Photo of Sheri M. Miller, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sheri M. Miller
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lancaster, PA 17601
Waitlist for new clients
As a marriage and family therapist, I work from a solution focused systems perspective whether you come as an individual, couple, or family.
Taking that next step toward change can be intimidating yet it can also be filled with hope. In this place of hope, I work hard to provide a safe and compassionate environment with responsive therapy tailored to your needs. Together, we develop attainable goals that draw out your strengths so you can experience fresh insight for change. Helping you untangle the complicated issues that arise on life's journey is my passion. I bring over 20 years of combined experience in the educational, disability, and mental health fields which illuminate my work with families, couples, and individuals.
As a marriage and family therapist, I work from a solution focused systems perspective whether you come as an individual, couple, or family.
Taking that next step toward change can be intimidating yet it can also be filled with hope. In this place of hope, I work hard to provide a safe and compassionate environment with responsive therapy tailored to your needs. Together, we develop attainable goals that draw out your strengths so you can experience fresh insight for change. Helping you untangle the complicated issues that arise on life's journey is my passion. I bring over 20 years of combined experience in the educational, disability, and mental health fields which illuminate my work with families, couples, and individuals.
(223) 217-2763 View (223) 217-2763
Photo of Emily J Alvarez, MPS, ATR-BC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Emily J Alvarez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MPS, ATR-BC, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Lancaster, PA 17603
Your true healing, growth, authentic self, and full potential lie beyond four walls of a clinician's office. It takes courage to start the therapeutic process. If you are looking for a holistic, creative way to improve your mental health, I can support and guide you in your journey. Whether this is your first time seeking therapy, or you've had many years of experience, if you're ready for real personal change, a new approach, and want to delve deeply into the therapeutic process, I'm here to guide you.
Your true healing, growth, authentic self, and full potential lie beyond four walls of a clinician's office. It takes courage to start the therapeutic process. If you are looking for a holistic, creative way to improve your mental health, I can support and guide you in your journey. Whether this is your first time seeking therapy, or you've had many years of experience, if you're ready for real personal change, a new approach, and want to delve deeply into the therapeutic process, I'm here to guide you.
(717) 696-0146 View (717) 696-0146
Photo of Melanie Yoder Salim - Melanie Yoder Salim, LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melanie Yoder Salim, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lancaster, PA 17603
Are you feeling anxious, depressed, or having trouble connecting in your relationships? Are you used to dealing with life on your own, but struggling to cope? Considering therapy, but unsure of what to expect? Have you had trouble finding the right fit with past therapists, or been forced to locate a new therapist due to changes outside of your control? Do you struggle to feel enough and to know your own worth? Do you long for deeper connections with others, but don't know how? Do you avoid conflict but find you are often angry or disconnected from your emotions?
Are you feeling anxious, depressed, or having trouble connecting in your relationships? Are you used to dealing with life on your own, but struggling to cope? Considering therapy, but unsure of what to expect? Have you had trouble finding the right fit with past therapists, or been forced to locate a new therapist due to changes outside of your control? Do you struggle to feel enough and to know your own worth? Do you long for deeper connections with others, but don't know how? Do you avoid conflict but find you are often angry or disconnected from your emotions?
(717) 974-3429 View (717) 974-3429
Photo of Ambre L. Witte, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ambre L. Witte
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lancaster, PA 17601
Hi! My name is Ambre Witte, CEO, LCSW at Life and Love Counseling, LLC. I work with children, adolescents, adults, families, & couples. My clinical focus includes mood instability/ Bipolar Disorder, self-harm/suicidal ideation, anger/explosive behavior, ODD, PTSD, OCD, Autism, ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Personality Disorders, etc. My clientele primarily seeks strategies & therapeutic interventions for emotional regulation, non-compliance/defiance, conflict resolution, impulse control, executive functioning, low self-esteem, social skills, self-sufficiency, time management, academic concerns, & family/relationship conflict, etc.
Hi! My name is Ambre Witte, CEO, LCSW at Life and Love Counseling, LLC. I work with children, adolescents, adults, families, & couples. My clinical focus includes mood instability/ Bipolar Disorder, self-harm/suicidal ideation, anger/explosive behavior, ODD, PTSD, OCD, Autism, ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Personality Disorders, etc. My clientele primarily seeks strategies & therapeutic interventions for emotional regulation, non-compliance/defiance, conflict resolution, impulse control, executive functioning, low self-esteem, social skills, self-sufficiency, time management, academic concerns, & family/relationship conflict, etc.
(717) 619-9452 View (717) 619-9452
Photo of Tonya L. Lane, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tonya L. Lane
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lancaster, PA 17601
Hi! My name is Tonya Lane, LPC at Life and Love Counseling, LLC. I work with children, adolescents, adults, & families, with a specific emphasis on helping preschool-aged & preadolescent children. My role often extends to the children's families & their circumstances that impact their lives; education, community, & legal matters. I will often communicate with outside agencies & schools to facilitate collaboration. My clinical focus includes ADHD, ODD, PTSD, Autism, Anxiety, Depression, Developmental Disorders, & Learning Disabilities, Academic Concerns, Time Management, Boundary-Setting, Parenting, Healthy Eating, Work/Life Balance.
Hi! My name is Tonya Lane, LPC at Life and Love Counseling, LLC. I work with children, adolescents, adults, & families, with a specific emphasis on helping preschool-aged & preadolescent children. My role often extends to the children's families & their circumstances that impact their lives; education, community, & legal matters. I will often communicate with outside agencies & schools to facilitate collaboration. My clinical focus includes ADHD, ODD, PTSD, Autism, Anxiety, Depression, Developmental Disorders, & Learning Disabilities, Academic Concerns, Time Management, Boundary-Setting, Parenting, Healthy Eating, Work/Life Balance.
(717) 553-0621 View (717) 553-0621
Photo of Mindy Biddle, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mindy Biddle
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Lancaster, PA 17601
My goal is to provide a safe and warm therapeutic environment to assist you or your loved one on a path to healing. I have been working in an outpatient setting for 12 years and I have a passion for helping others. I take a collaborative approach with my clients and rapport building is a key element. I have experience working with diverse populations with a wide range of concerns. I would love the opportunity to help you to achieve your goals!
My goal is to provide a safe and warm therapeutic environment to assist you or your loved one on a path to healing. I have been working in an outpatient setting for 12 years and I have a passion for helping others. I take a collaborative approach with my clients and rapport building is a key element. I have experience working with diverse populations with a wide range of concerns. I would love the opportunity to help you to achieve your goals!
(717) 220-0125 View (717) 220-0125
Photo of Ambre Witte - Life and Love Counseling, LLC., MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Life and Love Counseling, LLC.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lancaster, PA 17601
Hi! We are Life and Love Counseling, LLC., a caring outpatient psychotherapy office, located in Lancaster, PA providing mental health services, life coaching, & holistic therapies for individuals (children ages 3+, adolescents, & adults), families, couples, & groups. When life becomes overwhelming, psychotherapy offers therapeutic support, encouragement, psychoeducation, & facilitates the implementation of problem-solving strategies to navigate difficult & challenging times. We utilize CBT strategies to address negative thoughts, feelings, & behaviors. We offer holistic approaches to attain balance & awaken an inner calm.
Hi! We are Life and Love Counseling, LLC., a caring outpatient psychotherapy office, located in Lancaster, PA providing mental health services, life coaching, & holistic therapies for individuals (children ages 3+, adolescents, & adults), families, couples, & groups. When life becomes overwhelming, psychotherapy offers therapeutic support, encouragement, psychoeducation, & facilitates the implementation of problem-solving strategies to navigate difficult & challenging times. We utilize CBT strategies to address negative thoughts, feelings, & behaviors. We offer holistic approaches to attain balance & awaken an inner calm.
(717) 454-2068 View (717) 454-2068
Photo of Latinia M. Shell, EdD, LPC, NCC, CCMHC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Latinia M. Shell
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC, NCC, CCMHC, ACS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lancaster, PA 17603
I provide individual therapy for adolescents, teens, adults, as well as couples, families, and group counseling. Through a highly personalized approach tailored to each client's individual needs, I assist clients in identifying limiting beliefs and outmoded coping mechanisms that may be standing in the way. I work with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues. Services provided span from therapy for depression and anxiety to relationship and family counseling, stress management, anger management and beyond. In a comfortable and supportive atmosphere, I hope to help clients attain the personal growth they're striving for.
I provide individual therapy for adolescents, teens, adults, as well as couples, families, and group counseling. Through a highly personalized approach tailored to each client's individual needs, I assist clients in identifying limiting beliefs and outmoded coping mechanisms that may be standing in the way. I work with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues. Services provided span from therapy for depression and anxiety to relationship and family counseling, stress management, anger management and beyond. In a comfortable and supportive atmosphere, I hope to help clients attain the personal growth they're striving for.
(717) 801-1159 View (717) 801-1159
Photo of Tamra Miller-Spence - Redemption Wellness Services, LLC, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Redemption Wellness Services, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lancaster, PA 17603
Hello, my name is Tamra Miller-Spence. I've worked in the mental health field for about 7 years. I've worked with a variety of client needs, including maternal mental health, domestic violence, anxiety, depression, parenting concerns, relationship discord, trauma, self-harm, suicidal thoughts, and anger management. The clients I work with are seeking guidance in making lifestyle changes to improve their quality of life. They are goal oriented, with an open-mind, and a willingness to be present in sessions.
Hello, my name is Tamra Miller-Spence. I've worked in the mental health field for about 7 years. I've worked with a variety of client needs, including maternal mental health, domestic violence, anxiety, depression, parenting concerns, relationship discord, trauma, self-harm, suicidal thoughts, and anger management. The clients I work with are seeking guidance in making lifestyle changes to improve their quality of life. They are goal oriented, with an open-mind, and a willingness to be present in sessions.
(223) 332-4023 View (223) 332-4023
Photo of Carrissa Delaney, MA, BSL, LPC, LPCMH, Licensed Professional Counselor
Carrissa Delaney
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, BSL, LPC, LPCMH
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lancaster, PA 17602
"I count it as a blessing to devote my professional time to serving individuals and families struggling with a wide range of mental health struggles including depression, addictions, anxiety, maladaptive personality features, parenting strategies, parenting a child with autism, and familial adjustment to separation or divorce. A proponent of technical eclecticism as an outpatient and community-based therapist, I specialize in Psychoanalytic, Trauma-Focused, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
"I count it as a blessing to devote my professional time to serving individuals and families struggling with a wide range of mental health struggles including depression, addictions, anxiety, maladaptive personality features, parenting strategies, parenting a child with autism, and familial adjustment to separation or divorce. A proponent of technical eclecticism as an outpatient and community-based therapist, I specialize in Psychoanalytic, Trauma-Focused, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
(717) 210-5185 View (717) 210-5185

Online Therapists

Photo of Kaili Preston, MA, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kaili Preston
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sinking Spring, PA 19608
Kaili Preston, Outpatient Therapist, is a National Certified Counselor who started her career in human services in 2016 and is currently accumulating clinical supervision hours towards professional licensure (LPC). She is highly skilled in Attachment Based Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Family Therapy (inclusive of Couples/Marriage Counseling), and Play Therapy. Her passion is supporting other Mamas (as she is a Mom of 5) in their perinatal/parenting journeys along with her love for counseling kiddos, teens, and young adults (ages 3+).
Kaili Preston, Outpatient Therapist, is a National Certified Counselor who started her career in human services in 2016 and is currently accumulating clinical supervision hours towards professional licensure (LPC). She is highly skilled in Attachment Based Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Family Therapy (inclusive of Couples/Marriage Counseling), and Play Therapy. Her passion is supporting other Mamas (as she is a Mom of 5) in their perinatal/parenting journeys along with her love for counseling kiddos, teens, and young adults (ages 3+).
(610) 859-4487 View (610) 859-4487
Photo of Gina Laird - Laird Family Counseling, LLC, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Laird Family Counseling, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Phoenixville, PA 19460
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, working with children, adolescents, families and couples and individual clients. I utilize principles of family systems theory with all clients and believe the family dynamic of every client system is central to client progress. I want to help you learn how to break the negative cycles in your life and help you to live the authentic, healthy and happy life you deserve.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, working with children, adolescents, families and couples and individual clients. I utilize principles of family systems theory with all clients and believe the family dynamic of every client system is central to client progress. I want to help you learn how to break the negative cycles in your life and help you to live the authentic, healthy and happy life you deserve.
(610) 643-4088 View (610) 643-4088
Photo of Valerie Palencar - Valerie Palencar, LPC, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Valerie Palencar, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Pittston, PA 18640
Hello! I work with my clients using a Cognitive Behavioral, Psychoanalytic, Solution Focused Approach. Solution Focused means we try to solve issues and problems as soon as possible. I am also a trauma specialist and have worked with military and domestic violence victims for many years. Trauma is relative to each individual and shouldn't be compared. And there are ways to heal and thrive! I also work with sexual addiction, childhood behavioral issues, depression and anxiety, chronic pain, career coaching, and all female issues. I also offer premarital and marital counseling.
Hello! I work with my clients using a Cognitive Behavioral, Psychoanalytic, Solution Focused Approach. Solution Focused means we try to solve issues and problems as soon as possible. I am also a trauma specialist and have worked with military and domestic violence victims for many years. Trauma is relative to each individual and shouldn't be compared. And there are ways to heal and thrive! I also work with sexual addiction, childhood behavioral issues, depression and anxiety, chronic pain, career coaching, and all female issues. I also offer premarital and marital counseling.
(917) 821-6645 View (917) 821-6645
Photo of Myriam Rosefort, LCSW , LBSC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Myriam Rosefort
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW , LBSC
Verified Verified
Lansdowne, PA 19050
I provide individual, marriage and family therapy and child/adolescent therapy.
Doesn't it feel like life can be so unpredictable sometimes. Sometimes you may feel overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed? I’m a firm believer that it is important to meet clients where they are at and to be culturally sensitive. My therapeutic style is holistic and eclectic. I take great pride in assuring my clients that this is a safe space where they can vent, express themselves freely, feel validated, and not be judged. I specialize in individual therapy, marriage and family therapy. My objective is to create a safe space for you to assist you with processing your traumas, challenges, and areas in which you feel stuck.
I provide individual, marriage and family therapy and child/adolescent therapy.
Doesn't it feel like life can be so unpredictable sometimes. Sometimes you may feel overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed? I’m a firm believer that it is important to meet clients where they are at and to be culturally sensitive. My therapeutic style is holistic and eclectic. I take great pride in assuring my clients that this is a safe space where they can vent, express themselves freely, feel validated, and not be judged. I specialize in individual therapy, marriage and family therapy. My objective is to create a safe space for you to assist you with processing your traumas, challenges, and areas in which you feel stuck.
(484) 261-1380 View (484) 261-1380
Photo of Alisha Katz, LCSW, MSS, RYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alisha Katz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSS, RYT
Verified Verified
Lafayette Hill, PA 19444
Trying to find the right therapist is challenging. I compare it to finding comfortable jeans or shoes. Its hard to find the right "fit." When life is frustrating and overwhelming, reaching out for help and not finding a person that is understanding and empathic, can feel discouraging. Making changes to your life when you're feeling anxious, alone and depression is also difficult. My clients come to my office with varying issues including depression, anxiety, marital, work, school, LGBTQ+ and interpersonal concerns. Each client is separate and unique and their therapy is tailored to their personal needs.
Trying to find the right therapist is challenging. I compare it to finding comfortable jeans or shoes. Its hard to find the right "fit." When life is frustrating and overwhelming, reaching out for help and not finding a person that is understanding and empathic, can feel discouraging. Making changes to your life when you're feeling anxious, alone and depression is also difficult. My clients come to my office with varying issues including depression, anxiety, marital, work, school, LGBTQ+ and interpersonal concerns. Each client is separate and unique and their therapy is tailored to their personal needs.
(215) 392-6701 View (215) 392-6701
Photo of Ellen Faulkner - Ellen J. Faulkner, Ph.D. Psychotherapy, PhD, NCPsyA
Ellen J. Faulkner, Ph.D. Psychotherapy
PhD, NCPsyA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chalfont, PA 18914
After working for over 42 years as a psychotherapist/psychoanalyst I welcome patients who are ready to do in depth work in psychotherapy and find lasting change. Psychoanalysis is an extraordinary opportunity to enrich your life, find the person you were meant to be, and experience the contentment and joy that you have been missing. Whether you are looking for marriage/couples counseling, dealing with personal issues or feel unsatisfied with brief therapy you've experienced, my patients find me to be warm, kind, insightful, accepting, and supportive. My group practice works with both adults and children. www.faulknertherapy.net
After working for over 42 years as a psychotherapist/psychoanalyst I welcome patients who are ready to do in depth work in psychotherapy and find lasting change. Psychoanalysis is an extraordinary opportunity to enrich your life, find the person you were meant to be, and experience the contentment and joy that you have been missing. Whether you are looking for marriage/couples counseling, dealing with personal issues or feel unsatisfied with brief therapy you've experienced, my patients find me to be warm, kind, insightful, accepting, and supportive. My group practice works with both adults and children. www.faulknertherapy.net
(215) 600-2421 View (215) 600-2421
Photo of Patricia Cilenti - Patricia Cilenti , MS, LBS, CMFT, CLC
Patricia Cilenti
MS, LBS, CMFT, CLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Easton, PA 18045  (Online Only)
I a dedicated to helping people in their lives. It is my belief that we all deserve to live a life that leaves us with gratitude. Do you feel like there are too many obstacles in your life and not enough answers? If you are struggling through a tough time in your life I will work toward guiding your focus and bringing you to a positive and peaceful place. Life is too short to live in bad situations and to feel dragged down. I am a certified life coach and marriage and family therapist as well as a licensed behavioral specialist.
I a dedicated to helping people in their lives. It is my belief that we all deserve to live a life that leaves us with gratitude. Do you feel like there are too many obstacles in your life and not enough answers? If you are struggling through a tough time in your life I will work toward guiding your focus and bringing you to a positive and peaceful place. Life is too short to live in bad situations and to feel dragged down. I am a certified life coach and marriage and family therapist as well as a licensed behavioral specialist.
(610) 708-2268 View (610) 708-2268
Photo of M. Eva Weicker - Weicker, MD*,  MBA,  CCTP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Weicker
Pre-Licensed Professional, MD*, MBA, CCTP
Verified Verified
Sinking Spring, PA 19608
She is currently a Marital and Family Therapist; she conducts individual therapy, as well as therapy with families and couples using the Gottman Method.
Dr. Weicker was originally trained as a medical doctor " La Sapienza" University of Rome Italy in 1988. After moving to the United States in 1989, she embarked upon a new career in brain and colon cancer research at RI Hospital- Brown University for 4 years and a Thomas Jefferson for 2 years. Dr. Weicker also has been a College Professor in Anatomy and Physiology Pathophysiology, Nutrition and Herbs and Medicine college courses for 20 years, Penn State, Alvernia University, and Lehigh Carbon Community College. She has since earned a Master's Degree in Health Care from Alvernia University in 2004
She is currently a Marital and Family Therapist; she conducts individual therapy, as well as therapy with families and couples using the Gottman Method.
Dr. Weicker was originally trained as a medical doctor " La Sapienza" University of Rome Italy in 1988. After moving to the United States in 1989, she embarked upon a new career in brain and colon cancer research at RI Hospital- Brown University for 4 years and a Thomas Jefferson for 2 years. Dr. Weicker also has been a College Professor in Anatomy and Physiology Pathophysiology, Nutrition and Herbs and Medicine college courses for 20 years, Penn State, Alvernia University, and Lehigh Carbon Community College. She has since earned a Master's Degree in Health Care from Alvernia University in 2004
(610) 670-8800 View (610) 670-8800
Photo of Lealar (Lil) Weldon, MA, LPC, RPT-S, CCPT, LPCMH, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lealar (Lil) Weldon
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, RPT-S, CCPT, LPCMH
Verified Verified
Willow Grove, PA 19090  (Online Only)
Is your child experiencing a decline in academics, increased anxiety or struggle with controlling their anger? With over 20 years of experience, I am equipped to handle these challenges and give you the tools to help your child be the best version of themselves. I incorporate sand tray, an expressive therapy with children or adults to create scenes of miniature worlds that reflect a person's inner thoughts, struggles and issues. I assist children & parents by teaching them coping skills, ways to improve their decision making and better navigate their lives. . We work with couples on early marital adjustment and conflict containment
Is your child experiencing a decline in academics, increased anxiety or struggle with controlling their anger? With over 20 years of experience, I am equipped to handle these challenges and give you the tools to help your child be the best version of themselves. I incorporate sand tray, an expressive therapy with children or adults to create scenes of miniature worlds that reflect a person's inner thoughts, struggles and issues. I assist children & parents by teaching them coping skills, ways to improve their decision making and better navigate their lives. . We work with couples on early marital adjustment and conflict containment
(267) 281-1898 View (267) 281-1898
Photo of Janon Wilson - Compass Counseling and Psychotherapy, LLC, LPC, ACS, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Compass Counseling and Psychotherapy, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ACS, NCC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19102  (Online Only)
"Life doesn't get easier or more forgiving , we get stronger and more resilient" Steve Maraboli. If you are reading this, you have already taken the hardest step toward feeling better- reaching out for help. At Compass we understand that it is important for you to feel understood, heard and supported. When we all are working as a team, those things will be automatic. Our approach is direct yet very compassionate. Our goal is for us together to identify the cause of your issues, to develop what is needed and how it can be achieved. We would like to get you unstuck and on the path to happiness.
"Life doesn't get easier or more forgiving , we get stronger and more resilient" Steve Maraboli. If you are reading this, you have already taken the hardest step toward feeling better- reaching out for help. At Compass we understand that it is important for you to feel understood, heard and supported. When we all are working as a team, those things will be automatic. Our approach is direct yet very compassionate. Our goal is for us together to identify the cause of your issues, to develop what is needed and how it can be achieved. We would like to get you unstuck and on the path to happiness.
(202) 998-5586 View (202) 998-5586
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.