Marriage Counseling Therapists in Bentonville, AR

Photo of Andrea L Penner, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Andrea L Penner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Bentonville, AR 72712
I am continually humbled and honored to get to know each person that comes to meet with me for therapy. Each person is unique, worthy, and deserves to honor themselves by taking time to self reflect, heal, process, and challenge themselves in a safe, compassionate, and honest way. I have training in trauma recovery and have years of experience working with clients recovering from sexual, physical, emotional, and/or mental abuse. I offer therapy to couples at different stages in their relationship (pre- marital, marital, coparenting) as well as meet with families that want to work thru different familial difficulties.
I am continually humbled and honored to get to know each person that comes to meet with me for therapy. Each person is unique, worthy, and deserves to honor themselves by taking time to self reflect, heal, process, and challenge themselves in a safe, compassionate, and honest way. I have training in trauma recovery and have years of experience working with clients recovering from sexual, physical, emotional, and/or mental abuse. I offer therapy to couples at different stages in their relationship (pre- marital, marital, coparenting) as well as meet with families that want to work thru different familial difficulties.
(479) 236-1052 View (479) 236-1052
Photo of Gayla Spence, MSMFT, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Gayla Spence
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bentonville, AR 72712
I hold a Masters of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy from Harding University.
I work with children, teens, adults, and couples. I understand life challenges are different for everyone because we all experience events and phases of life differently. Adjusting to changes in life and relationships or coming to terms with your past can be overwhelming. Empowering you is the most important part of counseling. My goal is to be a team with you if you are looking for growth, change, and a new way of perceiving and receiving life. It takes courage to come to therapy and open up to change whether it be as an individual, couple or a family.
I hold a Masters of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy from Harding University.
I work with children, teens, adults, and couples. I understand life challenges are different for everyone because we all experience events and phases of life differently. Adjusting to changes in life and relationships or coming to terms with your past can be overwhelming. Empowering you is the most important part of counseling. My goal is to be a team with you if you are looking for growth, change, and a new way of perceiving and receiving life. It takes courage to come to therapy and open up to change whether it be as an individual, couple or a family.
(479) 888-5658 View (479) 888-5658
Photo of Gail Lane, PhD, LPC-S, LMFT-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Gail Lane
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, LMFT-S
Verified Verified
Bentonville, AR 72712
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and hold a Doctorate in Marriage and Family Therapy.
I work with change-oriented adults and couples facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, stress management, work-life balance, and relationship issues like communication and trust. My clients often deal with life transitions, perfectionism, burnout, and self-esteem concerns. I also help with personal growth, emotional regulation, boundary setting, intimacy issues, and rebuilding trust after infidelity. Whether navigating high-stress careers, conflict, parenting concerns, or clarifying life goals, my focus is on empowering clients to create meaningful change.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and hold a Doctorate in Marriage and Family Therapy.
I work with change-oriented adults and couples facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, stress management, work-life balance, and relationship issues like communication and trust. My clients often deal with life transitions, perfectionism, burnout, and self-esteem concerns. I also help with personal growth, emotional regulation, boundary setting, intimacy issues, and rebuilding trust after infidelity. Whether navigating high-stress careers, conflict, parenting concerns, or clarifying life goals, my focus is on empowering clients to create meaningful change.
(479) 349-3896 View (479) 349-3896
Photo of Lori Stevens - LifeMatters Counseling, MA, LPC, NAMA, Licensed Professional Counselor
LifeMatters Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NAMA
Verified Verified
Bentonville, AR 72712
After a 20+ year marriage, I became a single mom of five children. With no education and no work experience the road seemed too difficult to travel. Yet, I struggled and fought for myself and for my children. I am happy to say that they are now 26-36 years old and wonderful adults. When we face difficult challenges, it is important to have a good support system. That may be family, friends or just maybe a good therapist:)
After a 20+ year marriage, I became a single mom of five children. With no education and no work experience the road seemed too difficult to travel. Yet, I struggled and fought for myself and for my children. I am happy to say that they are now 26-36 years old and wonderful adults. When we face difficult challenges, it is important to have a good support system. That may be family, friends or just maybe a good therapist:)
(479) 333-8602 View (479) 333-8602
Photo of Anna Slatton - Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Bentonville, Licensed Professional Counselor
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Bentonville
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Bentonville, AR 72712
We offer individual counseling, psychiatry/medication management (virtual only), family counseling, couples therapy/ marriage counseling, and child & teen therapy.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
We offer individual counseling, psychiatry/medication management (virtual only), family counseling, couples therapy/ marriage counseling, and child & teen therapy.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
(479) 346-2934 View (479) 346-2934
Photo of Jon Rucker, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jon Rucker
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bentonville, AR 72712
Jon also serves couples and families who are facing marriage and relationship difficulties caused by affairs, infidelity, arguments, communication issues and conflicts.
As your counselor, Jon brings a professional, supportive, and safe environment where you can be yourself. His passion for counseling comes from a desire to see people experience real change and growth in their personal lives and relationships through the aligning of our lives to their God-given design. Jon values the institutions of family, marriage and faith as cornerstones of human flourishing and draws from the riches of the Christian tradition to understand the complexity of human nature, problems and behavior.
Jon also serves couples and families who are facing marriage and relationship difficulties caused by affairs, infidelity, arguments, communication issues and conflicts.
As your counselor, Jon brings a professional, supportive, and safe environment where you can be yourself. His passion for counseling comes from a desire to see people experience real change and growth in their personal lives and relationships through the aligning of our lives to their God-given design. Jon values the institutions of family, marriage and faith as cornerstones of human flourishing and draws from the riches of the Christian tradition to understand the complexity of human nature, problems and behavior.
(479) 326-7194 View (479) 326-7194
Photo of Kathy Lynne Reynolds, BA, MS, LPC, TA, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kathy Lynne Reynolds
Licensed Professional Counselor, BA, MS, LPC, TA, NCC
Verified Verified
Bentonville, AR 72712
I do extensive work with individuals experiencing divorce conflict and marital infidelity.
I am so excited to announce that I have a beautiful new office space. I attended Harding University and graduated with my B.A. in Psychology and my M.S. in Counseling. I have 28 years of experience in the mental health field. I primarily treat adults who are suffering from depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, relationship issues, grief, bipolar disorder, and personality disorder. I also have a certification in grief therapy. I believe that every client I treat deserves respect and has the ability to empower themselves to meet their individual life goals. I love what I do and I appreciate every client who walks through my door.
I do extensive work with individuals experiencing divorce conflict and marital infidelity.
I am so excited to announce that I have a beautiful new office space. I attended Harding University and graduated with my B.A. in Psychology and my M.S. in Counseling. I have 28 years of experience in the mental health field. I primarily treat adults who are suffering from depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, relationship issues, grief, bipolar disorder, and personality disorder. I also have a certification in grief therapy. I believe that every client I treat deserves respect and has the ability to empower themselves to meet their individual life goals. I love what I do and I appreciate every client who walks through my door.
(479) 763-3608 View (479) 763-3608
Photo of Terrie Barton - Waters Edge Counseling Rogers/Fayetteville, LPC-S, RPT-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Waters Edge Counseling Rogers/Fayetteville
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Bentonville, AR 72712
Our counseling team specializes in addressing diverse issues, such as marital and relationship challenges, addiction, trauma, parenting concerns, adoptions, and play therapy.
At Water's Edge Counseling Services, our aim is to connect with our clients wherever they may be in their journey. If you or someone you know is grappling with feelings of loneliness, anxiety, depression, or the challenges of relationship difficulties, we encourage you to reach out to us. Our team of experienced therapists is ready to offer support through either in-office sessions or telehealth appointments. Your well-being is important to us, and we are here to assist you on the path to emotional wellness.
Our counseling team specializes in addressing diverse issues, such as marital and relationship challenges, addiction, trauma, parenting concerns, adoptions, and play therapy.
At Water's Edge Counseling Services, our aim is to connect with our clients wherever they may be in their journey. If you or someone you know is grappling with feelings of loneliness, anxiety, depression, or the challenges of relationship difficulties, we encourage you to reach out to us. Our team of experienced therapists is ready to offer support through either in-office sessions or telehealth appointments. Your well-being is important to us, and we are here to assist you on the path to emotional wellness.
(479) 282-2633 View (479) 282-2633
Photo of Chris Leshinski, LPC, Counselor
Chris Leshinski
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Bentonville, AR 72712
Chris is a dually Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Arkansas and Texas. specializing in DBT and Gottman Couples Skills as a leader of the Seven Principles that Make a Marriage Work. He has experience working in schools, behavioral hospitals, agencies, and private practice.
Chris is a dually Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Arkansas and Texas. specializing in DBT and Gottman Couples Skills as a leader of the Seven Principles that Make a Marriage Work. He has experience working in schools, behavioral hospitals, agencies, and private practice.
(479) 777-0662 View (479) 777-0662
Photo of Melissa L Peck, MS, LPC, DCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Melissa L Peck
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, DCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bentonville, AR 72712
I am a Christian who practices Family Systems, CBT, Marital/Premarital Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy and Amen Brain Health Coaching with adults.
In person therapy and Zoom Telehealth with Arkansas, Missouri and Florida residents. You will do better in work, life, and relationships when you are acting in accord with who you truly are, versus trying to be someone you are not.” Dr. Henry Cloud. Whether you are dealing with relationship, financial, health, parenting, grief, work, abuse, or spiritual issues, depression and anxiety often come along for the journey. I would be honored to walk alongside you and listen. I will be encouraging and supportive of the goals that you choose for therapy. Together we can develop a plan that promotes health in all areas of your life.
I am a Christian who practices Family Systems, CBT, Marital/Premarital Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy and Amen Brain Health Coaching with adults.
In person therapy and Zoom Telehealth with Arkansas, Missouri and Florida residents. You will do better in work, life, and relationships when you are acting in accord with who you truly are, versus trying to be someone you are not.” Dr. Henry Cloud. Whether you are dealing with relationship, financial, health, parenting, grief, work, abuse, or spiritual issues, depression and anxiety often come along for the journey. I would be honored to walk alongside you and listen. I will be encouraging and supportive of the goals that you choose for therapy. Together we can develop a plan that promotes health in all areas of your life.
(479) 431-4619 View (479) 431-4619
Photo of Ross Kelley, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ross Kelley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Bentonville, AR 72712
My life feels like chaos! How can I get past my past? How can I save my marriage? How can I achieve my goals in life? These are common issues that bring people into counseling. To borrow a quote from coach Wooden "although there is no progress without change, not all change is progress." Getting started can feel uncomfortable at first but usually as you proceed most people are engaged, energized, and feeling the benefits. My style is such that it does not feel like therapy--rather someone you know who has been down this road as well.
My life feels like chaos! How can I get past my past? How can I save my marriage? How can I achieve my goals in life? These are common issues that bring people into counseling. To borrow a quote from coach Wooden "although there is no progress without change, not all change is progress." Getting started can feel uncomfortable at first but usually as you proceed most people are engaged, energized, and feeling the benefits. My style is such that it does not feel like therapy--rather someone you know who has been down this road as well.
(855) 977-8499 View (855) 977-8499
Photo of Terrie Barton - Waters Edge Counseling Services Siloam Springs, AR, MS, LPC, RPT-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Waters Edge Counseling Services Siloam Springs, AR
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bentonville, AR 72712
Our counseling team specializes in addressing diverse issues, such as marital and relationship challenges, trauma, parenting concerns, adoptions, and play therapy.
At Water's Edge Counseling Services, our aim is to connect with our clients wherever they may be in their journey. If you or someone you know is grappling with feelings of loneliness, anxiety, depression, or the challenges of relationship difficulties, we encourage you to reach out to us. Our team of experienced therapists is ready to offer support through either in-office sessions or telehealth appointments. Your well-being is important to us, and we are here to assist you on the path to emotional wellness..
Our counseling team specializes in addressing diverse issues, such as marital and relationship challenges, trauma, parenting concerns, adoptions, and play therapy.
At Water's Edge Counseling Services, our aim is to connect with our clients wherever they may be in their journey. If you or someone you know is grappling with feelings of loneliness, anxiety, depression, or the challenges of relationship difficulties, we encourage you to reach out to us. Our team of experienced therapists is ready to offer support through either in-office sessions or telehealth appointments. Your well-being is important to us, and we are here to assist you on the path to emotional wellness..
(479) 929-8699 View (479) 929-8699
Photo of Dan Luttrell, MS, LPC, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dan Luttrell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bentonville, AR 72712
Dan is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) as well as a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT). He earned a dual Master of Science at John Brown University, emphasizing both Marriage & Family Therapy and Community Counseling. He is an Advanced Trained Emotionally Focused Therapist (EFT), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapist, and is a certified Anger Management Specialist.
Dan is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) as well as a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT). He earned a dual Master of Science at John Brown University, emphasizing both Marriage & Family Therapy and Community Counseling. He is an Advanced Trained Emotionally Focused Therapist (EFT), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapist, and is a certified Anger Management Specialist.
(479) 250-3048 View (479) 250-3048
Photo of Brenton Kirschner, LMFT, LPC, CSAT, EMDR II, CTT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Brenton Kirschner
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC, CSAT, EMDR II, CTT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Bentonville, AR 72712
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Licensed Professional Counselor specializing in Couples Therapy, Sex Addiction/Behavioral Addictions, Drug Addiction, and PTSD/Trauma. I have worked as a therapist in a 90-Day Residential Treatment Center, Community Mental Health, and in Private Practice. I have led therapy intensives, group therapy, taught courses at the university level, and managed a therapeutic high and low ropes course.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Licensed Professional Counselor specializing in Couples Therapy, Sex Addiction/Behavioral Addictions, Drug Addiction, and PTSD/Trauma. I have worked as a therapist in a 90-Day Residential Treatment Center, Community Mental Health, and in Private Practice. I have led therapy intensives, group therapy, taught courses at the university level, and managed a therapeutic high and low ropes course.
(501) 302-4725 View (501) 302-4725
Photo of Corinna Dranow, LPC, MS, MFT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Corinna Dranow
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bentonville, AR 72712
I work with couples, adults, teenagers and children around issues including depression, anxiety, pre-and postpartum, parenting, trauma such as childhood abuse and domestic violence, divorce, suicidal ideation, low self-esteem, relationship, marriage, sexuality, work life and difficult transitions.
Welcome to my webpage! I’m a family systems oriented therapist and my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. By applying complementary therapy approaches and techniques, (such as IFS, DBT, CBT, EMDR) we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
I work with couples, adults, teenagers and children around issues including depression, anxiety, pre-and postpartum, parenting, trauma such as childhood abuse and domestic violence, divorce, suicidal ideation, low self-esteem, relationship, marriage, sexuality, work life and difficult transitions.
Welcome to my webpage! I’m a family systems oriented therapist and my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. By applying complementary therapy approaches and techniques, (such as IFS, DBT, CBT, EMDR) we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
(479) 282-0629 View (479) 282-0629
Photo of Amber Marie Clark, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amber Marie Clark
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bentonville, AR 72712  (Online Only)
Welcome to Anchored Hearts Counseling Services, LLC. I’m Amber Clark, a Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor (LPC-S) with a robust background in therapy, dedicated to supporting clients through their personal challenges and healing processes. Since 2013, my career has spanned various settings, including battered women’s shelters, children’s advocacy centers, community mental health agencies, schools, and The ALS Association. This breadth of experience has shaped my approach and deepened my expertise in trauma and grief, marriage and family dynamics, and women’s issues.
Welcome to Anchored Hearts Counseling Services, LLC. I’m Amber Clark, a Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor (LPC-S) with a robust background in therapy, dedicated to supporting clients through their personal challenges and healing processes. Since 2013, my career has spanned various settings, including battered women’s shelters, children’s advocacy centers, community mental health agencies, schools, and The ALS Association. This breadth of experience has shaped my approach and deepened my expertise in trauma and grief, marriage and family dynamics, and women’s issues.
(479) 349-4266 View (479) 349-4266
Photo of Charles Pastoor, MS, LPC, Counselor
Charles Pastoor
Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Bentonville, AR 72712
You are doing great! . . . mostly. Yes, there's the rising tension in your marriage and recently one of you used the "D" word. Or you worry about money or you worry about your kids because maybe they are lazy or don't respect you. Or you worry about your parents who are aging. You are good at your job but work doesn't fulfill you. You might be spending more and more time alone with your thoughts, and you find them difficult companions. They might make you feel like you are drowning in anger and sorrow. You are doing great, but sometimes it feels like you are hanging on by a thread. Or maybe the thread has already snapped.
You are doing great! . . . mostly. Yes, there's the rising tension in your marriage and recently one of you used the "D" word. Or you worry about money or you worry about your kids because maybe they are lazy or don't respect you. Or you worry about your parents who are aging. You are good at your job but work doesn't fulfill you. You might be spending more and more time alone with your thoughts, and you find them difficult companions. They might make you feel like you are drowning in anger and sorrow. You are doing great, but sometimes it feels like you are hanging on by a thread. Or maybe the thread has already snapped.
(479) 446-6047 View (479) 446-6047
Photo of Sarah Heard, LPC, LMFT, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sarah Heard
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMFT, MS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bentonville, AR 72712
I have a Masters of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy.
I am passionate about working with couples, families, and individuals who are looking to make changes in their lives. I am honored when I am invited to come alongside someone to hear their story and move with them toward a positive change and balance.
I have a Masters of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy.
I am passionate about working with couples, families, and individuals who are looking to make changes in their lives. I am honored when I am invited to come alongside someone to hear their story and move with them toward a positive change and balance.
(479) 802-4258 View (479) 802-4258
Photo of Zach Austin, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Zach Austin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bentonville, AR 72712
As a licensed marriage and family therapist with a master's degree in marriage and family therapy, I am trained to help adults, couples, children, and families.
Life can sometimes feel like a journey without a map, a dance without a song, a play without a script, a giant pile of teeny-tiny Legos covering the floor with no instruction manual in sight.... You get the point – finding direction in life can be hard! Whether you are needing help to break free from family burdens, to unravel the constraints of mental health concerns, to weather a difficult phase of life, to work through relational discord, or to parent your children more confidently, I am here to assist you in becoming the mapmaker, composer, playwright, and manual creator you need to be to give your life direction.
As a licensed marriage and family therapist with a master's degree in marriage and family therapy, I am trained to help adults, couples, children, and families.
Life can sometimes feel like a journey without a map, a dance without a song, a play without a script, a giant pile of teeny-tiny Legos covering the floor with no instruction manual in sight.... You get the point – finding direction in life can be hard! Whether you are needing help to break free from family burdens, to unravel the constraints of mental health concerns, to weather a difficult phase of life, to work through relational discord, or to parent your children more confidently, I am here to assist you in becoming the mapmaker, composer, playwright, and manual creator you need to be to give your life direction.
(479) 553-7045 View (479) 553-7045
Photo of Greg Stewart - Becoming More Counseling, Coaching, & Consulting, PhD, MDiv, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Becoming More Counseling, Coaching, & Consulting
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MDiv, LPC
Verified Verified
Bentonville, AR 72712  (Online Only)
I specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma, marriage & family; & am certified in DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) and am trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing).
Virtual only! I live in TX. Clients who are struggling but wanting to not only heal, but also grow have the potential for being extremely powerful people. We have all gone through difficult times, experiencing anxiety, fear, depression, and hopelessness. However, if we have healed, we look back and see those times as hard, but some of the most powerful in our lives. If you have a Christian background, I can help you become stronger in your faith. Executive Coaching available. I just published a book: I3 (cubed): Unlock the Inner Strength Behind Your Negative Emotions. Google my name on Amazon!
I specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma, marriage & family; & am certified in DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) and am trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing).
Virtual only! I live in TX. Clients who are struggling but wanting to not only heal, but also grow have the potential for being extremely powerful people. We have all gone through difficult times, experiencing anxiety, fear, depression, and hopelessness. However, if we have healed, we look back and see those times as hard, but some of the most powerful in our lives. If you have a Christian background, I can help you become stronger in your faith. Executive Coaching available. I just published a book: I3 (cubed): Unlock the Inner Strength Behind Your Negative Emotions. Google my name on Amazon!
(479) 888-5616 View (479) 888-5616
1

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.