Marriage Counselling in Perth, WA

Photo of Wayne Leonard Hill - Black Swan Health Psychology, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Black Swan Health Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Osborne Park, WA 6017
Child Counseling supports emotional well-being; Marriage Counseling reignites love, enhances connection, and improves communication.
Feeling overwhelmed by family conflict, anxiety, or a child's struggles? You're not alone. At Black Swan Health, we empathise and assist individuals and families in overcoming challenges and reclaiming their well-being. Perhaps you're a concerned parent observing shifts in your child's eating habits or behaviour. Maybe you're a couple seeking to rekindle the passion in your relationship. Or you could be a family grappling with communication obstacles, conflicts, or emotional distance. Whether you're battling anxiety, depression, or the weight of hoarding tendencies, our experienced and understanding team is here to support you.
Child Counseling supports emotional well-being; Marriage Counseling reignites love, enhances connection, and improves communication.
Feeling overwhelmed by family conflict, anxiety, or a child's struggles? You're not alone. At Black Swan Health, we empathise and assist individuals and families in overcoming challenges and reclaiming their well-being. Perhaps you're a concerned parent observing shifts in your child's eating habits or behaviour. Maybe you're a couple seeking to rekindle the passion in your relationship. Or you could be a family grappling with communication obstacles, conflicts, or emotional distance. Whether you're battling anxiety, depression, or the weight of hoarding tendencies, our experienced and understanding team is here to support you.
(08) 6493 7398 View (08) 6493 7398
Photo of Genevieve Milnes, PhD, PsyBA Endorsed, Psychologist
Genevieve Milnes
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA Endorsed
Verified Verified
Mount Lawley, WA 6050
I am a compassionate and warm clinical psychologist who loves talking to people and finding out why people do what they do and how to help them overcome it. If you are depressed, anxious, or stressed please ring our clinic and make a time to come and talk. Individual and personal issues, marriage and relationships, parents and children, inattention at school and home, and a host of other areas. I conduct assessments for diagnoses including ASD Autism , ADHD, PTSD, ODD, Cognitive Devlpt (WISC, WAIS), and many others.
I am a compassionate and warm clinical psychologist who loves talking to people and finding out why people do what they do and how to help them overcome it. If you are depressed, anxious, or stressed please ring our clinic and make a time to come and talk. Individual and personal issues, marriage and relationships, parents and children, inattention at school and home, and a host of other areas. I conduct assessments for diagnoses including ASD Autism , ADHD, PTSD, ODD, Cognitive Devlpt (WISC, WAIS), and many others.
(08) 9126 9157 View (08) 9126 9157
Photo of Derek Boylen, MC, ACA-L4, Counsellor
Derek Boylen
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Doubleview, WA 6018
Hi, I'm a practicing counsellor, as well as a lecturer in the Discipline of Counselling with the University of Notre Dame, Australia and Director of the Centre for Life, Marriage and Family and agency of the Catholic Archdiocese of Perth in Western Australia.
Hi, I'm a practicing counsellor, as well as a lecturer in the Discipline of Counselling with the University of Notre Dame, Australia and Director of the Centre for Life, Marriage and Family and agency of the Catholic Archdiocese of Perth in Western Australia.
(08) 6490 9752 View (08) 6490 9752
Photo of Mohammed El-Hakim, MA, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Mohammed El-Hakim
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
South Lake, WA 6164  (Online Only)
i also specialise in marriage counselling using the latest evidence and scientific basis that is supported by Islamic teachings.
www.toolsoflife.com.au . I am a registered counsellor/ psychotherapist with the Australian Counselling Association ACA, I hold a Master degree in Counselling from Edith Cowan University in Australia, and I have been blessed by studying Islamic Sharia at the Islamic University of Madinah. This unique combination of both Islamic knowledge and counselling and psychotherapy allows me to offer this great support to my clients. I have received training in various counselling techniques, I am based in Perth and deliver the sessions online as we have clients from across Australia and overseas. Get in touch to learn more.
i also specialise in marriage counselling using the latest evidence and scientific basis that is supported by Islamic teachings.
www.toolsoflife.com.au . I am a registered counsellor/ psychotherapist with the Australian Counselling Association ACA, I hold a Master degree in Counselling from Edith Cowan University in Australia, and I have been blessed by studying Islamic Sharia at the Islamic University of Madinah. This unique combination of both Islamic knowledge and counselling and psychotherapy allows me to offer this great support to my clients. I have received training in various counselling techniques, I am based in Perth and deliver the sessions online as we have clients from across Australia and overseas. Get in touch to learn more.
(08) 6171 2132 View (08) 6171 2132
Photo of Jessica Vivien, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Jessica Vivien
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Kalamunda, WA 6076  (Online Only)
My couple counselling may save your marriage.
Most people come to me purely and simply because they heard of me and they are ready to get better, to get their relationships, and personal lives, back on track. They want a gentle, fast and effective process that will get into the guts of the problem. A breakthrough that will clear away the relationship conflict, disappointment and resentment. That will clear away the anxiety, depression, PTSD, etc and other symptoms of unresolved trauma currently blighting their lives. I am an internationally trained and experienced Emotionally Focussed Couple therapist, and trauma therapist and have been working in this area for many years.
My couple counselling may save your marriage.
Most people come to me purely and simply because they heard of me and they are ready to get better, to get their relationships, and personal lives, back on track. They want a gentle, fast and effective process that will get into the guts of the problem. A breakthrough that will clear away the relationship conflict, disappointment and resentment. That will clear away the anxiety, depression, PTSD, etc and other symptoms of unresolved trauma currently blighting their lives. I am an internationally trained and experienced Emotionally Focussed Couple therapist, and trauma therapist and have been working in this area for many years.
(08) 9521 4198 View (08) 9521 4198
Photo of Kasorn Campbell, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Kasorn Campbell
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Morley, WA 6062
I work with the clients dealing with a range of mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, grief, and relationship issues (including family dynamics, marital issues, and parent-child conflicts).
Hi I'm Kasorn. I am a registered counsellor of ACA and a member of their college of supervisors. I believe that everyone deserves to live a healthy and purposeful life. My passion lies in counselling, where I feel privileged to work alongside the clients on their personal journey. Over many years, I have had the opportunity to support individuals, couples, and families from diverse backgrounds as they seek meaning, support, and a positive life direction. My aim is to empower and support clients to explore and overcome the challenges that hinder their ability to fully embrace life.
I work with the clients dealing with a range of mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, grief, and relationship issues (including family dynamics, marital issues, and parent-child conflicts).
Hi I'm Kasorn. I am a registered counsellor of ACA and a member of their college of supervisors. I believe that everyone deserves to live a healthy and purposeful life. My passion lies in counselling, where I feel privileged to work alongside the clients on their personal journey. Over many years, I have had the opportunity to support individuals, couples, and families from diverse backgrounds as they seek meaning, support, and a positive life direction. My aim is to empower and support clients to explore and overcome the challenges that hinder their ability to fully embrace life.
(08) 6493 7873 View (08) 6493 7873
Photo of Vanja Beric, ACA-L1, Counsellor
Vanja Beric
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
Baldivis, WA 6171
Are you feeling stuck and unhappy in your marriage or relationship? Frustrated by constant arguments and conflicts? Do you want to fix your relationship and reclaim the joy in your life?
Are you feeling stuck and unhappy in your marriage or relationship? Frustrated by constant arguments and conflicts? Do you want to fix your relationship and reclaim the joy in your life?
(08) 6490 9117 View (08) 6490 9117
Photo of Iffeisha Gordon-Toppin - Transformative Mind Health & Wellness, ACA-L1, Counsellor
Transformative Mind Health & Wellness
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
Secret Harbour, WA 6173  (Online Only)
We assist you in working on and through: ​Self Esteem- Grief and Loss- Burnout and Workplace Stress- Self Care- Depression and Sadness- Marriage and Couples- Anxiety and Worry- Relationship Issues- Cultural Adaptation-Trauma- Anger Management- Anxiety - educator stress release.
Welcome to Transformative Mind where the health of your mind is our expertise. Our supports are based on the idea that humans can adjust their thinking based on new information. At Transformative Mind (TMHW), we use a number of approaches and techniques to meet the individual needs of each client, however the foundation of all support services is rooted in our passion for bringing more mindfulness and mind awareness to mental health. We believe in neuroplasticity, that changing and that mindfulness and mental health are just as important as your physical health. Our team will support you towards becoming the master of your mind. ​
We assist you in working on and through: ​Self Esteem- Grief and Loss- Burnout and Workplace Stress- Self Care- Depression and Sadness- Marriage and Couples- Anxiety and Worry- Relationship Issues- Cultural Adaptation-Trauma- Anger Management- Anxiety - educator stress release.
Welcome to Transformative Mind where the health of your mind is our expertise. Our supports are based on the idea that humans can adjust their thinking based on new information. At Transformative Mind (TMHW), we use a number of approaches and techniques to meet the individual needs of each client, however the foundation of all support services is rooted in our passion for bringing more mindfulness and mind awareness to mental health. We believe in neuroplasticity, that changing and that mindfulness and mental health are just as important as your physical health. Our team will support you towards becoming the master of your mind. ​
(08) 9515 3937 View (08) 9515 3937
Photo of Mim Kempson - Sex and Relationship Therapist | Mim Kempson, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Sex and Relationship Therapist | Mim Kempson
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
As a Sexologist and Registered Counsellor, I support individuals and couples facing challenges in sex, communication, dating, libido, FIFO relationships, neurodiversity (ADHD/ASD), family stresses, sexual difficulties/pain, codependency, healing from betrayal, ENM/polyamory, and more. I work with LGBTQ+ people and anyone feeling constrained or exhausted by the pressures to have a certain kind of marriage/relationship, income, family, career, appearance, to behave in a certain way, and be a certain person.
As a Sexologist and Registered Counsellor, I support individuals and couples facing challenges in sex, communication, dating, libido, FIFO relationships, neurodiversity (ADHD/ASD), family stresses, sexual difficulties/pain, codependency, healing from betrayal, ENM/polyamory, and more. I work with LGBTQ+ people and anyone feeling constrained or exhausted by the pressures to have a certain kind of marriage/relationship, income, family, career, appearance, to behave in a certain way, and be a certain person.
(08) 7079 5667 View (08) 7079 5667
Photo of Elanie De Klerk - Better Life Counsellors and Psychotherapists, ACA-L4, Counsellor
Better Life Counsellors and Psychotherapists
Counsellor, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mindarie, WA 6030
Her areas of expertise include addressing relationship/ marital issues, anger management, behavioral addictions, anxiety disorders, and childhood trauma.
Elanie is a skilled and compassionate counsellor and psychotherapist with a deep respect for the counseling relationship and her clients. She possesses a strong sense of empathy, allowing her to connect with individuals on a sincere level and understand their unique experiences and challenges. With a discerning approach, she carefully assesses her clients’ needs and tailors her therapeutic interventions to suit their specific circumstances. Elanie is a registered member of the Australian Counselling Association (ACA), and a registered provider for Bupa, Medibank, AHM, HCF and ARHG.
Her areas of expertise include addressing relationship/ marital issues, anger management, behavioral addictions, anxiety disorders, and childhood trauma.
Elanie is a skilled and compassionate counsellor and psychotherapist with a deep respect for the counseling relationship and her clients. She possesses a strong sense of empathy, allowing her to connect with individuals on a sincere level and understand their unique experiences and challenges. With a discerning approach, she carefully assesses her clients’ needs and tailors her therapeutic interventions to suit their specific circumstances. Elanie is a registered member of the Australian Counselling Association (ACA), and a registered provider for Bupa, Medibank, AHM, HCF and ARHG.
(08) 7079 4212 View (08) 7079 4212
Photo of Jennifer Altheimer, ACA-L4, Counsellor
Jennifer Altheimer
Counsellor, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
Canning Vale, WA 6155
This option is only for clients who are amicable but would like to support from a neutral person to facilitate an agreement) and strengthening the partnership/marriage.
I am an experienced, registered counsellor with more than 18 years of experience working with individuals, children, couples and families from all walks of life and cultural backgrounds. I have worked alongside these clients to bring about healing in the relationship they have with themselves and others. My training and experience in various issues such as family and relationship dynamics, interpersonal issues, grief and loss, family and domestic violence, various forms of trauma, depression, anxiety, parent-teen conflict and migration enables me to empathise with my clients, making them feel heard and understood.
This option is only for clients who are amicable but would like to support from a neutral person to facilitate an agreement) and strengthening the partnership/marriage.
I am an experienced, registered counsellor with more than 18 years of experience working with individuals, children, couples and families from all walks of life and cultural backgrounds. I have worked alongside these clients to bring about healing in the relationship they have with themselves and others. My training and experience in various issues such as family and relationship dynamics, interpersonal issues, grief and loss, family and domestic violence, various forms of trauma, depression, anxiety, parent-teen conflict and migration enables me to empathise with my clients, making them feel heard and understood.
(08) 6493 7805 View (08) 6493 7805
Photo of Emily Hirshman-Smith - Emily Hirshman-Smith Counselling & Psychotherapy, MA, ACA-L4, Counsellor
Emily Hirshman-Smith Counselling & Psychotherapy
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
Cottesloe, WA 6011
My areas of speciality include Relationship / Marriage Counselling; Addiction (pornography, sex, drug and alcohol); Anxiety and Depression; Grief Counselling; Sexual Health.
Are you experiencing difficulties in your relationship(s)? Are you feeling confused and wanting some clarity? Are you wanting to change some behaviours, but don’t know how or where to begin? Are you feeling angry, sad, lonely or overwhelmed, finding it difficult to get through the day? Perhaps you’ve answered yes to one or some of these questions. If so, it might be time to talk to a professional Counsellor in a safe and comfortable environment where you can fully explore what’s going on for you, and begin to facilitate change, at a pace that feels right for you. I offer short and long term Counselling to Couples and Individuals.
My areas of speciality include Relationship / Marriage Counselling; Addiction (pornography, sex, drug and alcohol); Anxiety and Depression; Grief Counselling; Sexual Health.
Are you experiencing difficulties in your relationship(s)? Are you feeling confused and wanting some clarity? Are you wanting to change some behaviours, but don’t know how or where to begin? Are you feeling angry, sad, lonely or overwhelmed, finding it difficult to get through the day? Perhaps you’ve answered yes to one or some of these questions. If so, it might be time to talk to a professional Counsellor in a safe and comfortable environment where you can fully explore what’s going on for you, and begin to facilitate change, at a pace that feels right for you. I offer short and long term Counselling to Couples and Individuals.
(08) 7078 8383 View (08) 7078 8383
Photo of Yvette Kriel - Better Life Counsellors and Psychotherapists, ACA-L2, Psychotherapist
Better Life Counsellors and Psychotherapists
Psychotherapist, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jindalee, WA 6036
Does your life sometimes feel overwhelming, and does that lead you to feel anxious or depressed, as if you just can't cope? Do you have difficulties maintaining close relationships, or are you experiencing the trauma of adultery and betrayal in your marriage? Perhaps you have personal trauma you need to deal with in order to bring healing and move forward. The purpose of my work is to assist you in overcoming marriage problems, dealing with the raw emotions associated with betrayal, and providing you with the tools necessary for a successful marriage. Both individuals and couples are welcome to contact me.
Does your life sometimes feel overwhelming, and does that lead you to feel anxious or depressed, as if you just can't cope? Do you have difficulties maintaining close relationships, or are you experiencing the trauma of adultery and betrayal in your marriage? Perhaps you have personal trauma you need to deal with in order to bring healing and move forward. The purpose of my work is to assist you in overcoming marriage problems, dealing with the raw emotions associated with betrayal, and providing you with the tools necessary for a successful marriage. Both individuals and couples are welcome to contact me.
(08) 9329 3397 View (08) 9329 3397
Photo of Susan Ann Maltby - Oceanside Counselling Service, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Oceanside Counselling Service
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Clarkson, WA 6030
The clients I see have coping skills problems, family issues, depression, anxiety, grieving the loss of a loved one, struggling with work problems, difficulty in managing stress, unable to relax, strained relationships, problems in the marriage/relationship, anger management. The clients needs are to be understood and listened to in a supportive and confidential space. The clients goals are to improve coping skills, reestablish emotional equilibrium, improve relationships, reduce stress, learn relaxation techniques.
The clients I see have coping skills problems, family issues, depression, anxiety, grieving the loss of a loved one, struggling with work problems, difficulty in managing stress, unable to relax, strained relationships, problems in the marriage/relationship, anger management. The clients needs are to be understood and listened to in a supportive and confidential space. The clients goals are to improve coping skills, reestablish emotional equilibrium, improve relationships, reduce stress, learn relaxation techniques.
(08) 6206 8936 View (08) 6206 8936
Photo of Valerie Laraine Morton, MA, ACA-L4, Counsellor
Valerie Laraine Morton
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
Hammond Park, WA 6164
I use both the Prepare Enrich Programme (pre-marriage and couples) and The Gottman method for Couples, to assist couples, restore their marriages and establish strong relationships.
I work with people from adolescence to the mature adult. I enjoy working in areas to do with relationships, depression, anxiety, stress and with people who are going through life transitions. I work with both individuals and Couples.
I use both the Prepare Enrich Programme (pre-marriage and couples) and The Gottman method for Couples, to assist couples, restore their marriages and establish strong relationships.
I work with people from adolescence to the mature adult. I enjoy working in areas to do with relationships, depression, anxiety, stress and with people who are going through life transitions. I work with both individuals and Couples.
(08) 9551 7650 View (08) 9551 7650
Photo of Jade Baravilala, ACA-L4, Counsellor
Jade Baravilala
Counsellor, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Perth, WA 6000  (Online Only)
Navigating relationships can be challenging. We’ve all experienced misunderstandings, pain, and sometimes even caused pain to others. Whether you require pre-marital/marriage counselling, support in journeying through addictions such as infidelity and pornography, work or sports career related concerns, my 20+ years of experience can guide you through these times. I have a unique blend of expertise when it comes to relationships, having managed high-profile sports professionals, leading an international non-profit organization, working cross-culturally and continuing to thrive in my own cross -cultural marriage for over two decades.
Navigating relationships can be challenging. We’ve all experienced misunderstandings, pain, and sometimes even caused pain to others. Whether you require pre-marital/marriage counselling, support in journeying through addictions such as infidelity and pornography, work or sports career related concerns, my 20+ years of experience can guide you through these times. I have a unique blend of expertise when it comes to relationships, having managed high-profile sports professionals, leading an international non-profit organization, working cross-culturally and continuing to thrive in my own cross -cultural marriage for over two decades.
(07) 4145 4758 View (07) 4145 4758
Photo of Michelle Ottey, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Michelle Ottey
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Perth, WA 6000  (Online Only)
I use a collaborative approach to treat a range of mental health conditions including depression, anxiety-related disorders, obsessive compulsive disorder, sleep disorders, trauma-related disorders, and many more. I am also here to support you through life’s challenges such grief and loss, relationship and marital problems, parenting challenges and living with the impact of chronic health conditions. With expertise in childhood trauma, I bring a strong attachment focus to therapy. I am committed to helping you better understand yourself and how you relate to others, to uncover the patterns that get in the way of your well-being.
I use a collaborative approach to treat a range of mental health conditions including depression, anxiety-related disorders, obsessive compulsive disorder, sleep disorders, trauma-related disorders, and many more. I am also here to support you through life’s challenges such grief and loss, relationship and marital problems, parenting challenges and living with the impact of chronic health conditions. With expertise in childhood trauma, I bring a strong attachment focus to therapy. I am committed to helping you better understand yourself and how you relate to others, to uncover the patterns that get in the way of your well-being.
(03) 8104 9534 View (03) 8104 9534
Photo of Jasmin Stankovic - Avila Counselling and Wellness, MA, ACA-L4, Counsellor
Avila Counselling and Wellness
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
Perth, WA 6000
I specialize in helping individuals with grief and loss, sexual trauma, depression and anxiety, childhood emotional neglect, marriage relationships and family issues and more.
At Avila Counselling and Wellness, we're committed to person-centred therapy, focusing on you and your unique needs. My mission is to provide a safe and understanding environment where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and behaviours. Together, we'll work on developing new skills, and strategies to navigate through your unique story of pain. I firmly believe that change and healing are possible for everyone.
I specialize in helping individuals with grief and loss, sexual trauma, depression and anxiety, childhood emotional neglect, marriage relationships and family issues and more.
At Avila Counselling and Wellness, we're committed to person-centred therapy, focusing on you and your unique needs. My mission is to provide a safe and understanding environment where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and behaviours. Together, we'll work on developing new skills, and strategies to navigate through your unique story of pain. I firmly believe that change and healing are possible for everyone.
(08) 6724 8041 View (08) 6724 8041
Shagoon Maurya
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
Perth, WA 6000
I support individuals who are struggling with a range of life challenges. This may be a situational issue or more ongoing challenges in life where you have notice repeated patterns. This could be things like struggling with mental health, emotional overwhelm, stress, relational issues or breakdown, life transition, work or study pressure, substance misuse, anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues and childhood trauma. I also support adults experiencing relationship/marriage and family problems. It is not uncommon to feel apprehensive about engaging in therapy even though it can be very beneficial in many ways.
I support individuals who are struggling with a range of life challenges. This may be a situational issue or more ongoing challenges in life where you have notice repeated patterns. This could be things like struggling with mental health, emotional overwhelm, stress, relational issues or breakdown, life transition, work or study pressure, substance misuse, anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues and childhood trauma. I also support adults experiencing relationship/marriage and family problems. It is not uncommon to feel apprehensive about engaging in therapy even though it can be very beneficial in many ways.
(08) 7079 4465 View (08) 7079 4465
Photo of Nisha Mohan, MSc, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Nisha Mohan
Counsellor, MSc, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Perth, WA 6000  (Online Only)
I strongly believe that every person has a purpose and set of skills/strengths they bring into this world; however, that sometimes inconvenient/negative circumstances or unhealthy relationships can derail this potential by planting a seed of self-doubt into our minds. Regardless of where it applies to an individual's life (e.g. marriage, career, etc.), it would be my privilege to help clients along the way to achieving their life goals/vision by helping them identify and deal with any stumbling blocks in their way. Life loves to throw curveballs (it wouldn't be interesting if it didn't), but I'd love to prepare my clients for them!
I strongly believe that every person has a purpose and set of skills/strengths they bring into this world; however, that sometimes inconvenient/negative circumstances or unhealthy relationships can derail this potential by planting a seed of self-doubt into our minds. Regardless of where it applies to an individual's life (e.g. marriage, career, etc.), it would be my privilege to help clients along the way to achieving their life goals/vision by helping them identify and deal with any stumbling blocks in their way. Life loves to throw curveballs (it wouldn't be interesting if it didn't), but I'd love to prepare my clients for them!
(02) 5121 7423 View (02) 5121 7423
1
...

See more therapy options for Perth

Marriage Counselling

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.