  (Online Only)
Struggling with dealing with life on life’s terms? Need healing from emotional wound? Whatever your reason is that lead you to therapy, you have made the best investment in yourself. I am here to guide you through your personal therapeutic goal.
Struggling with dealing with life on life’s terms? Need healing from emotional wound? Whatever your reason is that lead you to therapy, you have made the best investment in yourself. I am here to guide you through your personal therapeutic goal.
(281) 532-8815 View (281) 532-8815
Photo of Tyler Hodges, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oak Forest, Houston, TX
Tyler Hodges
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oak Forest, Houston, TX 77018
Being parents, raising a teen, and growing up can be difficult. We all know what it was like being a teenager, and maybe now you're here because you're experiencing what it's like to raise a teenager. While some of the emotions we run into parenting or being a teen hasn't changed, the world has certainly thrown us some curveballs over the past few years. This has left parents having to cope with new challenges that are harder to navigate than what many of us experienced growing up ourselves.
Being parents, raising a teen, and growing up can be difficult. We all know what it was like being a teenager, and maybe now you're here because you're experiencing what it's like to raise a teenager. While some of the emotions we run into parenting or being a teen hasn't changed, the world has certainly thrown us some curveballs over the past few years. This has left parents having to cope with new challenges that are harder to navigate than what many of us experienced growing up ourselves.
(281) 801-8023 x6 View (281) 801-8023 x6
Photo of Joe Hartsoe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oak Forest, Houston, TX
Joe Hartsoe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Oak Forest, Houston, TX 77018
Whether you're struggling with anxiety, grief, sexuality, or relationships, I am here to support you every step of the way. I specialize in working with seniors, men, LGBTQIA, and neurodivergent individuals, and I believe that everyone deserves to live their best life.
Whether you're struggling with anxiety, grief, sexuality, or relationships, I am here to support you every step of the way. I specialize in working with seniors, men, LGBTQIA, and neurodivergent individuals, and I believe that everyone deserves to live their best life.
(832) 639-6933 View (832) 639-6933

See more therapy options for Oak Forest, Houston


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.