Photo of Janie Odem, Licensed Professional Counselor in Victoria County, TX
Janie Odem
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
Victoria, TX 77904
My life experiences have enabled me to become the compassionate, empathetic and non- judgmental therapist that I strive to be. I am a true believer in the Holistic approach to counseling. I believe wellness comes from treating the whole person: physical, mental , spiritual and emotional health. A healthy diet, exercise, rest, and medical check-ups are vital to staying mentally and physically healthy. I’m an LPC and RPT. I work with all populations: individual, couples, families n children. I provide a safe space to work collaboratively with my clients and together we can work on your goals. I’m bilingual fluent in Spanish.
My life experiences have enabled me to become the compassionate, empathetic and non- judgmental therapist that I strive to be. I am a true believer in the Holistic approach to counseling. I believe wellness comes from treating the whole person: physical, mental , spiritual and emotional health. A healthy diet, exercise, rest, and medical check-ups are vital to staying mentally and physically healthy. I’m an LPC and RPT. I work with all populations: individual, couples, families n children. I provide a safe space to work collaboratively with my clients and together we can work on your goals. I’m bilingual fluent in Spanish.
(361) 203-2859 View (361) 203-2859
Photo of Auravia Holistic Therapy, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Victoria County, TX
Auravia Holistic Therapy, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Victoria, TX 77901
Challenges are a common occurrence in our day-to-day lives, more times than not, they seem overwhelming and discouraging but, navigating through them is possible and attainable. At Auravia Holistic Therapy, we believe when each person is viewed, treated, and nurtured as an entire entity they are able to heal, thrive, and live a more fulfilling life. We aim to provide a guiding light on your path to healing, change and wellness. Our hope is that positive energy, thoughts and actions combined with our holistic and therapeutic techniques will promote mental wellness and wholeness.
Challenges are a common occurrence in our day-to-day lives, more times than not, they seem overwhelming and discouraging but, navigating through them is possible and attainable. At Auravia Holistic Therapy, we believe when each person is viewed, treated, and nurtured as an entire entity they are able to heal, thrive, and live a more fulfilling life. We aim to provide a guiding light on your path to healing, change and wellness. Our hope is that positive energy, thoughts and actions combined with our holistic and therapeutic techniques will promote mental wellness and wholeness.
(210) 361-2784 View (210) 361-2784
Photo of Jeff Goodman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Victoria County, TX
Jeff Goodman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Victoria, TX 77904  (Online Only)
Welcome, fellow earth wanderers to my therapy page. If you've made it this far, you are at the point of knowing something isn't quite right in your world. That means you're above and beyond the others walking through life thinking, "it's fine. I'm fine. We're fine". I'm an empathetic, open minded veteran who also will likely have a cat join in for session. I have many...let's call them therapy animals. I offer a safe, inclusive, affirming safe space. Although I'm a white male, I have years of experience working within LGBTQIA+ and POC populations and am committed to exploring unconscious bias and working in an anti racist way.
Welcome, fellow earth wanderers to my therapy page. If you've made it this far, you are at the point of knowing something isn't quite right in your world. That means you're above and beyond the others walking through life thinking, "it's fine. I'm fine. We're fine". I'm an empathetic, open minded veteran who also will likely have a cat join in for session. I have many...let's call them therapy animals. I offer a safe, inclusive, affirming safe space. Although I'm a white male, I have years of experience working within LGBTQIA+ and POC populations and am committed to exploring unconscious bias and working in an anti racist way.
(806) 450-1490 View (806) 450-1490

Online Therapists

Photo of Jessica Behne, Marriage & Family Therapist in Victoria County, TX
Jessica Behne
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, Veteran
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Floresville, TX 78114
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a Military Veteran. I served thirteen years in the military and found a passion for helping others. Once I received my degree, I knew I was called to work with those needing healing from trauma, life stressors, or relationship difficulties—ultimately allowing them to find their strength and power again through such healing. I approach counseling holistically, believing each person's mental, emotional, physical, spiritual, and relational health is intimately intertwined. Our clients are Military Veterans, Couples, or stressed out.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a Military Veteran. I served thirteen years in the military and found a passion for helping others. Once I received my degree, I knew I was called to work with those needing healing from trauma, life stressors, or relationship difficulties—ultimately allowing them to find their strength and power again through such healing. I approach counseling holistically, believing each person's mental, emotional, physical, spiritual, and relational health is intimately intertwined. Our clients are Military Veterans, Couples, or stressed out.
(830) 293-4395 View (830) 293-4395
Photo of Alexis Hyde-Washmon (Able Thoughts Pllc), Marriage & Family Therapist in Victoria County, TX
Alexis Hyde-Washmon (Able Thoughts Pllc)
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LPC, BCBA, LMFT, LBA
Verified Verified
Katy, TX 77450
Behavior Analyst/Marriage and Family Therapist: Provide individualized programs to clients with cognitive/developmental/behavioral challenges based on behavioral learning theory (e.
I provide services for the following: Child/Adolescent - development, application, and evaluation of behavioral/cognitive-behavioral interventions for child/teen populations (e.g., under-served, children of divorce, juvenile victims of violent crimes, children with conduct and personality disorders, children with developmental disorders, and adolescents with chemical dependency and life challenges). Adults/Elderly - individual, couples and family psychotherapy (e.g., marital, parenting, aging, divorce issues, chemical dependency, mood disorders, depression and anxiety, personality disorders, post-traumatic stress, and LGBTQ).
Behavior Analyst/Marriage and Family Therapist: Provide individualized programs to clients with cognitive/developmental/behavioral challenges based on behavioral learning theory (e.
I provide services for the following: Child/Adolescent - development, application, and evaluation of behavioral/cognitive-behavioral interventions for child/teen populations (e.g., under-served, children of divorce, juvenile victims of violent crimes, children with conduct and personality disorders, children with developmental disorders, and adolescents with chemical dependency and life challenges). Adults/Elderly - individual, couples and family psychotherapy (e.g., marital, parenting, aging, divorce issues, chemical dependency, mood disorders, depression and anxiety, personality disorders, post-traumatic stress, and LGBTQ).
(713) 804-2638 View (713) 804-2638
Photo of John Michael Murray, Marriage & Family Therapist in Victoria County, TX
John Michael Murray
Marriage & Family Therapist, JD, MS, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
Lake Jackson, TX 77566
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 Nichole Sieracki, Psychologist in Victoria County, TX
Nichole Sieracki
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Floresville, TX 78114
I offer the following psychological services: individual therapy, family therapy, couples therapy, marital therapy, behavior therapy, and comprehensive psychological evaluations.
Searching for a mental health provider with compassion and experience? I have 15 years of experience treating mental illness in individuals within the inpatient and outpatient settings. Psychiatric symptoms I have treated include depressions, anxieties, mania, psychoses, traumas, grief, chronic physical illnesses and pain, those related to head injuries, behavior disturbances, and problems in relationships. My treatment approaches include supportive therapy, solution-focused therapy, existential therapy, cognitive behavior therapy, trauma-focused therapy, grief therapy, brief strategic family therapy, and psychoeducation.
I offer the following psychological services: individual therapy, family therapy, couples therapy, marital therapy, behavior therapy, and comprehensive psychological evaluations.
Searching for a mental health provider with compassion and experience? I have 15 years of experience treating mental illness in individuals within the inpatient and outpatient settings. Psychiatric symptoms I have treated include depressions, anxieties, mania, psychoses, traumas, grief, chronic physical illnesses and pain, those related to head injuries, behavior disturbances, and problems in relationships. My treatment approaches include supportive therapy, solution-focused therapy, existential therapy, cognitive behavior therapy, trauma-focused therapy, grief therapy, brief strategic family therapy, and psychoeducation.
(830) 498-0931 View (830) 498-0931
Photo of MindGarden Therapeutic Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Victoria County, TX
MindGarden Therapeutic Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW, LCDC
Verified Verified
New Braunfels, TX 78130  (Online Only)
Hi there! My name is Dr. Ana Alicia Potthast, DSW, LCSW, LCDC. I have a passion for mental health care and substance abuse treatment, and I have extensive experience and training in behavioral health, diagnostics, addiction, co-occurring disorders, depression, anxiety, personality disorders, trauma, domestic violence, sexual abuse and assault, maternity and fertility issues, grief and loss, hoarding, family dynamics and conflict, marital issues, sexual orientation and gender identification and expression, adjustment issues, stages in life, and many other situations that bring a client to seek counseling.
Hi there! My name is Dr. Ana Alicia Potthast, DSW, LCSW, LCDC. I have a passion for mental health care and substance abuse treatment, and I have extensive experience and training in behavioral health, diagnostics, addiction, co-occurring disorders, depression, anxiety, personality disorders, trauma, domestic violence, sexual abuse and assault, maternity and fertility issues, grief and loss, hoarding, family dynamics and conflict, marital issues, sexual orientation and gender identification and expression, adjustment issues, stages in life, and many other situations that bring a client to seek counseling.
(830) 582-9887 View (830) 582-9887
Photo of Christina J Whittemore, Marriage & Family Therapist in Victoria County, TX
Christina J Whittemore
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Converse, TX 78109  (Online Only)
I believe communication is the key to a successful relationship and can make or break a marriage.
Are you a military caregiver or spouse needing some support? I am a spouse to a Marine Wounded Warrior and have been a caregiver full-time to help with Combat PTSD and Traumatic Brain Injury. My goal is to help you to overcome the stress and lifestyle associated with the military while empowering you to become successful in your relationships. I work from a systemic approach with a nonjudgmental viewpoint. My experience allows me to understand the dynamics of a military relationship and gives the ability to relate. If you want couples, family, or individual therapy, I am here to listen and help!
I believe communication is the key to a successful relationship and can make or break a marriage.
Are you a military caregiver or spouse needing some support? I am a spouse to a Marine Wounded Warrior and have been a caregiver full-time to help with Combat PTSD and Traumatic Brain Injury. My goal is to help you to overcome the stress and lifestyle associated with the military while empowering you to become successful in your relationships. I work from a systemic approach with a nonjudgmental viewpoint. My experience allows me to understand the dynamics of a military relationship and gives the ability to relate. If you want couples, family, or individual therapy, I am here to listen and help!
(830) 268-0217 View (830) 268-0217
Photo of Dr. Brittany Davis, Licensed Professional Counselor in Victoria County, TX
Dr. Brittany Davis
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MFT, CPC, LPC
Verified Verified
Schulenburg, TX 78956
Waitlist for new clients
Families dealing with transitional problems, marital and premarital counseling, mood disorders, foster children and adoption as well as junior sex offenders and victims.
There are no ideal clients that I am able to describe because all clients are all different. I don't treat one client the same as I treat the next, but all clients need a different treatment but will always receive the same genuine approach. Your goals and treatment goals can only work with the transcribing of the clients needs and the needs of the clients; which are my main focus.
Families dealing with transitional problems, marital and premarital counseling, mood disorders, foster children and adoption as well as junior sex offenders and victims.
There are no ideal clients that I am able to describe because all clients are all different. I don't treat one client the same as I treat the next, but all clients need a different treatment but will always receive the same genuine approach. Your goals and treatment goals can only work with the transcribing of the clients needs and the needs of the clients; which are my main focus.
(702) 956-9636 View (702) 956-9636
Photo of Living Tree New Braunfels Counseling Center PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Victoria County, TX
Living Tree New Braunfels Counseling Center PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPCS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Braunfels, TX 78130
My professional experience includes working with our military services members and their dependents working through deployments, suicide, multiple relocation's, marital issues, PTSD and other issues that military families face. In addition, I have worked with families, teens and children on multiple issues such as depression, anxiety, family issues, divorce, substance abuse, anger management, grief and loss, parenting skills, domestic violence and adolescent issues. now offering mental health evals, fit for duty evaluations , custody evaluation , dwi evaluations and other and testing. Now offering supervision to LPC-A's
My professional experience includes working with our military services members and their dependents working through deployments, suicide, multiple relocation's, marital issues, PTSD and other issues that military families face. In addition, I have worked with families, teens and children on multiple issues such as depression, anxiety, family issues, divorce, substance abuse, anger management, grief and loss, parenting skills, domestic violence and adolescent issues. now offering mental health evals, fit for duty evaluations , custody evaluation , dwi evaluations and other and testing. Now offering supervision to LPC-A's
(210) 987-8367 View (210) 987-8367
Photo of Dr. Roger D. Vazquez, Licensed Professional Counselor in Victoria County, TX
Dr. Roger D. Vazquez
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
Katy, TX 77450
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) 398-0022 View (281) 398-0022
Photo of The Agape Center-Faith Based | Trauma | Addiction in Victoria County, TX
The Agape Center-Faith Based | Trauma | Addiction
Verified Verified
Seguin, TX 78155
Are you or a loved one struggling with substance abuse, Trauma, PTSD, ADHD Alcohol, Drug Addiction, pornography, anger issues, Depression or marriage concerns? You're not alone, give The Agape Center a call and talk to one of our trained and certified counselors.
Our Pastoral Counselors are certified, trained in providing trauma informed Christian counseling, for Adults, Youth, Couples and Families that are struggling with, Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, PTSD, Addictions such as alcohol/drug abuse, sex addiction, pornography, behavioral issues, special needs, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, social/relational concerns. All counseling sessions, including Intensive Counseling, Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP), and aftercare are all 1 on 1. In office and Telehealth options. Also available for Court ordered DWI, and DUI programs. Biofeedback therapy is available
Are you or a loved one struggling with substance abuse, Trauma, PTSD, ADHD Alcohol, Drug Addiction, pornography, anger issues, Depression or marriage concerns? You're not alone, give The Agape Center a call and talk to one of our trained and certified counselors.
Our Pastoral Counselors are certified, trained in providing trauma informed Christian counseling, for Adults, Youth, Couples and Families that are struggling with, Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, PTSD, Addictions such as alcohol/drug abuse, sex addiction, pornography, behavioral issues, special needs, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, social/relational concerns. All counseling sessions, including Intensive Counseling, Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP), and aftercare are all 1 on 1. In office and Telehealth options. Also available for Court ordered DWI, and DUI programs. Biofeedback therapy is available
(830) 254-5067 View (830) 254-5067
Photo of Carol Y Williams, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Victoria County, TX
Carol Y Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seguin, TX 78155
My experience includes working with people experiencing depression, grief, marital challenges and parenting concerns.
As a society, we have grown distant from each other, alone in many phases of life. We experience life situations alone and repeat problematic patterns not knowing how to change or cope. As a psychotherapist I am spiritually based and believe the family is the foundation which supports the healthy development of it's member's. As a clinician I seek to develop therapeutic relationships which prepare the person for change which positively impact their life. For over 20 years I have worked with families, couples, individuals and children in a wide variety of psychological, emotional, behavioral and cognitive challenges.
My experience includes working with people experiencing depression, grief, marital challenges and parenting concerns.
As a society, we have grown distant from each other, alone in many phases of life. We experience life situations alone and repeat problematic patterns not knowing how to change or cope. As a psychotherapist I am spiritually based and believe the family is the foundation which supports the healthy development of it's member's. As a clinician I seek to develop therapeutic relationships which prepare the person for change which positively impact their life. For over 20 years I have worked with families, couples, individuals and children in a wide variety of psychological, emotional, behavioral and cognitive challenges.
(830) 469-3326 View (830) 469-3326
Photo of Tyrone Obaseki, Licensed Professional Counselor in Victoria County, TX
Tyrone Obaseki
Licensed Professional Counselor, MDiv, MA, LPC-S, LCDC, LSOTP
Verified Verified
Sugar Land, TX 77479
Welcome to Transformative Counseling & Wellness Solutions! We believe in renewing the mind and dealing with the total person! Healing starts with being transparent, and opening up about your life’s journey to your therapist, who responds with compassion, empathy, and wisdom. Our therapeutic relationship can be the building block and the catalyst towards your new life! We provide affordable counseling, traditional & wellness services. If you want to journey beyond life's obstacles, don't hesitate to call. Together we will navigate your path towards freedom, success, and happiness.
Welcome to Transformative Counseling & Wellness Solutions! We believe in renewing the mind and dealing with the total person! Healing starts with being transparent, and opening up about your life’s journey to your therapist, who responds with compassion, empathy, and wisdom. Our therapeutic relationship can be the building block and the catalyst towards your new life! We provide affordable counseling, traditional & wellness services. If you want to journey beyond life's obstacles, don't hesitate to call. Together we will navigate your path towards freedom, success, and happiness.
(832) 562-3196 View (832) 562-3196
Photo of Grace Friesenhahn-Soliz, Licensed Professional Counselor in Victoria County, TX
Grace Friesenhahn-Soliz
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, EdD, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Floresville, TX 78114
When our lives are disrupted by unforeseen events, it's important to have support to process through emotions, move forward, and heal. I am a bilingual, Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor and a retired Texas public school counselor and educator. My background includes working with adults, adolescents, and children in private practice, school, and facility settings. My treatment approach is client focused as I believe the therapist's function should be dependent upon the client and their specific needs.
When our lives are disrupted by unforeseen events, it's important to have support to process through emotions, move forward, and heal. I am a bilingual, Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor and a retired Texas public school counselor and educator. My background includes working with adults, adolescents, and children in private practice, school, and facility settings. My treatment approach is client focused as I believe the therapist's function should be dependent upon the client and their specific needs.
(210) 978-0790 View (210) 978-0790
Photo of Empathy First Clinical Counseling and Consulting,, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Victoria County, TX
Empathy First Clinical Counseling and Consulting,
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Richmond, TX 77406
We are committed to helping people from all walks of life. No matter your personal, spiritual, or social beliefs, or whether your values are traditional or non-conforming; regardless of gender, race, sexuality or economic background, We strive for all to receive the best treatment. We are a compassionate, innovative and creative practice who will support you during your most vulnerable times. We use a dynamic person-centered approach and work at your desired pace. Max is not personally taking new clients, however he clinically supervises clinicians in his practice who currently have availability.
We are committed to helping people from all walks of life. No matter your personal, spiritual, or social beliefs, or whether your values are traditional or non-conforming; regardless of gender, race, sexuality or economic background, We strive for all to receive the best treatment. We are a compassionate, innovative and creative practice who will support you during your most vulnerable times. We use a dynamic person-centered approach and work at your desired pace. Max is not personally taking new clients, however he clinically supervises clinicians in his practice who currently have availability.
(832) 657-1619 View (832) 657-1619
Photo of Jennifer Free, Counselor in Victoria County, TX
Jennifer Free
Counselor, LPC, CCTP, CAATS, CAIMHP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New Braunfels, TX 78130
Your PEACE doesn't have to be limited. The devastation of betrayal, abandonment, divorce, disease, or death can change you instantly. Perhaps resentment, depression and anxiety are interfering with the quality of your life. Is addiction keeping you in bondage? Is Post-Acute Withdrawal limiting your day to day functioning?Trauma keeping you from experiencing life? If anything is preventing you from getting to a healthy place, maybe it's time to examine what your next steps will be. Don't allow fear, work, and life's hustle to keep you from having peace. FIND PEACE REGARDLESS OF YOUR CIRCUMSTANCES. Life can get better!
Your PEACE doesn't have to be limited. The devastation of betrayal, abandonment, divorce, disease, or death can change you instantly. Perhaps resentment, depression and anxiety are interfering with the quality of your life. Is addiction keeping you in bondage? Is Post-Acute Withdrawal limiting your day to day functioning?Trauma keeping you from experiencing life? If anything is preventing you from getting to a healthy place, maybe it's time to examine what your next steps will be. Don't allow fear, work, and life's hustle to keep you from having peace. FIND PEACE REGARDLESS OF YOUR CIRCUMSTANCES. Life can get better!
(830) 302-3619 View (830) 302-3619
Photo of Clearhope Counseling & Wellness Center Sugarland, Licensed Professional Counselor in Victoria County, TX
Clearhope Counseling & Wellness Center Sugarland
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDC, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sugar Land, TX 77478
Clearhope Sugarland supports children, teens, adults, couples, and families struggling with depression, anxiety, mental illness, relational distress, school performance, or general life functioning. We believe no one should hurt alone and will offer unconditional positive regard and support as you chart your path to hope and healing.
Clearhope Sugarland supports children, teens, adults, couples, and families struggling with depression, anxiety, mental illness, relational distress, school performance, or general life functioning. We believe no one should hurt alone and will offer unconditional positive regard and support as you chart your path to hope and healing.
(346) 567-6687 View (346) 567-6687
Photo of Laura Meggen Gray, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Victoria County, TX
Laura Meggen Gray
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Braunfels, TX 78132
Waitlist for new clients
I work with adults ages 19+. I have experience working with individuals, couples, and groups. I am a trauma based, and focused clinician. As a trauma informed clinician I work well with many groups of individuals that have experienced forms of trauma at different or constant points in their lives. I specialize in working with active military, veterans, first responders, and those with cooccurring disorders. I have experience with diverse populations and am multiculturally informed. I am curious of your lived experience. Although it may be the source of the pain you carry unseen, I believe in it we can also find your place to heal.
I work with adults ages 19+. I have experience working with individuals, couples, and groups. I am a trauma based, and focused clinician. As a trauma informed clinician I work well with many groups of individuals that have experienced forms of trauma at different or constant points in their lives. I specialize in working with active military, veterans, first responders, and those with cooccurring disorders. I have experience with diverse populations and am multiculturally informed. I am curious of your lived experience. Although it may be the source of the pain you carry unseen, I believe in it we can also find your place to heal.
(830) 224-2260 View (830) 224-2260

See more therapy options for Victoria County

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.