Marriage Counseling Therapists in Boise, ID

Photo of Garrett Coburn, LCPC, Counselor
Garrett Coburn
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83703
Life can sometimes be really hard. Sometimes by our own doing, sometimes because of someone else, and sometimes you just don't feel 'right'. These bumps (or mountains sometimes!) can be tough to get through. Whether it's you, your marriage or relationship, or your family that is struggling, I want to work together with you to get you back to where you need to be. I value authenticity and desire to be 'real' with my clients.
Life can sometimes be really hard. Sometimes by our own doing, sometimes because of someone else, and sometimes you just don't feel 'right'. These bumps (or mountains sometimes!) can be tough to get through. Whether it's you, your marriage or relationship, or your family that is struggling, I want to work together with you to get you back to where you need to be. I value authenticity and desire to be 'real' with my clients.
(208) 991-4696 View (208) 991-4696
Photo of Rachel Root, PhD, LP, PMH-C, Psychologist
Rachel Root
Psychologist, PhD, LP, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83706
My main areas of specialty include the treatment of perinatal mood disorders, anxiety, depression, stress management, marital/couples counseling, and women's issues.
My approach to therapy is collaborative in nature, client-driven, and specifically suited to fit each individual's needs. I have helped clients with issues ranging from the treatment and maintenance of severe mental illness, to working with clients who simply wish to improve their daily lives. My therapeutic style can assist individuals during difficult life transitions, assessing the areas in their lives that need re-adjustment, address pre/postnatal issues including postpartum depression and anxiety, and much more.
My main areas of specialty include the treatment of perinatal mood disorders, anxiety, depression, stress management, marital/couples counseling, and women's issues.
My approach to therapy is collaborative in nature, client-driven, and specifically suited to fit each individual's needs. I have helped clients with issues ranging from the treatment and maintenance of severe mental illness, to working with clients who simply wish to improve their daily lives. My therapeutic style can assist individuals during difficult life transitions, assessing the areas in their lives that need re-adjustment, address pre/postnatal issues including postpartum depression and anxiety, and much more.
(208) 826-4055 View (208) 826-4055
Photo of Courtney Brown - Brown Counseling Services, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Brown Counseling Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Boise, ID 83713
We are a group of Psychotherapists who provide treatment for an extensive range of mental and emotional disorders using psychological techniques aimed to improve a person’s overall psyche. We work with adults of all ages, adolescents and children as young as four. All of our Psychotherapists are Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists with extensive training in counseling psychology. Psychotherapy is a means of intentionally using various communication methods and techniques to alleviate a person’s distress and disability, and to improve their overall well being. This may involve individuals, couples, families and/or groups.
We are a group of Psychotherapists who provide treatment for an extensive range of mental and emotional disorders using psychological techniques aimed to improve a person’s overall psyche. We work with adults of all ages, adolescents and children as young as four. All of our Psychotherapists are Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists with extensive training in counseling psychology. Psychotherapy is a means of intentionally using various communication methods and techniques to alleviate a person’s distress and disability, and to improve their overall well being. This may involve individuals, couples, families and/or groups.
(208) 946-5798 View (208) 946-5798
Photo of Joshua R Grade, MSW, LCSW, Gottman, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joshua R Grade
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, Gottman, EMDR
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83706
My clinical specialties include Trauma, Couples and Marital Counseling, Parenting Issues, and a variety of Addiction. Primarily, my areas of expertise are Problematic Sexual Behaviors, Autism, and PTSD.
My clinical specialties include Trauma, Couples and Marital Counseling, Parenting Issues, and a variety of Addiction. Primarily, my areas of expertise are Problematic Sexual Behaviors, Autism, and PTSD.
(208) 469-4435 View (208) 469-4435
Photo of Rebecca Houston, LCPC, Counselor
Rebecca Houston
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83702
Though trauma and PTSD is a primary focus in my practice, I have years of experience as a marriage counselor and addiction counselor.
Currently accepting Emergency Responders (Police officers, Fire Fighters, and Paramedics) and Military Members for individual and couples counseling. My passion is supporting those who support and serve our local, national and global community, with an approach that is direct, educational, and humorous (Okay, attempts at humor.) From 2008-2014 I worked across the US, Europe and Japan, as a rotational counselor supporting military. It was a difficult choice to leave that work, but since my return to Idaho, I've really appreciated still being able to serve by supporting our Idaho's Emergency Responder community and Military.
Though trauma and PTSD is a primary focus in my practice, I have years of experience as a marriage counselor and addiction counselor.
Currently accepting Emergency Responders (Police officers, Fire Fighters, and Paramedics) and Military Members for individual and couples counseling. My passion is supporting those who support and serve our local, national and global community, with an approach that is direct, educational, and humorous (Okay, attempts at humor.) From 2008-2014 I worked across the US, Europe and Japan, as a rotational counselor supporting military. It was a difficult choice to leave that work, but since my return to Idaho, I've really appreciated still being able to serve by supporting our Idaho's Emergency Responder community and Military.
(208) 494-8123 View (208) 494-8123
Photo of Katie Perkins, MFT-I, Pre-Licensed Professional
Katie Perkins
Pre-Licensed Professional, MFT-I
Verified Verified
Boise, ID 83702
As a Marriage & Family Therapy intern I specialize in helping people navigate relationships in their life.
Boise/ Individuals/Couples/Families. I know that it has taken you some time to get to this place, seeking help is not easy. You are taking responsibility for your future, and you should be proud. I believe that therapy is collaborative. I believe that our therapeutic relationship is important, the respect that we have for each other is important, and our connection is important. I believe in a space of non-judgment, and a space for deep healing and growth.
As a Marriage & Family Therapy intern I specialize in helping people navigate relationships in their life.
Boise/ Individuals/Couples/Families. I know that it has taken you some time to get to this place, seeking help is not easy. You are taking responsibility for your future, and you should be proud. I believe that therapy is collaborative. I believe that our therapeutic relationship is important, the respect that we have for each other is important, and our connection is important. I believe in a space of non-judgment, and a space for deep healing and growth.
(208) 754-5917 View (208) 754-5917
Photo of Dr. Ami Megan Owen Guillen Diaz - Building Christian Marriages: Marriage Conferences, LMFT, LAMFT, PhD, CCTP, CCTS, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Building Christian Marriages: Marriage Conferences
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFT, LAMFT, PhD, CCTP, CCTS
Verified Verified
Boise, ID 83714
John Gottman’s book ‘The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work’ as well as principles from the book ‘Sacred Marriage’ by Gary Thomas while incorporating our clinical skill and biblical applications.
Next Conference: Oct. 26th in Boise, Idaho! Sign up at www.buildingchristianmarriages.com Whether you’re engaged, a newlywed, or have been married for over 20 years, we are confident there will be much the Lord can teach you through our conferences. You will learn not only the true, biblical meaning of marriage but also tangible tools on healthy conflict resolution/communication, what makes a marriage work God’s way, how to build and strengthen your marriage, and so much more! You can take an already good marriage to great, or build a crumbling marriage up to a firm foundation, in Jesus' name!
John Gottman’s book ‘The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work’ as well as principles from the book ‘Sacred Marriage’ by Gary Thomas while incorporating our clinical skill and biblical applications.
Next Conference: Oct. 26th in Boise, Idaho! Sign up at www.buildingchristianmarriages.com Whether you’re engaged, a newlywed, or have been married for over 20 years, we are confident there will be much the Lord can teach you through our conferences. You will learn not only the true, biblical meaning of marriage but also tangible tools on healthy conflict resolution/communication, what makes a marriage work God’s way, how to build and strengthen your marriage, and so much more! You can take an already good marriage to great, or build a crumbling marriage up to a firm foundation, in Jesus' name!
(208) 793-5558 View (208) 793-5558
Photo of Kathy J. Edwards, JD, LCPC, Counselor
Kathy J. Edwards
Counselor, JD, LCPC
Verified Verified
Boise, ID 83704
Waitlist for new clients
My specialty areas include: Adults, Teens, Children, Anger, Grief, Loss, Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Parenting, Marriage and Family, Problem-Solving, Goal Achievement, Divorce and Custody Issues, Forensic Psychology, Parenting Time Evaluations, Brief Focused Assessments.
Let's work together on making a positive change in your life. As a cognitive-behavioral therapist, I work to foster an accepting, positive, and open atmosphere in my counseling practice, and I am glad to help any client that wants to create upward and forward momentum in his or her life. I am a licensed clinical professional counselor and attorney with 14 years of clinical experience and 24 years of criminal and family law experience. My counseling practice includes working with adults, children, couples, and families on a variety of issues.
My specialty areas include: Adults, Teens, Children, Anger, Grief, Loss, Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Parenting, Marriage and Family, Problem-Solving, Goal Achievement, Divorce and Custody Issues, Forensic Psychology, Parenting Time Evaluations, Brief Focused Assessments.
Let's work together on making a positive change in your life. As a cognitive-behavioral therapist, I work to foster an accepting, positive, and open atmosphere in my counseling practice, and I am glad to help any client that wants to create upward and forward momentum in his or her life. I am a licensed clinical professional counselor and attorney with 14 years of clinical experience and 24 years of criminal and family law experience. My counseling practice includes working with adults, children, couples, and families on a variety of issues.
(208) 427-2942 View (208) 427-2942
Photo of Amy J Sheaffer - Amy Sheaffer, MA, LMFT, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Amy Sheaffer, MA, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Boise, ID 83702
Waitlist for new clients
The door of change and opportunity is open to you. Anyone can forget this simple statement in stressful times. I am a professional who values helping others move forward in life. If you, or someone you know, are in need of supportive counseling related to life transition, marital concerns, addiction recovery, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, eating disorders or stress reduction education, I would like to assist you. I have a diverse background with over 25 years experience. I work regularly with individuals, couples, families and groups. For the past eight years I have worked as an International Consultant with military personnel and their families.
The door of change and opportunity is open to you. Anyone can forget this simple statement in stressful times. I am a professional who values helping others move forward in life. If you, or someone you know, are in need of supportive counseling related to life transition, marital concerns, addiction recovery, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, eating disorders or stress reduction education, I would like to assist you. I have a diverse background with over 25 years experience. I work regularly with individuals, couples, families and groups. For the past eight years I have worked as an International Consultant with military personnel and their families.
(707) 743-3012 View (707) 743-3012
Photo of Debra Marshall, MA, LAMFT, LMFT, CCTP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Debra Marshall
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LAMFT, LMFT, CCTP
Verified Verified
Boise, ID 83702
As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I look through a systems lens.
I specialize in families/couples, and I am an Idaho-licensed LMFT and Arizona-licensed LAMFT. Often clients seek therapy because they have become stuck. Sometimes relationships begin great, but life/situations cause a change to happen. We all have personal challenges, have stressful periods, or go through traumatic times. The desire to seek help to explore and process these problems can open the door to positive growth. I believe in the healing power of relationships: no matter the wounds, if all parties are willing to heal, I will help.
As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I look through a systems lens.
I specialize in families/couples, and I am an Idaho-licensed LMFT and Arizona-licensed LAMFT. Often clients seek therapy because they have become stuck. Sometimes relationships begin great, but life/situations cause a change to happen. We all have personal challenges, have stressful periods, or go through traumatic times. The desire to seek help to explore and process these problems can open the door to positive growth. I believe in the healing power of relationships: no matter the wounds, if all parties are willing to heal, I will help.
(208) 216-1960 View (208) 216-1960
Photo of Martin Michael 'mike' Cutler, PhD, LCPC, Counselor
Martin Michael 'mike' Cutler
Counselor, PhD, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83702
Currently accepting new clients and EMDR trained. People I help want to feel better quickly and my goal is to help you feel better as soon as possible so that they can move on into your better life. People have reported our work together has been invaluable in providing relief to past trauma, anxiety, depression, addiction, family struggles, problems with marriage and relationships, sexual issues, loss and grief, issues related to age and life transitions, LGBTQIA+, social justice and race issues, military veterans and first-responder issues, and historical and multigenerational trauma issues.
Currently accepting new clients and EMDR trained. People I help want to feel better quickly and my goal is to help you feel better as soon as possible so that they can move on into your better life. People have reported our work together has been invaluable in providing relief to past trauma, anxiety, depression, addiction, family struggles, problems with marriage and relationships, sexual issues, loss and grief, issues related to age and life transitions, LGBTQIA+, social justice and race issues, military veterans and first-responder issues, and historical and multigenerational trauma issues.
(208) 494-9981 View (208) 494-9981
Photo of Valerie Waterland, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Valerie Waterland
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Not Verified Not Verified
Boise, ID 83716
I help individuals and couples improve their relationships. I am a licensed marriage family therapist that employs fast paced, goal directed short term solutions for busy professionals looking to change their relationship dynamics. Specific areas of focus include, healing trauma and attachment, healing anger and codependence and healing anxiety and depression.
I help individuals and couples improve their relationships. I am a licensed marriage family therapist that employs fast paced, goal directed short term solutions for busy professionals looking to change their relationship dynamics. Specific areas of focus include, healing trauma and attachment, healing anger and codependence and healing anxiety and depression.
(208) 328-4283 View (208) 328-4283
Photo of Eliz Cruz, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Eliz Cruz
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83713
Life is a thrilling ride, full of various emotions and opportunities for growth. During challenging times, when you may feel stuck or exhausted, it's essential to seek support and reconnect with your loved ones. Taking that first step toward therapy can be daunting, but I encourage you to have faith in yourself. As a Bi-lingual Marriage and Family Therapist, I specialize in working with individuals of all ages. My holistic, collaborative, and person-centered approach ensures you actively participate in your healing process. If desired, I am also equipped to incorporate faith-based interventions.
Life is a thrilling ride, full of various emotions and opportunities for growth. During challenging times, when you may feel stuck or exhausted, it's essential to seek support and reconnect with your loved ones. Taking that first step toward therapy can be daunting, but I encourage you to have faith in yourself. As a Bi-lingual Marriage and Family Therapist, I specialize in working with individuals of all ages. My holistic, collaborative, and person-centered approach ensures you actively participate in your healing process. If desired, I am also equipped to incorporate faith-based interventions.
(208) 346-8821 View (208) 346-8821
Photo of Kendal M Tucker, MS, LCPC, Counselor
Kendal M Tucker
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83713
My quest is to help strengthen the family unit by providing marriage counseling and individual counseling.
I have many years of experience working with women, children and families through being a special needs preschool teacher, children's mental health treatment manager, adoption program coordinator, and public speaker. I received my master's degree in marriage and family therapy in 2009. Through my counseling practice I endeavor to help you establish a strong, healthy outlook on life whereby you can develop to your full potential. I am passionate about helping you and your family attain positive change.
My quest is to help strengthen the family unit by providing marriage counseling and individual counseling.
I have many years of experience working with women, children and families through being a special needs preschool teacher, children's mental health treatment manager, adoption program coordinator, and public speaker. I received my master's degree in marriage and family therapy in 2009. Through my counseling practice I endeavor to help you establish a strong, healthy outlook on life whereby you can develop to your full potential. I am passionate about helping you and your family attain positive change.
(208) 215-7255 View (208) 215-7255
Photo of Megan Guillen-Diaz - Vessel Christian Counseling, MS, LAMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Vessel Christian Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, LAMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83702
My primary passion/skill is in working with couples and those with anxiety. I am hope/solution focused and build a safe & welcoming space for my clients. I'll help you walk towards the abundant life/marriage God desires for you. I would be honored to walk beside you & give you tangible tools in marriage such as learning healthy conflict resolution/communication and how to accept differences to grow in intimacy. For anxiety, I teach you how not be afraid of anxiety & give you tools to work with it instead of against it. We use biblical/therapeutic techniques to learn how to truly take thoughts captive & not allow anxiety to rule.
My primary passion/skill is in working with couples and those with anxiety. I am hope/solution focused and build a safe & welcoming space for my clients. I'll help you walk towards the abundant life/marriage God desires for you. I would be honored to walk beside you & give you tangible tools in marriage such as learning healthy conflict resolution/communication and how to accept differences to grow in intimacy. For anxiety, I teach you how not be afraid of anxiety & give you tools to work with it instead of against it. We use biblical/therapeutic techniques to learn how to truly take thoughts captive & not allow anxiety to rule.
(208) 213-2626 View (208) 213-2626
Photo of Alyson Witmer Root, MS , LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alyson Witmer Root
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS , LPC
Verified Verified
Boise, ID 83705  (Online Only)
Have you ever felt stuck or like you're not living an optimal version of your life? In therapy, I work with clients to gain a new perspective on what works and what doesn't. Relationships are the primary focus of my practice. I work with clients to get clarity on what they need and want. Together, we identify the action steps necessary for living a purpose-filled life. My practice addresses life transitions, optimizing relationships, personal growth, marriage and parenting, dysfunctional families, addiction, false beliefs, and goal setting. Let go of problematic patterns and lean into your extraordinary life ahead.
Have you ever felt stuck or like you're not living an optimal version of your life? In therapy, I work with clients to gain a new perspective on what works and what doesn't. Relationships are the primary focus of my practice. I work with clients to get clarity on what they need and want. Together, we identify the action steps necessary for living a purpose-filled life. My practice addresses life transitions, optimizing relationships, personal growth, marriage and parenting, dysfunctional families, addiction, false beliefs, and goal setting. Let go of problematic patterns and lean into your extraordinary life ahead.
(208) 471-5085 View (208) 471-5085
Photo of Jamie Lynn Priest, LPC, SUDA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jamie Lynn Priest
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, SUDA
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83704
I have helped many people with the following: Increasing tools and skills to manage depression and anxiety, Identification and treatment of substance use disorders, Distress tolerance and interpersonal skills, Implementation of self-compassion and support, Relationship & marital issues.
Having the curiosity and courage to seek out counseling is a huge first step in your healing journey. There are so many choices of counselors out there; how do you find the right fit for you? You may be battling with depression, anxiety, relationship problems, substance use, current or past traumas and you're wondering how to begin the journey to restoration. If any of this hits home with you, I may be the perfect fit you are looking for. I welcome you to contact me by phone or email; I am accepting NEW clients. I work largely with teens, adults, and couples. I am here to support you wholeheartedly with empathy and compassion.
I have helped many people with the following: Increasing tools and skills to manage depression and anxiety, Identification and treatment of substance use disorders, Distress tolerance and interpersonal skills, Implementation of self-compassion and support, Relationship & marital issues.
Having the curiosity and courage to seek out counseling is a huge first step in your healing journey. There are so many choices of counselors out there; how do you find the right fit for you? You may be battling with depression, anxiety, relationship problems, substance use, current or past traumas and you're wondering how to begin the journey to restoration. If any of this hits home with you, I may be the perfect fit you are looking for. I welcome you to contact me by phone or email; I am accepting NEW clients. I work largely with teens, adults, and couples. I am here to support you wholeheartedly with empathy and compassion.
(208) 509-3136 View (208) 509-3136
Photo of Frederick Dominic Mondin, MDiv, MA, EdD, LMFT, LCPC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Frederick Dominic Mondin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MDiv, MA, EdD, LMFT, LCPC
Verified Verified
Boise, ID 83702
Dr. Frederick Mondin has trained with a large segment of the "Masters in the Field" in the areas of individual, Marriage, and Sex counseling. He received training from Minuchin; Satir; Whitaker; Perls; Ellis; Jay Haley, Masters & Johnson, Kegel, and a host of others. He is the author of Erotic Marriage which has won awards in book festival competitions in London, Paris, New England, New York, San Francisco, and Los Angeles. It won the 2013 National Indie Excellence Award. In 2018 Rowman & Littlefield published his new updated and expanded book Erotic Love & Marriage. With Dr. Mondin, you will experience an experienced therapist.
Dr. Frederick Mondin has trained with a large segment of the "Masters in the Field" in the areas of individual, Marriage, and Sex counseling. He received training from Minuchin; Satir; Whitaker; Perls; Ellis; Jay Haley, Masters & Johnson, Kegel, and a host of others. He is the author of Erotic Marriage which has won awards in book festival competitions in London, Paris, New England, New York, San Francisco, and Los Angeles. It won the 2013 National Indie Excellence Award. In 2018 Rowman & Littlefield published his new updated and expanded book Erotic Love & Marriage. With Dr. Mondin, you will experience an experienced therapist.
(208) 650-4312 View (208) 650-4312
Photo of Cedric DeCory, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cedric DeCory
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Boise, ID 83702
My specialty areas include Trauma, Couples/Marriage/family, Depression, Anxiety, SMI, ADHD, Grief, Sleep, Spirituality, Relationships, Behavioral (adolescents/adult) OCD/ODD.
Currently accepting new clients. I love helping people heal and align with their better self... their "real self" that has been hidden away. I do this through connection, healing, and seeing you as being whole through holistic, modern, and traditional approaches. I come from the Rosebud Lakota people in South Dakota and have lived here in Boise since 1993. Drawing upon my traditional insight and background that is centered on human balance, harmony, and inner peace by way of connecting the circle of past, present, and future. It's all connected... we are connected!
My specialty areas include Trauma, Couples/Marriage/family, Depression, Anxiety, SMI, ADHD, Grief, Sleep, Spirituality, Relationships, Behavioral (adolescents/adult) OCD/ODD.
Currently accepting new clients. I love helping people heal and align with their better self... their "real self" that has been hidden away. I do this through connection, healing, and seeing you as being whole through holistic, modern, and traditional approaches. I come from the Rosebud Lakota people in South Dakota and have lived here in Boise since 1993. Drawing upon my traditional insight and background that is centered on human balance, harmony, and inner peace by way of connecting the circle of past, present, and future. It's all connected... we are connected!
(208) 216-8067 View (208) 216-8067
Photo of Kendra Kellis, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Kendra Kellis
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
Boise, ID 83702
I like to use a few modalities from my Marriage and Family Therapy training.
I see families, couples and individuals that want a new way to relate to themselves and to each other. I provide a safe and open minded environment where we can look at things with fresh eyes, minds and hearts. Therapy with me is a lantern of sorts, a light trained to see the sticking points in your relationships and/or behavior patterns, mirroring those things back to you, exploring what they might mean, where and when they came and what you’d like to do going forward. Healing generations of patterns and pain can change the future for you and your loved ones.
I like to use a few modalities from my Marriage and Family Therapy training.
I see families, couples and individuals that want a new way to relate to themselves and to each other. I provide a safe and open minded environment where we can look at things with fresh eyes, minds and hearts. Therapy with me is a lantern of sorts, a light trained to see the sticking points in your relationships and/or behavior patterns, mirroring those things back to you, exploring what they might mean, where and when they came and what you’d like to do going forward. Healing generations of patterns and pain can change the future for you and your loved ones.
(208) 216-1085 View (208) 216-1085
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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.