Marriage Counseling Therapists in Plano, TX

Photo of Anna Pavlisova, Pre-Licensed Professional in Plano, TX
Anna Pavlisova
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
Life and families can get a bit messy. Navigating the path of family life is undoubtedly one of the most challenging yet rewarding journeys. Hi! I am Anna Pavlisova, and I am a graduate student intern completing my practicum at Abilene Christian University to satisfy the requirement to obtain my master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. As I start my journey as a marriage and family therapy graduate student intern under the supervision of Dr. Kristina Dingus Keuhlen, Ph.D., LMFT-S (202859), I strive to foster a safe and non-judgmental space, tailoring my client-focused approach to meet each client unique needs.
Life and families can get a bit messy. Navigating the path of family life is undoubtedly one of the most challenging yet rewarding journeys. Hi! I am Anna Pavlisova, and I am a graduate student intern completing my practicum at Abilene Christian University to satisfy the requirement to obtain my master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. As I start my journey as a marriage and family therapy graduate student intern under the supervision of Dr. Kristina Dingus Keuhlen, Ph.D., LMFT-S (202859), I strive to foster a safe and non-judgmental space, tailoring my client-focused approach to meet each client unique needs.
(972) 779-9685 View (972) 779-9685
Photo of Kim Kopenhaver, Marriage & Family Therapist in Plano, TX
Kim Kopenhaver
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75075  (Online Only)
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 15 years of experience providing impactful, intelligent, and compassionate therapy to clients of varying ages and presenting concerns. I utilize a collaborative and engaging style to create a space for therapy to become an expansion of how clients perceive their struggles in a broader view. I am certified in EMDR therapy which is an effective treatment for trauma, anxiety, depression, and for when people feel stuck in other treatments. I also provide individual, family, and couple's therapy.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 15 years of experience providing impactful, intelligent, and compassionate therapy to clients of varying ages and presenting concerns. I utilize a collaborative and engaging style to create a space for therapy to become an expansion of how clients perceive their struggles in a broader view. I am certified in EMDR therapy which is an effective treatment for trauma, anxiety, depression, and for when people feel stuck in other treatments. I also provide individual, family, and couple's therapy.
(469) 382-5790 View (469) 382-5790
Photo of Pablo Reyna, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plano, TX
Pablo Reyna
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75093  (Online Only)
I have worked with clients including but not limited to adults, couples, and families dealing with anxiety, depression, substance abuse, addiction, marital problems, anger problems, and vast other areas of mental health in clinical and hospital settings.
With over 8 years of experience, I am a dedicated and compassionate Counselling Professional who is committed to helping individuals overcome their challenges and find inner peace. I believe that everyone has the strength and resilience to navigate through life's difficulties, and I am here to provide the guidance and support you need. I will work with you to develop effective coping strategies and empower you to make positive changes. My approach combines evidence-based techniques with a warm and empathetic demeanor, creating a safe and non-judgmental space for you to explore your thoughts and emotions.
I have worked with clients including but not limited to adults, couples, and families dealing with anxiety, depression, substance abuse, addiction, marital problems, anger problems, and vast other areas of mental health in clinical and hospital settings.
With over 8 years of experience, I am a dedicated and compassionate Counselling Professional who is committed to helping individuals overcome their challenges and find inner peace. I believe that everyone has the strength and resilience to navigate through life's difficulties, and I am here to provide the guidance and support you need. I will work with you to develop effective coping strategies and empower you to make positive changes. My approach combines evidence-based techniques with a warm and empathetic demeanor, creating a safe and non-judgmental space for you to explore your thoughts and emotions.
(469) 414-3195 View (469) 414-3195
Photo of Earnell McGhaney, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plano, TX
Earnell McGhaney
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, VSP
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75024  (Online Only)
“You are the expert on you.” This is a statement that I love sharing with my clients because I feel it emphasizes that you are the most important part of this relationship. Therapy is an opportunity to grow and explore oneself and I feel that the relationship between a client and therapist is of the utmost importance. I hold this relationship in high regard and look forward to walking along side you during this journey. I specialize in trauma counseling and marriage counseling. My goal in therapy is not just symptom reduction but liberation from suffering.
“You are the expert on you.” This is a statement that I love sharing with my clients because I feel it emphasizes that you are the most important part of this relationship. Therapy is an opportunity to grow and explore oneself and I feel that the relationship between a client and therapist is of the utmost importance. I hold this relationship in high regard and look forward to walking along side you during this journey. I specialize in trauma counseling and marriage counseling. My goal in therapy is not just symptom reduction but liberation from suffering.
(972) 694-6733 View (972) 694-6733
Photo of Rebekah Johnson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plano, TX
Rebekah Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75024
Do you have difficulty understanding and managing emotions and physiological reactions to life stressors? Do you experience guilt and anxiety about religious issues, or feel lost in the current political, cultural, and/or economic climate? Are you experiencing conflict in your marriage? I have worked with people experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, overwhelming levels of stress, and PTSD. I have also worked with clients recovering from physical, sexual, religious, psychological abuse and trauma. I seek to bring relief to my clients as they process past experiences, current stressors, and develop positive ways of coping.
Do you have difficulty understanding and managing emotions and physiological reactions to life stressors? Do you experience guilt and anxiety about religious issues, or feel lost in the current political, cultural, and/or economic climate? Are you experiencing conflict in your marriage? I have worked with people experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, overwhelming levels of stress, and PTSD. I have also worked with clients recovering from physical, sexual, religious, psychological abuse and trauma. I seek to bring relief to my clients as they process past experiences, current stressors, and develop positive ways of coping.
(972) 430-7925 View (972) 430-7925
Photo of Sunyeo (Sarah) Park, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plano, TX
Sunyeo (Sarah) Park
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75024
Is your marriage suffering? Are your relationships not working? Depressed? Not motivated? Too anxious and worried? PTSD? Want to become healthier and happier? Team with me! Marriages were transformed.
You are a wonder! You are amazingly created . There are talents and strengths hidden in you and waiting to be utilized by you! You might not see them with your own eyes. You might be too weary and burdened to find and use them. Whatever you are going through now, there is hope and light for you! I'd love to work with you to reveal the genuine you who can handle obstacles and challenges. You and your story will be respected, deeply listened , and understood. You will be empowered and strengthened to be able to do what you want to do, and what you need to do to create a meaningful, fruitful, and satisfying life.
Is your marriage suffering? Are your relationships not working? Depressed? Not motivated? Too anxious and worried? PTSD? Want to become healthier and happier? Team with me! Marriages were transformed.
You are a wonder! You are amazingly created . There are talents and strengths hidden in you and waiting to be utilized by you! You might not see them with your own eyes. You might be too weary and burdened to find and use them. Whatever you are going through now, there is hope and light for you! I'd love to work with you to reveal the genuine you who can handle obstacles and challenges. You and your story will be respected, deeply listened , and understood. You will be empowered and strengthened to be able to do what you want to do, and what you need to do to create a meaningful, fruitful, and satisfying life.
(469) 617-2046 View (469) 617-2046
Photo of Ruby Pappachen, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plano, TX
Ruby Pappachen
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMSW, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75024
As humans, we all experience pain. The source of your pain may look similar or different from others, but it is unique to you. Often we are overwhelmed by our circumstances and desire relief. Sometimes our pain manifests as anxiety, depression, marital conflict, grief or identity crisis. Whatever your circumstance or however deep your pain, I believe it is important to have a safe, non-judgmental and neutral place to share your story and seek healing. My desire is to see each of us being functional and purposeful members of society even in the midst of struggles.
As humans, we all experience pain. The source of your pain may look similar or different from others, but it is unique to you. Often we are overwhelmed by our circumstances and desire relief. Sometimes our pain manifests as anxiety, depression, marital conflict, grief or identity crisis. Whatever your circumstance or however deep your pain, I believe it is important to have a safe, non-judgmental and neutral place to share your story and seek healing. My desire is to see each of us being functional and purposeful members of society even in the midst of struggles.
(214) 833-6447 View (214) 833-6447
Photo of Matt McKinney, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plano, TX
Matt McKinney
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75024
As a LPC, my job is to help you navigate: coping skills, premarital/ marriage counseling, communication, conflict resolution, divorce recovery, family conflict, identity, self-worth development, infidelity, life transitions, anger management, anxiety and fear, grief and loss, depression, personal growth, codependency, and pre-teens/teenagers.
My goal is to walk alongside individuals, couples and families to see how to best help in their time of need. I work hard to help provide hope to those who are hurting, and believe the only way to experience true change, is for God, to ultimately change a person's heart.
As a LPC, my job is to help you navigate: coping skills, premarital/ marriage counseling, communication, conflict resolution, divorce recovery, family conflict, identity, self-worth development, infidelity, life transitions, anger management, anxiety and fear, grief and loss, depression, personal growth, codependency, and pre-teens/teenagers.
My goal is to walk alongside individuals, couples and families to see how to best help in their time of need. I work hard to help provide hope to those who are hurting, and believe the only way to experience true change, is for God, to ultimately change a person's heart.
(972) 351-8547 View (972) 351-8547
Photo of Monica Thompson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plano, TX
Monica Thompson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
For couples, my goal is to provide you with the tools to build oneness in marriage or in preparation for marriage.
Q&A calls answered Mon 1-1:50 PM, Tues/Thurs/Fri 9-9:50 AM, and Wed 4-4:50 PM or schedule a free 15-minute consultation online today! What is keeping you from living the life you dream of living? My goal is to provide you with a safe and caring environment to evaluate your life and help you develop the skills to cope with daily living regardless of the events that have shaped your life.
For couples, my goal is to provide you with the tools to build oneness in marriage or in preparation for marriage.
Q&A calls answered Mon 1-1:50 PM, Tues/Thurs/Fri 9-9:50 AM, and Wed 4-4:50 PM or schedule a free 15-minute consultation online today! What is keeping you from living the life you dream of living? My goal is to provide you with a safe and caring environment to evaluate your life and help you develop the skills to cope with daily living regardless of the events that have shaped your life.
(972) 379-9105 View (972) 379-9105
Photo of La Tricia Cleveland, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Plano, TX
La Tricia Cleveland
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
I have a passion for helping people whether it be teens, adults, couples, families, and individuals struggling with grief, stress, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, and marital and familial conflict. My goal is to specialize in trauma in relationships, conflict, infidelity in marriage, and communication issues that plagues couples and families.
I have a passion for helping people whether it be teens, adults, couples, families, and individuals struggling with grief, stress, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, and marital and familial conflict. My goal is to specialize in trauma in relationships, conflict, infidelity in marriage, and communication issues that plagues couples and families.
(469) 535-7881 View (469) 535-7881
Photo of Bob Bahlmann, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plano, TX
Bob Bahlmann
Licensed Professional Counselor, MABS, MACMHC, NBCC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
I believe counseling is a way for everyone to process the events that have happened or are happening in their lives, and work alongside them to develop positive coping skills. Clients can expect for me to meet them where they are in life and approach our counseling relationship with empathy, interest, and intuition. I enjoy working with individuals from adolescents to adults and providing couples' counseling, including pre-marital, marriage counseling, infertility, and adoption. I have experience working with depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, men's issues, and sex addiction.
I believe counseling is a way for everyone to process the events that have happened or are happening in their lives, and work alongside them to develop positive coping skills. Clients can expect for me to meet them where they are in life and approach our counseling relationship with empathy, interest, and intuition. I enjoy working with individuals from adolescents to adults and providing couples' counseling, including pre-marital, marriage counseling, infertility, and adoption. I have experience working with depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, men's issues, and sex addiction.
(312) 566-8633 View (312) 566-8633
Photo of Carolyn G Maurer, Counselor in Plano, TX
Carolyn G Maurer
Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, LMFT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75025
As a counselor in private practice for over 35 years, I enjoy working with all ages, children through elderly persons. I have particular interest in helping people cope with and reduce anxiety, panic, and post-traumatic stress, often utilizing hypnosis or EMDR therapies. As a marriage and family therapist, I have experience working with couples, and also with divorced parents and children. I enjoy facilitating co-parenting of children of divorce, to help parents diminish or overcome differences and focus on their children's need. If you seek highly interactive, involved therapy in a caring atmosphere, please call.
As a counselor in private practice for over 35 years, I enjoy working with all ages, children through elderly persons. I have particular interest in helping people cope with and reduce anxiety, panic, and post-traumatic stress, often utilizing hypnosis or EMDR therapies. As a marriage and family therapist, I have experience working with couples, and also with divorced parents and children. I enjoy facilitating co-parenting of children of divorce, to help parents diminish or overcome differences and focus on their children's need. If you seek highly interactive, involved therapy in a caring atmosphere, please call.
(972) 478-1763 View (972) 478-1763
Photo of Karen S Tyndall, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plano, TX
Karen S Tyndall
Licensed Professional Counselor, BA, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75075
As a professional counselor, I focus my clinical practice on Cognitive, Behavioral, and Solution-focus Therapy working with families, couples and individuals of all ages. Clients discover how to stop self-sabotage and create their personal goals. Professional feedback is given to provide direction, education and guidance for the client. My Professional expertise covers multiple types of issues such as: Anger, Stress, Relationship, Grief & Loss, Marital issues, Family issues, Parenting, Life Skills Training, Sports Performance and Mastering Life Success Coaching.
As a professional counselor, I focus my clinical practice on Cognitive, Behavioral, and Solution-focus Therapy working with families, couples and individuals of all ages. Clients discover how to stop self-sabotage and create their personal goals. Professional feedback is given to provide direction, education and guidance for the client. My Professional expertise covers multiple types of issues such as: Anger, Stress, Relationship, Grief & Loss, Marital issues, Family issues, Parenting, Life Skills Training, Sports Performance and Mastering Life Success Coaching.
(972) 360-8866 View (972) 360-8866
Photo of Christina Felicetti, Marriage & Family Therapist in Plano, TX
Christina Felicetti
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75074
I have experience and utilize a sex positive framework when working with: Kink, open marriage, poly relationships, and transgendered folks who are transitioning.
I believe that we are all hard-wired for connection, relationships, and safe attachment. I am passionate about helping my clients learn to become the best version of themselves. I believe that we often get stuck in life attempting to solve problems the same way over and over. Once we get caught in this pattern, especially in relationships, we begin to argue over how we are fighting instead of working through relationship barriers. I help my clients learn new skills that will allow them to break problematic cycles and find new ways to connect with others.
I have experience and utilize a sex positive framework when working with: Kink, open marriage, poly relationships, and transgendered folks who are transitioning.
I believe that we are all hard-wired for connection, relationships, and safe attachment. I am passionate about helping my clients learn to become the best version of themselves. I believe that we often get stuck in life attempting to solve problems the same way over and over. Once we get caught in this pattern, especially in relationships, we begin to argue over how we are fighting instead of working through relationship barriers. I help my clients learn new skills that will allow them to break problematic cycles and find new ways to connect with others.
(972) 236-4969 View (972) 236-4969
Photo of Mark Nesbit, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plano, TX
Mark Nesbit
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75075
Whether you are dealing with issues as an individual, in your marriage, or within your family there are times in people’s lives when it becomes unmanageable and too much to carry alone.
I strive to combine a warm, engaging, relational style of counseling along with an ability to challenge clients about the issues they face. I am passionate about working with individuals and families as we navigate through the mountains and valleys of life together. As a faith-based counselor, and an ordained minister, I have been privileged to help many people deal with their emotional needs by being sensitivity to core issues, recognizing how crisis and trauma affect their mental state, and by relating to individuals, couples, and families where they are. Together, we will find the right therapeutic interventions to help you.
Whether you are dealing with issues as an individual, in your marriage, or within your family there are times in people’s lives when it becomes unmanageable and too much to carry alone.
I strive to combine a warm, engaging, relational style of counseling along with an ability to challenge clients about the issues they face. I am passionate about working with individuals and families as we navigate through the mountains and valleys of life together. As a faith-based counselor, and an ordained minister, I have been privileged to help many people deal with their emotional needs by being sensitivity to core issues, recognizing how crisis and trauma affect their mental state, and by relating to individuals, couples, and families where they are. Together, we will find the right therapeutic interventions to help you.
(214) 206-4556 View (214) 206-4556
Photo of Donna P. Xu, Marriage & Family Therapist in Plano, TX
Donna P. Xu
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
¡Hola a todos! Me llamo Donna, Mexicana a hueso colorado y soy bilingüe en Ingles y Español. I'm a licensed marriage and family therapist. I hold a masters in science in psychology with the specialty of marriage, individual, and family therapy. I am here to help you to the best of my ability and most of all, I'm open-minded about cultures, beliefs, sexual orientation, and walks of life. My office space is a judgment-free zone. I work with grief, anxiety, depression, intergenerational and religious trauma, losses, life transitions, and relationship issues.
¡Hola a todos! Me llamo Donna, Mexicana a hueso colorado y soy bilingüe en Ingles y Español. I'm a licensed marriage and family therapist. I hold a masters in science in psychology with the specialty of marriage, individual, and family therapy. I am here to help you to the best of my ability and most of all, I'm open-minded about cultures, beliefs, sexual orientation, and walks of life. My office space is a judgment-free zone. I work with grief, anxiety, depression, intergenerational and religious trauma, losses, life transitions, and relationship issues.
(979) 399-5929 View (979) 399-5929
Photo of Bianca Javery, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Plano, TX
Bianca Javery
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
I'm currently a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Associate, supervised by Kristina Dingus Keuhlen (TX 202859).
I work with couples to address communication differences and past hurts that were never fully repaired. Our past experiences often influence how we interact with our partners today. I strive to create a safe space where curiousity, empathy, and genuine connection are at the forefront of therapy as we take the time we need to build a sturdy foundation for change. I see it as my role to acknowledge the complexities of your relationship while providing support as you heal and build a stronger bond for the future.
I'm currently a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Associate, supervised by Kristina Dingus Keuhlen (TX 202859).
I work with couples to address communication differences and past hurts that were never fully repaired. Our past experiences often influence how we interact with our partners today. I strive to create a safe space where curiousity, empathy, and genuine connection are at the forefront of therapy as we take the time we need to build a sturdy foundation for change. I see it as my role to acknowledge the complexities of your relationship while providing support as you heal and build a stronger bond for the future.
(972) 645-2411 View (972) 645-2411
Photo of Michelle Thomas, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plano, TX
Michelle Thomas
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75024
Michelle focus includes anxiety disorders, depression, stress management, anger management, grief, dual diagnosis, career adjustment, relationship challenges, marriage therapy.
Michelle is a Licensed Professional Counselor located in Dallas, Texas. Michelle’s education and experience gives her a wide perspective in working with a variety of clients concerns and issues. Michelle therapeutic style is direct but compassionate. " Our thoughts determine our feelings and our behavior". She has a specific interest in providing an opportunity for clients who want to integrate their faith into the counseling process. Michelle provides counseling services to adolescents, adults, families, and couples.
Michelle focus includes anxiety disorders, depression, stress management, anger management, grief, dual diagnosis, career adjustment, relationship challenges, marriage therapy.
Michelle is a Licensed Professional Counselor located in Dallas, Texas. Michelle’s education and experience gives her a wide perspective in working with a variety of clients concerns and issues. Michelle therapeutic style is direct but compassionate. " Our thoughts determine our feelings and our behavior". She has a specific interest in providing an opportunity for clients who want to integrate their faith into the counseling process. Michelle provides counseling services to adolescents, adults, families, and couples.
(682) 243-3251 View (682) 243-3251
Photo of Heather Harvey, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plano, TX
Heather Harvey
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MA, MS, LPC, CAMS-I
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
Using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and added counseling methods while incorporating my faith as appropriate, I provide counseling to individuals and families, specializing in, but not limited to, the following areas: ADHD, anxiety, defiant behavior, depression, life transitions, pre-marital and marriage counseling, anger, teenage struggles, and self-harm.
As a mental health professional, I approach counseling in a way in which the client feels they are being listened to and validated, and I enjoy working with individuals and families. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over twelve years of experience. I have counseled families in areas including foster care and adoption, medical hospitals, inner-city communities, private school, and psychiatric facilities. I presently work at a private practice in Plano and specialize in anxiety, anger, depression, and struggles with mood, also providing pre-marital and marital counseling as well.
Using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and added counseling methods while incorporating my faith as appropriate, I provide counseling to individuals and families, specializing in, but not limited to, the following areas: ADHD, anxiety, defiant behavior, depression, life transitions, pre-marital and marriage counseling, anger, teenage struggles, and self-harm.
As a mental health professional, I approach counseling in a way in which the client feels they are being listened to and validated, and I enjoy working with individuals and families. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over twelve years of experience. I have counseled families in areas including foster care and adoption, medical hospitals, inner-city communities, private school, and psychiatric facilities. I presently work at a private practice in Plano and specialize in anxiety, anger, depression, and struggles with mood, also providing pre-marital and marital counseling as well.
(972) 885-3565 View (972) 885-3565
Photo of Janis Rene Hampton, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plano, TX
Janis Rene Hampton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75024
Rene is a LPC in the state of Texas holding a Master's degree in counseling from Saint Edward’s University. With over a decade of experience and knowledge, she treats people who are experiencing anxiety, codependency, career change, depression, disordered eating, divorce, enabling behavior, family of origin issues, grief/loss, life transitions, pre-marital /marriage concerns, relationship stressors, self-esteem, substance use/abuse and women’s issues. She works with teens, adults, and couples.
Rene is a LPC in the state of Texas holding a Master's degree in counseling from Saint Edward’s University. With over a decade of experience and knowledge, she treats people who are experiencing anxiety, codependency, career change, depression, disordered eating, divorce, enabling behavior, family of origin issues, grief/loss, life transitions, pre-marital /marriage concerns, relationship stressors, self-esteem, substance use/abuse and women’s issues. She works with teens, adults, and couples.
(972) 845-4723 View (972) 845-4723
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.