Photo of Melissa Sue Sutton, MA, LPC, Counselor
Melissa Sue Sutton
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Winfield, AL 35594
Have you ever felt like getting out of bed or taking care of even the most basic of things just feels like too much work? Do you toss and turn all night, your brain constantly bouncing from one terrible thing to the next? Do you feel like you don't have the energy to breathe? If the answer to these questions is yes - then I invite you to contact me. You can find the motivation to do the things you used to enjoy. It is possible to quiet your brain enough so you can get enough rest. I have spent my career helping people to combat issues just like these. Call or email me today and let me help you get back to being who you want to be.
Have you ever felt like getting out of bed or taking care of even the most basic of things just feels like too much work? Do you toss and turn all night, your brain constantly bouncing from one terrible thing to the next? Do you feel like you don't have the energy to breathe? If the answer to these questions is yes - then I invite you to contact me. You can find the motivation to do the things you used to enjoy. It is possible to quiet your brain enough so you can get enough rest. I have spent my career helping people to combat issues just like these. Call or email me today and let me help you get back to being who you want to be.
(205) 206-7538 View (205) 206-7538
Photo of Rachel Diana Lathrop - Rachel Lathrop LICSW , LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Lathrop LICSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Hamilton, AL 35570  (Online Only)
I am a Blue Cross provider who offers weeknights and weekend telehealth appointments. I strive to create that welcoming space, where you can feel completely comfortable, whether you need support processing and overcoming deep rooted trauma or everyday stressors. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, PTSD, and family/relationship conflict. Together we can unpack your life's story to begin your healing. Allow me the privilege of being that nonjudgmental, listening ear, where you feel uplifted and supported as you take steps in reaching your desired destination.
I am a Blue Cross provider who offers weeknights and weekend telehealth appointments. I strive to create that welcoming space, where you can feel completely comfortable, whether you need support processing and overcoming deep rooted trauma or everyday stressors. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, PTSD, and family/relationship conflict. Together we can unpack your life's story to begin your healing. Allow me the privilege of being that nonjudgmental, listening ear, where you feel uplifted and supported as you take steps in reaching your desired destination.
(205) 525-9554 View (205) 525-9554

Online Therapists

Photo of Kimberly S Williams - Kimberly Williams Counseling, LLC, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kimberly Williams Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Vestavia, AL 35243
Are you having difficulty coping with day to day life issues? Are you isolating, withdrawing and finding it hard to get through the day? Is your teenager out of control or do you feel like parenting is overwhelming? Are you having marital problems or currently going through a divorce? If you answered yes to any of these questions I can help. Let me assist you in getting to a better place in your life and improving your family system.
Are you having difficulty coping with day to day life issues? Are you isolating, withdrawing and finding it hard to get through the day? Is your teenager out of control or do you feel like parenting is overwhelming? Are you having marital problems or currently going through a divorce? If you answered yes to any of these questions I can help. Let me assist you in getting to a better place in your life and improving your family system.
(205) 358-4196 View (205) 358-4196
Photo of Kristen M Woods, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristen M Woods
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hoover, AL 35216
With a certification in Marriage, couples, and family counseling I am trained to assist couples and families with resolving conflicts, building healthier interpersonal relationships, and fostering more effective ways of communication.
Whether you’re experiencing distress or conflict within your life, experiencing professional changes, having difficulty coping with the loss of a loved one, experiencing a transitional phase in your life, or etc. through a positive therapeutic process growth can occur. Through an empathetic and safe environment, the therapeutic process can assist you in creating your optimal life.
With a certification in Marriage, couples, and family counseling I am trained to assist couples and families with resolving conflicts, building healthier interpersonal relationships, and fostering more effective ways of communication.
Whether you’re experiencing distress or conflict within your life, experiencing professional changes, having difficulty coping with the loss of a loved one, experiencing a transitional phase in your life, or etc. through a positive therapeutic process growth can occur. Through an empathetic and safe environment, the therapeutic process can assist you in creating your optimal life.
(205) 983-6371 View (205) 983-6371
Photo of Karen G. Marullo - Karen Marullo, MA, LPC, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Karen Marullo, MA, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Homewood, AL 35209
I am an individual and family therapist with over 30 years of experience in the field. I work with adults experiencing problems with depression, anxiety, marital and relationship issues, eating disorders, sexual abuse and post-traumatic stress disorder. I utilize integrative therapies that emphasize cognitive behavioral methods and mindfulness strategies. My mission is to assist individuals in gaining insight about pains of the past, develop clearer views of these problems and learn to incorporate more effective coping skills that lead to a healthier and more balanced life.
I am an individual and family therapist with over 30 years of experience in the field. I work with adults experiencing problems with depression, anxiety, marital and relationship issues, eating disorders, sexual abuse and post-traumatic stress disorder. I utilize integrative therapies that emphasize cognitive behavioral methods and mindfulness strategies. My mission is to assist individuals in gaining insight about pains of the past, develop clearer views of these problems and learn to incorporate more effective coping skills that lead to a healthier and more balanced life.
(205) 402-8540 View (205) 402-8540
Photo of Gracie M. Self, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Gracie M. Self
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Vestavia, AL 35216
I specialize in providing compassionate support & guidance to both marital & premarital couples who want to rediscover joy, connection, and resolution within their relationships.
Are you feeling overwhelmed at work or at home? Are you tired of having the same dead-end conversations over and over again? Feeling a lack of satisfaction in your relationships? You may be feeling stressed and thinking, "I can't do this anymore." Does the demand of parenting and keeping it all together cause you to feel a lack of joy at the end of the day? Whatever you're going through, it is possible to feel confident and find joy in your life and relationships again. We'll work together to build your confidence, enhance your self-esteem, and cultivate the skills you need to navigate life with grace.
I specialize in providing compassionate support & guidance to both marital & premarital couples who want to rediscover joy, connection, and resolution within their relationships.
Are you feeling overwhelmed at work or at home? Are you tired of having the same dead-end conversations over and over again? Feeling a lack of satisfaction in your relationships? You may be feeling stressed and thinking, "I can't do this anymore." Does the demand of parenting and keeping it all together cause you to feel a lack of joy at the end of the day? Whatever you're going through, it is possible to feel confident and find joy in your life and relationships again. We'll work together to build your confidence, enhance your self-esteem, and cultivate the skills you need to navigate life with grace.
(659) 251-8422 View (659) 251-8422
Photo of Shalanda S Kangethe Edd - Roundbell International Services Inc, EdD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Roundbell International Services Inc
Marriage & Family Therapist, EdD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35242
She helps individuals to explore emotions that hinder personal, occupational, and spiritual growth, family of origin issues, childhood trauma, relationship and marital issues.
“You deserve to live a life that leaves you excited to wake up every morning, one of the bravest things you can do is begin to understand your own story.”
She helps individuals to explore emotions that hinder personal, occupational, and spiritual growth, family of origin issues, childhood trauma, relationship and marital issues.
“You deserve to live a life that leaves you excited to wake up every morning, one of the bravest things you can do is begin to understand your own story.”
(659) 221-4661 View (659) 221-4661
Photo of Greer Jones, MS, LMFT-S, Marriage & Family Therapist
Greer Jones
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
Waitlist for new clients
Although my passions are addiction recovery and prenatal/postpartum work, I work with clients and their families facing a myriad of issues: marital conflict, infidelity, grief and bereavement, life transitions, and substance abuse, to name a handful.
I love working with those who are ready to make a change in their lives. I think trust and comfort are the two most important factors when choosing a therapist. For real progress to happen, the therapist has to be a good fit for you. I think each client comes in with individual and specific challenges, meaning therapy has to be tailored to fit each client. I'd love to be able to take the time to figure out what is happening for you and what can be helpful in overcoming obstacles.
Although my passions are addiction recovery and prenatal/postpartum work, I work with clients and their families facing a myriad of issues: marital conflict, infidelity, grief and bereavement, life transitions, and substance abuse, to name a handful.
I love working with those who are ready to make a change in their lives. I think trust and comfort are the two most important factors when choosing a therapist. For real progress to happen, the therapist has to be a good fit for you. I think each client comes in with individual and specific challenges, meaning therapy has to be tailored to fit each client. I'd love to be able to take the time to figure out what is happening for you and what can be helpful in overcoming obstacles.
(205) 512-2487 View (205) 512-2487
Photo of Amber Lee, MEd, MFT-I, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Amber Lee
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MEd, MFT-I
Verified Verified
As the default parent in your family, do you feel under extreme pressure from your partner to manage all the childcare duties yourself? Is your co-parenting situation causing resentment to build in your marriage or putting a strain on your relationships with your children? Managing a household with unbalanced responsibilities can cause additional stress for one or both parents and tension to build within the family unit. If your family needs some help managing stress, redefining roles within the family, reestablishing emotional bonds or gaining a better sense of connection, let me give you the tools to do so.
As the default parent in your family, do you feel under extreme pressure from your partner to manage all the childcare duties yourself? Is your co-parenting situation causing resentment to build in your marriage or putting a strain on your relationships with your children? Managing a household with unbalanced responsibilities can cause additional stress for one or both parents and tension to build within the family unit. If your family needs some help managing stress, redefining roles within the family, reestablishing emotional bonds or gaining a better sense of connection, let me give you the tools to do so.
(205) 964-5775 View (205) 964-5775
Photo of Kyla Holly Vines, MS, LPC, Counselor
Kyla Holly Vines
Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jasper, AL 35501
I offer marriage therapy, family therapy and individual therapy designed to help achieve the desired goals.
My name is Kyla Holly Vines. I am an Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama and an Army Veteran. I look forward to seeing you at my Jasper Alabama location. If I can't see you then I guarantee you we will match you with a therapist who you will be pleased with. At my practice we have day time therapist, night and weekend therapists available to you. Don't let not having health insurance get in the way. We offer sessions based on a a sliding scale. Call today for your free consultation!
I offer marriage therapy, family therapy and individual therapy designed to help achieve the desired goals.
My name is Kyla Holly Vines. I am an Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama and an Army Veteran. I look forward to seeing you at my Jasper Alabama location. If I can't see you then I guarantee you we will match you with a therapist who you will be pleased with. At my practice we have day time therapist, night and weekend therapists available to you. Don't let not having health insurance get in the way. We offer sessions based on a a sliding scale. Call today for your free consultation!
(205) 858-9111 View (205) 858-9111
Photo of Rebecca Welsh, MEd, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rebecca Welsh
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35223
I earned a Masters of Education in Clinical Mental Health & Marriage and Family Counseling at the University of Montevallo in 2013.
It has been said: "God uses our deepest pain as a launchpad for our highest calling". However, a lot of the times we become immobilized aka "stuck" by the pains we have endured. My goal in counseling is to remind believers and non-believers that there is hope past the pain, shame, and doubt they are experiencing; through modalities of individual, couples, family and pre- marital counseling. Do not let shame and doubt rule over you any longer but instead gain insight and authenticity as you understand your Creator, your process and yourself more fully.
I earned a Masters of Education in Clinical Mental Health & Marriage and Family Counseling at the University of Montevallo in 2013.
It has been said: "God uses our deepest pain as a launchpad for our highest calling". However, a lot of the times we become immobilized aka "stuck" by the pains we have endured. My goal in counseling is to remind believers and non-believers that there is hope past the pain, shame, and doubt they are experiencing; through modalities of individual, couples, family and pre- marital counseling. Do not let shame and doubt rule over you any longer but instead gain insight and authenticity as you understand your Creator, your process and yourself more fully.
(205) 858-9520 View (205) 858-9520
Photo of Ronald Ashley, LMFT, CCDP-D, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ronald Ashley
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CCDP-D
Verified Verified
Huntsville, AL 35806
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a member of the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapist.
Welcome to Psychological & Counseling Associates I provide services for families experiencing complexities including; family counseling, mental health issues, parenting issues, substance and alcohol abuse, court mediations, seminars and workshops and EAP services. I provide these services through a comprehensive culturally competent system of care, including community-based support services comprised of partnerships among the Mental Health Services and other agencies with the understanding that families are entitled to dignified and meaningful lives.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a member of the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapist.
Welcome to Psychological & Counseling Associates I provide services for families experiencing complexities including; family counseling, mental health issues, parenting issues, substance and alcohol abuse, court mediations, seminars and workshops and EAP services. I provide these services through a comprehensive culturally competent system of care, including community-based support services comprised of partnerships among the Mental Health Services and other agencies with the understanding that families are entitled to dignified and meaningful lives.
(256) 877-5132 View (256) 877-5132
Photo of Ben DeBell, MDiv, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ben DeBell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MDiv, LPC
Verified Verified
Trussville, AL 35173
Also, he is certified to administer Prepare/Enrich Assessments and SYMBIS (Save Your Marriage Before It Starts).
Ben is a Licensed Professional Counselor that utilizes an integrative approach to counseling, incorporating theological and psychological principles. He uses a variety of counseling models to meet the various needs of clients including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), Brief-Solution Focused Therapy, TBRI, and others. Ben enjoys working with individuals, couples/families, and children.
Also, he is certified to administer Prepare/Enrich Assessments and SYMBIS (Save Your Marriage Before It Starts).
Ben is a Licensed Professional Counselor that utilizes an integrative approach to counseling, incorporating theological and psychological principles. He uses a variety of counseling models to meet the various needs of clients including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), Brief-Solution Focused Therapy, TBRI, and others. Ben enjoys working with individuals, couples/families, and children.
(205) 315-8995 View (205) 315-8995
Photo of Calah Fite, M Ed, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Calah Fite
Licensed Professional Counselor, M Ed, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Huntsville, AL 35801
Have you recently had a big life change or lost a relationship or someone close to you? Are you trapped in a cycle of worry, shame, people pleasing, or exhaustion? My specialties include pre- marital and couples counseling, anxiety, depression, womens' issues, perfectionism, grief, relationship issues, self sabotage, trauma, boundaries, spirituality, and life-transitions for young adult women, adolescents, and couples. As a Christian, I offer faith-based counseling and believe that our minds, bodies, and souls are all interconnected and we can dive into correcting any negative beliefs with God's truth to find peace and wholeness.
Have you recently had a big life change or lost a relationship or someone close to you? Are you trapped in a cycle of worry, shame, people pleasing, or exhaustion? My specialties include pre- marital and couples counseling, anxiety, depression, womens' issues, perfectionism, grief, relationship issues, self sabotage, trauma, boundaries, spirituality, and life-transitions for young adult women, adolescents, and couples. As a Christian, I offer faith-based counseling and believe that our minds, bodies, and souls are all interconnected and we can dive into correcting any negative beliefs with God's truth to find peace and wholeness.
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Photo of Atonte Roxanne Myers, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Atonte Roxanne Myers
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Huntsville, AL 35801
Is Your Marriage Falling Apart? Call Me Before You Call a Divorce Attorney! Are you feeling sad or anxious about your relationship? Do you long for a happier marriage and a deeper connection? Unresolved childhood trauma, depression, and anxiety can create barriers to peace and happiness in your life. As a therapist specializing in couples, individuals, and families, I help clients navigate conflict and find inner peace. Together, we will explore practical tools to overcome the issues you're facing, with your spouse, as an individual or family member.
Is Your Marriage Falling Apart? Call Me Before You Call a Divorce Attorney! Are you feeling sad or anxious about your relationship? Do you long for a happier marriage and a deeper connection? Unresolved childhood trauma, depression, and anxiety can create barriers to peace and happiness in your life. As a therapist specializing in couples, individuals, and families, I help clients navigate conflict and find inner peace. Together, we will explore practical tools to overcome the issues you're facing, with your spouse, as an individual or family member.
(256) 363-6230 View (256) 363-6230
Photo of Larry R Massey, MDiv, MAC MHC, DMin, Counselor
Larry R Massey
Counselor, MDiv, MAC MHC, DMin
Verified Verified
Bessemer, AL 35022
God intends for us to be happy and content while the struggles of this world constantly attack the very foundation of our mental health. Things like intrusive thoughts of fear, jealously, inferiority, anger, mistrust, unforgiveness, and guilt rob us of our confidence and sense of wellbeing. Obsessive behavior or feelings of anxiety or depression can prevent or erode relationships that add so much to our lives. Healthy work relationships, marriage, and family relationships are all negatively or positively impacted by our perception. Our behavior will not change until our thinking changes. Why continue in pain when there is a relief.
God intends for us to be happy and content while the struggles of this world constantly attack the very foundation of our mental health. Things like intrusive thoughts of fear, jealously, inferiority, anger, mistrust, unforgiveness, and guilt rob us of our confidence and sense of wellbeing. Obsessive behavior or feelings of anxiety or depression can prevent or erode relationships that add so much to our lives. Healthy work relationships, marriage, and family relationships are all negatively or positively impacted by our perception. Our behavior will not change until our thinking changes. Why continue in pain when there is a relief.
(205) 402-8969 x7 View (205) 402-8969 x7
Photo of Al Bevill, LPC-S, NCC, CCFC, CCSOTS, Counselor
Al Bevill
Counselor, LPC-S, NCC, CCFC, CCSOTS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35244
Al works with those individuals or couples who are at the end of their rope. Couples Focused Counseling: Have you tried and been unsuccessful with Traditional marital or couples counseling, Self-help books, Talking to friends or family for advice, or Doing nothing at all. Is your marriage on the brink? Couples arriving at the brink is a necessary stage in every marriage or long-term relationship. That’s right, it’s not IF you get to the Brink, but what you do WHEN you get there.
Al works with those individuals or couples who are at the end of their rope. Couples Focused Counseling: Have you tried and been unsuccessful with Traditional marital or couples counseling, Self-help books, Talking to friends or family for advice, or Doing nothing at all. Is your marriage on the brink? Couples arriving at the brink is a necessary stage in every marriage or long-term relationship. That’s right, it’s not IF you get to the Brink, but what you do WHEN you get there.
(205) 224-0063 View (205) 224-0063
Photo of Marcy J. Watkins, MS, MSCE, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Marcy J. Watkins
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MSCE, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Madison, AL 35757  (Online Only)
Life can be a roller coaster ride with extreme highs and lows. Finding the right therapist to help you bring that ride to a happy ending can be challenging. I am someone who is committed to taking this journey with you in making every day your best day. I am caring, compassionate and energetic while getting to the root of the matter. You hold the keys to your overall happiness; I want to help you unlock the doors. Together we will develop your blueprint for your marriage, parenting skills, career goals, business, sports performance or overall mental wellness! You can achieve the optimal success in every part of your life, everyday!
Life can be a roller coaster ride with extreme highs and lows. Finding the right therapist to help you bring that ride to a happy ending can be challenging. I am someone who is committed to taking this journey with you in making every day your best day. I am caring, compassionate and energetic while getting to the root of the matter. You hold the keys to your overall happiness; I want to help you unlock the doors. Together we will develop your blueprint for your marriage, parenting skills, career goals, business, sports performance or overall mental wellness! You can achieve the optimal success in every part of your life, everyday!
(256) 371-4719 View (256) 371-4719
Photo of Jazmine Passley-Jones, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jazmine Passley-Jones
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hoover, AL 35244
Life is full of challenges, but being happy shouldn't be one of them! Whether your unhappiness is defined as an adolescent suffering from bullying, a spouse in a marriage that's lost its passion, a parent concerned with dysfunction in your family, or an individual struggling with grief, depression, or anxiety, I am here to help. I believe therapy is a place to help uncover your truths, not create them. We all have the tools necessary to be our best selves, sometimes we just a little guidance. While children are my main clientele, I have a heart for anyone who is ready to challenge their potential and unlock true happiness.
Life is full of challenges, but being happy shouldn't be one of them! Whether your unhappiness is defined as an adolescent suffering from bullying, a spouse in a marriage that's lost its passion, a parent concerned with dysfunction in your family, or an individual struggling with grief, depression, or anxiety, I am here to help. I believe therapy is a place to help uncover your truths, not create them. We all have the tools necessary to be our best selves, sometimes we just a little guidance. While children are my main clientele, I have a heart for anyone who is ready to challenge their potential and unlock true happiness.
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Photo of Kimberly Jenkins-Richardson - Jenkins-Richardson & Associates LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jenkins-Richardson & Associates LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
Anxiety, Depression, Grief/Loss, College Mental Health, Couples/ Marriage/Family Counseling, Postpartum Therapy, Infertility Counseling, Play/Art Therapy and Sexual Abuse/Trauma Counseling.
Accepting New Clients! Jenkins-Richardson & Associates is a diverse practice of Licensed Counselors and Social Workers. We are also one of a few practices state-wide who has both a Registered Play/Art Therapist and a Certified Pastoral Counselor on staff. We provide in person counseling services in our Tuscaloosa offices and telehealth services to individuals residing in the state of Alabama. Our services include Individual counseling for ages 4+, Couples, Family, and Group Counseling. Our specialization areas are as follows:
Anxiety, Depression, Grief/Loss, College Mental Health, Couples/ Marriage/Family Counseling, Postpartum Therapy, Infertility Counseling, Play/Art Therapy and Sexual Abuse/Trauma Counseling.
Accepting New Clients! Jenkins-Richardson & Associates is a diverse practice of Licensed Counselors and Social Workers. We are also one of a few practices state-wide who has both a Registered Play/Art Therapist and a Certified Pastoral Counselor on staff. We provide in person counseling services in our Tuscaloosa offices and telehealth services to individuals residing in the state of Alabama. Our services include Individual counseling for ages 4+, Couples, Family, and Group Counseling. Our specialization areas are as follows:
(205) 691-4385 View (205) 691-4385

See more therapy options for Marion County

Marriage Counseling Therapists

How does marriage counseling work?

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

How long does marriage counseling typically last?

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

Is marriage counseling effective?

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

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

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