Photo of Mary Baker, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fairfax, VA
Mary Baker
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030  (Online Only)
Well Marriage Center, LLC offers a "marriage-friendly" approach with this bias: we want your relationship to succeed.
Couples counseling is my specialties and what I do almost exclusively. I've trained under renowned family therapist Louise Guerney in order to provide the most successful and practical relationship and/or parental enhancement possible for you as a couple. Often this doesn't require many years of therapy. What I tell couples all the time is this, "what may seem hopeless at the beginning is actually very changeable." I utilize a positive, values-driven approach to help couples create a relationship where both partners feel honored and respected.
Well Marriage Center, LLC offers a "marriage-friendly" approach with this bias: we want your relationship to succeed.
Couples counseling is my specialties and what I do almost exclusively. I've trained under renowned family therapist Louise Guerney in order to provide the most successful and practical relationship and/or parental enhancement possible for you as a couple. Often this doesn't require many years of therapy. What I tell couples all the time is this, "what may seem hopeless at the beginning is actually very changeable." I utilize a positive, values-driven approach to help couples create a relationship where both partners feel honored and respected.
(240) 696-4549 View (240) 696-4549
Photo of Tawanda Turner Brown, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fairfax, VA
Tawanda Turner Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030
I have over 35 years providing counseling. My work has included individual, child and adolescent treatment as well as family/couples counseling. I specialize in providing support in the treatment of ADHD, anxiety, depression, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and marital discord. Additionally, I have had the honor of providing support to military and Foreign Service Officers', federal government workers and their families. I provide supportive counseling to a clients with a diverse cultural background. The time is now to begin your emotional healing and to renew your Hope for Today and the Future.
I have over 35 years providing counseling. My work has included individual, child and adolescent treatment as well as family/couples counseling. I specialize in providing support in the treatment of ADHD, anxiety, depression, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and marital discord. Additionally, I have had the honor of providing support to military and Foreign Service Officers', federal government workers and their families. I provide supportive counseling to a clients with a diverse cultural background. The time is now to begin your emotional healing and to renew your Hope for Today and the Future.
(571) 200-9872 View (571) 200-9872
Photo of Christina Frank, Marriage & Family Therapist in Fairfax, VA
Christina Frank
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030
Teletherapy/In-Person Available. I own and run a private practice in Fairfax, VA- Fairfax Integrative Therapy. Using a strengths-based approach, I help individuals and couples achieve their internal and relational goals. I incorporate attachment based models to help clients build self-awareness as they address issues related to marital conflict, infidelity, difficult life transitions, personal insecurities, anxiety, depression, and trauma. I create a safe space through empathy, patience, and curiosity, while providing each individual and couple concrete strategies and clear feedback that becomes the foundation for lasting change.
Teletherapy/In-Person Available. I own and run a private practice in Fairfax, VA- Fairfax Integrative Therapy. Using a strengths-based approach, I help individuals and couples achieve their internal and relational goals. I incorporate attachment based models to help clients build self-awareness as they address issues related to marital conflict, infidelity, difficult life transitions, personal insecurities, anxiety, depression, and trauma. I create a safe space through empathy, patience, and curiosity, while providing each individual and couple concrete strategies and clear feedback that becomes the foundation for lasting change.
(571) 339-0446 View (571) 339-0446
Photo of Chelsea Cornett, Resident in Counseling in Fairfax, VA
Chelsea Cornett
Resident in Counseling, MA, RIC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030  (Online Only)
I am accepting new clients with immediate availability (within 48 hours) and am currently offering a special rate for children's therapy - I am a resident therapist with Decoding Relationships, a virtual counseling agency specializing in relationship therapy. I work with adults and children to adjust behavior and learn healthy communication skills to improve relationships between family members. If you are struggling with issues with your children, or within your marriage or family, and want to reconnect with those your love, I am here to help. I offer individual, couples, and family counseling.
I am accepting new clients with immediate availability (within 48 hours) and am currently offering a special rate for children's therapy - I am a resident therapist with Decoding Relationships, a virtual counseling agency specializing in relationship therapy. I work with adults and children to adjust behavior and learn healthy communication skills to improve relationships between family members. If you are struggling with issues with your children, or within your marriage or family, and want to reconnect with those your love, I am here to help. I offer individual, couples, and family counseling.
(540) 253-1478 View (540) 253-1478
Photo of Heidi Lindorf, Marriage & Family Therapist in Fairfax, VA
Heidi Lindorf
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030
Marriage is hard work no matter who you marry! And having a satisfying relationship takes effort. Sometimes it's not enough to navigate it on your own. I specialize in helping couples work through marital dissatisfaction, communication issues, infidelity, and addictions. I also enjoy working with pre-marital couples. I am a trained Prepare/Enrich facilitator.
Marriage is hard work no matter who you marry! And having a satisfying relationship takes effort. Sometimes it's not enough to navigate it on your own. I specialize in helping couples work through marital dissatisfaction, communication issues, infidelity, and addictions. I also enjoy working with pre-marital couples. I am a trained Prepare/Enrich facilitator.
(703) 991-6145 View (703) 991-6145
Photo of Marigold Counseling Services, LLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Fairfax, VA
Marigold Counseling Services, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030  (Online Only)
Life can be overwhelming and difficult to navigate at times. These challenges can often lead to feelings of hopelessness and anxiety. Therapy can empower you and provide you with the tools needed to manage your obstacles. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over fifteen years of experience providing counseling to individuals, couples, and families. I value establishing a safe and open counseling environment for clients to feel heard and accepted.
Life can be overwhelming and difficult to navigate at times. These challenges can often lead to feelings of hopelessness and anxiety. Therapy can empower you and provide you with the tools needed to manage your obstacles. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over fifteen years of experience providing counseling to individuals, couples, and families. I value establishing a safe and open counseling environment for clients to feel heard and accepted.
(571) 200-6382 View (571) 200-6382
Photo of Kelly Walker, Marriage & Family Therapist in Fairfax, VA
Kelly Walker
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030
Every marriage has its ups-and-downs and often the lows can leave us feeling disconnected and alone. Couples start to wonder: ‘Is this normal? Should we feel like this? What should we do?’ I believe it takes courage and hope to reach out for counseling – and both of those characteristics will aid in improving or healing your relationship. I’ve seen couples overcome even the deepest attachment injuries and rediscover what it’s like to feel connected and fulfilled, supported and needed. As you can see, my philosophy is hope. Clients appreciate my curiosity and creativity
Every marriage has its ups-and-downs and often the lows can leave us feeling disconnected and alone. Couples start to wonder: ‘Is this normal? Should we feel like this? What should we do?’ I believe it takes courage and hope to reach out for counseling – and both of those characteristics will aid in improving or healing your relationship. I’ve seen couples overcome even the deepest attachment injuries and rediscover what it’s like to feel connected and fulfilled, supported and needed. As you can see, my philosophy is hope. Clients appreciate my curiosity and creativity
(571) 200-7350 View (571) 200-7350
Photo of Marianne G Shirilla, Marriage & Family Therapist in Fairfax, VA
Marianne G Shirilla
Marriage & Family Therapist, MAMFC, LMFT, LPC-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030
Life is unpredictable. It often takes unexpected twists and turns making you feel helpless and powerless. Marital communication challenges, trauma, infidelity, death, divorce, life transitions, and parenting challenges are a few examples of what you may be experiencing. I can help you. Take the first step. I believe my compassion, experience and straightforwardness working in collaboration with your willingness and motivation to change is a dynamic combination. Each client is unique. You only have one life. Don't waste another day. Take the first step towards your healing and a brighter, healthier future. I can help you.
Life is unpredictable. It often takes unexpected twists and turns making you feel helpless and powerless. Marital communication challenges, trauma, infidelity, death, divorce, life transitions, and parenting challenges are a few examples of what you may be experiencing. I can help you. Take the first step. I believe my compassion, experience and straightforwardness working in collaboration with your willingness and motivation to change is a dynamic combination. Each client is unique. You only have one life. Don't waste another day. Take the first step towards your healing and a brighter, healthier future. I can help you.
(571) 946-2848 View (571) 946-2848
Photo of Naglaa B. Moussa, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fairfax, VA
Naglaa B. Moussa
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030  (Online Only)
My areas of expertise consist of trauma, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, suicidal ideation, codependency, addictions, divorce, relationship issues, family conflict, marital problems, parenting, spirituality, coping skills, Christian counseling, intellectual disability, and acculturation.
Embracing the uniqueness of each individual, my therapeutic approach is centered on tailored, supportive, and collaborative methods. Together, we will work to integrate profound insights and self-awareness into your behavioral patterns, fostering processed and healthy emotional reactions. In therapy, my aim is to guide you through challenging life experiences that may seem persistent. You'll gain control over your choices, heal from the past, and develop coping strategies, empowering you to overcome obstacles and reach your full potential.
My areas of expertise consist of trauma, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, suicidal ideation, codependency, addictions, divorce, relationship issues, family conflict, marital problems, parenting, spirituality, coping skills, Christian counseling, intellectual disability, and acculturation.
Embracing the uniqueness of each individual, my therapeutic approach is centered on tailored, supportive, and collaborative methods. Together, we will work to integrate profound insights and self-awareness into your behavioral patterns, fostering processed and healthy emotional reactions. In therapy, my aim is to guide you through challenging life experiences that may seem persistent. You'll gain control over your choices, heal from the past, and develop coping strategies, empowering you to overcome obstacles and reach your full potential.
(703) 972-1797 View (703) 972-1797
Photo of Emily Simonian, Marriage & Family Therapist in Fairfax, VA
Emily Simonian
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, Author
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030  (Online Only)
Whether you’re looking to improve your relationships, emotional wellbeing, or find help for specific life challenges, therapy is a great place to start. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I have direct training and experience working with family and relationship issues, as well as working with individuals.
Whether you’re looking to improve your relationships, emotional wellbeing, or find help for specific life challenges, therapy is a great place to start. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I have direct training and experience working with family and relationship issues, as well as working with individuals.
(571) 322-8023 View (571) 322-8023
Photo of Amy K. Ebeid, Psychologist in Fairfax, VA
Amy K. Ebeid
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030
I work to help guide adults and couples through a variety of issues including parenting and marital conflict.
True growth begins to take shape through self-awareness, reflection, and change. The therapeutic relationship is a major step towards that growth through collaboration, exploration, and understanding. I take great value in this relationship and hope to provide a sense of safety, curiosity, and overall relief of symptoms. I hope to help individuals develop and utilize better coping strategies, gain understanding of behaviors, and make connections between the past and present. It's truly an honor to watch individuals work to gain the successes in their lives, find true happiness and security, and an overall solid sense of themselves.
I work to help guide adults and couples through a variety of issues including parenting and marital conflict.
True growth begins to take shape through self-awareness, reflection, and change. The therapeutic relationship is a major step towards that growth through collaboration, exploration, and understanding. I take great value in this relationship and hope to provide a sense of safety, curiosity, and overall relief of symptoms. I hope to help individuals develop and utilize better coping strategies, gain understanding of behaviors, and make connections between the past and present. It's truly an honor to watch individuals work to gain the successes in their lives, find true happiness and security, and an overall solid sense of themselves.
(703) 691-5437 View (703) 691-5437
Photo of Dr. Sheena Horsford, Marriage & Family Therapist in Fairfax, VA
Dr. Sheena Horsford
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22031  (Online Only)
Through couple and family therapy, I help individuals, couples, and families manage their emotions effectively so they are able to communicate them to others. This creates a secure attachment in marriages hurt by infidelity, mistrust, and lack of sexual intimacy. As a licensed marriage and family therapist, you will learn how to have an emotionally safe sexual relationship with your significant other. Continue reading to learn how to book a session with me.
Through couple and family therapy, I help individuals, couples, and families manage their emotions effectively so they are able to communicate them to others. This creates a secure attachment in marriages hurt by infidelity, mistrust, and lack of sexual intimacy. As a licensed marriage and family therapist, you will learn how to have an emotionally safe sexual relationship with your significant other. Continue reading to learn how to book a session with me.
(804) 207-5503 View (804) 207-5503
Photo of Maria Perozzi, Marriage & Family Therapist in Fairfax, VA
Maria Perozzi
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have over 15 years of experience providing outpatient therapy for adults, couples, and families. My approach incorporates a variety of theoretical perspectives to fully understand each person’s unique challenges. With a warm and inviting style, I take an open and direct approach as I help you identify and reach your goals. My goal is to empower you toward change with compassion and gentle direction. As an LMFT, I am passionate about helping clients work on their relationships, whether that relationship is with your partner, your family, your friends, or even yourself.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have over 15 years of experience providing outpatient therapy for adults, couples, and families. My approach incorporates a variety of theoretical perspectives to fully understand each person’s unique challenges. With a warm and inviting style, I take an open and direct approach as I help you identify and reach your goals. My goal is to empower you toward change with compassion and gentle direction. As an LMFT, I am passionate about helping clients work on their relationships, whether that relationship is with your partner, your family, your friends, or even yourself.
(571) 454-9819 View (571) 454-9819
Photo of Keystone Therapy Group, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fairfax, VA
Keystone Therapy Group
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCs, LMFTs
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030
In counseling, we help clients with issues of anxiety, depression, peer/family/marital relationships, life stress/transitions, and trauma.
Now Accepting New Clients! Keystone Therapy Group was founded to provide support and guidance to clients who are struggling with symptoms, relationships, or life experiences. We believe that anxiety, depression, stress, etc. impact our thoughts and behaviors, getting in the way of who we want to be and how we interact with others. When our therapists provide a safe space for reflections, clients are able to understand the root of their symptoms and learn to make healthy changes in themselves or their relationships and pursue their ideal self. We enjoy working with clients who have an open mind and willingness to self-reflect.
In counseling, we help clients with issues of anxiety, depression, peer/family/marital relationships, life stress/transitions, and trauma.
Now Accepting New Clients! Keystone Therapy Group was founded to provide support and guidance to clients who are struggling with symptoms, relationships, or life experiences. We believe that anxiety, depression, stress, etc. impact our thoughts and behaviors, getting in the way of who we want to be and how we interact with others. When our therapists provide a safe space for reflections, clients are able to understand the root of their symptoms and learn to make healthy changes in themselves or their relationships and pursue their ideal self. We enjoy working with clients who have an open mind and willingness to self-reflect.
(703) 390-1182 View (703) 390-1182
Photo of Arianne Anderson, Resident in Marriage and Family Therapy in Fairfax, VA
Arianne Anderson
Resident in Marriage and Family Therapy, MA
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030  (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 Yuko C Constas, Resident in Marriage and Family Therapy in Fairfax, VA
Yuko C Constas
Resident in Marriage and Family Therapy, MSMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Life can be challenging. Perhaps you are feeling stuck in your marital or relational issues. Maybe, you are feeling hopeless after the loss of a loved one or job. When you need help and direction most, therapy can guide you through challenges. I believe that anyone can excel with sufficient guidance and support. My areas of concentration are couples’ issues, family conflicts, life transitions, self-esteem, trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, emotional healing, spiritual issues, and more. Also, I use EMDR to help you with trauma and childhood experiences.
Life can be challenging. Perhaps you are feeling stuck in your marital or relational issues. Maybe, you are feeling hopeless after the loss of a loved one or job. When you need help and direction most, therapy can guide you through challenges. I believe that anyone can excel with sufficient guidance and support. My areas of concentration are couples’ issues, family conflicts, life transitions, self-esteem, trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, emotional healing, spiritual issues, and more. Also, I use EMDR to help you with trauma and childhood experiences.
(571) 200-4860 View (571) 200-4860
Photo of Sharon Jones, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fairfax, VA
Sharon Jones
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22031
I have worked with issues such as attention deficit, depression, anxiety, abuse, relationships, parenting, grief, Christian counseling, obsessive compulsive behaviors, self-esteem, coping skills, suicidal ideation, personality disorders, pre-marital counseling, and traumatic events such as PTSD, abuse, domestic violence and sexual assault.
Living a life with more joy and fulfillment is truly possible for you. With a full heart, I will walk with you to develop a healthier sense of self, nurture positive behavioral and thought patterns that leads to personal growth and healing. My personal model of therapy integrates your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors while providing a way for you to drive your therapy sessions to a place where you feel acknowledged and empowered. As a licensed professional counselor (LPC-S) in Virginia, my core competencies center around my work with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families.
I have worked with issues such as attention deficit, depression, anxiety, abuse, relationships, parenting, grief, Christian counseling, obsessive compulsive behaviors, self-esteem, coping skills, suicidal ideation, personality disorders, pre-marital counseling, and traumatic events such as PTSD, abuse, domestic violence and sexual assault.
Living a life with more joy and fulfillment is truly possible for you. With a full heart, I will walk with you to develop a healthier sense of self, nurture positive behavioral and thought patterns that leads to personal growth and healing. My personal model of therapy integrates your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors while providing a way for you to drive your therapy sessions to a place where you feel acknowledged and empowered. As a licensed professional counselor (LPC-S) in Virginia, my core competencies center around my work with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families.
(571) 339-5661 View (571) 339-5661
Photo of Diana Dahlgren, Psychologist in Fairfax, VA
Diana Dahlgren
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030
I specialize in psychological testing and evaluation of children, adolescents and adults to assess intellectual, educational, personality, emotional, and behavioral functioning. I offer ADHD, LD, GT (AAP), and ED evaluations for purposes of school placement, as well as special education services and accommodations, including on standardized tests such as the SAT, ACT, LSAT, GRE, GMAT and MCAT. I provide forensic services which include court evaluations and child custody evaluations, and therapy services include individual, marital, and family therapy.
I specialize in psychological testing and evaluation of children, adolescents and adults to assess intellectual, educational, personality, emotional, and behavioral functioning. I offer ADHD, LD, GT (AAP), and ED evaluations for purposes of school placement, as well as special education services and accommodations, including on standardized tests such as the SAT, ACT, LSAT, GRE, GMAT and MCAT. I provide forensic services which include court evaluations and child custody evaluations, and therapy services include individual, marital, and family therapy.
(703) 997-8635 View (703) 997-8635
Photo of Jennifer Parrella - Decoding Relationships, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fairfax, VA
Jennifer Parrella - Decoding Relationships, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCMHC, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030  (Online Only)
I offer individual, couples, marriage, family, group, & workplace therapy.
I believe individuals, couples, & families can adjust their thinking, behaviors, & patterns to improve their lives and relationships. My approach is compassionate yet honest & straightforward. I teach healthy patterns to replace negative ones. I take a pro-relationship, trauma informed, approach to all relationships, helping people and their loved ones make changes in order to feel closer and happier together. Feel free to reach out via email or phone at any time w/ questions or to schedule an appt. I am accepting new clients and offer day & evening virtual hours M-F. Sessions & paperwork are facilitated via confidential web-portal.
I offer individual, couples, marriage, family, group, & workplace therapy.
I believe individuals, couples, & families can adjust their thinking, behaviors, & patterns to improve their lives and relationships. My approach is compassionate yet honest & straightforward. I teach healthy patterns to replace negative ones. I take a pro-relationship, trauma informed, approach to all relationships, helping people and their loved ones make changes in order to feel closer and happier together. Feel free to reach out via email or phone at any time w/ questions or to schedule an appt. I am accepting new clients and offer day & evening virtual hours M-F. Sessions & paperwork are facilitated via confidential web-portal.
(703) 936-6326 View (703) 936-6326
Photo of Kwangsuk Hutchinson, Pre-Licensed Professional in Fairfax, VA
Kwangsuk Hutchinson
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, CIRT, QMHP-A
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22031
As a Certified Imago Relationship Therapist(CIRT), and a Qualified Mental Health Professional (QMHP), I have experience in helping individual, marital, premarital and family discord, cultural issues with interracial couples, children, parenting, interpersonal issues, depression, anxiety disorders, self-esteem issues and others. The pain that humans experience is diverse, deep, and wide. But there is also healing power within everyone to overcome pain. I believe that there is healing power within every person and that each person has good qualities that are unique to them.
As a Certified Imago Relationship Therapist(CIRT), and a Qualified Mental Health Professional (QMHP), I have experience in helping individual, marital, premarital and family discord, cultural issues with interracial couples, children, parenting, interpersonal issues, depression, anxiety disorders, self-esteem issues and others. The pain that humans experience is diverse, deep, and wide. But there is also healing power within everyone to overcome pain. I believe that there is healing power within every person and that each person has good qualities that are unique to them.
(571) 200-1280 View (571) 200-1280
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.