Photo of Amy Galpin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin County, TX
Amy Galpin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sealy, TX 77474
Are you or do you know someone having difficulty relating to their teenager because of difficulties with impulsive or defiant behaviors, dramatic changes in mood, experimentation with drugs or alcohol, or they are just need someone safe to talk to? Have you considered alternative treatments in conjunction with traditional talk therapy including Neurofeedback or Biofeedback?
Are you or do you know someone having difficulty relating to their teenager because of difficulties with impulsive or defiant behaviors, dramatic changes in mood, experimentation with drugs or alcohol, or they are just need someone safe to talk to? Have you considered alternative treatments in conjunction with traditional talk therapy including Neurofeedback or Biofeedback?
(281) 241-6095 View (281) 241-6095
Photo of Wendy Williams, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin County, TX
Wendy Williams, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sealy, TX 77474
AFTERNOON APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE! Are you or your family struggling emotionally with life's challenges, you have tried everything to fix the problem with no avail, and you don't know where else to turn? I can help. Through focusing on your strengths, helping you create healthy habits, and teaching you healthy coping skills, I can help you and/or your family cope with and overcome family issues/couples issues, mental illness, work through struggles you may face during each stage of life, and work through traumatic life experiences so you can live a life free of emotional pain.
AFTERNOON APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE! Are you or your family struggling emotionally with life's challenges, you have tried everything to fix the problem with no avail, and you don't know where else to turn? I can help. Through focusing on your strengths, helping you create healthy habits, and teaching you healthy coping skills, I can help you and/or your family cope with and overcome family issues/couples issues, mental illness, work through struggles you may face during each stage of life, and work through traumatic life experiences so you can live a life free of emotional pain.
(832) 734-9102 View (832) 734-9102

Online Therapists

Photo of Dr. Brittany Davis, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin County, TX
Dr. Brittany Davis
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MFT, CPC, LPC
Verified Verified
Schulenburg, TX 78956
Waitlist for new clients
Families dealing with transitional problems, marital and premarital counseling, mood disorders, foster children and adoption as well as junior sex offenders and victims.
There are no ideal clients that I am able to describe because all clients are all different. I don't treat one client the same as I treat the next, but all clients need a different treatment but will always receive the same genuine approach. Your goals and treatment goals can only work with the transcribing of the clients needs and the needs of the clients; which are my main focus.
Families dealing with transitional problems, marital and premarital counseling, mood disorders, foster children and adoption as well as junior sex offenders and victims.
There are no ideal clients that I am able to describe because all clients are all different. I don't treat one client the same as I treat the next, but all clients need a different treatment but will always receive the same genuine approach. Your goals and treatment goals can only work with the transcribing of the clients needs and the needs of the clients; which are my main focus.
(702) 956-9636 View (702) 956-9636
Photo of Jerry Shipp, Marriage & Family Therapist in Austin County, TX
Jerry Shipp
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Georgetown, TX 78628
I have almost 37 years as a marriage and family therapist.
Mask usage: I will NOT be wearing a mask and ask that you do not either. Your whole face is essential for effective communication. I do have a clear face shield that is sanitized after every use, if you require a mask. Telehealth is always an option. Whether you are experiencing marital issues, emotional, social, or psychic issues, or having trouble getting your own brain to function properly, you are feeling pain and distress. If you are looking to save your marriage, in spite of infidelity, I am here to tell you there is hope.
I have almost 37 years as a marriage and family therapist.
Mask usage: I will NOT be wearing a mask and ask that you do not either. Your whole face is essential for effective communication. I do have a clear face shield that is sanitized after every use, if you require a mask. Telehealth is always an option. Whether you are experiencing marital issues, emotional, social, or psychic issues, or having trouble getting your own brain to function properly, you are feeling pain and distress. If you are looking to save your marriage, in spite of infidelity, I am here to tell you there is hope.
(512) 540-3573 View (512) 540-3573
Photo of M. Sue S Echols, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin County, TX
M. Sue S Echols
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, BCPC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77077  (Online Only)
Hello, and welcome to my profile. I am a clinical psychotherapist, licensed as an LPC in Texas. I have been working in the field of mental health, in various capacities for the past 34 years, and in private practice for 29 of those, including currently. I have had many years of trainings, and hold multiple certifications. My work has included, but is not limited to; issues with anxiety, depression, PTSD, trauma, abuse and domestic violence; marriage and family, couples/relationships; custody, LGBQT; gender identity; addictions; terminal issues, death and dying; multicultural issues, and many others.
Hello, and welcome to my profile. I am a clinical psychotherapist, licensed as an LPC in Texas. I have been working in the field of mental health, in various capacities for the past 34 years, and in private practice for 29 of those, including currently. I have had many years of trainings, and hold multiple certifications. My work has included, but is not limited to; issues with anxiety, depression, PTSD, trauma, abuse and domestic violence; marriage and family, couples/relationships; custody, LGBQT; gender identity; addictions; terminal issues, death and dying; multicultural issues, and many others.
(832) 551-2501 View (832) 551-2501
Photo of Stuart J Nathan, Psychologist in Austin County, TX
Stuart J Nathan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77063
As a psychologist with over 30 years experience, I have particular interest in working with individuals with mood disorders, anxiety disorders, college and work stress, phase of life issues, gay/lesbian struggles, marital/divorce problems and general relationship issues. My expertise has allowed me to be highly effective in quickly understanding the needs of my patients, to help facilitate an effective treatment plan. Generally, individuals begin to feel better with progress often seen after a few visits. The length of time spent in treatment will be mutually agreed upon, based on the presenting problem and its complexity.
As a psychologist with over 30 years experience, I have particular interest in working with individuals with mood disorders, anxiety disorders, college and work stress, phase of life issues, gay/lesbian struggles, marital/divorce problems and general relationship issues. My expertise has allowed me to be highly effective in quickly understanding the needs of my patients, to help facilitate an effective treatment plan. Generally, individuals begin to feel better with progress often seen after a few visits. The length of time spent in treatment will be mutually agreed upon, based on the presenting problem and its complexity.
(281) 206-4358 View (281) 206-4358
Photo of John Michael Murray, Marriage & Family Therapist in Austin County, TX
John Michael Murray
Marriage & Family Therapist, JD, MS, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
Lake Jackson, TX 77566
I am licensed both as a Professional Counselor and in Marriage and Family Therapy.
You are one-of-a-kind. And so, beginning with our first meeting, I will be sure that I clearly understand you and your unique needs. Then, as your therapist, I will work to help you establish and achieve the goals that are immportant to you. Effective psychotherapy supports the emotional healing that leads to wellbeing. My approach includes what I call "relational reflective listening and speaking". It's a process that developes and nurtures the deep respect I have for my patients. In our conversations you and I together will discover new possibilities, new hope that heals the heart.
I am licensed both as a Professional Counselor and in Marriage and Family Therapy.
You are one-of-a-kind. And so, beginning with our first meeting, I will be sure that I clearly understand you and your unique needs. Then, as your therapist, I will work to help you establish and achieve the goals that are immportant to you. Effective psychotherapy supports the emotional healing that leads to wellbeing. My approach includes what I call "relational reflective listening and speaking". It's a process that developes and nurtures the deep respect I have for my patients. In our conversations you and I together will discover new possibilities, new hope that heals the heart.
(832) 463-5602 View (832) 463-5602
Photo of The Well Counseling Center, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin County, TX
The Well Counseling Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, RPT-S, NCC, LCPC, TBRI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78731
The Well is a professional mental health practice with a team of clinicians serving Texas. We sincerely believe there is hope for all who are willing to seek help, no matter what their situation. With an integrated approach, using psychological proven techniques and skills from a Christian foundation, we draw from a variety of methodologies to incorporate what is most helpful for each individual. We tailor our skills and therapeutic interventions to meet our individual client’s with love and understanding. Sascha is a advanced clinical supervising specialist for teen, child, marital, and online therapy.
The Well is a professional mental health practice with a team of clinicians serving Texas. We sincerely believe there is hope for all who are willing to seek help, no matter what their situation. With an integrated approach, using psychological proven techniques and skills from a Christian foundation, we draw from a variety of methodologies to incorporate what is most helpful for each individual. We tailor our skills and therapeutic interventions to meet our individual client’s with love and understanding. Sascha is a advanced clinical supervising specialist for teen, child, marital, and online therapy.
(469) 290-0502 View (469) 290-0502
Photo of Christine Mendez, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin County, TX
Christine Mendez
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78705  (Online Only)
My specializations are: Depression, Anxiety, Work-related Stress, School Issues, Children with Multiple Medical and/or Behavioral Needs, Family and Parenting Issues, Marital Issues, Gender-related issues or concerns, Older Parents Caregiving Concerns, Anxiety from Climate Change and Issues of Eco-Anxiety/Environmental Fears of Ecological Disasters.
Hello! My name is Christine Mendez and I reside in Texas. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and an LPC Supervisor. I would love to meet with you and learn more about what your life's dreams, passions and goals are. This journey is about self-discovery and learning about how to have a more satisfying lifestyle, better relationships, more energy and enthusiasm for life and living our dreams in the moment. Life is too short to be worried, fearful, scared, doubtful, angry or depressed! There are so many things and people in our lives that we can learn to be thankful for.
My specializations are: Depression, Anxiety, Work-related Stress, School Issues, Children with Multiple Medical and/or Behavioral Needs, Family and Parenting Issues, Marital Issues, Gender-related issues or concerns, Older Parents Caregiving Concerns, Anxiety from Climate Change and Issues of Eco-Anxiety/Environmental Fears of Ecological Disasters.
Hello! My name is Christine Mendez and I reside in Texas. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and an LPC Supervisor. I would love to meet with you and learn more about what your life's dreams, passions and goals are. This journey is about self-discovery and learning about how to have a more satisfying lifestyle, better relationships, more energy and enthusiasm for life and living our dreams in the moment. Life is too short to be worried, fearful, scared, doubtful, angry or depressed! There are so many things and people in our lives that we can learn to be thankful for.
(737) 352-4617 View (737) 352-4617
Photo of Dr. Roger D. Vazquez, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin County, TX
Dr. Roger D. Vazquez
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
Sugar Land, TX 77478
I have experience working with a wide variety of life problems and mental health disorders, but my primary interests include depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), academic issues, panic/phobias, anger management, addiction, couples, marriage, and family relationship issues.
I have experience working with a wide variety of life problems and mental health disorders, but my primary interests include depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), academic issues, panic/phobias, anger management, addiction, couples, marriage, and family relationship issues.
(281) 666-9607 View (281) 666-9607
Photo of Steve Jones, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Austin County, TX
Steve Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, LCDC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78748  (Online Only)
My goal is to help individuals and couples achieve peace and contentment by increasing self-awareness and recognizing behaviors that no longer serve them. I make it my aim to partner with clients on their journey, identify their strengths, help distinguish areas for growth, and provide clients with non-judgmental support along the way. I believe that strong and fulfilling relationships with other individuals can help people maintain emotional well-being. I have 20+ years of experience in mental health, including individual, marriage, group counseling, crisis intervention, and substance abuse assessments.
My goal is to help individuals and couples achieve peace and contentment by increasing self-awareness and recognizing behaviors that no longer serve them. I make it my aim to partner with clients on their journey, identify their strengths, help distinguish areas for growth, and provide clients with non-judgmental support along the way. I believe that strong and fulfilling relationships with other individuals can help people maintain emotional well-being. I have 20+ years of experience in mental health, including individual, marriage, group counseling, crisis intervention, and substance abuse assessments.
(512) 229-9297 View (512) 229-9297
Photo of Marty Romero Brickley, M.Ed., LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin County, TX
Marty Romero Brickley, M.Ed., LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78745
Life Problems * Depression * Anxiety * Life Transitions * Pain Grief & Loss * Marital & Relationship Issues * Fears & Phobias * Parenting Issues * Trauma/PTSD * Existential Issues.
I provide counseling for individuals, couples, marriages and families. I also provide individual sessions for Meridian Tapping and iRest® Yoga Nidra Meditation. I integrate Imago, Meridian Tapping and meditation to empower you in learning to navigate your life and relationships. I guide you in exploring body feelings, emotions and beliefs as well as your relationship systems. I will guide you in learning how to become safe with yourself and how to be empowered in the present while living in the world. I look forward to working with you. I will treat your concerns with the utmost respect and with complete confidentiality.
Life Problems * Depression * Anxiety * Life Transitions * Pain Grief & Loss * Marital & Relationship Issues * Fears & Phobias * Parenting Issues * Trauma/PTSD * Existential Issues.
I provide counseling for individuals, couples, marriages and families. I also provide individual sessions for Meridian Tapping and iRest® Yoga Nidra Meditation. I integrate Imago, Meridian Tapping and meditation to empower you in learning to navigate your life and relationships. I guide you in exploring body feelings, emotions and beliefs as well as your relationship systems. I will guide you in learning how to become safe with yourself and how to be empowered in the present while living in the world. I look forward to working with you. I will treat your concerns with the utmost respect and with complete confidentiality.
(512) 354-2813 View (512) 354-2813
Photo of Henry M Pittman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin County, TX
Henry M Pittman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LMFT-S, LPC-S, LCDC-CS, QSAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77055
I am a Multi-Licensed Practitioner of the Healing Arts since 1998, speaker, and author. I hold four licenses as a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist Supervisor, Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor, Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor, & Acupuncture Detoxification Specialist. Nationally, I hold a designation as a National Credential Counselor (NCC) Master Addiction Counselor (MAC), Substance Abuse Professional (SAP), Somatic Experience Practitioner (SEP)
I am a Multi-Licensed Practitioner of the Healing Arts since 1998, speaker, and author. I hold four licenses as a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist Supervisor, Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor, Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor, & Acupuncture Detoxification Specialist. Nationally, I hold a designation as a National Credential Counselor (NCC) Master Addiction Counselor (MAC), Substance Abuse Professional (SAP), Somatic Experience Practitioner (SEP)
(281) 214-6237 View (281) 214-6237
Photo of Suniti Barua, Psychologist in Austin County, TX
Suniti Barua
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77004  (Online Only)
Life can be wonderful, but often comes with many surprisingly hard twists and turns (e.g., marriage, divorce, adolescence, relocating, mid-life, crises and loss). Changes in health and chronic medical issues can be among the most difficult as they can be lasting, painful, and with serious consequences. Sometimes you need someone trustworthy, knowledgable and caring to walk you through some of the hardest times and I would be honored to do so.
Life can be wonderful, but often comes with many surprisingly hard twists and turns (e.g., marriage, divorce, adolescence, relocating, mid-life, crises and loss). Changes in health and chronic medical issues can be among the most difficult as they can be lasting, painful, and with serious consequences. Sometimes you need someone trustworthy, knowledgable and caring to walk you through some of the hardest times and I would be honored to do so.
(832) 219-9921 View (832) 219-9921
Photo of Alexis Hyde-Washmon (Able Thoughts Pllc), Marriage & Family Therapist in Austin County, TX
Alexis Hyde-Washmon (Able Thoughts Pllc)
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LPC, BCBA, LMFT, LBA
Verified Verified
Katy, TX 77450
Behavior Analyst/Marriage and Family Therapist: Provide individualized programs to clients with cognitive/developmental/behavioral challenges based on behavioral learning theory (e.
I provide services for the following: Child/Adolescent - development, application, and evaluation of behavioral/cognitive-behavioral interventions for child/teen populations (e.g., under-served, children of divorce, juvenile victims of violent crimes, children with conduct and personality disorders, children with developmental disorders, and adolescents with chemical dependency and life challenges). Adults/Elderly - individual, couples and family psychotherapy (e.g., marital, parenting, aging, divorce issues, chemical dependency, mood disorders, depression and anxiety, personality disorders, post-traumatic stress, and LGBTQ).
Behavior Analyst/Marriage and Family Therapist: Provide individualized programs to clients with cognitive/developmental/behavioral challenges based on behavioral learning theory (e.
I provide services for the following: Child/Adolescent - development, application, and evaluation of behavioral/cognitive-behavioral interventions for child/teen populations (e.g., under-served, children of divorce, juvenile victims of violent crimes, children with conduct and personality disorders, children with developmental disorders, and adolescents with chemical dependency and life challenges). Adults/Elderly - individual, couples and family psychotherapy (e.g., marital, parenting, aging, divorce issues, chemical dependency, mood disorders, depression and anxiety, personality disorders, post-traumatic stress, and LGBTQ).
(713) 804-2638 View (713) 804-2638
Photo of Nancy E White, Psychologist in Austin County, TX
Nancy E White
Psychologist, PhD, AAC, LPC, BCN, QEEGD
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77056
Dr Nancy White and the Unique Mind Care team offer neurofeedback and brain health programs that are the most advanced and safest in Houston. We also offer private, marriage and family counseling. We encourage new clients to call our office and speak to Dr White or a team member to learn why Unique Mind Care is Houston's leader in Neurofeedback and Neuro-stimulation techniques. All initial phone consultations are complimentary.
Dr Nancy White and the Unique Mind Care team offer neurofeedback and brain health programs that are the most advanced and safest in Houston. We also offer private, marriage and family counseling. We encourage new clients to call our office and speak to Dr White or a team member to learn why Unique Mind Care is Houston's leader in Neurofeedback and Neuro-stimulation techniques. All initial phone consultations are complimentary.
(713) 660-1100 View (713) 660-1100
Photo of Ann Marie Glick, Marriage & Family Therapist in Austin County, TX
Ann Marie Glick
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA , LMFT-S, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78746
I am a Marriage Counselor who is married.
Today we have 6 generations of people looking for Love and Emotional Connection. I love working with couples. With 12 years experience at Psychiatric hospitals and 20 yrs in private practice, I am excited to teach couples creative skills and resources to change and grow healthy relationships. We take inventory of relationship needs, learn and practice effective communication skills to manage stress with intimacy, family, career and parenting. I Teach the Tools to forgive resentments and negotiate effectively. I use Research based tx modalities, Gottman, Genogram, Imago Tx, Mindfulness, Meditation, CBT and DBT. Spanish Speaking.
I am a Marriage Counselor who is married.
Today we have 6 generations of people looking for Love and Emotional Connection. I love working with couples. With 12 years experience at Psychiatric hospitals and 20 yrs in private practice, I am excited to teach couples creative skills and resources to change and grow healthy relationships. We take inventory of relationship needs, learn and practice effective communication skills to manage stress with intimacy, family, career and parenting. I Teach the Tools to forgive resentments and negotiate effectively. I use Research based tx modalities, Gottman, Genogram, Imago Tx, Mindfulness, Meditation, CBT and DBT. Spanish Speaking.
(512) 790-6930 View (512) 790-6930
The Center for PEACE, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, RPT-S, LSOTP, LCDCI, LBSWIPR
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77005
Searching for PEACE?... We Have It. Imagine having the guidance to access Inner Peace, support for resolve and courage to embrace change. The Center for PEACE, PLLC will assist those desiring psychotherapy processing trauma, anxiety, depression, marital discord, addiction, play therapy and gender identify support. Our approach is to aid you through the journey of healing, mindfulness, insight and more importantly, peace. Let's us know when you are ready. We are here for you.
Searching for PEACE?... We Have It. Imagine having the guidance to access Inner Peace, support for resolve and courage to embrace change. The Center for PEACE, PLLC will assist those desiring psychotherapy processing trauma, anxiety, depression, marital discord, addiction, play therapy and gender identify support. Our approach is to aid you through the journey of healing, mindfulness, insight and more importantly, peace. Let's us know when you are ready. We are here for you.
(281) 816-4219 View (281) 816-4219
Photo of Dr. Julie Jones, Marriage & Family Therapist in Austin County, TX
Dr. Julie Jones
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
League City, TX 77573  (Online Only)
Beyond my therapy practice: I have served as an adjunct professor at the University of Houston-Clear Lake, a supervisor for licensed marriage and family therapy associates and licensed professional counselor associates, and a trainer and volunteer for the Red Cross in Disaster Mental Health.
My practice is primarily family therapy where multiple family members participate. The majority of the families I work with have at least one, if not many, of the following diagnoses: AD/HD, oppositional defiant disorder, selective mutism, learning disorders (dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, pragmatic communication, etc), social communication disorder, autism, anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, and/or bipolar disorder. I actively use Accelerated Resolution Therapy(ART) to help people gain relief from trauma and persistent unwanted thoughts. I also offer comprehensive reports for social security applications.
Beyond my therapy practice: I have served as an adjunct professor at the University of Houston-Clear Lake, a supervisor for licensed marriage and family therapy associates and licensed professional counselor associates, and a trainer and volunteer for the Red Cross in Disaster Mental Health.
My practice is primarily family therapy where multiple family members participate. The majority of the families I work with have at least one, if not many, of the following diagnoses: AD/HD, oppositional defiant disorder, selective mutism, learning disorders (dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, pragmatic communication, etc), social communication disorder, autism, anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, and/or bipolar disorder. I actively use Accelerated Resolution Therapy(ART) to help people gain relief from trauma and persistent unwanted thoughts. I also offer comprehensive reports for social security applications.
(281) 519-2044 View (281) 519-2044
Photo of Counselors of Texas, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin County, TX
Counselors of Texas
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Round Rock, TX 78681
Our licensed professionals including clinical social workers, licensed professional counselors (LPC) and licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT) have over 150 combined years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families.
Counselors Of Texas/Side by Side Wellness Center is one of the largest private counseling groups in Central Texas with offices located in Austin Killeen and Round Rock. Our services include individual therapy, marital and family counseling, group therapy, psychological and educational testing, Christian counseling, educational assessments, chemical dependency counseling, vocational counseling and play therapy. We work with children, adolescents and adults.
Our licensed professionals including clinical social workers, licensed professional counselors (LPC) and licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT) have over 150 combined years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families.
Counselors Of Texas/Side by Side Wellness Center is one of the largest private counseling groups in Central Texas with offices located in Austin Killeen and Round Rock. Our services include individual therapy, marital and family counseling, group therapy, psychological and educational testing, Christian counseling, educational assessments, chemical dependency counseling, vocational counseling and play therapy. We work with children, adolescents and adults.
(737) 204-3398 View (737) 204-3398

See more therapy options for Austin County

Marriage Counseling Therapists

How does marriage counseling work?

Marriage counseling works by teaching couples concrete skills to communicate with one another and solve disagreements in healthy ways. A trained mental health professional works with both members of a couple to explore difficulties the couple may be having and helps them develop skills to address these matters. Couples who don’t have any difficulties but want to prepare for marriage may develop skills for the future.

How long does marriage counseling typically last?

Marriage counseling is a short-term form of therapy; the process may last between four and eight sessions. Other forms of relationship guidance from mental health professionals, such as couples therapy, are longer lasting, may focus on the past rather than just the present, and are tailored to the individual couple and their emotions, history, and patterns in the relationship. Couples therapy often lasts for 12 weeks or longer.

Is marriage counseling effective?

Marriage counseling helps many couples develop relationship skills that may not have been acquired or tested in a relationship; partners may be better able to communicate and address conflict following counseling. However, there are many different forms of marriage counseling, and this form of counseling does not have as strong an evidence base as other modalities such as couples therapy.

Is marriage counseling effective if only one partner wants to go?

Yes, marriage counseling can still be effective if one partner convinces the other to engage in the process. Of course, whether counseling is effective depends on the couple’s commitment to work on their relationship; however, the short-term, skills-based nature of marriage counseling makes it a relatively easy “ask” of a partner, and the hesitant individual may see its value once counseling begins.