Photo of Stacy Sims Fortenberry, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stacy Sims Fortenberry
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Hattiesburg, MS 39402
Compassionate Christian counseling for individuals-adults and teens, couples and families describes my work for the past 25 years. Whether you are struggling with anxiety or depression, marriage conflict or family relationships, I can help you work toward healthy resolution and fulfilling changes. My counseling is a very practical approach to problem solving that changes thought patterns and behaviors. We will set personalized goals and work each session to meet your goals. I will encourage you in each step of your challenges providing a warm caring setting that will give you confidence and hope during the counseling process.
Compassionate Christian counseling for individuals-adults and teens, couples and families describes my work for the past 25 years. Whether you are struggling with anxiety or depression, marriage conflict or family relationships, I can help you work toward healthy resolution and fulfilling changes. My counseling is a very practical approach to problem solving that changes thought patterns and behaviors. We will set personalized goals and work each session to meet your goals. I will encourage you in each step of your challenges providing a warm caring setting that will give you confidence and hope during the counseling process.
(601) 873-3335 View (601) 873-3335
Photo of L. Shirika Bevill, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
L. Shirika Bevill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ridgeland, MS 39157
I specialize in helping individuals with a variety of issues such as self-esteem, depression, anxiety, pre-marital counseling, marriage/couples counseling, grief, family conflict, trauma and stress management.
Asking for help can be difficult, but often necessary to make the changes we desire in our lives. When life is challenging, we all need support, understanding, respect, and compassion. Initiating therapy involves courage and hope. I will guide you every step of the way to help you reach your full potential. I will work collaboratively with you to help you resolve problems and reach your goals for personal wellbeing.
I specialize in helping individuals with a variety of issues such as self-esteem, depression, anxiety, pre-marital counseling, marriage/couples counseling, grief, family conflict, trauma and stress management.
Asking for help can be difficult, but often necessary to make the changes we desire in our lives. When life is challenging, we all need support, understanding, respect, and compassion. Initiating therapy involves courage and hope. I will guide you every step of the way to help you reach your full potential. I will work collaboratively with you to help you resolve problems and reach your goals for personal wellbeing.
(769) 207-7638 View (769) 207-7638
Photo of Rebecca Cassell, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rebecca Cassell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ocean Springs, MS 39564  (Online Only)
I am fully licensed in both MS and LA. Life can be full of challenges and we navigate each day as best we can. I am here to help you find direction in your life, discover who you are / who you want to be, and help navigate those difficult relationships whether interpersonal, marital, or other. I welcome to discuss and process life challenges and offer tools to help you navigate day-to-day difficulties and anxieties. I offer a listening ear and a comfortable space in which respect and acceptance are a top priority. I have experience with adolescent, marital, pre-marital, couples, individual, group(s), and family counseling.
I am fully licensed in both MS and LA. Life can be full of challenges and we navigate each day as best we can. I am here to help you find direction in your life, discover who you are / who you want to be, and help navigate those difficult relationships whether interpersonal, marital, or other. I welcome to discuss and process life challenges and offer tools to help you navigate day-to-day difficulties and anxieties. I offer a listening ear and a comfortable space in which respect and acceptance are a top priority. I have experience with adolescent, marital, pre-marital, couples, individual, group(s), and family counseling.
(985) 261-5089 View (985) 261-5089
Photo of T Spies - HOPE Family Counseling LLC, MS , LMFT, NBCC, DMin, Marriage & Family Therapist
HOPE Family Counseling LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS , LMFT, NBCC, DMin
Verified Verified
Jackson, MS 39211  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Oklahoma, as well as a Nationally Board-Certified Counselor.
I believe that everyone should have a safe space where they can be heard and helped to navigate the difficulties in life and relationships. I am currently seeing all clients via Zoom and servicing clients in Mississippi and Oklahoma. We do accept Cigna and Aetna Insurance for Oklahoma Clients.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Oklahoma, as well as a Nationally Board-Certified Counselor.
I believe that everyone should have a safe space where they can be heard and helped to navigate the difficulties in life and relationships. I am currently seeing all clients via Zoom and servicing clients in Mississippi and Oklahoma. We do accept Cigna and Aetna Insurance for Oklahoma Clients.
(580) 203-0896 View (580) 203-0896
Photo of Anna Kuykendall Cox, LPC, MEd , NCC, CMHT, CNATC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Anna Kuykendall Cox
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MEd , NCC, CMHT, CNATC
Verified Verified
Tupelo, MS 38804
Specializations: marriage/family therapy, children’s therapy (play therapy) (trained at the University of MS and Oxford Play Therapy Institute), career counseling, adoption/infertility, anxiety, depression, sexual abuse/narcissistic abuse recovery, ADHD, mood/personality disorders.
If you find yourself here, I encourage you to reach out to me (email/text). You may be surprised to find that even if you’re not experiencing a “crisis” or a difficult time in life, therapy is a great way to learn more about yourself, improve your outlook, strengthen relationships, or gain career guidance. Everyone benefits from therapy. Having the pleasure of working in this field for over 15 years, I pride myself on taking an experiential approach to therapy, as each person is unique in his or her own way. Taking a “one size fits all” approach is not effective. I look forward to helping you on an effective therapeutic journey.
Specializations: marriage/family therapy, children’s therapy (play therapy) (trained at the University of MS and Oxford Play Therapy Institute), career counseling, adoption/infertility, anxiety, depression, sexual abuse/narcissistic abuse recovery, ADHD, mood/personality disorders.
If you find yourself here, I encourage you to reach out to me (email/text). You may be surprised to find that even if you’re not experiencing a “crisis” or a difficult time in life, therapy is a great way to learn more about yourself, improve your outlook, strengthen relationships, or gain career guidance. Everyone benefits from therapy. Having the pleasure of working in this field for over 15 years, I pride myself on taking an experiential approach to therapy, as each person is unique in his or her own way. Taking a “one size fits all” approach is not effective. I look forward to helping you on an effective therapeutic journey.
(662) 291-7931 View (662) 291-7931
Photo of Melissa Painter, LPC, BC-TMH, Licensed Professional Counselor
Melissa Painter
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
Crowder, MS 38622
I believe that life is about relationships, so my goal is to help you strengthen your relationship with self, others, and God (if desired). I will endeavor to help you improve your life by empowering you with resources to deal with anxiety, depression, marriage/relationship issues, grief, trauma, etc. I am available for telehealth counseling through www.BlueMoonSeniorCounseling.com and TalkSpace.
I believe that life is about relationships, so my goal is to help you strengthen your relationship with self, others, and God (if desired). I will endeavor to help you improve your life by empowering you with resources to deal with anxiety, depression, marriage/relationship issues, grief, trauma, etc. I am available for telehealth counseling through www.BlueMoonSeniorCounseling.com and TalkSpace.
(662) 756-5977 View (662) 756-5977
Photo of Terri J Wright, MS, NCC, LPC, Counselor
Terri J Wright
Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Oxford, MS 38655
Life is about Relationships: Couples, Marriage, Families, Friends, Co-Workers. However, broken promises, lost love, abandonment, endless conflict, lack of trust, addictions, loss of intimacy, anger and avoidance all create fear, pain, rejection and loneliness. You feel disconnected and are in search of acceptance, belonging, comfort and safety. It is scary to take that first step to seek help. From the moment you enter my office, you will have no doubt that your decision to seek help was the right one. The goal will be to create an atmosphere that makes you feel safe and comfortable enough to face what is troubling you.
Life is about Relationships: Couples, Marriage, Families, Friends, Co-Workers. However, broken promises, lost love, abandonment, endless conflict, lack of trust, addictions, loss of intimacy, anger and avoidance all create fear, pain, rejection and loneliness. You feel disconnected and are in search of acceptance, belonging, comfort and safety. It is scary to take that first step to seek help. From the moment you enter my office, you will have no doubt that your decision to seek help was the right one. The goal will be to create an atmosphere that makes you feel safe and comfortable enough to face what is troubling you.
(662) 586-1934 View (662) 586-1934
Photo of Danielle Maack, PhD, Psychologist
Danielle Maack
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oxford, MS 38655
Delta Autumn Consulting in Oxford, Mississippi provides evidence-based services for psychological difficulties. This profile is for Dr. Danielle Maack, who specializes in the treatment of psychological difficulties in adults and older adolescents. This includes general treatment for anxiety, depression, and adjustment issues as well as specialized techniques for more severe difficulties of emotion regulation (namely Dialectical Behavior Therapy, or DBT). Additionally, Dr. Maack is skilled in behavioral marriage therapy, a strongly scientific form of relationship repair/enhancement offered at very few other locations in Mississippi.
Delta Autumn Consulting in Oxford, Mississippi provides evidence-based services for psychological difficulties. This profile is for Dr. Danielle Maack, who specializes in the treatment of psychological difficulties in adults and older adolescents. This includes general treatment for anxiety, depression, and adjustment issues as well as specialized techniques for more severe difficulties of emotion regulation (namely Dialectical Behavior Therapy, or DBT). Additionally, Dr. Maack is skilled in behavioral marriage therapy, a strongly scientific form of relationship repair/enhancement offered at very few other locations in Mississippi.
(662) 598-4193 View (662) 598-4193
Photo of Katie Beddingfield, LMFT, LCSW, Marriage & Family Therapist
Katie Beddingfield
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ridgeland, MS 39157
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Marriage and Family Therapist.
Feeling overwhelmed by anxiety or stuck in persistent pain? Do you feel trapped in unhelpful patterns, leaving you angry and hurt without lasting relief? Struggling to cope can lead to disconnection from yourself and others, causing even more turmoil in your relationships. In therapy, you'll explore your emotional landscape, uncovering patterns, attachments, and experiences to deepen self-understanding. Together, we untangle unresolved family dynamics and underlying traumas, fostering personal transformation, authenticity, and emotional and nervous system regulation.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Marriage and Family Therapist.
Feeling overwhelmed by anxiety or stuck in persistent pain? Do you feel trapped in unhelpful patterns, leaving you angry and hurt without lasting relief? Struggling to cope can lead to disconnection from yourself and others, causing even more turmoil in your relationships. In therapy, you'll explore your emotional landscape, uncovering patterns, attachments, and experiences to deepen self-understanding. Together, we untangle unresolved family dynamics and underlying traumas, fostering personal transformation, authenticity, and emotional and nervous system regulation.
(601) 340-5108 View (601) 340-5108
Photo of Jessica Floyd Roberts, MAMFT, LPC-S, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jessica Floyd Roberts
Marriage & Family Therapist, MAMFT, LPC-S, LMFT
Verified Verified
Tupelo, MS 38804
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC-S) as well as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT).
Life is incredible, but it is not without challenges. I help distant couples, frustrated kids and parents, and families dealing with life's challenges.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC-S) as well as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT).
Life is incredible, but it is not without challenges. I help distant couples, frustrated kids and parents, and families dealing with life's challenges.
(662) 468-1017 View (662) 468-1017
Photo of Emily Sherwood, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Emily Sherwood
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Biloxi, MS 39532
Life is full of changes and changes can be a difficult part of life's journey. Some changes we welcome because they start a new adventure while others are challenging to accept. Changes can happen without warning and may be quite dramatic, as in the case of accidents, loss of a loved one, a broken relationship / marriage, job loss or serious illness. My desire is to help clients find the path to hope, understanding, encouragement and healing. I believe healing comes through our relationship with God.
Life is full of changes and changes can be a difficult part of life's journey. Some changes we welcome because they start a new adventure while others are challenging to accept. Changes can happen without warning and may be quite dramatic, as in the case of accidents, loss of a loved one, a broken relationship / marriage, job loss or serious illness. My desire is to help clients find the path to hope, understanding, encouragement and healing. I believe healing comes through our relationship with God.
(228) 285-4896 View (228) 285-4896
Photo of Kim K Brown, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kim K Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Madison, MS 39110
Have you been feeling stuck, overwhelmed, wondering if therapy could help? Are you trying to find a solution to a damaged marriage or relationship? Often there are things in our past we avoid thinking about that are impacting our emotional well-being and our relationships with others. Many people, in seeking to fulfill the basic human needs of happiness and connections with others, find themselves engaging in ineffective or counterproductive behaviors. Therapy is a way to not only address these behaviors and associated feelings, but also learn more about their causes.
Have you been feeling stuck, overwhelmed, wondering if therapy could help? Are you trying to find a solution to a damaged marriage or relationship? Often there are things in our past we avoid thinking about that are impacting our emotional well-being and our relationships with others. Many people, in seeking to fulfill the basic human needs of happiness and connections with others, find themselves engaging in ineffective or counterproductive behaviors. Therapy is a way to not only address these behaviors and associated feelings, but also learn more about their causes.
(601) 228-0879 View (601) 228-0879
Photo of Sherry Bouldin - Mindful Solutions, LLC, LPC-S, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mindful Solutions, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
Greenwood, MS 38930
Mindful Solutions is committed to providing professional and confidential mental health services. Our practice provides individual, groups, marriage and family, and couples psychotherapy for adults and children. We have a diverse licensed team of therapists that specializes in various mental health and life challenges. You don’t have to suffer any longer. Visit our website www.msolutions1.com or contact us at 601-292-6260 for a free consultation or to schedule an appointment.
Mindful Solutions is committed to providing professional and confidential mental health services. Our practice provides individual, groups, marriage and family, and couples psychotherapy for adults and children. We have a diverse licensed team of therapists that specializes in various mental health and life challenges. You don’t have to suffer any longer. Visit our website www.msolutions1.com or contact us at 601-292-6260 for a free consultation or to schedule an appointment.
(662) 247-8482 View (662) 247-8482
Photo of Rebecca Kirk, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rebecca Kirk
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, MS 39110
"In the midst of winter, I finally learned there was in me an invincible summer," states Camus. During our pain, we have the potential to grow the most. I tailor a treatment plan based on your individually unique needs, having received my training in not only individual therapy, but also the more unique marriage and family systems therapy. I understand that we best fit together in community, and we are also healed in the confidential, unbiased, caring fellowship that therapy specifically provides. Email me for an appointment at rebecca@rebeccakirkcounseling.com and visit http://www.magnoliacounselingmadison.com for more information.
"In the midst of winter, I finally learned there was in me an invincible summer," states Camus. During our pain, we have the potential to grow the most. I tailor a treatment plan based on your individually unique needs, having received my training in not only individual therapy, but also the more unique marriage and family systems therapy. I understand that we best fit together in community, and we are also healed in the confidential, unbiased, caring fellowship that therapy specifically provides. Email me for an appointment at rebecca@rebeccakirkcounseling.com and visit http://www.magnoliacounselingmadison.com for more information.
(601) 368-8587 View (601) 368-8587
Photo of Kathryn Wright, MS, LPC-S, BC-TMH, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kathryn Wright
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S, BC-TMH, NCC
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Vicksburg, MS 39180
I specialize in marriage and family issues.
Post-COVID many people have struggled to move forward with their personal goals or have had major life changes. Family/friend dynamics have also shifted and researchers are reporting higher rates of depression, anxiety, and anger-related issues. Now is the time to invest in yourself to become stronger and healthier moving forward! I am available in person in Vicksburg, MS and am available via telehealth in Mississippi and Louisiana.
I specialize in marriage and family issues.
Post-COVID many people have struggled to move forward with their personal goals or have had major life changes. Family/friend dynamics have also shifted and researchers are reporting higher rates of depression, anxiety, and anger-related issues. Now is the time to invest in yourself to become stronger and healthier moving forward! I am available in person in Vicksburg, MS and am available via telehealth in Mississippi and Louisiana.
(769) 227-3951 View (769) 227-3951
Photo of Linda A Sumrall, EdS, LPC, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Linda A Sumrall
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPC, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Hattiesburg, MS 39402  (Online Only)
Depression, anxiety, marital problems, addiction, relationship problems, are a few of the obstacles many face in their life. Some days you struggle to survive. But, life is about more than just survival. Today you are one step closer to living a life where you can THRIVE! My goal is to help you face whatever obstacles that are present in your life. By facing your obstacles and dealing with them, you can lead a happy life and thrive. Isn't that what we all want? My goal is to help you ENJOY life! Remember that you are not alone. There is always hope!
Depression, anxiety, marital problems, addiction, relationship problems, are a few of the obstacles many face in their life. Some days you struggle to survive. But, life is about more than just survival. Today you are one step closer to living a life where you can THRIVE! My goal is to help you face whatever obstacles that are present in your life. By facing your obstacles and dealing with them, you can lead a happy life and thrive. Isn't that what we all want? My goal is to help you ENJOY life! Remember that you are not alone. There is always hope!
(601) 368-8932 View (601) 368-8932
Photo of Pam Stowers, EdS, LPC, LMFT, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Pam Stowers
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPC, LMFT, NCC
Verified Verified
Jackson, MS 39211
I'm both a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with training in hypnotherapy.
Are you or your spouse having an affair? I have 20+ years of experience helping marriages and individuals successfully navigate and survive an affair. I often witness marriages becoming stronger after our work together. Yours can too. Some of the other issues I work with daily are communication problems in relationships, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, and grieving. Doctors refer their patients because they say they know my techniques work. If you have questions please call or email. There's no need to put off getting the help you need. The sooner you get started, the sooner you'll feel good about yourself - and life - again.
I'm both a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with training in hypnotherapy.
Are you or your spouse having an affair? I have 20+ years of experience helping marriages and individuals successfully navigate and survive an affair. I often witness marriages becoming stronger after our work together. Yours can too. Some of the other issues I work with daily are communication problems in relationships, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, and grieving. Doctors refer their patients because they say they know my techniques work. If you have questions please call or email. There's no need to put off getting the help you need. The sooner you get started, the sooner you'll feel good about yourself - and life - again.
(601) 460-0934 View (601) 460-0934
Photo of Sally West - West Counseling Services, LLC, MS, LMFT, NCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
West Counseling Services, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, NCC
Verified Verified
Tupelo, MS 38801
OFFER INDIVIDUAL, GROUP, FAMILY, MARRIAGE COUNSELING AND PSYCHOLOGICAL TESTING AND ADD/ADHD TESTING.
LIFE CAN BE DIFFICULT, ESPECIALLY WHEN SOMETHING UNEXPECTED HAPPENS. FEELINGS OF ANGER, DEPRESSION AND ANXIETY ARE NORMAL FEELINGS FOR ALL OF US. HOWEVER, IF THEY GET OUT OF CONTROL OR INTERFERE WITH OUR DAILY FUNCTIONING...THAT IS A RED FLAG THAT A PERSON NEEDS HELP. COUNSELING OFFERS COPING STRATEGIES TO HELP A PERSON GET THEIR LIFE BACK ON TRACK. I SPECIALIZE IN RATIONALE EMOTIVE BEHAVIORAL THERAPY (REBT) AND COGNITIVE BEHAVIORAL THERAPY AND CAN OFFER YOU THE TOOLS TO START LIVING INSTEAD OF JUST EXISTING.
OFFER INDIVIDUAL, GROUP, FAMILY, MARRIAGE COUNSELING AND PSYCHOLOGICAL TESTING AND ADD/ADHD TESTING.
LIFE CAN BE DIFFICULT, ESPECIALLY WHEN SOMETHING UNEXPECTED HAPPENS. FEELINGS OF ANGER, DEPRESSION AND ANXIETY ARE NORMAL FEELINGS FOR ALL OF US. HOWEVER, IF THEY GET OUT OF CONTROL OR INTERFERE WITH OUR DAILY FUNCTIONING...THAT IS A RED FLAG THAT A PERSON NEEDS HELP. COUNSELING OFFERS COPING STRATEGIES TO HELP A PERSON GET THEIR LIFE BACK ON TRACK. I SPECIALIZE IN RATIONALE EMOTIVE BEHAVIORAL THERAPY (REBT) AND COGNITIVE BEHAVIORAL THERAPY AND CAN OFFER YOU THE TOOLS TO START LIVING INSTEAD OF JUST EXISTING.
(662) 231-6195 View (662) 231-6195
Photo of Ashira Windsor Lcsw - Catalyst Counseling & Therapy Services, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Catalyst Counseling & Therapy Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gulfport, MS 39501
Life often leaves us feeling stressed, depressed and or lost. Seeking therapy can be an important step in moving positively towards mental health stability and wholeness. With experience in addressing issues relating to anxiety, depression, trauma, severe and persistent mental illness, co-occurring disorders, grief and loss and marital issues, I am passionate about providing a safe, supportive, non-judgmental environment for children, teens, adults, couples and or families who need help. I seek to understand and partner with you as you identify positive steps in your journey towards healing.
Life often leaves us feeling stressed, depressed and or lost. Seeking therapy can be an important step in moving positively towards mental health stability and wholeness. With experience in addressing issues relating to anxiety, depression, trauma, severe and persistent mental illness, co-occurring disorders, grief and loss and marital issues, I am passionate about providing a safe, supportive, non-judgmental environment for children, teens, adults, couples and or families who need help. I seek to understand and partner with you as you identify positive steps in your journey towards healing.
(228) 687-8761 View (228) 687-8761
Photo of Dr. Marti Witherow, PhD, LPC, LMFT, CST, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Marti Witherow
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LPC, LMFT, CST
Verified Verified
Ridgeland, MS 39157
The problem you are dealing with, whether it's a struggling marriage, depression, anxiety, sexual issues or parenting challenges, will be addressed in a safe and competent way in your session. I have 20 years of experience working with individuals, marriages and families on some everyday issues that have quick solutions as well as some complex, long-term problems that require in-depth therapy. I have extensive training in the leading approaches in psychotherapy and have learned the tricks of the trade from the most respected names in the field. I use a comprehensive approach of therapy and psychological assessment in my practice.
The problem you are dealing with, whether it's a struggling marriage, depression, anxiety, sexual issues or parenting challenges, will be addressed in a safe and competent way in your session. I have 20 years of experience working with individuals, marriages and families on some everyday issues that have quick solutions as well as some complex, long-term problems that require in-depth therapy. I have extensive training in the leading approaches in psychotherapy and have learned the tricks of the trade from the most respected names in the field. I use a comprehensive approach of therapy and psychological assessment in my practice.
(601) 213-4526 View (601) 213-4526

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.