Marriage Counseling Therapists in Alabama

Photo of Andra Cunningham, MA,  ALC,  NCC, CAMS-II, Counselor
Andra Cunningham
Counselor, MA, ALC, NCC, CAMS-II
Verified Verified
Anniston, AL 36201
We offer marriage counseling (including pre-marital), but also treat anxiety disorders, anger management, divorce issues, stress reduction, spiritual direction, trauma recovery, grief and loss.
As an ordained Christian minister of 30 years, I specialize in faith-integration for those seeking spiritual direction, and Christian counseling with evidence based training. Do you struggle with anger, anxiety, grief, or a challenging relationship, that affects your day-to-day life? Do you feel overwhelmed, frustrated, or lost? Now more than ever, people feel anxious, overwhelmed, and uncertain about overcoming difficult relationship, managing difficult feelings, or finding their place in life. We believe living better shouldn’t be so hard and people can change.
We offer marriage counseling (including pre-marital), but also treat anxiety disorders, anger management, divorce issues, stress reduction, spiritual direction, trauma recovery, grief and loss.
As an ordained Christian minister of 30 years, I specialize in faith-integration for those seeking spiritual direction, and Christian counseling with evidence based training. Do you struggle with anger, anxiety, grief, or a challenging relationship, that affects your day-to-day life? Do you feel overwhelmed, frustrated, or lost? Now more than ever, people feel anxious, overwhelmed, and uncertain about overcoming difficult relationship, managing difficult feelings, or finding their place in life. We believe living better shouldn’t be so hard and people can change.
(256) 380-3871 View (256) 380-3871
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
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 Dylann Lowery, MS, MFT-A, MFTI, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Dylann Lowery
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, MFT-A, MFTI
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35209  (Online Only)
You and your partner are staring at a long, bumpy road ahead of you. Once, you were excited to go on this journey together. Now, part of you is terrified of what's to come. You want to make things work, but you're tired and weary of having the same fight over and over. You can't seem to agree on anything. Are we ready for marriage or have similar goals? What's the best way to raise our kids? Enter stress from outside the relationship- pressure from opinionated in-laws, ever-increasing demands from work, kids acting out at school. Just when you need your partner's support the most, you feel like your teammate has left you stranded.
You and your partner are staring at a long, bumpy road ahead of you. Once, you were excited to go on this journey together. Now, part of you is terrified of what's to come. You want to make things work, but you're tired and weary of having the same fight over and over. You can't seem to agree on anything. Are we ready for marriage or have similar goals? What's the best way to raise our kids? Enter stress from outside the relationship- pressure from opinionated in-laws, ever-increasing demands from work, kids acting out at school. Just when you need your partner's support the most, you feel like your teammate has left you stranded.
(334) 402-2765 View (334) 402-2765
Photo of Lasonia Williams, LICSW, PIP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lasonia Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, PIP
Verified Verified
Oxford, AL 36203
Are you having difficulties in your marriage or dealing with family conflict. Maybe you're struggling with anxiety, depression or dealing with trauma from your past. At some point in our lives we will experience emotional and psychological distress. YOU DON’T have to struggle alone. It is common for people to attempt to deal with stress on their own. People choose to do this because they don't understand the benefits of therapy. Therapy helps us understand why we act and respond in unhealthy ways. Therapy helps us get through difficult times and strengthen personal relationships. Therapy helps us process feelings and emotions.
Are you having difficulties in your marriage or dealing with family conflict. Maybe you're struggling with anxiety, depression or dealing with trauma from your past. At some point in our lives we will experience emotional and psychological distress. YOU DON’T have to struggle alone. It is common for people to attempt to deal with stress on their own. People choose to do this because they don't understand the benefits of therapy. Therapy helps us understand why we act and respond in unhealthy ways. Therapy helps us get through difficult times and strengthen personal relationships. Therapy helps us process feelings and emotions.
(256) 537-8915 View (256) 537-8915
Photo of Shadora Smith, MS, ALC
Shadora Smith
MS, ALC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, AL 35756  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, ADHD (children and adults), ODD, Childhood Trauma, Trauma, Marital Issues, just to name a few, through CBT(cognitive reconditioning, healthy boundaries, affirmations), role-play, supportive, reflective feedback, journaling, plans for goals &DBT.
Hi, I am glad you took the first step to your better tomorrow. Life has been unpredictable all of 2020. You have experienced/witnessed loss, hurt, lack, & hate on top of all the other things that life casually brings along. It has been hard to sit with yourself by yourself, but you made it! This is the year that you stop the cycle of "living an emotionally depleted life"! Today you will begin the process of creating a mental space that allows you to live free, purposed, guilty-free, hopeful, and fulfilled. I look forward to assisting you in creating a better tomorrow starting today.
I specialize in treating Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, ADHD (children and adults), ODD, Childhood Trauma, Trauma, Marital Issues, just to name a few, through CBT(cognitive reconditioning, healthy boundaries, affirmations), role-play, supportive, reflective feedback, journaling, plans for goals &DBT.
Hi, I am glad you took the first step to your better tomorrow. Life has been unpredictable all of 2020. You have experienced/witnessed loss, hurt, lack, & hate on top of all the other things that life casually brings along. It has been hard to sit with yourself by yourself, but you made it! This is the year that you stop the cycle of "living an emotionally depleted life"! Today you will begin the process of creating a mental space that allows you to live free, purposed, guilty-free, hopeful, and fulfilled. I look forward to assisting you in creating a better tomorrow starting today.
(256) 464-1245 View (256) 464-1245
Photo of Kahla Hill, LPC, NCC, CCATP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kahla Hill
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CCATP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I have a Master's degree in marriage and family counseling/therapy and am licensed as a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Alabama.
Are you currently in transition attempting to figure out what your next move should be or how to navigate current challenges? Do you feel anxious and/or depressed more often than not? Do you use alcohol and/or substances to cope with past traumas or current stressors? Or maybe you're finally ready to live your life on your own terms and need support to start?
I have a Master's degree in marriage and family counseling/therapy and am licensed as a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Alabama.
Are you currently in transition attempting to figure out what your next move should be or how to navigate current challenges? Do you feel anxious and/or depressed more often than not? Do you use alcohol and/or substances to cope with past traumas or current stressors? Or maybe you're finally ready to live your life on your own terms and need support to start?
(205) 973-6655 View (205) 973-6655
Susan Walker Ratliff
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Huntsville, AL 35801
Susan W. Ratliff LPC Susan is a Licensed Professional Counselor. She earned a Bachelor’s Degree from Athens University in Behavioral Science, and a Masters Degree in Clinical Psychology from A&M University. Susan has been in practice in North Alabama for the past 25 years, with experience in both outpatient and inpatient settings. She has served a variety of populations, and has led individual, group, marital, and family therapy sessions. She currently works with children, adolescents and adults in therapy. Susan’s main passion in work is to improve individuals, and families lives by assisting in their development.
Susan W. Ratliff LPC Susan is a Licensed Professional Counselor. She earned a Bachelor’s Degree from Athens University in Behavioral Science, and a Masters Degree in Clinical Psychology from A&M University. Susan has been in practice in North Alabama for the past 25 years, with experience in both outpatient and inpatient settings. She has served a variety of populations, and has led individual, group, marital, and family therapy sessions. She currently works with children, adolescents and adults in therapy. Susan’s main passion in work is to improve individuals, and families lives by assisting in their development.
(256) 900-8350 View (256) 900-8350
Photo of Judith Wilson, MEd, LPC, SC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Judith Wilson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, SC
Verified Verified
McCalla, AL 35111
Areas of specialty include but are not limited to: anxiety and/or depression, pre-marital/marital issues, chronic pain/illness, chemical dependency, family issues, dealing with trauma/abuse from the past, and grief and loss.
NOW ACCEPTING BLUE CROSS/BLUE SHIELD AND UNITED HEALTHCARE I have over 25 years experience in the Mental Health field, having worked in a variety of settings. I have certification in Trauma Counseling. I work with all ages, regardless of sex, race, lifestyle choice, or economic status. If you are having challenges because of anxiety, depression, traumatic experiences, or family issues, I can provide you with assistance. I am also a Certified Transformation Life Coach - helping people transform their lives and realize their dreams.
Areas of specialty include but are not limited to: anxiety and/or depression, pre-marital/marital issues, chronic pain/illness, chemical dependency, family issues, dealing with trauma/abuse from the past, and grief and loss.
NOW ACCEPTING BLUE CROSS/BLUE SHIELD AND UNITED HEALTHCARE I have over 25 years experience in the Mental Health field, having worked in a variety of settings. I have certification in Trauma Counseling. I work with all ages, regardless of sex, race, lifestyle choice, or economic status. If you are having challenges because of anxiety, depression, traumatic experiences, or family issues, I can provide you with assistance. I am also a Certified Transformation Life Coach - helping people transform their lives and realize their dreams.
(844) 294-8195 View (844) 294-8195
Photo of Clay Coppage, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Clay Coppage
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Huntsville, AL 35802
Waitlist for new clients
I have been trained in Acceptance Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Hypnotherapy, Strength At Home (Evidence Based Intimate Partner Violence curriculum), and Gottman Marriage Therapy.
We all face difficulties in our lives. Negative emotions and thoughts are inevitable but they have the power to stop us dead in our tracks. Fortunately, we can take our power back using research based strategies. It takes a lot of courage to take the first step towards breaking cycles. I have worked with many clients who have either not had a good impression of therapy or who had a bad experience with it. My hope is that your experience with me will be a positive one and that you will walk away with noticeable change and real strategies to help you.
I have been trained in Acceptance Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Hypnotherapy, Strength At Home (Evidence Based Intimate Partner Violence curriculum), and Gottman Marriage Therapy.
We all face difficulties in our lives. Negative emotions and thoughts are inevitable but they have the power to stop us dead in our tracks. Fortunately, we can take our power back using research based strategies. It takes a lot of courage to take the first step towards breaking cycles. I have worked with many clients who have either not had a good impression of therapy or who had a bad experience with it. My hope is that your experience with me will be a positive one and that you will walk away with noticeable change and real strategies to help you.
(256) 980-0546 x700 View (256) 980-0546 x700
Photo of Allison Covington, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Allison Covington
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mobile, AL 36618
The decision to seek counseling is not easy and it takes courage to try a new way! Now breathe! It is my hope that you will allow me to assist you in this exciting journey. I experience such joy in helping people find and live their true, authentic self. As a Licensed Professional Counselor for over 30 years, and life long resident of Mobile, I remain committed to serving our community by fostering growth and healing with those seeking individual and marriage therapy services.
The decision to seek counseling is not easy and it takes courage to try a new way! Now breathe! It is my hope that you will allow me to assist you in this exciting journey. I experience such joy in helping people find and live their true, authentic self. As a Licensed Professional Counselor for over 30 years, and life long resident of Mobile, I remain committed to serving our community by fostering growth and healing with those seeking individual and marriage therapy services.
(251) 241-5098 View (251) 241-5098
Photo of Laura B Young, MS, LMFT, CCH, Marriage & Family Therapist
Laura B Young
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CCH
Verified Verified
Montgomery, AL 36117
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, LMFT. a Clinical Hypnotherapist, CCH... and a Manifestation Coach for Women I know these are difficult times. Here is help for you! My Personal and Professional Experiences come together to help Women overcome “feeling stuck and discouraged. “I am devoted to unraveling difficult situations allowing for meaningful change to occur. Together we can bring clarity to complicated situations, respond to loss and regret with compassion: and break the cycle of addictive behaviors. I welcome whatever you bring to the table. .Call (no text) FREE 20 min consult.334-277-7955.
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, LMFT. a Clinical Hypnotherapist, CCH... and a Manifestation Coach for Women I know these are difficult times. Here is help for you! My Personal and Professional Experiences come together to help Women overcome “feeling stuck and discouraged. “I am devoted to unraveling difficult situations allowing for meaningful change to occur. Together we can bring clarity to complicated situations, respond to loss and regret with compassion: and break the cycle of addictive behaviors. I welcome whatever you bring to the table. .Call (no text) FREE 20 min consult.334-277-7955.
(334) 651-0938 View (334) 651-0938
Photo of Janel Porter, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Janel Porter
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Montgomery, AL 36117  (Online Only)
Hello! I am Janel Porter, a licensed marriage and family therapist with a passion for helping individuals, families, and couples overcome struggles. I utilize a blend of cognitive-behavioral therapy, family systems work, motivational interviewing, and solution-focused therapy strategies. This means we will address the thoughts and beliefs influencing your behavior, set realistic and achievable goals based on your current situation, and work together to move beyond challenges towards a more promising future.
Hello! I am Janel Porter, a licensed marriage and family therapist with a passion for helping individuals, families, and couples overcome struggles. I utilize a blend of cognitive-behavioral therapy, family systems work, motivational interviewing, and solution-focused therapy strategies. This means we will address the thoughts and beliefs influencing your behavior, set realistic and achievable goals based on your current situation, and work together to move beyond challenges towards a more promising future.
(334) 378-2122 View (334) 378-2122
Photo of Drew Jamieson, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Drew Jamieson
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Not Verified Not Verified
Florence, AL 35630  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
As a marriage and family therapist, I am trained to view the life context of any individual, couple, or family sitting in front of me.
I am licensed in Alabama and North Carolina, so am able to see clients located in either state. I typically take an approach that seeks to find the resources and strengths that a person/family has that have worked in the past to confront the challenges they face today. I hope to create a safe and comfortable place while maintaining the best in quality practice.
As a marriage and family therapist, I am trained to view the life context of any individual, couple, or family sitting in front of me.
I am licensed in Alabama and North Carolina, so am able to see clients located in either state. I typically take an approach that seeks to find the resources and strengths that a person/family has that have worked in the past to confront the challenges they face today. I hope to create a safe and comfortable place while maintaining the best in quality practice.
(256) 685-5199 View (256) 685-5199
Photo of Barbara Bernstein, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Barbara Bernstein
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35205
Though I have specific training in relationship issues (such as marriage, pre-marriage, same-sex unions, parenting, infidelity, and in-law issues), I also work a great deal with individuals. I offer specific forgiveness training that has proven extremely helpful in healing grievances and resentments; and am trained in the use of EMDR. When motivated, there is no limit to the potential for improved relationships, personal fulfillment, and peace. In work with couples, I see great improvement when there is deep motivation. And it is part of my job to foster, and nurture that motivation in each partner.
Though I have specific training in relationship issues (such as marriage, pre-marriage, same-sex unions, parenting, infidelity, and in-law issues), I also work a great deal with individuals. I offer specific forgiveness training that has proven extremely helpful in healing grievances and resentments; and am trained in the use of EMDR. When motivated, there is no limit to the potential for improved relationships, personal fulfillment, and peace. In work with couples, I see great improvement when there is deep motivation. And it is part of my job to foster, and nurture that motivation in each partner.
(205) 322-1818 View (205) 322-1818
Photo of Keith Parham - Keith Parham, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Keith Parham, Licensed Professional Counselor
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tuscaloosa, AL 35404
COUNSELING : Marital - Relationship Problems - Depression - Anxiety- Recovery from Extra-Marital Affairs -Healing after Divorce ADHD - Grief - Post Traumatic Stress - Spiritual Issues - Christian Counseling - Substance Abuse and Codependency.
I hope you find what you're looking for among these listings. Neither I nor others listed here will have "all the answers". As a Counselor I am trained to help you through difficult circumstances. As a person, I have fallen, been restored, and thank God for His grace, in allowing me to join you in your healing. Online Scheduling for Counseling is available at www.keithparham.com. You can simply click "Website" (on the right <) to schedule an appointment, online.
COUNSELING : Marital - Relationship Problems - Depression - Anxiety- Recovery from Extra-Marital Affairs -Healing after Divorce ADHD - Grief - Post Traumatic Stress - Spiritual Issues - Christian Counseling - Substance Abuse and Codependency.
I hope you find what you're looking for among these listings. Neither I nor others listed here will have "all the answers". As a Counselor I am trained to help you through difficult circumstances. As a person, I have fallen, been restored, and thank God for His grace, in allowing me to join you in your healing. Online Scheduling for Counseling is available at www.keithparham.com. You can simply click "Website" (on the right <) to schedule an appointment, online.
(205) 687-0904 View (205) 687-0904
Photo of Errica Williams, MPH, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Errica Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MPH, LMSW
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35206
Sun's out! But, does your mood reflect it? Feeling anxious? Overwhelmed? Sad? Stuck? Betrayed? Would you like to address a new life change, marriage, relationship or other issues? Therapy may help. Here's a little info about me. I work with individuals & couples who seek therapy to process the "hard stuff" - tragedy, trauma, life transitions or change in professional & personal trajectories. I won't give you advice or tell you what to do. However, you will gain healthy coping tools & skills to navigate your journey to wellness. We will collaborate to develop your treatment plan, processing your concerns & goals at your own pace.
Sun's out! But, does your mood reflect it? Feeling anxious? Overwhelmed? Sad? Stuck? Betrayed? Would you like to address a new life change, marriage, relationship or other issues? Therapy may help. Here's a little info about me. I work with individuals & couples who seek therapy to process the "hard stuff" - tragedy, trauma, life transitions or change in professional & personal trajectories. I won't give you advice or tell you what to do. However, you will gain healthy coping tools & skills to navigate your journey to wellness. We will collaborate to develop your treatment plan, processing your concerns & goals at your own pace.
(205) 430-9190 View (205) 430-9190
Photo of Wayne William (Bill) Krug, PhD, Psychologist
Wayne William (Bill) Krug
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35226
I specialize in cognitive-behavioral therapy. My areas of expertise include working with depression, panic and anxiety disorders, premarital and marital counseling, ADHD, and problems of childhood and adolescence. I also do testing to assess ADHD and learning disabilities.
I specialize in cognitive-behavioral therapy. My areas of expertise include working with depression, panic and anxiety disorders, premarital and marital counseling, ADHD, and problems of childhood and adolescence. I also do testing to assess ADHD and learning disabilities.
(205) 649-3936 View (205) 649-3936
France M Frederick
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Fairhope, AL 36532
I provide many treatment options for children, adolescents and adults --including play therapy for children, individual therapy, couples/marital therapy and family therapy.
I am a clinical psychologist. I work with children, adolescents and adults in individual, couples and family therapy. I have over 20 years of experience in the field of psychology. I offer a confidential, accepting milieu in which my clients can work to identify issues, resolve conflicts, change patterns of thinking and styles of behavior that may contribute to their dissatisfactions in life. Psychotherapy is a process in which we work together to gain insight into who you are and we develop systems of change to help you create a more personally fulfilling life.
I provide many treatment options for children, adolescents and adults --including play therapy for children, individual therapy, couples/marital therapy and family therapy.
I am a clinical psychologist. I work with children, adolescents and adults in individual, couples and family therapy. I have over 20 years of experience in the field of psychology. I offer a confidential, accepting milieu in which my clients can work to identify issues, resolve conflicts, change patterns of thinking and styles of behavior that may contribute to their dissatisfactions in life. Psychotherapy is a process in which we work together to gain insight into who you are and we develop systems of change to help you create a more personally fulfilling life.
(251) 829-7551 View (251) 829-7551
Photo of Cheryl Lynn Holmes - Cheryl Lynn Holmes, MS, LPCS, CCH, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cheryl Lynn Holmes
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPCS, CCH
Verified Verified
Daphne, AL 36526
BIG news! I take Medicare now! I I use a variety of proven modalities: Systemic Sex Therapy, Therapy for Trauma: CBT, EMDR, DBT, EFT (for PTSD, Narcissistic Abuse Syndrome and Religious Trauma) and The Neurobiology of Attachment Styles and Effective Treatment. I specialize in Marriage and /or Couple's therapy. Open Tuesday-Saturday! Expect Miracles! Learn how to manifest your Life's Purpose and remove all the obstacles-most common: Anxiety, Depression, Low Self-Esteem, Weight, and Communication. See you Soon!
BIG news! I take Medicare now! I I use a variety of proven modalities: Systemic Sex Therapy, Therapy for Trauma: CBT, EMDR, DBT, EFT (for PTSD, Narcissistic Abuse Syndrome and Religious Trauma) and The Neurobiology of Attachment Styles and Effective Treatment. I specialize in Marriage and /or Couple's therapy. Open Tuesday-Saturday! Expect Miracles! Learn how to manifest your Life's Purpose and remove all the obstacles-most common: Anxiety, Depression, Low Self-Esteem, Weight, and Communication. See you Soon!
(251) 333-0826 View (251) 333-0826
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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.