Marriage Counseling Therapists in Houston County, TX

Photo of Kara Fiolek, LPC-A, NCC
Kara Fiolek
LPC Associate, LPC-A, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Crockett, TX 75835
Hello! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate under the supervision of Carolyn Harrison LPC-S. I received a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Texas A&M University (WHOOP!), and obtained my Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Sam Houston State University. I work as an Elementary school teacher during the day and have experience working in the jail system as a mental health therapist.
Hello! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate under the supervision of Carolyn Harrison LPC-S. I received a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Texas A&M University (WHOOP!), and obtained my Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Sam Houston State University. I work as an Elementary school teacher during the day and have experience working in the jail system as a mental health therapist.
(936) 298-7086 View (936) 298-7086
Photo of Jodie Ingram Barnett, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jodie Ingram Barnett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Crockett, TX 75835
I work with couples, families, teenagers, young adults and women going through hard seasons and needing to work on problem areas.
I work with couples, families, teenagers, young adults and women going through hard seasons and needing to work on problem areas.
(430) 205-8572 View (430) 205-8572

Online Therapists

Photo of Carlos Rene Calderon, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Carlos Rene Calderon
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Spring, TX 77386
I treat many disorders such as Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Grief, Sexual Issues & Abuse, Addictions, Anger & Stress, Marital challenges & divorce.
My mission is to "Be an agent of Christ's healing, through my story, gifts and passion, to the hopeless, hurting and 'the weakest of the weak', so they may experience full restoration in Christ and share their blessings with others." As Professional Christian Counselor, through the guidance of the Holy Spirit, I incorporate Biblical principles and counseling skills with solid clinical knowledge, theory and practice. I became a Christian Counselor because I love to see The Lord Jesus transform & heal lives, marriages and families. I love being in the trenches with fellow strugglers allowing them the opportunity to be who they are,
I treat many disorders such as Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Grief, Sexual Issues & Abuse, Addictions, Anger & Stress, Marital challenges & divorce.
My mission is to "Be an agent of Christ's healing, through my story, gifts and passion, to the hopeless, hurting and 'the weakest of the weak', so they may experience full restoration in Christ and share their blessings with others." As Professional Christian Counselor, through the guidance of the Holy Spirit, I incorporate Biblical principles and counseling skills with solid clinical knowledge, theory and practice. I became a Christian Counselor because I love to see The Lord Jesus transform & heal lives, marriages and families. I love being in the trenches with fellow strugglers allowing them the opportunity to be who they are,
(832) 558-8633 View (832) 558-8633
Photo of Susan Ilona Bajza, PhD, LPC-S, LMFT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Susan Ilona Bajza
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, LMFT
Verified Verified
The Woodlands, TX 77380
While my therapeutic style calls upon several well established and effective counseling approaches, my main focus is on interpersonal relationships. My passion is to guide my clients on a journey to discover inner strengths and to develop positive patterns of interaction. I am a professional counselor and a marriage and family therapist that loves working with families. All aspects of family life and members of the family (individuals, couples, single parents, entire families, and blended families) are of interest to me. I know that what affects one person in the family affects all members of the family.
While my therapeutic style calls upon several well established and effective counseling approaches, my main focus is on interpersonal relationships. My passion is to guide my clients on a journey to discover inner strengths and to develop positive patterns of interaction. I am a professional counselor and a marriage and family therapist that loves working with families. All aspects of family life and members of the family (individuals, couples, single parents, entire families, and blended families) are of interest to me. I know that what affects one person in the family affects all members of the family.
(979) 308-1588 View (979) 308-1588
Photo of Gail Wilson Kakishita, MS, LMFT, CTMH, Marriage & Family Therapist
Gail Wilson Kakishita
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CTMH
Verified Verified
Spring, TX 77379
You look around and think to yourself, what happened? Each day you feel pulled further and further away from the life you thought was yours. Your morning thoughts go something like this: please let my child have a good day at school; who is this person sitting across the table from me and what happened to the one I said "I do" to? how am I ever going to get through this day? It is so tough to maintain strength, hope, and individuality when your family is in distress, your marriage feels like a failure, your teen is unrecognizable, or you're just completely out of energy. I get it! I'm here! Together we can figure this out.
You look around and think to yourself, what happened? Each day you feel pulled further and further away from the life you thought was yours. Your morning thoughts go something like this: please let my child have a good day at school; who is this person sitting across the table from me and what happened to the one I said "I do" to? how am I ever going to get through this day? It is so tough to maintain strength, hope, and individuality when your family is in distress, your marriage feels like a failure, your teen is unrecognizable, or you're just completely out of energy. I get it! I'm here! Together we can figure this out.
(281) 990-6220 View (281) 990-6220
Photo of Heather Roberts, MA, LMFT, LPC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Heather Roberts
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
The Woodlands, TX 77380
Typical issues presented to me in therapy include family and relational conflict, low self-esteem, self-injurious behaviors in adolescents as well as adolescent issues, depression, anxiety, marital strain, and changes in school or work performance.
I believe that every client has the tools and knowledge necessary to improve their lives. This knowledge becomes hidden by the stress and responsibilities we face on a daily basis. My role as a therapist is to help you uncover those tools in order for you to live a more fulfilling life. If your family is facing a difficult challenge, if you need a different perspective on a situation, or if you are at a loss of what to do with your teen's behavior, I would be honored to help you throughout the process of positive change.
Typical issues presented to me in therapy include family and relational conflict, low self-esteem, self-injurious behaviors in adolescents as well as adolescent issues, depression, anxiety, marital strain, and changes in school or work performance.
I believe that every client has the tools and knowledge necessary to improve their lives. This knowledge becomes hidden by the stress and responsibilities we face on a daily basis. My role as a therapist is to help you uncover those tools in order for you to live a more fulfilling life. If your family is facing a difficult challenge, if you need a different perspective on a situation, or if you are at a loss of what to do with your teen's behavior, I would be honored to help you throughout the process of positive change.
(281) 602-3316 View (281) 602-3316
Photo of Tamika S Burns, MA,MS, LPC-S, LSOTP, NCC, MAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tamika S Burns
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA,MS, LPC-S, LSOTP, NCC, MAC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77039
My training includes a MA in counseling, MS in marriage and family therapy and BS in human development and family studies. I have worked in the mental health field over 15 years and have been licensed since 2006. My areas of expertise range from community mental health to crisis intervention.
My training includes a MA in counseling, MS in marriage and family therapy and BS in human development and family studies. I have worked in the mental health field over 15 years and have been licensed since 2006. My areas of expertise range from community mental health to crisis intervention.
(713) 987-3669 View (713) 987-3669
Photo of undefined - The Houston Relationship Counseling Center, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
The Houston Relationship Counseling Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77069
We help couples in turmoil, as well as anxious perfectionists, stressed out high-achievers, and women struggling with confidence. "We're always fighting." "We don't connect anymore." "I feel alone in my marriage." Whether it be difficulty communicating, struggles around intimacy, or conflict resolution, our goal is to support both parties with practical tools, as well as a deeper understanding of the self and the partner.
We help couples in turmoil, as well as anxious perfectionists, stressed out high-achievers, and women struggling with confidence. "We're always fighting." "We don't connect anymore." "I feel alone in my marriage." Whether it be difficulty communicating, struggles around intimacy, or conflict resolution, our goal is to support both parties with practical tools, as well as a deeper understanding of the self and the partner.
(346) 576-5893 View (346) 576-5893
Photo of undefined - Ashley J Stancil, MEd, CSC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ashley J Stancil
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, CSC, LPC
Verified Verified
Tomball, TX 77377  (Online Only)
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I have experience in working with addiction, trauma, pre-marital/marital counseling, and families with special needs children.
I am a woman who wears many hats and my life experiences have led to my passion and career pursuit in counseling. I believe in the importance of self-care and adopting a fresh perspective when life’s adversities can leave us feeling "stuck". Not everything in life is within our control. However, we can foster our inner resilience while employing researched intervention strategies and theoretical approaches in counseling to sustain ourselves during the unexpected.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I have experience in working with addiction, trauma, pre-marital/marital counseling, and families with special needs children.
I am a woman who wears many hats and my life experiences have led to my passion and career pursuit in counseling. I believe in the importance of self-care and adopting a fresh perspective when life’s adversities can leave us feeling "stuck". Not everything in life is within our control. However, we can foster our inner resilience while employing researched intervention strategies and theoretical approaches in counseling to sustain ourselves during the unexpected.
(281) 666-2759 View (281) 666-2759
Photo of Katherine Traxler-LaFrance, LMFT-A, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Katherine Traxler-LaFrance
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
Humble, TX 77346
As an experienced LGBTQ+ marriage and family therapist, I believe that we all deserve respect and connection.
As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, you experience challenges that others may not understand. You may be tired of not expressing yourself, feeling like you have to hide parts of yourself to keep the peace, or feeling ashamed. You might not even remember a time things didn't feel this way. But one thing is for sure: you're ready for some relief. You're ready to start living authentically. You're ready to be proud of who you are. But, most of all, you're prepared not to hide anymore!
As an experienced LGBTQ+ marriage and family therapist, I believe that we all deserve respect and connection.
As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, you experience challenges that others may not understand. You may be tired of not expressing yourself, feeling like you have to hide parts of yourself to keep the peace, or feeling ashamed. You might not even remember a time things didn't feel this way. But one thing is for sure: you're ready for some relief. You're ready to start living authentically. You're ready to be proud of who you are. But, most of all, you're prepared not to hide anymore!
(281) 214-8165 View (281) 214-8165
Photo of undefined - Youngs Counseling, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Youngs Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cypress, TX 77429
Our specialties include ADHD/ADD & behavior concerns, anxiety, ASL therapy, couples and marriage, trauma, counselor supervision, and neurofeedback therapy.
You, or your loved one, have been struggling for a while, and wondering if counseling can help. If it can, who can you trust with that help? Youngs Counseling in Cypress, TX is fully committed to helping you find joy again and would be honored to join your journey. Who knew when you started googling ‘find a therapist near me’ you would find so many therapists in Cypress? Looking through them all, it can feel like we’re all saying the same thing, so how do you find someone who truly meets your needs and understands what YOU are all about? Give us a call and we'll gather information while we help you find the best fit!
Our specialties include ADHD/ADD & behavior concerns, anxiety, ASL therapy, couples and marriage, trauma, counselor supervision, and neurofeedback therapy.
You, or your loved one, have been struggling for a while, and wondering if counseling can help. If it can, who can you trust with that help? Youngs Counseling in Cypress, TX is fully committed to helping you find joy again and would be honored to join your journey. Who knew when you started googling ‘find a therapist near me’ you would find so many therapists in Cypress? Looking through them all, it can feel like we’re all saying the same thing, so how do you find someone who truly meets your needs and understands what YOU are all about? Give us a call and we'll gather information while we help you find the best fit!
(281) 962-3653 View (281) 962-3653
Photo of Michelle Swanson, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michelle Swanson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Spring, TX 77379
I believe in providing a comprehensive compassionate approach within a non judgmental therapeutic space that promotes a collaborative aspect to meet your individualized treatment plan goals for self discovery: Psychological/emotions, Physically, Family dynamics, Marital/pre marital related issues, Career, Legally, Parenting and School related issues.
Offering accommodating evening and weekend appointments virtual and in person. Providing a collaborative individualized treatment approach to discovery of your authentic self, with effective evidence based practices to meet your unique goals. I work with individuals, couples, families, and adolescents that struggle with various mental health and substance abuse related issues.
I believe in providing a comprehensive compassionate approach within a non judgmental therapeutic space that promotes a collaborative aspect to meet your individualized treatment plan goals for self discovery: Psychological/emotions, Physically, Family dynamics, Marital/pre marital related issues, Career, Legally, Parenting and School related issues.
Offering accommodating evening and weekend appointments virtual and in person. Providing a collaborative individualized treatment approach to discovery of your authentic self, with effective evidence based practices to meet your unique goals. I work with individuals, couples, families, and adolescents that struggle with various mental health and substance abuse related issues.
(936) 243-4941 View (936) 243-4941
Photo of Brandon S. Williams, MA, NCC, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brandon S. Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Humble, TX 77346  (Online Only)
Everyone, including me, goes through tough seasons! From feelings of fear & sadness to an overall dissatisfaction with life, we’ve all been there. Whether you're a young person trying to overcome social stressors or prepping to transition to or from college or the workforce, our care and coaching can help you achieve success from the inside-out. In addition, I can also help the entire family navigate through teen years, and strengthen family bond. Lastly, I can help to bring couples closer than ever before. Couples gain skills that garner success from the dating & pre-marital stages to the "empty-nest” stage.
Everyone, including me, goes through tough seasons! From feelings of fear & sadness to an overall dissatisfaction with life, we’ve all been there. Whether you're a young person trying to overcome social stressors or prepping to transition to or from college or the workforce, our care and coaching can help you achieve success from the inside-out. In addition, I can also help the entire family navigate through teen years, and strengthen family bond. Lastly, I can help to bring couples closer than ever before. Couples gain skills that garner success from the dating & pre-marital stages to the "empty-nest” stage.
(337) 435-9147 View (337) 435-9147
Photo of Angela Anderson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Angela Anderson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77060
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker I have experience working with children, teens and families of all backgrounds. I have worked with clients experiencing depression, anxiety, life changes, marriage and relationship matters and numerous others. I am an advocate for the change you want to see in your life. My professional goal is to enhance the lives of everyone I get to work with. I believe everyone should have the opportunity to create the life they want and deserve; my job is to assist you in bringing that vision to reality.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker I have experience working with children, teens and families of all backgrounds. I have worked with clients experiencing depression, anxiety, life changes, marriage and relationship matters and numerous others. I am an advocate for the change you want to see in your life. My professional goal is to enhance the lives of everyone I get to work with. I believe everyone should have the opportunity to create the life they want and deserve; my job is to assist you in bringing that vision to reality.
(346) 746-7239 x3 View (346) 746-7239 x3
Photo of undefined - Paula McDonald-Neely, LCSW, LCSW, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Paula McDonald-Neely, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PLLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
The Woodlands, TX 77380
Waitlist for new clients
My professional experience includes work in the following areas: Depression, Anxiety and PTSD; Teen/Adolescent Mental Health; Family Therapy including Marriage Counseling, Divorce Recovery and Co-Parenting strategies; Anger Management; Substance Abuse/Recovery, Domestic Violence Intervention and Life Changes/Transition Counseling.
Paula McDonald-Neely, LCSW, PLLC provides individual, couples and family therapy. My approach is client-centered and utilizes a variety of techniques and intervention strategies personalized to meet your individual needs. Whether you have been struggling for several years or have only recently encountered obstacles in your life, I am ready to work together to pave a path to help you not only overcome, but to thrive. Are you ready to begin your journey to live your best life now?
My professional experience includes work in the following areas: Depression, Anxiety and PTSD; Teen/Adolescent Mental Health; Family Therapy including Marriage Counseling, Divorce Recovery and Co-Parenting strategies; Anger Management; Substance Abuse/Recovery, Domestic Violence Intervention and Life Changes/Transition Counseling.
Paula McDonald-Neely, LCSW, PLLC provides individual, couples and family therapy. My approach is client-centered and utilizes a variety of techniques and intervention strategies personalized to meet your individual needs. Whether you have been struggling for several years or have only recently encountered obstacles in your life, I am ready to work together to pave a path to help you not only overcome, but to thrive. Are you ready to begin your journey to live your best life now?
(281) 712-6418 View (281) 712-6418
Photo of undefined - N-Sight Therapy Services, PLLC, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
N-Sight Therapy Services, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Cypress, TX 77429
My specialties include; depression, anxiety, mood disorders, parent-child conflict, low self-esteem, marriage issues, & trauma.
N-Sight Therapy Services invite you discover a holistic approach to mental health and wellness. At times, life can be overwhelming. Are you seeking help to deal with life challenges? If so, I am here to listen and help you work through your issues. I am known for creating a safe and trustworthy space, where a professional and honest client-therapist relationship may be achieved. I believe that when someone struggles with mental illness, it is a vicious cycle and can be traumatic. I encourage clients to look beneath the surface to discover the beauty hidden within. There is hope - let's take this journey together!
My specialties include; depression, anxiety, mood disorders, parent-child conflict, low self-esteem, marriage issues, & trauma.
N-Sight Therapy Services invite you discover a holistic approach to mental health and wellness. At times, life can be overwhelming. Are you seeking help to deal with life challenges? If so, I am here to listen and help you work through your issues. I am known for creating a safe and trustworthy space, where a professional and honest client-therapist relationship may be achieved. I believe that when someone struggles with mental illness, it is a vicious cycle and can be traumatic. I encourage clients to look beneath the surface to discover the beauty hidden within. There is hope - let's take this journey together!
(281) 248-8129 View (281) 248-8129
Photo of undefined - Capstone Connect Counseling & Trauma, LMFT-A, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Capstone Connect Counseling & Trauma
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
Kingwood, TX 77339
Hello! I’m Tony. I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist -Associate, I specialize in family relationships, and assist my clients to achieve personal effectiveness. I use methodologies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and Emotionally Focused Therapy to help couples, families, teens, & individuals work through their challenges. With over 30 years of experience, I’ve helped individuals reach their goals, and discover their purpose. As an educator and coach, I’ve enjoyed helping young people discover their strengths and potential. I’ve learned while coaching sports, that teamwork is essential.
Hello! I’m Tony. I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist -Associate, I specialize in family relationships, and assist my clients to achieve personal effectiveness. I use methodologies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and Emotionally Focused Therapy to help couples, families, teens, & individuals work through their challenges. With over 30 years of experience, I’ve helped individuals reach their goals, and discover their purpose. As an educator and coach, I’ve enjoyed helping young people discover their strengths and potential. I’ve learned while coaching sports, that teamwork is essential.
(936) 251-5925 View (936) 251-5925
Photo of Quinn Heavrin, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Quinn Heavrin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Humble, TX 77346
I am particularly passionate about helping teens and parents, couples struggling in marriage, individuals battling anxiety and/or depression and pastors and their families.
Hi! My name is Quinn, and I am here to offer hope and practical solutions to the emotional, behavioral or mental struggle causing you stress or pain. Whether you have been privately dealing with this struggle for years or just want to tackle some current life issues head on, I am ready to help you begin a proactive journey of growth that will lead you toward healing, repair and enjoyment in your everyday life and relationships.
I am particularly passionate about helping teens and parents, couples struggling in marriage, individuals battling anxiety and/or depression and pastors and their families.
Hi! My name is Quinn, and I am here to offer hope and practical solutions to the emotional, behavioral or mental struggle causing you stress or pain. Whether you have been privately dealing with this struggle for years or just want to tackle some current life issues head on, I am ready to help you begin a proactive journey of growth that will lead you toward healing, repair and enjoyment in your everyday life and relationships.
(281) 801-5828 View (281) 801-5828
Photo of Erick Lenert, PhD, Psychologist
Erick Lenert
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tyler, TX 75702
This experience has given me great awareness and empathy for individuals suffering with major mental illness, trauma, family and marital stress and the aging process.
The mission of my professional life is to change and improve the quality of people's lives so that they will get more satisfaction from their personal, family and work relationships. My education and years of experience help me to form a therapeutic alliance with clients, find solutions and build strengths to maintain the personal growth they achieve. I believe that treating anxiety, depression and trauma is a collaborative process that is achieved by a variety of best practice techniques based on both science and common sense.
This experience has given me great awareness and empathy for individuals suffering with major mental illness, trauma, family and marital stress and the aging process.
The mission of my professional life is to change and improve the quality of people's lives so that they will get more satisfaction from their personal, family and work relationships. My education and years of experience help me to form a therapeutic alliance with clients, find solutions and build strengths to maintain the personal growth they achieve. I believe that treating anxiety, depression and trauma is a collaborative process that is achieved by a variety of best practice techniques based on both science and common sense.
(903) 560-4055 View (903) 560-4055
Photo of Lauren Peacock, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lauren Peacock
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tyler, TX 75703
I have experience helping with depression, anxiety, grief, divorce recovery, trauma, sexual abuse, self-esteem, substance abuse recovery, marital conflict, and offer assistance with personal growth and premarital counseling.
My desire is to guide clients to hope and healing amidst the stress and pain that life can bring. I understand that seeking help and creating change can be uncomfortable but counseling can be a safe place to express hurts and find solutions and ways to cope. My belief is that we are relational beings and that the people we interact with greatly impact our thoughts and behaviors. I am passionate about helping my clients to find peace from the events that have hurt them and enhance the daily living and current relationships.
I have experience helping with depression, anxiety, grief, divorce recovery, trauma, sexual abuse, self-esteem, substance abuse recovery, marital conflict, and offer assistance with personal growth and premarital counseling.
My desire is to guide clients to hope and healing amidst the stress and pain that life can bring. I understand that seeking help and creating change can be uncomfortable but counseling can be a safe place to express hurts and find solutions and ways to cope. My belief is that we are relational beings and that the people we interact with greatly impact our thoughts and behaviors. I am passionate about helping my clients to find peace from the events that have hurt them and enhance the daily living and current relationships.
(903) 730-6307 View (903) 730-6307

See more therapy options for Houston 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.