Photo of Sharon Lackey, Licensed Professional Counselor in Nederland, TX
Sharon Lackey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nederland, TX 77627
Greetings, Let's take a journey together and discover how you can become your best you. You may have experienced challenging situations that are creating obstacles you want to overcome. We can explore ways to help you develop coping skills, build self-confidence, cultivate a strong sense of self and autonomy. Your ability to make changes and establish healthy choices will help you move toward the confident well-defined individual you can be proud of. We can accomplish this goal together.
Greetings, Let's take a journey together and discover how you can become your best you. You may have experienced challenging situations that are creating obstacles you want to overcome. We can explore ways to help you develop coping skills, build self-confidence, cultivate a strong sense of self and autonomy. Your ability to make changes and establish healthy choices will help you move toward the confident well-defined individual you can be proud of. We can accomplish this goal together.
(409) 572-8191 View (409) 572-8191

Online Therapists

The Center for PEACE, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, RPT-S, LSOTP, LCDCI, LBSWIPR
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77005
Searching for PEACE?... We Have It. Imagine having the guidance to access Inner Peace, support for resolve and courage to embrace change. The Center for PEACE, PLLC will assist those desiring psychotherapy processing trauma, anxiety, depression, marital discord, addiction, play therapy and gender identify support. Our approach is to aid you through the journey of healing, mindfulness, insight and more importantly, peace. Let's us know when you are ready. We are here for you.
Searching for PEACE?... We Have It. Imagine having the guidance to access Inner Peace, support for resolve and courage to embrace change. The Center for PEACE, PLLC will assist those desiring psychotherapy processing trauma, anxiety, depression, marital discord, addiction, play therapy and gender identify support. Our approach is to aid you through the journey of healing, mindfulness, insight and more importantly, peace. Let's us know when you are ready. We are here for you.
(281) 816-4219 View (281) 816-4219
Photo of John Michael Murray, Marriage & Family Therapist in Nederland, TX
John Michael Murray
Marriage & Family Therapist, JD, MS, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
Pearland, TX 77581
I am licensed both as a Professional Counselor and in Marriage and Family Therapy.
You are one-of-a-kind. And so, beginning with our first meeting, I will be sure that I clearly understand you and your unique needs. Then, as your therapist, I will work to help you establish and achieve the goals that are immportant to you. Effective psychotherapy supports the emotional healing that leads to wellbeing. My approach includes what I call "relational reflective listening and speaking". It's a process that developes and nurtures the deep respect I have for my patients. In our conversations you and I together will discover new possibilities, new hope that heals the heart.
I am licensed both as a Professional Counselor and in Marriage and Family Therapy.
You are one-of-a-kind. And so, beginning with our first meeting, I will be sure that I clearly understand you and your unique needs. Then, as your therapist, I will work to help you establish and achieve the goals that are immportant to you. Effective psychotherapy supports the emotional healing that leads to wellbeing. My approach includes what I call "relational reflective listening and speaking". It's a process that developes and nurtures the deep respect I have for my patients. In our conversations you and I together will discover new possibilities, new hope that heals the heart.
(832) 463-5602 View (832) 463-5602
Photo of Dr. Julie Jones, Marriage & Family Therapist in Nederland, TX
Dr. Julie Jones
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
League City, TX 77573  (Online Only)
Beyond my therapy practice: I have served as an adjunct professor at the University of Houston-Clear Lake, a supervisor for licensed marriage and family therapy associates and licensed professional counselor associates, and a trainer and volunteer for the Red Cross in Disaster Mental Health.
My practice is primarily family therapy where multiple family members participate. The majority of the families I work with have at least one, if not many, of the following diagnoses: AD/HD, oppositional defiant disorder, selective mutism, learning disorders (dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, pragmatic communication, etc), social communication disorder, autism, anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, and/or bipolar disorder. I actively use Accelerated Resolution Therapy(ART) to help people gain relief from trauma and persistent unwanted thoughts. I also offer comprehensive reports for social security applications.
Beyond my therapy practice: I have served as an adjunct professor at the University of Houston-Clear Lake, a supervisor for licensed marriage and family therapy associates and licensed professional counselor associates, and a trainer and volunteer for the Red Cross in Disaster Mental Health.
My practice is primarily family therapy where multiple family members participate. The majority of the families I work with have at least one, if not many, of the following diagnoses: AD/HD, oppositional defiant disorder, selective mutism, learning disorders (dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, pragmatic communication, etc), social communication disorder, autism, anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, and/or bipolar disorder. I actively use Accelerated Resolution Therapy(ART) to help people gain relief from trauma and persistent unwanted thoughts. I also offer comprehensive reports for social security applications.
(281) 519-2044 View (281) 519-2044
Photo of Nancy E White, Psychologist in Nederland, TX
Nancy E White
Psychologist, PhD, AAC, LPC, BCN, QEEGD
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77056
Dr Nancy White and the Unique Mind Care team offer neurofeedback and brain health programs that are the most advanced and safest in Houston. We also offer private, marriage and family counseling. We encourage new clients to call our office and speak to Dr White or a team member to learn why Unique Mind Care is Houston's leader in Neurofeedback and Neuro-stimulation techniques. All initial phone consultations are complimentary.
Dr Nancy White and the Unique Mind Care team offer neurofeedback and brain health programs that are the most advanced and safest in Houston. We also offer private, marriage and family counseling. We encourage new clients to call our office and speak to Dr White or a team member to learn why Unique Mind Care is Houston's leader in Neurofeedback and Neuro-stimulation techniques. All initial phone consultations are complimentary.
(713) 660-1100 View (713) 660-1100
Photo of Harold Haven Boggs, Marriage & Family Therapist in Nederland, TX
Harold Haven Boggs
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LCDC, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sugar Land, TX 77478  (Online Only)
Texas: Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDC).
I help adults with: (divorce, remarriage, PTSD, alcohol, drugs, depression, anxiety, grief, suicide prevention, compulsive sex, job loss; physical illness and disability; eldering); male teens: (problems with self-confidence, sexuality and identity; relationship with parents; alcohol drug problems, depression, grief); with : parents' divorce, or remarriage); families with : (Covenant Marriage, pre-marriage, remarriage, blended families, conflict and violence, abuse, divorce, empty nest), parents : (parent-child conflicts, problems with co-parenting, single-parenting and/or blending families, difficulties with CPS cases, and in-laws
Texas: Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDC).
I help adults with: (divorce, remarriage, PTSD, alcohol, drugs, depression, anxiety, grief, suicide prevention, compulsive sex, job loss; physical illness and disability; eldering); male teens: (problems with self-confidence, sexuality and identity; relationship with parents; alcohol drug problems, depression, grief); with : parents' divorce, or remarriage); families with : (Covenant Marriage, pre-marriage, remarriage, blended families, conflict and violence, abuse, divorce, empty nest), parents : (parent-child conflicts, problems with co-parenting, single-parenting and/or blending families, difficulties with CPS cases, and in-laws
(281) 978-2998 View (281) 978-2998
Photo of Dr. Roger D. Vazquez, Licensed Professional Counselor in Nederland, TX
Dr. Roger D. Vazquez
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
Sugar Land, TX 77478
I have experience working with a wide variety of life problems and mental health disorders, but my primary interests include depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), academic issues, panic/phobias, anger management, addiction, couples, marriage, and family relationship issues.
I have experience working with a wide variety of life problems and mental health disorders, but my primary interests include depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), academic issues, panic/phobias, anger management, addiction, couples, marriage, and family relationship issues.
(281) 666-9607 View (281) 666-9607
Photo of Caroline DiNoto, Marriage & Family Therapist in Nederland, TX
Caroline DiNoto
Marriage & Family Therapist, MEd, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
Spring, TX 77380  (Online Only)
As past Chief of Allied Staff of a inpatient psychiatric hospital plus 20+ years of private practice, I provide a strong base of clinical skill and experience for all my clients. Through building improved perception, insight,and judgment supported by the accepting psychotherapeutic relationship, my goal is to enable clients to effect positive change in their lives through awareness and resolution of issues. My practice focuses on the family as well as individual behavioral/emotional problems of children, through Play Therapy, and adolescents and adults. I believe every individual has internal resources to resolve conflict with support and guidance.
As past Chief of Allied Staff of a inpatient psychiatric hospital plus 20+ years of private practice, I provide a strong base of clinical skill and experience for all my clients. Through building improved perception, insight,and judgment supported by the accepting psychotherapeutic relationship, my goal is to enable clients to effect positive change in their lives through awareness and resolution of issues. My practice focuses on the family as well as individual behavioral/emotional problems of children, through Play Therapy, and adolescents and adults. I believe every individual has internal resources to resolve conflict with support and guidance.
(281) 305-3094 View (281) 305-3094
Photo of Jackie Sarager, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Nederland, TX
Jackie Sarager
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPC-A, NCC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77058
Are you dealing with family of origin issues, childhood trauma, or family conflict? Are your current relationships struggling? Has anxiety or depression taken over a part of your life? Your experiences are real and your concerns are valid. Breaking the cycle is possible. As you navigate your journey, a facilitator is someone who makes travel easier, and that is how I see my role. My greatest strength is in connecting with my clients and creating a safe relationship to facilitate deep healing. I specialize in an approach to healing that builds overall wellness so you can feel your best.
Are you dealing with family of origin issues, childhood trauma, or family conflict? Are your current relationships struggling? Has anxiety or depression taken over a part of your life? Your experiences are real and your concerns are valid. Breaking the cycle is possible. As you navigate your journey, a facilitator is someone who makes travel easier, and that is how I see my role. My greatest strength is in connecting with my clients and creating a safe relationship to facilitate deep healing. I specialize in an approach to healing that builds overall wellness so you can feel your best.
(281) 324-8780 View (281) 324-8780
Photo of MYS Counseling & Assessment, Licensed Professional Counselor in Nederland, TX
MYS Counseling & Assessment
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, EdD, CART
Verified Verified
Dickinson, TX 77539
Our team is focused on helping our clients and their families find peace and success in their home, work and relationships through our unique method. It is brief and solution-focused, enabling clients to reconnect with their authentic selves and be the person they know they can be. Our therapists, psychologists and psychiatrists are of one mind, that you are unique and valuable, and have the potential to succeed in life and relationships. Our brief therapy period focuses on helping you know how your brain is tripping you up and how it can heal you as well, know yourself better than ever, and reclaim lost self-esteem and freedom!
Our team is focused on helping our clients and their families find peace and success in their home, work and relationships through our unique method. It is brief and solution-focused, enabling clients to reconnect with their authentic selves and be the person they know they can be. Our therapists, psychologists and psychiatrists are of one mind, that you are unique and valuable, and have the potential to succeed in life and relationships. Our brief therapy period focuses on helping you know how your brain is tripping you up and how it can heal you as well, know yourself better than ever, and reclaim lost self-esteem and freedom!
(979) 428-2930 View (979) 428-2930
Photo of Cherish Marie Brooks, Psychological Associate in Nederland, TX
Cherish Marie Brooks
Psychological Associate, MA, LPA, IP
Verified Verified
Humble, TX 77346  (Online Only)
Brooks Psychology: Women's Wellness. The foundation of my therapeutic approach is a combination between Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy with an implementation of Creative Arts. My sessions are forward focused in which the treatment plan is focused on areas of growth. With that said every treatment plan created is personalized for the individual based on their needs, wants and symptoms, but is catered to female oriented issues. Therefore, additional therapies are at times added to treatment I offer only VIRTUAL services for therapy. Appointments can be scheduled online- brookspsychology.org.
Brooks Psychology: Women's Wellness. The foundation of my therapeutic approach is a combination between Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy with an implementation of Creative Arts. My sessions are forward focused in which the treatment plan is focused on areas of growth. With that said every treatment plan created is personalized for the individual based on their needs, wants and symptoms, but is catered to female oriented issues. Therefore, additional therapies are at times added to treatment I offer only VIRTUAL services for therapy. Appointments can be scheduled online- brookspsychology.org.
(346) 207-2621 View (346) 207-2621
SE Behavioral Consulting
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, LCDC, NCC, ACS
Verified Verified
Stafford, TX 77477  (Online Only)
SE Behavioral Consulting is dedicated to serving clients with professional and effective behavioral health services. Our company provides quality services that enrich and strengthen the lives of our citizens. We offer an array of services to support those challenged with behavioral health concerns. Our mission is to provide optimal therapeutic services to improve the quality of life for persons suffering with personal issues, traumatic experiences and mental illness through professional care and support. We provide high quality, safe and effective services that incorporates cultural diversity and the dignity of the individual.
SE Behavioral Consulting is dedicated to serving clients with professional and effective behavioral health services. Our company provides quality services that enrich and strengthen the lives of our citizens. We offer an array of services to support those challenged with behavioral health concerns. Our mission is to provide optimal therapeutic services to improve the quality of life for persons suffering with personal issues, traumatic experiences and mental illness through professional care and support. We provide high quality, safe and effective services that incorporates cultural diversity and the dignity of the individual.
(832) 947-7806 View (832) 947-7806
Photo of Alan Wayne Apperson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Nederland, TX
Alan Wayne Apperson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC-S, LCCA
Verified Verified
Beaumont, TX 77706
The ideal client is one that is willing to work in session and practice out of session. I work best with clients that are willing to be honest and raw with me. I respect someone that can voice their truest thoughts/feelings/and behaviors because I will be equally direct with my identification of distortions in their thoughts and actions. The greatest acceptance of ourselves can only be achieved with an honest look inward. This honesty allows us see what strengths we desire to build and what needs we can reduce. With this direct, loving, and accepting approach, the counseling process can be maximized in its efficacy.
The ideal client is one that is willing to work in session and practice out of session. I work best with clients that are willing to be honest and raw with me. I respect someone that can voice their truest thoughts/feelings/and behaviors because I will be equally direct with my identification of distortions in their thoughts and actions. The greatest acceptance of ourselves can only be achieved with an honest look inward. This honesty allows us see what strengths we desire to build and what needs we can reduce. With this direct, loving, and accepting approach, the counseling process can be maximized in its efficacy.
(409) 515-8342 View (409) 515-8342
Photo of Cashuna Huddleston Ph.d., Psychologist in Nederland, TX
Cashuna Huddleston Ph.d.
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77054
Dr. Huddleston specializes in treating adolescents, adults, and families with presenting issues such as anxiety, depression, relationship issues, health concerns, adjustment and life change difficulties, substance abuse issues, and trauma. In every client interaction, Dr. Huddleston's primary goal is to help clients develop the necessary skills in thinking and behaving to improve their health, daily functioning, and sense of confidence. She applies best practice methods in helping clients overcome their struggles, while implementing kindness and respect. Dr. Huddleston uses an empathetic and nonjudgmental approach to truly understand individuals' needs from a perspective that appreciates a diversity of experiences.
Dr. Huddleston specializes in treating adolescents, adults, and families with presenting issues such as anxiety, depression, relationship issues, health concerns, adjustment and life change difficulties, substance abuse issues, and trauma. In every client interaction, Dr. Huddleston's primary goal is to help clients develop the necessary skills in thinking and behaving to improve their health, daily functioning, and sense of confidence. She applies best practice methods in helping clients overcome their struggles, while implementing kindness and respect. Dr. Huddleston uses an empathetic and nonjudgmental approach to truly understand individuals' needs from a perspective that appreciates a diversity of experiences.
(281) 677-3621 View (281) 677-3621
Photo of Zachary Collard, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Nederland, TX
Zachary Collard
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCDC, LMSW, BCN
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77009
I am dedicated to supporting all members of the Houston community on their journey towards recovery. While I am here for everyone, I have a particular focus and prior experience in assisting professionals, entrepreneurs, executives, high-net-worth individuals, and members of the LGBTQ+ community. I understand the unique challenges faced by those dealing with substance abuse, addiction, depression, anxiety, ADHD, Attachment Injury, and Trauma. Many feel trapped or overwhelmed, having attempted to manage their struggles independently. Let's navigate this journey together, working towards lasting recovery and holistic well-being.
I am dedicated to supporting all members of the Houston community on their journey towards recovery. While I am here for everyone, I have a particular focus and prior experience in assisting professionals, entrepreneurs, executives, high-net-worth individuals, and members of the LGBTQ+ community. I understand the unique challenges faced by those dealing with substance abuse, addiction, depression, anxiety, ADHD, Attachment Injury, and Trauma. Many feel trapped or overwhelmed, having attempted to manage their struggles independently. Let's navigate this journey together, working towards lasting recovery and holistic well-being.
(832) 479-1036 View (832) 479-1036
Photo of Hanh Vo, Psychologist in Nederland, TX
Hanh Vo
Psychologist, PhD, LP, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77068
"You are here on earth because there is something that only you can do!" Choosing Now as the time to act and being fully present in your body and in your relationships will take you to infinite possibilities. All of life's answers lie in how deep you are connected to yourself. Do not turn your attention elsewhere to look for the truth, for it is nowhere to be found but within your body.
"You are here on earth because there is something that only you can do!" Choosing Now as the time to act and being fully present in your body and in your relationships will take you to infinite possibilities. All of life's answers lie in how deep you are connected to yourself. Do not turn your attention elsewhere to look for the truth, for it is nowhere to be found but within your body.
(832) 769-8736 View (832) 769-8736
Photo of Jd McDonald Jr., Counselor in Nederland, TX
Jd McDonald Jr.
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77084  (Online Only)
People are constantly moving towards life or moving away from it. My goal is to help individuals gain the skills to recognize these shifts but there is no cookie-cutter approach to therapy. By maintaining respectful curiosity for their unique story clients' values are clarified and their realities expanded. Someone I really admire once said, "you don't know what you think until you've said it." However which way you may be feeling "stuck" in life I invite you to come figure it out with me. Call me today to do a 15 minute free interview today so that we can make sure we are a good fit to schedule an appointment: +1-281-369-8984
People are constantly moving towards life or moving away from it. My goal is to help individuals gain the skills to recognize these shifts but there is no cookie-cutter approach to therapy. By maintaining respectful curiosity for their unique story clients' values are clarified and their realities expanded. Someone I really admire once said, "you don't know what you think until you've said it." However which way you may be feeling "stuck" in life I invite you to come figure it out with me. Call me today to do a 15 minute free interview today so that we can make sure we are a good fit to schedule an appointment: +1-281-369-8984
(281) 369-8984 View (281) 369-8984
Photo of Juan (Tony) Antonio Lopez, Licensed Professional Counselor in Nederland, TX
Juan (Tony) Antonio Lopez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
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 Donna K Sullivan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Nederland, TX
Donna K Sullivan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77079
Life can sometimes be complicated. Workplace stress, relationship challenges, financial difficulty and complicated family issues can become overwhelming, especially when you feel fatiqued, anxious, depressed, confused or alone. You may even begin to lose hope for the possibility of ever getting what you want and living a happy, productive life. A counselor can help you identify the root of the problems and develop steps toward their resolution. There is no reason to struggle through another day alone. Reach out for the support you need and we will work together to move you towards living the life you want to live.
Life can sometimes be complicated. Workplace stress, relationship challenges, financial difficulty and complicated family issues can become overwhelming, especially when you feel fatiqued, anxious, depressed, confused or alone. You may even begin to lose hope for the possibility of ever getting what you want and living a happy, productive life. A counselor can help you identify the root of the problems and develop steps toward their resolution. There is no reason to struggle through another day alone. Reach out for the support you need and we will work together to move you towards living the life you want to live.
(281) 524-4233 View (281) 524-4233
Photo of Dr. Kinnari Birla, Psychologist in Nederland, TX
Dr. Kinnari Birla
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Pearland, TX 77584  (Online Only)
There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you, as stated by Dr. Maya Angelou, resonates deeply with our mission at Elvive Psychological Services. Founded by Dr. Birla, our practice is dedicated to empowering individuals to have a voice. Our therapists act as catalysts in your journey, offering a safe and supportive environment to foster psychological flexibility amidst life's trials. Committed to inclusivity, we serve a diverse population with various emotional and behavioral challenges. Our clinical approaches are rooted in evidence-based and culturally sensitive care, customized to meet needs of each client.
There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you, as stated by Dr. Maya Angelou, resonates deeply with our mission at Elvive Psychological Services. Founded by Dr. Birla, our practice is dedicated to empowering individuals to have a voice. Our therapists act as catalysts in your journey, offering a safe and supportive environment to foster psychological flexibility amidst life's trials. Committed to inclusivity, we serve a diverse population with various emotional and behavioral challenges. Our clinical approaches are rooted in evidence-based and culturally sensitive care, customized to meet needs of each client.
(281) 949-6371 View (281) 949-6371

See more therapy options for Nederland

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.