Photo of Theresa A Pollard, Pre-Licensed Professional in Washington
Theresa A Pollard
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, LMFTA
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99201  (Online Only)
I am a marriage and family therapist specializing in CBT, trauma-informed care, and solution-focused therapy. I have 30 years of human resource experience helping individuals navigate career and employment issues, communication problems, and personal growth. I am now a passionate therapist, creating a safe and supportive therapeutic environment for my clients to explore their emotions and develop effective coping strategies. I love to build a strong rapport with my clients, creating a safe and non-judgmental space for you to overcome challenges, improve your overall well-being, and achieve personal growth.
I am a marriage and family therapist specializing in CBT, trauma-informed care, and solution-focused therapy. I have 30 years of human resource experience helping individuals navigate career and employment issues, communication problems, and personal growth. I am now a passionate therapist, creating a safe and supportive therapeutic environment for my clients to explore their emotions and develop effective coping strategies. I love to build a strong rapport with my clients, creating a safe and non-judgmental space for you to overcome challenges, improve your overall well-being, and achieve personal growth.
(509) 383-8939 x9674 View (509) 383-8939 x9674
Photo of Kristin Cochran, Marriage & Family Therapist in Washington
Kristin Cochran
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99205
Waitlist for new clients
As a Marriage and family therapist, I practice from an attachment lens.
Are you struggling in your relationship, constantly arguing, stuck in negative patterns that leave you and your partner living parallel lives? Do you feel stuck? Is depression and anxiety keeping you from living the life you want? Or maybe you’re struggling with your child’s behavior and big emotional meltdowns. You have tried everything and still feel like you’re failing. Relationships are the core of human experience. We are not designed to go through life alone. Therapy can provide you with support to learn, heal, grow, and make lasting changes for yourself and your most important relationships.
As a Marriage and family therapist, I practice from an attachment lens.
Are you struggling in your relationship, constantly arguing, stuck in negative patterns that leave you and your partner living parallel lives? Do you feel stuck? Is depression and anxiety keeping you from living the life you want? Or maybe you’re struggling with your child’s behavior and big emotional meltdowns. You have tried everything and still feel like you’re failing. Relationships are the core of human experience. We are not designed to go through life alone. Therapy can provide you with support to learn, heal, grow, and make lasting changes for yourself and your most important relationships.
(509) 284-8918 View (509) 284-8918
Photo of Tonya M Drennan, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Washington
Tonya M Drennan
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
Verified Verified
Lacey, WA 98503
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapy Associate, I have specialized training working with individuals, couples, and families. As a veteran, I provide additional personal knowledge and support to veterans, active duty military personnel, and military families. With empathy and compassion, I offer professional counseling services for a variety of issues including treatment for anxiety, trauma and PTSD, codependency and other relationship issues, depression, anger management, ADHD, and more. If you’re ready to take the next step toward your overall wellness and growth, I invite you to contact me today to schedule an appointment.
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapy Associate, I have specialized training working with individuals, couples, and families. As a veteran, I provide additional personal knowledge and support to veterans, active duty military personnel, and military families. With empathy and compassion, I offer professional counseling services for a variety of issues including treatment for anxiety, trauma and PTSD, codependency and other relationship issues, depression, anger management, ADHD, and more. If you’re ready to take the next step toward your overall wellness and growth, I invite you to contact me today to schedule an appointment.
(360) 800-3482 View (360) 800-3482
Photo of Jordyn Claire Kuttner, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Washington
Jordyn Claire Kuttner
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Associate; drawing from various therapeutic models like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma Focused-CBT, Motivational Interviewing, and using elements from DBT, CPT, Play-Therapy, and IFS, I tailor our sessions to your unique needs. I have experience working with individuals who have anxiety, depression, sexual assault/childhood sexual assault survivors, and complex PTSD. Gottman Institute Level 2 Certified therapist and I'm trained in Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT) core skills. Furthermore, my ongoing training in EMDR.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Associate; drawing from various therapeutic models like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma Focused-CBT, Motivational Interviewing, and using elements from DBT, CPT, Play-Therapy, and IFS, I tailor our sessions to your unique needs. I have experience working with individuals who have anxiety, depression, sexual assault/childhood sexual assault survivors, and complex PTSD. Gottman Institute Level 2 Certified therapist and I'm trained in Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT) core skills. Furthermore, my ongoing training in EMDR.
(509) 236-8247 View (509) 236-8247
Photo of Brandie Frisby PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington
Brandie Frisby PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CMHS
Verified Verified
Kennewick, WA 99336
Waitlist for new clients
I enjoy working with individual adults, children, families and marital counseling.
Counseling is an opportunity for personal exploration, growth and self-discovery. It is often sought when life challenges arise, when our ability to cope with daily life is compromised, or when relationships begin to suffer. Counseling is a journey that may involve some discomfort as you seek to understand and challenge your most inner thoughts and beliefs. Engagement in counseling is designed to bring about changes to your life's perspectives and consequently the decisions you make as well as the behaviors you elicit.
I enjoy working with individual adults, children, families and marital counseling.
Counseling is an opportunity for personal exploration, growth and self-discovery. It is often sought when life challenges arise, when our ability to cope with daily life is compromised, or when relationships begin to suffer. Counseling is a journey that may involve some discomfort as you seek to understand and challenge your most inner thoughts and beliefs. Engagement in counseling is designed to bring about changes to your life's perspectives and consequently the decisions you make as well as the behaviors you elicit.
(509) 956-4616 View (509) 956-4616
Photo of Christine Havens, Counselor in Washington
Christine Havens
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Bainbridge Island, WA 98110  (Online Only)
For 28 years, I've worked with clients to support healing around trauma, marriage/partnering, sexuality, grief, depression/anxiety, addictions. Using Somatic Experiencing, family of origin, meditation/movement work, Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy and Internal Family Systems, I work with clients to help them develop a deeper sense of self, to face life's inevitable challenges with clarity and resources. Clients can repair their marriages/partnerships. Emphasized is the capacity to stay emotionally present, to attune, differentiate, have healthy boundaries, practice dual awareness and have clarity about attachment issues.
For 28 years, I've worked with clients to support healing around trauma, marriage/partnering, sexuality, grief, depression/anxiety, addictions. Using Somatic Experiencing, family of origin, meditation/movement work, Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy and Internal Family Systems, I work with clients to help them develop a deeper sense of self, to face life's inevitable challenges with clarity and resources. Clients can repair their marriages/partnerships. Emphasized is the capacity to stay emotionally present, to attune, differentiate, have healthy boundaries, practice dual awareness and have clarity about attachment issues.
(206) 759-7147 View (206) 759-7147
Photo of Sally Torabi, Counselor in Washington
Sally Torabi
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98005
Are you lonely in your relationship? Do you argue about divorce or parenting? Has your marriage and family been impacted by infidelity, betrayal or sexual addiction? You're relationship doesn't have to feel stressful and your family doesn't have to suffer. If you're tired of arguing with no resolution, it's time to get support. I help couples resolve communication problems, strengthen their intimacy, repair trust issues, and address parenting struggles and cultural differences. Together we can create a plan to help you ask for your needs, deepen your connection, enhance your intimacy and feel fully alive in your relationships again.
Are you lonely in your relationship? Do you argue about divorce or parenting? Has your marriage and family been impacted by infidelity, betrayal or sexual addiction? You're relationship doesn't have to feel stressful and your family doesn't have to suffer. If you're tired of arguing with no resolution, it's time to get support. I help couples resolve communication problems, strengthen their intimacy, repair trust issues, and address parenting struggles and cultural differences. Together we can create a plan to help you ask for your needs, deepen your connection, enhance your intimacy and feel fully alive in your relationships again.
(425) 276-7353 View (425) 276-7353
Photo of Leanne M Perez, Marriage & Family Therapist in Washington
Leanne M Perez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
Are you looking for someone who can help you understand the challenges you are facing in your life? Do you want someone who truly listens to you? Artistic Affirmations Counseling offers a unique combination of looking at family relations and implementing creative modalities to help you reach self enlightenment. I have worked extensively with children, adolescents, adults, families and the LGBTQ community. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with professional training in art therapy. I combine many theoretical approaches to fit your needs to maximize your journey towards a greater insight into your own well-being.
Are you looking for someone who can help you understand the challenges you are facing in your life? Do you want someone who truly listens to you? Artistic Affirmations Counseling offers a unique combination of looking at family relations and implementing creative modalities to help you reach self enlightenment. I have worked extensively with children, adolescents, adults, families and the LGBTQ community. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with professional training in art therapy. I combine many theoretical approaches to fit your needs to maximize your journey towards a greater insight into your own well-being.
(253) 218-4848 View (253) 218-4848
Photo of Monique Chang-Goit, Marriage & Family Therapist in Washington
Monique Chang-Goit
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CST
Verified Verified
Shoreline, WA 98133
My passion is to help individuals and families discover their strengths and resources. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a Master of Science degree in Marriage and Family Therapy and a post-graduate certificate in Medical Family Therapy from Seattle Pacific University. I am a Certified Sex Therapist by the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists. I am a Mental Health Professional, Brainspotting practitioner, Child Mental Health Professional, State and AAMFT Approved Supervisor and Asian and Pacific Islander Ethnic Minority Mental Health Specialist.
My passion is to help individuals and families discover their strengths and resources. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a Master of Science degree in Marriage and Family Therapy and a post-graduate certificate in Medical Family Therapy from Seattle Pacific University. I am a Certified Sex Therapist by the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists. I am a Mental Health Professional, Brainspotting practitioner, Child Mental Health Professional, State and AAMFT Approved Supervisor and Asian and Pacific Islander Ethnic Minority Mental Health Specialist.
(206) 984-8351 View (206) 984-8351
Photo of Tsion Kidane, Counselor in Washington
Tsion Kidane
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98125
Are you feeling frustrated and stuck with things that matter to you? Are you facing life challenges? Do you need support with depression, anxiety or trauma? Are you seeking assistance with parenting and family relationship issues? I might be able to help. I am a multi-cultural and multi-lingual therapist who is trained in Marriage and Family Therapy. My skill set includes therapy techniques such as Life Span integration, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person-centered therapy, Emotion Focused Therapy and Faith-Based approaches.
Are you feeling frustrated and stuck with things that matter to you? Are you facing life challenges? Do you need support with depression, anxiety or trauma? Are you seeking assistance with parenting and family relationship issues? I might be able to help. I am a multi-cultural and multi-lingual therapist who is trained in Marriage and Family Therapy. My skill set includes therapy techniques such as Life Span integration, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person-centered therapy, Emotion Focused Therapy and Faith-Based approaches.
(206) 693-4342 View (206) 693-4342
Photo of Dustin-Leigh Fowler, Psychologist in Washington
Dustin-Leigh Fowler
Psychologist, PsyD, MS, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004  (Online Only)
Additionally, I have been a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in private practice since 2013.
I am experienced working with children, adults, couples, and families. Many times, people who call me are in distress, having tried what feels like everything, and they often feel frustrated and overwhelmed by their situation. My goal is to help individuals identify patterns of dysfunction that create problems for them. I work within the framework of an individual’s gifts and challenges to develop a strong relationship that allows for open communication and honesty. My strengths-based approach allows individuals to feel they have a voice and builds upon the good that is already taking place within their life and relationships.
Additionally, I have been a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in private practice since 2013.
I am experienced working with children, adults, couples, and families. Many times, people who call me are in distress, having tried what feels like everything, and they often feel frustrated and overwhelmed by their situation. My goal is to help individuals identify patterns of dysfunction that create problems for them. I work within the framework of an individual’s gifts and challenges to develop a strong relationship that allows for open communication and honesty. My strengths-based approach allows individuals to feel they have a voice and builds upon the good that is already taking place within their life and relationships.
(253) 400-2711 View (253) 400-2711
Photo of Sarah Reijnen, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Washington
Sarah Reijnen
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98225
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist dedicated to helping teens and adults work through life transitions, relationship challenges, and trauma while providing a safe space to overcome anxiety, stress, and social expectations.
In my practice I work with both teens and adults ages 13 and up, and I particularly enjoy working with teen girls and young women on issues such as self-esteem and body image, school and familial struggles, trauma, and anxiety. I am also a mom to a toddler and love working with new mothers on the unique challenges, experiences, and joys that come with motherhood. I work best with clients who are motivated, open, and engaged in the therapeutic process.
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist dedicated to helping teens and adults work through life transitions, relationship challenges, and trauma while providing a safe space to overcome anxiety, stress, and social expectations.
In my practice I work with both teens and adults ages 13 and up, and I particularly enjoy working with teen girls and young women on issues such as self-esteem and body image, school and familial struggles, trauma, and anxiety. I am also a mom to a toddler and love working with new mothers on the unique challenges, experiences, and joys that come with motherhood. I work best with clients who are motivated, open, and engaged in the therapeutic process.
(360) 245-6725 View (360) 245-6725
Photo of Integrated Therapy Services NW, PLLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Washington
Integrated Therapy Services NW, PLLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Integrated Therapy Services (ITS) is dedicated to serving our community by supporting individuals, couples, and families through their lifelong journey of emotional growth and personal development. Our providers come together from the fields of Marriage and Family Therapy, Social Work, and Mental Health Counseling to provide the highest quality mental health services based in the most advance research in a warm and inviting environment. We deliver innovative and personalized treatment with compassion and care. Telehealth or in-person available.
Integrated Therapy Services (ITS) is dedicated to serving our community by supporting individuals, couples, and families through their lifelong journey of emotional growth and personal development. Our providers come together from the fields of Marriage and Family Therapy, Social Work, and Mental Health Counseling to provide the highest quality mental health services based in the most advance research in a warm and inviting environment. We deliver innovative and personalized treatment with compassion and care. Telehealth or in-person available.
(253) 214-9742 View (253) 214-9742
Photo of Boundaries for Compassionate People - Molly Davis in Washington
Boundaries for Compassionate People - Molly Davis
MS-CMH
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98684  (Online Only)
Are you a compassionate person or helping professional who wants better boundaries? Struggling in a difficult marriage, family, or workplace situation? Recovering from a toxic relationship and want to make sure it never happens again? Let's talk! I'd love to chat and see if we'd be a good fit.
Are you tired of feeling guilty, selfish, or mean every time you try to set a boundary? Ready to kiss people-pleasing, codependency, and toxic relationships goodbye? I help compassionate people discover how to set boundaries. Sometimes called "people-pleasers" or "co-dependents," I believe the real problem is one of boundaries... As in, we need to know how to find them! I've found that loving empathic people can THRIVE once we discover our boundaries (in a way that works for our compassionate hearts). Many of my clients are fellow counselors and psychologists, medical professionals, teachers, social workers, all with big hearts.
Are you a compassionate person or helping professional who wants better boundaries? Struggling in a difficult marriage, family, or workplace situation? Recovering from a toxic relationship and want to make sure it never happens again? Let's talk! I'd love to chat and see if we'd be a good fit.
Are you tired of feeling guilty, selfish, or mean every time you try to set a boundary? Ready to kiss people-pleasing, codependency, and toxic relationships goodbye? I help compassionate people discover how to set boundaries. Sometimes called "people-pleasers" or "co-dependents," I believe the real problem is one of boundaries... As in, we need to know how to find them! I've found that loving empathic people can THRIVE once we discover our boundaries (in a way that works for our compassionate hearts). Many of my clients are fellow counselors and psychologists, medical professionals, teachers, social workers, all with big hearts.
(360) 776-6307 View (360) 776-6307
Photo of Jordan Stephenson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Washington
Jordan Stephenson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFTA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kirkland, WA 98033  (Online Only)
Accepting new clients via telehealth! My name is Jordan, and I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (LAMFT) who emphasizes authenticity and keeping it real. My dedication is to guide you in discovering your strengths and creating a life that empowers you to be your happiest and healthiest self. I believe that every individual is the expert of their own life which is why I take a collaborative approach to the therapeutic process.
Accepting new clients via telehealth! My name is Jordan, and I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (LAMFT) who emphasizes authenticity and keeping it real. My dedication is to guide you in discovering your strengths and creating a life that empowers you to be your happiest and healthiest self. I believe that every individual is the expert of their own life which is why I take a collaborative approach to the therapeutic process.
(360) 818-2716 View (360) 818-2716
Photo of Jenny Leung, Marriage & Family Therapist in Washington
Jenny Leung
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, E-RYT
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103
Couple Counseling Only! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Certified in Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT). Working exclusively with couples, I help partners to uncover underlying emotions and to communicate more effectively for attention, understanding, compassion and caring. The result is greater warmth, trust, safety and emotional connection. Honest and direct in my approach yet gentle and patient, I am committed to creating compassionate and authentic relationships where each partner feels deeply supported, understood, and seen. I work frequently with couples where one or both partners are of Asian ancestry.
Couple Counseling Only! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Certified in Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT). Working exclusively with couples, I help partners to uncover underlying emotions and to communicate more effectively for attention, understanding, compassion and caring. The result is greater warmth, trust, safety and emotional connection. Honest and direct in my approach yet gentle and patient, I am committed to creating compassionate and authentic relationships where each partner feels deeply supported, understood, and seen. I work frequently with couples where one or both partners are of Asian ancestry.
(206) 966-4172 View (206) 966-4172
Photo of Zoë Cornwell, Marriage & Family Therapist in Washington
Zoë Cornwell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Richland, WA 99352
Waitlist for new clients
I am a marriage and family therapist with ten years of experience, and while I take a systems approach, I am also fully trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and EMDR.
If you are looking for help with setting boundaries, addressing symptoms of depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder, or hoping to address trauma, I can help! I am LGTBQ+ friendly and some of my most favorite clients are transgender children or adolescents and their families.
I am a marriage and family therapist with ten years of experience, and while I take a systems approach, I am also fully trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and EMDR.
If you are looking for help with setting boundaries, addressing symptoms of depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder, or hoping to address trauma, I can help! I am LGTBQ+ friendly and some of my most favorite clients are transgender children or adolescents and their families.
(509) 265-6579 View (509) 265-6579
Photo of Valinda Harlan Individuals Couples Communication Emotional Sexual Intimacy, Counselor in Washington
Valinda Harlan Individuals Couples Communication Emotional Sexual Intimacy
Counselor, LMHC, LPC, LPCC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98685
I am a psychology professor and a certified Marriage Therapist (training by Gottman Institute, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Prepare/Enrich) with training in Sexual Wellness and Transgender Health.
Yes, I am accepting new clients for in-person and telehealth sessions for individuals and couples. Please go to my website www.brightfuturecounseling1.com for more information. There is hope for healing and change. If your relationship suffers from sexual issues or broken trust, if there is room to improve communication or intimacy, or if you are not sure your relationship can be/is worth saving, I can offer you help. If you feel sad or depressed, have experienced loss, or have anxiety, there is hope. I provide a supportive nonjudgmental space for individuals of all genders and sexualities, traditional and nontraditional couples.
I am a psychology professor and a certified Marriage Therapist (training by Gottman Institute, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Prepare/Enrich) with training in Sexual Wellness and Transgender Health.
Yes, I am accepting new clients for in-person and telehealth sessions for individuals and couples. Please go to my website www.brightfuturecounseling1.com for more information. There is hope for healing and change. If your relationship suffers from sexual issues or broken trust, if there is room to improve communication or intimacy, or if you are not sure your relationship can be/is worth saving, I can offer you help. If you feel sad or depressed, have experienced loss, or have anxiety, there is hope. I provide a supportive nonjudgmental space for individuals of all genders and sexualities, traditional and nontraditional couples.
(360) 558-3568 View (360) 558-3568
Photo of Alexis Chan Langbehn, Marriage & Family Therapist in Washington
Alexis Chan Langbehn
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98118
Additionally, I am a Prepare/Enrich Facilitator and offer pre-marital counseling.
I believe that humans are inherently relational. When our basic needs for love and safety are left unmet, we can experience loneliness, low self-worth, and mistrust in relationships. My focus in therapy is to highlight the cycles of pain you may find yourself and/or your relationship in, and to assist you in building greater self-awareness, sustainable coping strategies and ways of relating to others. I am passionate about helping my clients to develop greater self-compassion and deeper connections in their relationships.
Additionally, I am a Prepare/Enrich Facilitator and offer pre-marital counseling.
I believe that humans are inherently relational. When our basic needs for love and safety are left unmet, we can experience loneliness, low self-worth, and mistrust in relationships. My focus in therapy is to highlight the cycles of pain you may find yourself and/or your relationship in, and to assist you in building greater self-awareness, sustainable coping strategies and ways of relating to others. I am passionate about helping my clients to develop greater self-compassion and deeper connections in their relationships.
(206) 672-8034 View (206) 672-8034
Photo of Dr. Puja Kakkar, Counselor in Washington
Dr. Puja Kakkar
Counselor, PhD, PsyD, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sammamish, WA 98074
Are you a teen who feels like no one understands you? Are you a parent who is struggling with parenting challenges? Are you an adult having trouble in coping with anxiety, depression, ADHD, work stress, or a couple struggling with marital problems where it is so hard to connect with your partner? Life can be hard, and we often find ourselves stuck. I'm here to help you to cope with the life's struggles without feeling alone. I have 23 years of experience providing therapy to children, adolescents, adults and couples. I can assist you in finding solutions to your problems and guide you to the path of happiness and success.
Are you a teen who feels like no one understands you? Are you a parent who is struggling with parenting challenges? Are you an adult having trouble in coping with anxiety, depression, ADHD, work stress, or a couple struggling with marital problems where it is so hard to connect with your partner? Life can be hard, and we often find ourselves stuck. I'm here to help you to cope with the life's struggles without feeling alone. I have 23 years of experience providing therapy to children, adolescents, adults and couples. I can assist you in finding solutions to your problems and guide you to the path of happiness and success.
(425) 578-5986 View (425) 578-5986
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.