Marriage Counseling Therapists in Ashburn, VA

Photo of Kathy Kozma, Psychologist in Ashburn, VA
Kathy Kozma
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ashburn, VA 20147
Are you tired of having the same old arguments? Do you feel like you and your partner are moving in different directions or that there's something missing from your marriage? We all know relationships can be tough at times. Life gets busy and we feel like our partners don't appreciate us, or hear what we are trying to say.We miss what we once had. It doesn't have to be this way! I help couples reconnect and find their way back to each other. Call me...because your relationship matters.
Are you tired of having the same old arguments? Do you feel like you and your partner are moving in different directions or that there's something missing from your marriage? We all know relationships can be tough at times. Life gets busy and we feel like our partners don't appreciate us, or hear what we are trying to say.We miss what we once had. It doesn't have to be this way! I help couples reconnect and find their way back to each other. Call me...because your relationship matters.
(703) 726-7544 View (703) 726-7544
Photo of Dr. Jeff J. Rocker, Licensed Professional Counselor in Ashburn, VA
Dr. Jeff J. Rocker
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, NCC, LPC, LMHC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Ashburn, VA 20147
in Marriage and Family therapy from Nova Southeastern University.
With 12 years of experience working with clients going through individual, relationship, and family issues, Celebrity Therapist Dr. Jeff Rocker has provided therapeutic services to clients nationwide. He is Licensed in 22 states and has served clients from all age groups. Over the years, Dr. Jeff has organized lectures and various events in the community, including excursions and retreats for couples to improve their communication and better understand each other. He has experience working with athletes in the NFL, NBA, and MLB. In addition, Dr. Jeff has also worked with clients in the Movie, Music, and Entertainment Industries.
in Marriage and Family therapy from Nova Southeastern University.
With 12 years of experience working with clients going through individual, relationship, and family issues, Celebrity Therapist Dr. Jeff Rocker has provided therapeutic services to clients nationwide. He is Licensed in 22 states and has served clients from all age groups. Over the years, Dr. Jeff has organized lectures and various events in the community, including excursions and retreats for couples to improve their communication and better understand each other. He has experience working with athletes in the NFL, NBA, and MLB. In addition, Dr. Jeff has also worked with clients in the Movie, Music, and Entertainment Industries.
(571) 556-4051 View (571) 556-4051
Photo of Becky Spencer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ashburn, VA
Becky Spencer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ashburn, VA 20147  (Online Only)
If you are struggling with marital and/or family issues, alcoholism, depression, anxiety, stress, and/or end of life issues, please know there is hope and healing for you. You may have a teen that is challenged emotionally or socially, and would rather see a clinician through telehealth, I'm available in the afternoons and evenings too. I am using Telehealth, which gives you more flexibility with your schedule. It is a safe, comfortable way to get help. I have over 25 years of varying experience in the Social Work profession. I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Virginia since 1996.
If you are struggling with marital and/or family issues, alcoholism, depression, anxiety, stress, and/or end of life issues, please know there is hope and healing for you. You may have a teen that is challenged emotionally or socially, and would rather see a clinician through telehealth, I'm available in the afternoons and evenings too. I am using Telehealth, which gives you more flexibility with your schedule. It is a safe, comfortable way to get help. I have over 25 years of varying experience in the Social Work profession. I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Virginia since 1996.
(540) 329-2394 View (540) 329-2394
Photo of Julie Fender, Licensed Professional Counselor in Ashburn, VA
Julie Fender
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CEAP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ashburn, VA 20147
Waitlist for new clients
I especially enjoy marital counseling and have recently done intensive training in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy.
Are you feeling stuck in a pattern of behavior or relationship that's not working for you? Let's work together to find a creative solution! I will help you see your problem from a different perspective, identify why you are stuck, and equip you with strategies to conquer your current situation. People are multi-dimentional so I will integrate where you are mentally, emotionally, physically, relationally, and spiritually into our counseling process. I truly find satisfaction in partnering with people to improve their lives and have enjoyed success in doing so by providing an inviting and authentic therapeutic relationship.
I especially enjoy marital counseling and have recently done intensive training in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy.
Are you feeling stuck in a pattern of behavior or relationship that's not working for you? Let's work together to find a creative solution! I will help you see your problem from a different perspective, identify why you are stuck, and equip you with strategies to conquer your current situation. People are multi-dimentional so I will integrate where you are mentally, emotionally, physically, relationally, and spiritually into our counseling process. I truly find satisfaction in partnering with people to improve their lives and have enjoyed success in doing so by providing an inviting and authentic therapeutic relationship.
(703) 636-2888 x12 View (703) 636-2888 x12
Photo of Melissa Marks, Licensed Professional Counselor in Ashburn, VA
Melissa Marks
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Ashburn, VA 20147
I have an array of hands-on experience from initially beginning in healthcare and later transitioning into mental health. I received a master's degree in Marriage and Family in 2013 and a master's degree in Professional Counseling in 2015. I have worked with children, adolescents, and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, anger, mood instability, and substance abuse. I believe that we all experience moments where we need additional support and someone to walk alongside us on our journey.
I have an array of hands-on experience from initially beginning in healthcare and later transitioning into mental health. I received a master's degree in Marriage and Family in 2013 and a master's degree in Professional Counseling in 2015. I have worked with children, adolescents, and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, anger, mood instability, and substance abuse. I believe that we all experience moments where we need additional support and someone to walk alongside us on our journey.
(540) 584-8480 View (540) 584-8480
Photo of Lisa Tomala (Ellie Mental Health-Ashburn), Resident in Counseling in Ashburn, VA
Lisa Tomala (Ellie Mental Health-Ashburn)
Resident in Counseling, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ashburn, VA 20147  (Online Only)
I work with adults suffering with depression, grief, anxiety, trauma, difficulties with communication/assertiveness and marital struggles.
I use Cognitive Behavioral, Solution Focused, Motivational Interviewing, Psychodynamic, and other treatment modalities to help to manage symptoms of depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, chronic illness, and life transitions.
I work with adults suffering with depression, grief, anxiety, trauma, difficulties with communication/assertiveness and marital struggles.
I use Cognitive Behavioral, Solution Focused, Motivational Interviewing, Psychodynamic, and other treatment modalities to help to manage symptoms of depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, chronic illness, and life transitions.
(757) 571-8469 x4 View (757) 571-8469 x4
Photo of Dr. Craig Moorman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Ashburn, VA
Dr. Craig Moorman
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Ashburn, VA 20147
Approaches and models: CBT, solution-focused, mindfulness, Gottman, EFT, Conjoint Couple Therapy, with an interest in alleviating anxiety, depression, marital-relational issues, and addictions.
Washingtonian Magazine Top Therapist, 25 yrs + experience. I'm passionate about helping people overcome conflict, anxiety, depression, loss, addictions, anger, trauma, ADHD, OCD, phobias and hurts. My goal and motivation in therapy is helping individuals and couples find solutions that get them through the tough times of life. Personalities and brains are flexible and adaptive. Everyone can change and move from helplessness to optimism. I'm ready to use my expertise, experience, and compassion to get you through this difficult season in your life. There is hope!
Approaches and models: CBT, solution-focused, mindfulness, Gottman, EFT, Conjoint Couple Therapy, with an interest in alleviating anxiety, depression, marital-relational issues, and addictions.
Washingtonian Magazine Top Therapist, 25 yrs + experience. I'm passionate about helping people overcome conflict, anxiety, depression, loss, addictions, anger, trauma, ADHD, OCD, phobias and hurts. My goal and motivation in therapy is helping individuals and couples find solutions that get them through the tough times of life. Personalities and brains are flexible and adaptive. Everyone can change and move from helplessness to optimism. I'm ready to use my expertise, experience, and compassion to get you through this difficult season in your life. There is hope!
(703) 636-2888 x1 View (703) 636-2888 x1
Photo of Sheila Donaldson Duston, Psychologist in Ashburn, VA
Sheila Donaldson Duston
Psychologist, PsyD, LCP
Verified Verified
Ashburn, VA 20147
I work with adolescents, adults and couples utilizing an integrated therapeutic approach with an emphasis on psychodynamic, attachment and cognitive perspectives. I have experience with a broad range of issues, including depression, anxiety, bi-polar disorder, trauma, personality disorders, grief and loss, family of origin conflicts, life transitions, work stress and marital problems.
I work with adolescents, adults and couples utilizing an integrated therapeutic approach with an emphasis on psychodynamic, attachment and cognitive perspectives. I have experience with a broad range of issues, including depression, anxiety, bi-polar disorder, trauma, personality disorders, grief and loss, family of origin conflicts, life transitions, work stress and marital problems.
(703) 854-9919 View (703) 854-9919
Photo of Kristen Keller, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ashburn, VA
Kristen Keller, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Ashburn, VA 20147  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist working virtually throughout Virginia. The last eight years, I have worked in an outpatient setting providing therapeutic services to families, couples and individuals of all ages. Since becoming a parent myself in 2018, I have enjoyed working with clients on women's issues including the pregnancy and postpartum times and adapting to parenthood. I have also taken an interest in adulthood ADHD over the last several years. In addition, I work frequently with those experiencing anxiety, depression, and relationship issues.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist working virtually throughout Virginia. The last eight years, I have worked in an outpatient setting providing therapeutic services to families, couples and individuals of all ages. Since becoming a parent myself in 2018, I have enjoyed working with clients on women's issues including the pregnancy and postpartum times and adapting to parenthood. I have also taken an interest in adulthood ADHD over the last several years. In addition, I work frequently with those experiencing anxiety, depression, and relationship issues.
(540) 385-3701 View (540) 385-3701
Photo of Dr. Marcia C K Perkins, Psychologist in Ashburn, VA
Dr. Marcia C K Perkins
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Ashburn, VA 20147
Are you struggling in your relationships? With meeting your daily obligations? Overwhelmed by life circumstances? Therapy can provide relief in a multitude of ways: developing healthier, more fulfilling relationships; alleviating and coping with the stresses of daily living; and understanding one's behavior and thought patterns in order to make productive choices and reach one's full potential in relationships, at home, and in the workplace. When one becomes overwhelmed by the relationships and responsibilities of their daily life - to include marriage, family, work, and school - therapy can get life back on track. Finding a therapist whom one trusts is an essential part of therapy.
Are you struggling in your relationships? With meeting your daily obligations? Overwhelmed by life circumstances? Therapy can provide relief in a multitude of ways: developing healthier, more fulfilling relationships; alleviating and coping with the stresses of daily living; and understanding one's behavior and thought patterns in order to make productive choices and reach one's full potential in relationships, at home, and in the workplace. When one becomes overwhelmed by the relationships and responsibilities of their daily life - to include marriage, family, work, and school - therapy can get life back on track. Finding a therapist whom one trusts is an essential part of therapy.
(703) 468-8885 View (703) 468-8885
Photo of John W Millikin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ashburn, VA
John W Millikin
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ashburn, VA 20146
I believe that therapy can help you lead a healthier life, and maintain more loving and fulfilling marriage and family relationships.
Confidential phone and Zoom, Webex, and Google Hangouts video sessions available. Personal set-backs and conflictual relationships are common problems that we all can face at some point in our lives. I work with depression and mood swings, grief and loss, anxiety and worries, addictions, anger management, intimacy and sexual difficulties, and divorce adjustment. For couples, I help couples improve communication that enhances closeness, deepens understanding and reduces reactivity.
I believe that therapy can help you lead a healthier life, and maintain more loving and fulfilling marriage and family relationships.
Confidential phone and Zoom, Webex, and Google Hangouts video sessions available. Personal set-backs and conflictual relationships are common problems that we all can face at some point in our lives. I work with depression and mood swings, grief and loss, anxiety and worries, addictions, anger management, intimacy and sexual difficulties, and divorce adjustment. For couples, I help couples improve communication that enhances closeness, deepens understanding and reduces reactivity.
(571) 386-2463 View (571) 386-2463
Photo of Mary Rainer-Skala, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ashburn, VA
Mary Rainer-Skala
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Ashburn, VA 20147
I am a couples specialist and work exclusively with marriage and marriage-type relationships. I'm a "marriage-friendly" counselor meaning your relationship is my client and I want it to succeed. I work hard for your relationship until one (or both) of you call me off. I utilize a variety of approaches but I do work most closely with attachment-based models...helping you explore your attachment, heal attachment injuries, and find ways to reach out for each other again. Affairs, "not-in-love-anymore," communication problems - I do it all.
I am a couples specialist and work exclusively with marriage and marriage-type relationships. I'm a "marriage-friendly" counselor meaning your relationship is my client and I want it to succeed. I work hard for your relationship until one (or both) of you call me off. I utilize a variety of approaches but I do work most closely with attachment-based models...helping you explore your attachment, heal attachment injuries, and find ways to reach out for each other again. Affairs, "not-in-love-anymore," communication problems - I do it all.
(703) 935-5247 View (703) 935-5247
Photo of Robin Raniero Norris, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ashburn, VA
Robin Raniero Norris
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Ashburn, VA 20148
***Currently accepting new clients for telehealth sessions.*** Are you experiencing a situation in which emotions are slowing down your regular process? Is your marriage struggling right now? Do you need a space to strategic plan about a challenging event without those around you knowing? I can help you regain your footing to complete the goals that you had or new ones you would like to establish. My specialties are emotions, finances, and the mental health of people. My knowledge and referral/resource system is extensive and global.
***Currently accepting new clients for telehealth sessions.*** Are you experiencing a situation in which emotions are slowing down your regular process? Is your marriage struggling right now? Do you need a space to strategic plan about a challenging event without those around you knowing? I can help you regain your footing to complete the goals that you had or new ones you would like to establish. My specialties are emotions, finances, and the mental health of people. My knowledge and referral/resource system is extensive and global.
(571) 512-3804 View (571) 512-3804
Photo of Anne Miniter McKay, Licensed Professional Counselor in Ashburn, VA
Anne Miniter McKay
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CCMHC
Verified Verified
Ashburn, VA 20147
EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy) Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) / Gottman Marital Relationship Therapy / Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS) / Relational Life Therapy (RLT) / Memory Reconsolidation Trauma Therapy.
TELETHERAPY 30min Complimentary Intro Consultation: "She’ll tell you what your friends won’t... and that’s a good thing which results in your time and money well-spent. So glad I found a therapist who 'get's it'. As she always tells me... Your life is not a dress rehersal. It's real and each day matters!"
EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy) Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) / Gottman Marital Relationship Therapy / Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS) / Relational Life Therapy (RLT) / Memory Reconsolidation Trauma Therapy.
TELETHERAPY 30min Complimentary Intro Consultation: "She’ll tell you what your friends won’t... and that’s a good thing which results in your time and money well-spent. So glad I found a therapist who 'get's it'. As she always tells me... Your life is not a dress rehersal. It's real and each day matters!"
(703) 328-4937 View (703) 328-4937
Photo of Jason Herndon, Psychologist in Ashburn, VA
Jason Herndon
Psychologist, PhD, HSP-P, MSPH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ashburn, VA 20148  (Online Only)
Are you feeling lost and overwhelmed by the prospect of divorce, unsure of where to turn for support? Has infidelity shattered your trust and left you questioning the future of your marriage? If you’re tired of feeling stuck in a cycle of pain and mistrust, now is the time to connect with a therapist who can offer guidance for your relationship issues. Let’s work together to develop a plan to repair and rebuild your relationship. Continue reading to take the first step towards a healthier relationship.
Are you feeling lost and overwhelmed by the prospect of divorce, unsure of where to turn for support? Has infidelity shattered your trust and left you questioning the future of your marriage? If you’re tired of feeling stuck in a cycle of pain and mistrust, now is the time to connect with a therapist who can offer guidance for your relationship issues. Let’s work together to develop a plan to repair and rebuild your relationship. Continue reading to take the first step towards a healthier relationship.
(743) 200-2411 View (743) 200-2411
Photo of Julie A Holgate, Licensed Professional Counselor in Ashburn, VA
Julie A Holgate
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Ashburn, VA 20147
Couples therapy takes a strength-based approach to building necessary communication and problem-solving skills for marital harmony.
Mrs. Holgate’s clinical experiences include specialized work with children and adolescents, helping them to learn communication and problem-solving skills to promote successful moments in life. Julie’s clinical proficiencies include behavior modification, developing healthy and productive social skills, and integrating these changes into all areas of their life including home, school, and social communities. Additional areas of clinical proficiency range from daily life stressors to working with issues of substance abuse, trauma, and crisis intervention.
Couples therapy takes a strength-based approach to building necessary communication and problem-solving skills for marital harmony.
Mrs. Holgate’s clinical experiences include specialized work with children and adolescents, helping them to learn communication and problem-solving skills to promote successful moments in life. Julie’s clinical proficiencies include behavior modification, developing healthy and productive social skills, and integrating these changes into all areas of their life including home, school, and social communities. Additional areas of clinical proficiency range from daily life stressors to working with issues of substance abuse, trauma, and crisis intervention.
(540) 787-3496 View (540) 787-3496
Photo of Casey A Sarafinas, Licensed Professional Counselor in Ashburn, VA
Casey A Sarafinas
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ACS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ashburn, VA 20147
Common areas addressed in couples counseling include pre-marital counseling, co-parenting, sex and intimacy issues, infidelity, discernment counseling, separation, or divorce.
As a trauma-informed, EMDR-trained relationship specialist, I am passionate about working with high-achieving adults and couples. I help my clients become more aware of their vulnerable and protective parts and teach skills to improve your ability to communicate, connect, and co-parent more effectively. Deeply relational and energetic, yet results-inspired, I use evidence-based approaches, such as CBT, DBT, EMDR, and IFS. I also incorporate mindfulness, creativity, and humor into my practice. Best of all, I'm human too, and may laugh or shed a tear right along with you.
Common areas addressed in couples counseling include pre-marital counseling, co-parenting, sex and intimacy issues, infidelity, discernment counseling, separation, or divorce.
As a trauma-informed, EMDR-trained relationship specialist, I am passionate about working with high-achieving adults and couples. I help my clients become more aware of their vulnerable and protective parts and teach skills to improve your ability to communicate, connect, and co-parent more effectively. Deeply relational and energetic, yet results-inspired, I use evidence-based approaches, such as CBT, DBT, EMDR, and IFS. I also incorporate mindfulness, creativity, and humor into my practice. Best of all, I'm human too, and may laugh or shed a tear right along with you.
(571) 946-5325 View (571) 946-5325
Photo of Samuel Brown, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ashburn, VA
Samuel Brown
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMHP, LMFT, Licensd, Counslr
Verified Verified
Ashburn, VA 20147
EMPOWERING you for a "BRIGHTER" tomorrow! Yes! I provide INDIVIDUAL and MARRIAGE THERAPY to Adult clients IN PERSON and TELEHEALTH. Since 1994, my systemic training has enabled me to specialize in treating issues such as depression, anxiety, grief & loss, divorce/ separation, relationship, stage of life, motivation and family of origin issues. Psychotherapy is meant to address the roots of mental and emotional struggle. We will focus on the holistic aspect of your life to equip you to make the effective change you desire. Together we can explore your strengths and challenges, discovering what motivates you and helps you thrive.
EMPOWERING you for a "BRIGHTER" tomorrow! Yes! I provide INDIVIDUAL and MARRIAGE THERAPY to Adult clients IN PERSON and TELEHEALTH. Since 1994, my systemic training has enabled me to specialize in treating issues such as depression, anxiety, grief & loss, divorce/ separation, relationship, stage of life, motivation and family of origin issues. Psychotherapy is meant to address the roots of mental and emotional struggle. We will focus on the holistic aspect of your life to equip you to make the effective change you desire. Together we can explore your strengths and challenges, discovering what motivates you and helps you thrive.
(804) 977-0201 View (804) 977-0201
Photo of Arianne Anderson, Resident in Marriage and Family Therapy in Ashburn, VA
Arianne Anderson
Resident in Marriage and Family Therapy, MA
Verified Verified
Ashburn, VA 20148  (Online Only)
I see teens, adults, couples, and families, and my focus areas include anxiety, eating disorders, prenatal and postpartum, trauma, PTSD, depression, life transitions, marital and premarital issues, sex, infidelity, codependency, parenting, self-esteem, self-harm, and borderline personality disorder. Additionally, I dedicated three years to a research study focused on enhancing resiliency for military families after deployment, and find great fulfillment in working with veterans.
I see teens, adults, couples, and families, and my focus areas include anxiety, eating disorders, prenatal and postpartum, trauma, PTSD, depression, life transitions, marital and premarital issues, sex, infidelity, codependency, parenting, self-esteem, self-harm, and borderline personality disorder. Additionally, I dedicated three years to a research study focused on enhancing resiliency for military families after deployment, and find great fulfillment in working with veterans.
(571) 777-0157 View (571) 777-0157
Photo of Alanisha Allen (Ellie Mental Health Ashburn), Resident in Counseling in Ashburn, VA
Alanisha Allen (Ellie Mental Health Ashburn)
Resident in Counseling, MEd, LPC-R, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ashburn, VA 20147
As a former school counselor and domestic violence advocate, I am passionate about supporting individual, couple, family and adolescent needs as well as concerns with anxiety, depression, grief, domestic violence, sexual abuse or concerns and eating disorders. In addition to these needs I am looking forward to supporting those experiencing family conflicts, life changes, identity discovery and exploration as well as sex therapy. I am supportive of nontraditional relationships as well as kink positive. My clients are 16 and over, families and couples.
As a former school counselor and domestic violence advocate, I am passionate about supporting individual, couple, family and adolescent needs as well as concerns with anxiety, depression, grief, domestic violence, sexual abuse or concerns and eating disorders. In addition to these needs I am looking forward to supporting those experiencing family conflicts, life changes, identity discovery and exploration as well as sex therapy. I am supportive of nontraditional relationships as well as kink positive. My clients are 16 and over, families and couples.
(703) 291-0687 View (703) 291-0687
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.