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More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Holly McCloud, LMFT, CSAC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Holly McCloud
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23218
I offer play therapy, marriage counseling, couples counselings, and individual services.
Hello, I am currently accepting clients ages 3 and up. I have experience in a wide variety of mental health, and family issues. I would love to assist you in reaching your personal goals. I also offer Online Counseling if you prefer to stay in the comfort of your home. I am the owner of star city therapy services. We were recently awarded 2022 Best Mental Health Practice for Roanoke. We have a team of therapist who are eager to get you started on the path to a healthier you! www.starcitytherapyservices.org. I also provide Licensure supervision.
I offer play therapy, marriage counseling, couples counselings, and individual services.
Hello, I am currently accepting clients ages 3 and up. I have experience in a wide variety of mental health, and family issues. I would love to assist you in reaching your personal goals. I also offer Online Counseling if you prefer to stay in the comfort of your home. I am the owner of star city therapy services. We were recently awarded 2022 Best Mental Health Practice for Roanoke. We have a team of therapist who are eager to get you started on the path to a healthier you! www.starcitytherapyservices.org. I also provide Licensure supervision.
(540) 518-0957 View (540) 518-0957
Photo of Katrina Williams- Rivers Of Hope Counseling, MA , LPC-R, LPC Intern
Katrina Williams- Rivers Of Hope Counseling
LPC Intern, MA , LPC-R
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23219  (Online Only)
My clinical experience includes the areas of community-based counseling, residential treatment, private counseling, autism spectrum disorders, and crisis intervention, trauma informed care and working with individuals who struggle with self-harming behaviors, depression, anxiety, marriage and family therapy as well as members of the LGBTQ population.
My clinical experience includes the areas of community-based counseling, residential treatment, private counseling, autism spectrum disorders, and crisis intervention, trauma informed care and working with individuals who struggle with self-harming behaviors, depression, anxiety, marriage and family therapy as well as members of the LGBTQ population.
(571) 462-2355 View (571) 462-2355
Photo of Dr. Linda G. Timme, MSW, LCSW, LCSW-C, DSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Linda G. Timme
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCSW-C, DSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West End, VA 23230
Over the last fifteen years, my goal is to help others embrace life’s journeys and promote wellness. I have worked both in the public and private sectors with a broad spectrum of clients. I provide therapy services to clients of all ages, from children through geriatric, in addition to couples and families. I am a bilingual psychotherapist who provides treatment in both English and Spanish. I have experience in treating a wide variety of psychological disorders. I have worked with clients who are dually diagnosed with mental health and substance use disorders, PTSD/trauma, domestic violence victims, depression, anxiety and more.
Over the last fifteen years, my goal is to help others embrace life’s journeys and promote wellness. I have worked both in the public and private sectors with a broad spectrum of clients. I provide therapy services to clients of all ages, from children through geriatric, in addition to couples and families. I am a bilingual psychotherapist who provides treatment in both English and Spanish. I have experience in treating a wide variety of psychological disorders. I have worked with clients who are dually diagnosed with mental health and substance use disorders, PTSD/trauma, domestic violence victims, depression, anxiety and more.
(757) 997-7975 View (757) 997-7975
Photo of Sydney Villeneuve, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sydney Villeneuve
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Glen Allen, VA 23060  (Online Only)
I believe that healing is ongoing, met by exploring our inner most thoughts and feelings. I have experience supporting adolescents & adults who are dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma symptoms, and relationship challenges. I help my clients work through issues that are impacting their life and relationships. I serve as a guide as people work on shifting their view of themselves and the world through improving self-esteem, self-worth, and interpersonal dynamics. I value processing how life experiences have shaped who we are and who we are becoming. My approach is depth-based, with a focus on attachment theory.
I believe that healing is ongoing, met by exploring our inner most thoughts and feelings. I have experience supporting adolescents & adults who are dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma symptoms, and relationship challenges. I help my clients work through issues that are impacting their life and relationships. I serve as a guide as people work on shifting their view of themselves and the world through improving self-esteem, self-worth, and interpersonal dynamics. I value processing how life experiences have shaped who we are and who we are becoming. My approach is depth-based, with a focus on attachment theory.
(804) 322-9955 View (804) 322-9955
Photo of Dr. Brenda L Ridgeway Professional Psychologist, PhD/,  LSATP, CCDVC, HS-BCP
Dr. Brenda L Ridgeway Professional Psychologist
PhD/, LSATP, CCDVC, HS-BCP
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23222  (Online Only)
My belief is that healing is possible and that all of us have the answers and solutions to troubling personal questions and stressful circumstances in our lives, but sometimes we all need a bit of support and guidance to find those answers. Recovery is an amazing and sacred journey, one that leads to self-healing, self-fulfillment, and happiness. I am a Licensed Substance Abuse Treatment Practitioner specializing in working with those seeking a better physical and emotional life and overall well-being. I use empirically sound evidenced-based interventions to assist with your healing process.
My belief is that healing is possible and that all of us have the answers and solutions to troubling personal questions and stressful circumstances in our lives, but sometimes we all need a bit of support and guidance to find those answers. Recovery is an amazing and sacred journey, one that leads to self-healing, self-fulfillment, and happiness. I am a Licensed Substance Abuse Treatment Practitioner specializing in working with those seeking a better physical and emotional life and overall well-being. I use empirically sound evidenced-based interventions to assist with your healing process.
(540) 274-0635 View (540) 274-0635
Photo of Marilyn Williams - Marilyn Finch Williams, LCSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marilyn Finch Williams, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23221  (Online Only)
I believe trusting clients' innate ability to understand and heal themselves. This belief also guides my work with family, couples' and children's issues. I help clients access their own emotional intelligence - awareness that a lack of confidence and support often block. I can help clients discover and articulate their desired change. I use techniques from different traditions - primarily Family Systems, Self and Developmental Psychology, cognitive/behavioral approaches, but believe primarily in the healing power of relationship.
I believe trusting clients' innate ability to understand and heal themselves. This belief also guides my work with family, couples' and children's issues. I help clients access their own emotional intelligence - awareness that a lack of confidence and support often block. I can help clients discover and articulate their desired change. I use techniques from different traditions - primarily Family Systems, Self and Developmental Psychology, cognitive/behavioral approaches, but believe primarily in the healing power of relationship.
(571) 620-6517 View (571) 620-6517
Photo of Margaret Sheehan, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Margaret Sheehan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
West End, VA 23230
Are you feeling overwhelmed by your responsibilities to others? Do you feel like you are on "automatic," frustrated with not living the life you once wanted for yourself? Such a lonely place! I can help you move towards healing & transformation. I am here to witness the development of your unique & authentic voice as you create the life you want. Within the framework of a strengths-based & hope-focused perspective, I equip individuals & couples, at any stage of commitment, with strategies to create & maintain healthy relationships now & in the future. Change is possible! Find the life you have dreamed of living! It's within you.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by your responsibilities to others? Do you feel like you are on "automatic," frustrated with not living the life you once wanted for yourself? Such a lonely place! I can help you move towards healing & transformation. I am here to witness the development of your unique & authentic voice as you create the life you want. Within the framework of a strengths-based & hope-focused perspective, I equip individuals & couples, at any stage of commitment, with strategies to create & maintain healthy relationships now & in the future. Change is possible! Find the life you have dreamed of living! It's within you.
(804) 250-4458 View (804) 250-4458
Photo of Noelle R Bice, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Noelle R Bice
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West End, VA 23230  (Online Only)
So, you are the one who "doesn't need anyone's help". You ignore the red flags in relationships or neglect yourself because someone needs you. You're the overwhelmed person who wears the happiness mask even though you are feeling drained, depleted or trying to heal your past traumas. Life is about transitions, and we need support getting through the rough patches. You are more resilient, capable of healing, worthy of love, and deserving of peace than you may realize. If you’re ready to reduce the stress, heal, or confidently achieve peace for a better quality of life, you're in the right place.
So, you are the one who "doesn't need anyone's help". You ignore the red flags in relationships or neglect yourself because someone needs you. You're the overwhelmed person who wears the happiness mask even though you are feeling drained, depleted or trying to heal your past traumas. Life is about transitions, and we need support getting through the rough patches. You are more resilient, capable of healing, worthy of love, and deserving of peace than you may realize. If you’re ready to reduce the stress, heal, or confidently achieve peace for a better quality of life, you're in the right place.
(757) 260-4879 View (757) 260-4879
Photo of Bridget Dunnavant, PhD, LCP, Psychologist
Bridget Dunnavant
Psychologist, PhD, LCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23221
I offer both individual and couples counseling to adults of all ages, also teaching mindfulness meditation when desired. In addition to ameliorating symptoms, decreasing emotional pain, and helping to solve difficult problems, therapy and meditation can facilitate significant personal growth and increased wellness. My approach is broadly humanistic, meaning we seek together in a safe and secure environment, mutual understanding of you as a whole person, honing your internal "voice" and tapping into your existing strengths. Once we identify who you really are and what is most important to you, the path to bringing your life into alignment becomes clearer.
I offer both individual and couples counseling to adults of all ages, also teaching mindfulness meditation when desired. In addition to ameliorating symptoms, decreasing emotional pain, and helping to solve difficult problems, therapy and meditation can facilitate significant personal growth and increased wellness. My approach is broadly humanistic, meaning we seek together in a safe and secure environment, mutual understanding of you as a whole person, honing your internal "voice" and tapping into your existing strengths. Once we identify who you really are and what is most important to you, the path to bringing your life into alignment becomes clearer.
(804) 793-8685 View (804) 793-8685
Photo of Tina Miller - Serenity Counseling ~ Tina Miller, MA, LMFTA, MHP, CMHS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Serenity Counseling ~ Tina Miller
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFTA, MHP, CMHS
Verified Verified
Bellevue, VA 23227  (Online Only)
Serenity Counseling is a mental health practice that consistently believes in a modern approach to healing the mind. I go so much beyond just talking things out. I study the person/family history and use an experiential approach to treat mental health. I am passionate about helping clients accept the strengths that exist already within them. My mission is to equip you with brain-powered life skills so that you may conquer obstacles, develop, and rebuild after setbacks. I am a seasoned therapist who can help you overcome a wide range of problems. I have worked with many families who have neurodivergenton members, autism, and ADHD.
Serenity Counseling is a mental health practice that consistently believes in a modern approach to healing the mind. I go so much beyond just talking things out. I study the person/family history and use an experiential approach to treat mental health. I am passionate about helping clients accept the strengths that exist already within them. My mission is to equip you with brain-powered life skills so that you may conquer obstacles, develop, and rebuild after setbacks. I am a seasoned therapist who can help you overcome a wide range of problems. I have worked with many families who have neurodivergenton members, autism, and ADHD.
(360) 227-7683 View (360) 227-7683

Online Therapists

Photo of Jaeme Schwartz - Phoenix Counseling Centre-Counseling for Christ, Thd, DivD, MA, Psychological Associate
Phoenix Counseling Centre-Counseling for Christ
Psychological Associate, Thd, DivD, MA
Verified Verified
Lorton, VA 22079
Phoenix Counseling Centre is a Christ-based organization that serves to provide individual, family, child, marriage and autism diagnostic therapy services. Phoenix Counseling Centre was founded on the principles of Christ. We believe honesty, integrity and compassion are the cornerstone of our practice. Our clinicians are dedicated to the personal growth of each individual client; each with years of experience in counseling. Our humanistic approach is client-centered and based in the Jungian and Rogerian theoretical perspectives. We work cooperatively with each client to eliminate barriers to their personal mental health.
Phoenix Counseling Centre is a Christ-based organization that serves to provide individual, family, child, marriage and autism diagnostic therapy services. Phoenix Counseling Centre was founded on the principles of Christ. We believe honesty, integrity and compassion are the cornerstone of our practice. Our clinicians are dedicated to the personal growth of each individual client; each with years of experience in counseling. Our humanistic approach is client-centered and based in the Jungian and Rogerian theoretical perspectives. We work cooperatively with each client to eliminate barriers to their personal mental health.
(202) 335-2332 View (202) 335-2332
Photo of Jessica L Jennings, MA, LPC, CADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jessica L Jennings
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CADC
Verified Verified
Charlottesville, VA 22902
I have extensive experience working with marital therapy, spiritual direction and eating disorders.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and have 20 years of counseling experience working with mental heath disorders, eating disorders, and couple therapy. I take an emotion focused and Jungian approach that allows for depth therapy. I also use Dialectical Behavior Therapy skills training to promote self-acceptance, non-judgment, and behavior change in the areas of interpersonal effectiveness, mindfulness, distress tolerance and emotion regulation. My therapeutic approach promotes an environment of acceptance and compassion that over time becomes an increasing internal experience.
I have extensive experience working with marital therapy, spiritual direction and eating disorders.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and have 20 years of counseling experience working with mental heath disorders, eating disorders, and couple therapy. I take an emotion focused and Jungian approach that allows for depth therapy. I also use Dialectical Behavior Therapy skills training to promote self-acceptance, non-judgment, and behavior change in the areas of interpersonal effectiveness, mindfulness, distress tolerance and emotion regulation. My therapeutic approach promotes an environment of acceptance and compassion that over time becomes an increasing internal experience.
(434) 363-4647 View (434) 363-4647
Photo of Natasha Anatolian - Peaceful Mind, LLC, MA CMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Peaceful Mind, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA CMHC
Verified Verified
Williamsburg, VA 23185
If you are ready to learn to be joyful and find a new meaning in life, I am here to support you in therapy. Are you currently experiencing challenges in your marriage or family relationships? Are you looking forward to learn better ways of communicating, and how to get along with others? Are you ready to learn better coping skills, get your self-confidence back, and finally put yourself first? I am here to support you on your healing journey. My clinical experience is in individual, couples and family therapy. I specialize in family therapy, and especially families of medical doctors.
If you are ready to learn to be joyful and find a new meaning in life, I am here to support you in therapy. Are you currently experiencing challenges in your marriage or family relationships? Are you looking forward to learn better ways of communicating, and how to get along with others? Are you ready to learn better coping skills, get your self-confidence back, and finally put yourself first? I am here to support you on your healing journey. My clinical experience is in individual, couples and family therapy. I specialize in family therapy, and especially families of medical doctors.
(757) 378-0832 View (757) 378-0832
Photo of Isabel B Kirk, MA, LPC, EMDR, IFS, AEDP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Isabel B Kirk
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, EMDR, IFS, AEDP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Falls Church, VA 22046
If you are facing a crisis or difficult time, are tired of being in pain, not find what you want or need, don't know what to do with your partner, child, boss...situation, or simply want to improve your life, contact me. I will help you change your life! I work with depression & anxiety, trauma, relationships therapy (dating, marriage & couples counseling, intimacy problems), eating disorders & body image and healthy eating, maternity and postpartum, parenting and attachment, and grief due to break-ups, perinatal loss, and divorce. I am also devoted to the field of positive psychology and support people during common life transitions.
If you are facing a crisis or difficult time, are tired of being in pain, not find what you want or need, don't know what to do with your partner, child, boss...situation, or simply want to improve your life, contact me. I will help you change your life! I work with depression & anxiety, trauma, relationships therapy (dating, marriage & couples counseling, intimacy problems), eating disorders & body image and healthy eating, maternity and postpartum, parenting and attachment, and grief due to break-ups, perinatal loss, and divorce. I am also devoted to the field of positive psychology and support people during common life transitions.
(703) 468-8650 View (703) 468-8650
Photo of Dr. Selisha Nelson, PhD, LCP
Dr. Selisha Nelson
PhD, LCP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
North Chesterfield, VA 23236
Clinical experience in the following modalities: Trauma treatment, Somatic Experiencing, Cognitive-behavioral therapy, Art/Play therapy, Dialectical Behavioral therapy (DBT), Attachment, Couples/Marriage therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), and Intensive evidence-based treatments for a myriad of challenging mental health disorders.
Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with a passion for helping others on their journeys to healing, self-discovery, and growth. I have experience working with youth, adolescents, and adults providing individual, family, and couples therapy. Psychological assessments are also provided. I have obtained advanced training in trauma treatment, which includes various modalities such as art/play therapy, Somatic Experiencing, and EMDR. I have over 14 years of experience working in community mental health, alternative school settings, residential treatment, outpatient settings, and correctional facilities.
Clinical experience in the following modalities: Trauma treatment, Somatic Experiencing, Cognitive-behavioral therapy, Art/Play therapy, Dialectical Behavioral therapy (DBT), Attachment, Couples/Marriage therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), and Intensive evidence-based treatments for a myriad of challenging mental health disorders.
Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with a passion for helping others on their journeys to healing, self-discovery, and growth. I have experience working with youth, adolescents, and adults providing individual, family, and couples therapy. Psychological assessments are also provided. I have obtained advanced training in trauma treatment, which includes various modalities such as art/play therapy, Somatic Experiencing, and EMDR. I have over 14 years of experience working in community mental health, alternative school settings, residential treatment, outpatient settings, and correctional facilities.
(804) 293-3211 View (804) 293-3211
Photo of Elizabeth Mahaney - Elizabeth Mahaney, South Tampa Therapy & Mediation, LMHC, Q Suprv, NCC, MFT, PhD, Counselor
Elizabeth Mahaney, South Tampa Therapy & Mediation
Counselor, LMHC, Q Suprv, NCC, MFT, PhD
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22201
Looking for a Gottman, solution-focused, strength-base and agile approach to marriage & family therapy, NVC & individual counseling in Tampa? You have found a great place to start creating a more self-aware, intentional, and happier life. We will: 1. Assess and attune to your unique situation, needs and the needs of loved ones 2. Agree to collaborate and develop a plan together to create specific intentions, goals and measurable outcomes 3. Accountability helps make the changes last! I'll give you the tools you need to understand what changes need to be made, avoid relapse & continue to create changes that you DO want to see happen
Looking for a Gottman, solution-focused, strength-base and agile approach to marriage & family therapy, NVC & individual counseling in Tampa? You have found a great place to start creating a more self-aware, intentional, and happier life. We will: 1. Assess and attune to your unique situation, needs and the needs of loved ones 2. Agree to collaborate and develop a plan together to create specific intentions, goals and measurable outcomes 3. Accountability helps make the changes last! I'll give you the tools you need to understand what changes need to be made, avoid relapse & continue to create changes that you DO want to see happen
(813) 438-4867 View (813) 438-4867
Photo of Charmaine R. Dockett-Rivers Of Hope Counseling, MA, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Charmaine R. Dockett-Rivers Of Hope Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Chantilly, VA 20151
I specialize in marriage and family issues, individual issues as well as partner issues.
**TeleHealth Counseling Available!** I bring authentic listening joined with the power of hope into the counseling relationship. When life brings its seasons of challenges and difficulties, I am confident that a road traveled together is the beginning of change. I believe in the uniqueness of individuals and without judgment, bring faith for the faithful and faithless. I compassionately help those struggling with relationship conflicts, self-esteem issues, trauma, addictions, partners suffering from sexual abuse, depression, anxiety, grief, shame and spiritual brokenness.
I specialize in marriage and family issues, individual issues as well as partner issues.
**TeleHealth Counseling Available!** I bring authentic listening joined with the power of hope into the counseling relationship. When life brings its seasons of challenges and difficulties, I am confident that a road traveled together is the beginning of change. I believe in the uniqueness of individuals and without judgment, bring faith for the faithful and faithless. I compassionately help those struggling with relationship conflicts, self-esteem issues, trauma, addictions, partners suffering from sexual abuse, depression, anxiety, grief, shame and spiritual brokenness.
(571) 200-4669 View (571) 200-4669
Photo of Elayne Smith - The Center for Connection, Healing & Change, GV, LMFT, LPC, LCSW, LMFT-R, LPC-R, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
The Center for Connection, Healing & Change, GV
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, LMFT, LPC, LCSW, LMFT-R, LPC-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gainesville, VA 20155
Accepting new clients - Want to feel whole again? We specialize in the promotion of satisfying, secure, and close relationships, both with ourselves and our loved ones. CCHC focuses on harmonious relationships, emotional calm, and abundant self-worth. We appreciate the impact that connection has on our mental, emotional, and physical well-being - when our relationships are going well, we have the confidence and energy we need to tackle the challenges of life. Sessions can explore ways to heal unresolved issues/pain, know who you are, ask for what you need, and access your resilience in moments of stress.
Accepting new clients - Want to feel whole again? We specialize in the promotion of satisfying, secure, and close relationships, both with ourselves and our loved ones. CCHC focuses on harmonious relationships, emotional calm, and abundant self-worth. We appreciate the impact that connection has on our mental, emotional, and physical well-being - when our relationships are going well, we have the confidence and energy we need to tackle the challenges of life. Sessions can explore ways to heal unresolved issues/pain, know who you are, ask for what you need, and access your resilience in moments of stress.
(703) 879-3275 View (703) 879-3275
Photo of Elisabeth Varkiani, PsyD, LCP, Psychologist
Elisabeth Varkiani
Psychologist, PsyD, LCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vienna, VA 22180
Are you feeling down or stressed? Dr. Varkiani offers a caring, accepting approach to help you navigate through difficulties like depression, anxiety and trauma, relationship problems. and life transitions. She is currently accepting new clients for therapy (adolescents and adults) and for psychological testing (all ages). Please reach out if you would like a consultation; Dr. Varkiani looks forward to meeting you!
Are you feeling down or stressed? Dr. Varkiani offers a caring, accepting approach to help you navigate through difficulties like depression, anxiety and trauma, relationship problems. and life transitions. She is currently accepting new clients for therapy (adolescents and adults) and for psychological testing (all ages). Please reach out if you would like a consultation; Dr. Varkiani looks forward to meeting you!
(571) 554-1841 View (571) 554-1841
Photo of Carla Carreira, MA, MS, SEP
Carla Carreira
MA, MS, SEP
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22307  (Online Only)
I am a somatic experiencing practitioner and clinical sexologist committed to diversity and accessibility and offer a holistic therapeutic approach targeted to fit client needs. I am dedicated to trust-building and co-creation and enjoy worksheets/ post-session exercises that reinforce and assist integration. I enjoy working with clients with traditionally limited access to care. I also appreciate curiosity for self-awareness and commitment to growth.
I am a somatic experiencing practitioner and clinical sexologist committed to diversity and accessibility and offer a holistic therapeutic approach targeted to fit client needs. I am dedicated to trust-building and co-creation and enjoy worksheets/ post-session exercises that reinforce and assist integration. I enjoy working with clients with traditionally limited access to care. I also appreciate curiosity for self-awareness and commitment to growth.
(240) 226-2577 View (240) 226-2577

See more therapy options for Mechanicsville

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.