Photo of Deborah R Youngblood, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Deborah R Youngblood
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Iota, LA 70543  (Online Only)
My passion is to help individuals and families to identify their needs and learn to overcome the struggles and challenges in their lives. I would love the opportunity to listen and to help you to overcome the challenges that you are facing. I have worked as a school social worker and as a crisis counselor for girls and women. I also love working with young adults, couples and families. If you are feeling alone and without hope, I would love the opportunity to help you to Begin Again, by providing you with the tools and support you need to move forward.
My passion is to help individuals and families to identify their needs and learn to overcome the struggles and challenges in their lives. I would love the opportunity to listen and to help you to overcome the challenges that you are facing. I have worked as a school social worker and as a crisis counselor for girls and women. I also love working with young adults, couples and families. If you are feeling alone and without hope, I would love the opportunity to help you to Begin Again, by providing you with the tools and support you need to move forward.
(337) 573-1948 View (337) 573-1948
Photo of Katie Guinn, PhD, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katie Guinn
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Crowley, LA 70526  (Online Only)
Hi, I’m Katie. I am a servant, wife, mother, and helper. I believe that people are inherently good, and that people can change. I’m a trained systemic thinker, and I aim to help people be better versions of themselves. I specialize in family issues, trauma, anxiety, stress, relationship issues, depression, parenting issues, life transitions, self-esteem, and anger management. I hold a Ph.D in MFT from the University of Louisiana at Monroe, and I am a LPC. I am also an LPC-S and an adjunct professor at National University in the MFT program. I have a passion for encouraging and training the next generation of helpers.
Hi, I’m Katie. I am a servant, wife, mother, and helper. I believe that people are inherently good, and that people can change. I’m a trained systemic thinker, and I aim to help people be better versions of themselves. I specialize in family issues, trauma, anxiety, stress, relationship issues, depression, parenting issues, life transitions, self-esteem, and anger management. I hold a Ph.D in MFT from the University of Louisiana at Monroe, and I am a LPC. I am also an LPC-S and an adjunct professor at National University in the MFT program. I have a passion for encouraging and training the next generation of helpers.
(337) 612-6697 View (337) 612-6697
Photo of Jada Jackson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jada Jackson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Crowley, LA 70526
Hi! My name is Jada, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over a decade of experience in mental health, working with children, adults, and seniors. As an experienced therapist, I bring energy, warmth, and a deep commitment to helping my clients navigate life’s challenges. Life often presents us with unexpected obstacles, whether they relate to parenting, relationships, or significant life transitions. You don’t have to face these challenges alone.My goal is to help you find your way through by offering solution-focused therapy designed to empower you and rebuild your self-esteem.
Hi! My name is Jada, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over a decade of experience in mental health, working with children, adults, and seniors. As an experienced therapist, I bring energy, warmth, and a deep commitment to helping my clients navigate life’s challenges. Life often presents us with unexpected obstacles, whether they relate to parenting, relationships, or significant life transitions. You don’t have to face these challenges alone.My goal is to help you find your way through by offering solution-focused therapy designed to empower you and rebuild your self-esteem.
(337) 570-2723 View (337) 570-2723
Photo of Ann Lavergne, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ann Lavergne
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Crowley, LA 70526
I specialize in helping those that are seeking to alleviate their anxiety, depression, improve healthy coping, and discover his/her personal strengths. My style is person centered. The client knows what the ultimate goal is, the challenge is making the changes to get there. I would be honored to walk with you on that journey. Cognitive behavioral therapy is the most used approach but other clinical interventions are incorporated into sessions to adapt to your personal needs. There are many ways to overcome obstacles.
I specialize in helping those that are seeking to alleviate their anxiety, depression, improve healthy coping, and discover his/her personal strengths. My style is person centered. The client knows what the ultimate goal is, the challenge is making the changes to get there. I would be honored to walk with you on that journey. Cognitive behavioral therapy is the most used approach but other clinical interventions are incorporated into sessions to adapt to your personal needs. There are many ways to overcome obstacles.
(337) 202-8601 View (337) 202-8601

Online Therapists

Photo of Jaci Mosby, MS, PLPC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jaci Mosby
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, PLPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70816
Through individual, marriage/couples, and family therapy, you will have the ability to explore your emotions, thoughts, behaviors, and relationships.
Through therapy, you can learn to rewrite your story, break free from negative patterns, and create a brighter future. I understand that significant life changes can be challenging, and in my therapeutic space, I am dedicated to providing validation, support, and guidance to individuals who are navigating through these transitions. My goal is to create a safe, nonjudgmental atmosphere where you can freely express your emotions, fears, and concerns related to changes happening in your life. I believe that every person has unique needs, and I am committed to tailoring my approach to meet those needs.
Through individual, marriage/couples, and family therapy, you will have the ability to explore your emotions, thoughts, behaviors, and relationships.
Through therapy, you can learn to rewrite your story, break free from negative patterns, and create a brighter future. I understand that significant life changes can be challenging, and in my therapeutic space, I am dedicated to providing validation, support, and guidance to individuals who are navigating through these transitions. My goal is to create a safe, nonjudgmental atmosphere where you can freely express your emotions, fears, and concerns related to changes happening in your life. I believe that every person has unique needs, and I am committed to tailoring my approach to meet those needs.
(225) 719-4614 View (225) 719-4614
Photo of Daronda Parker-Lathan, MSW, LCSW, BACS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Daronda Parker-Lathan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, BACS
Verified Verified
Baker, LA 70714
I also offer teen groups, anger management group, marital counseling and parenting classes.
My mission at Generations Individual and Family Treatment Services, LLC is to build healthy families and bridge kinship gaps. I have worked in the mental health profession for 25 plus years. My goal is to assist individuals, couples or family members in living their best life.
I also offer teen groups, anger management group, marital counseling and parenting classes.
My mission at Generations Individual and Family Treatment Services, LLC is to build healthy families and bridge kinship gaps. I have worked in the mental health profession for 25 plus years. My goal is to assist individuals, couples or family members in living their best life.
(225) 286-9106 View (225) 286-9106
Photo of Christi S Lisenby-Hart - Beyond the Waves Counseling and Counseling, LLC , MS, LPC-S, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Beyond the Waves Counseling and Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gonzales, LA 70737
Christi has been in the professional counseling field for the last five years working with clients with Depression, Bipolar, Grief, Co-dependency, Marital Problems, Sexual and Mental Abuse, Post Tramautic Stress and more.
Therapy should be an opportunity to release any current stresses in your life or prepare you for that next chapter in your life. This could consist of pre-martial counseling, relationship issues, post-traumatic stress, childhood trauma, depression, grief, co-dependency, adjustment after a breakup, and more. Beyond the Waves strives to provide a zen environment that allows you to heal and go beyond the waves that we call life.
Christi has been in the professional counseling field for the last five years working with clients with Depression, Bipolar, Grief, Co-dependency, Marital Problems, Sexual and Mental Abuse, Post Tramautic Stress and more.
Therapy should be an opportunity to release any current stresses in your life or prepare you for that next chapter in your life. This could consist of pre-martial counseling, relationship issues, post-traumatic stress, childhood trauma, depression, grief, co-dependency, adjustment after a breakup, and more. Beyond the Waves strives to provide a zen environment that allows you to heal and go beyond the waves that we call life.
(225) 269-5542 View (225) 269-5542
Photo of Michelle Comeaux Hernandez, MPS, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michelle Comeaux Hernandez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MPS, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lafayette, LA 70503
Having grown up in a home with alcoholism and having been through divorce myself, I am familiar with many issues surrounding marriage and family.
I work well with individuals ages 10 & up, couples and families, and I am now seeing clients after hours on a limited basis. I am trained in the treatment of eating disorders and reIated concerns. I have also worked with many couples with marital and other relationship concerns, and I have worked with many families dealing with divorce, substance abuse and parenting concerns. I have also worked with individuals on a variety of issues including but not limited to anxiety, depression and other mood disorders, emotional and behavioral concerns, academic concerns, relationship concerns, anger management and codependency.
Having grown up in a home with alcoholism and having been through divorce myself, I am familiar with many issues surrounding marriage and family.
I work well with individuals ages 10 & up, couples and families, and I am now seeing clients after hours on a limited basis. I am trained in the treatment of eating disorders and reIated concerns. I have also worked with many couples with marital and other relationship concerns, and I have worked with many families dealing with divorce, substance abuse and parenting concerns. I have also worked with individuals on a variety of issues including but not limited to anxiety, depression and other mood disorders, emotional and behavioral concerns, academic concerns, relationship concerns, anger management and codependency.
(337) 447-4507 View (337) 447-4507
Photo of Jennifer Robert Jones, MHS LPC, CRC CCM, LRC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Robert Jones
Licensed Professional Counselor, MHS LPC, CRC CCM, LRC-S
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70806  (Online Only)
From youth to adulthood, whether individually, in a marriage, or in a family, there are many benefits of professional counseling services. When you are experiencing difficulties in your life, or just need to purge the daily stresses, The Family Counselor, LLC provides the benefit of an experienced, trained professional to offer the assistance you need.
From youth to adulthood, whether individually, in a marriage, or in a family, there are many benefits of professional counseling services. When you are experiencing difficulties in your life, or just need to purge the daily stresses, The Family Counselor, LLC provides the benefit of an experienced, trained professional to offer the assistance you need.
(225) 421-6462 View (225) 421-6462
Photo of Bob Waggener - Bob Waggener, MDiv, LCSW, LCSW, MDiv, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bob Waggener, MDiv, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MDiv
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70816
I offer many unusual understandings in my practice since I have been divorced and am now in a successful marriage.
I have a great deal of respect for my clients and believe the solution to their problems is well within their reach. In my early training, there was a great emphasis on listening. It's a skill I use in every session to figure out the next right step toward growth and development for my clients. Listening is a skill I teach, so my clients can have more effective and intimate relationships with others, not only personally but professionally as well. My job is to teach myself out of a job and give you skills to live a better life.
I offer many unusual understandings in my practice since I have been divorced and am now in a successful marriage.
I have a great deal of respect for my clients and believe the solution to their problems is well within their reach. In my early training, there was a great emphasis on listening. It's a skill I use in every session to figure out the next right step toward growth and development for my clients. Listening is a skill I teach, so my clients can have more effective and intimate relationships with others, not only personally but professionally as well. My job is to teach myself out of a job and give you skills to live a better life.
(225) 435-5031 View (225) 435-5031
Photo of Dr. Reid Doster Lpc Lmft, LPC, LMFT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Reid Doster Lpc Lmft
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70810  (Online Only)
It takes courage to ask for help, especially from someone you don't know. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist and clinical pastoral counselor, I work with individuals, couples and families to resolve common human problems. I believe you will benefit from the clinical competence, experience and maturity gained from more than forty years in practice, and will quickly realize I sincerely care about you. When you reach out to me, I will do my best to respond promptly, without your waiting too long for an appointment. Don't be surprised if I personally answer the phone.
It takes courage to ask for help, especially from someone you don't know. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist and clinical pastoral counselor, I work with individuals, couples and families to resolve common human problems. I believe you will benefit from the clinical competence, experience and maturity gained from more than forty years in practice, and will quickly realize I sincerely care about you. When you reach out to me, I will do my best to respond promptly, without your waiting too long for an appointment. Don't be surprised if I personally answer the phone.
(985) 805-5285 View (985) 805-5285
Photo of Suzanne M. Palmer, MA, LPC, LAC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Suzanne M. Palmer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LAC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Alexandria, LA 71303
My ideal client is one suffering from feelings of inadequacy, shame, fear, anxiety, or guilt. I understand and can help overcome these issues with you. It's time to be good to yourself. I am experienced in working with persons in surviving grief, personal issues, PTSD, low self esteem, communication problems, and marriage issues. If you are thinking about making a change I would like to help.
My ideal client is one suffering from feelings of inadequacy, shame, fear, anxiety, or guilt. I understand and can help overcome these issues with you. It's time to be good to yourself. I am experienced in working with persons in surviving grief, personal issues, PTSD, low self esteem, communication problems, and marriage issues. If you are thinking about making a change I would like to help.
(318) 524-7825 View (318) 524-7825
Photo of Shawn Campbell Joseph, LPC-S, LMFT, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shawn Campbell Joseph
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, LMFT, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70816
My specialty areas include: Depression Anxiety and Phobias Relationship Difficulties Life Transitions Difficulties with Self-Esteem Cosmetic Surgery Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Professional/Career Issues Medical and Health Concerns Gender Roles Grief Loss Marriage & Family Issues Stress Management ADHD .
As CEO/Owner of Gordon and Gordon Counseling LLC, the focus of my private practice is to incorporate a healthy perspective of one's mental health. Helping clients maneuver through daily challenges and identifing triggers will help them use coping skills to reduce stressors.
My specialty areas include: Depression Anxiety and Phobias Relationship Difficulties Life Transitions Difficulties with Self-Esteem Cosmetic Surgery Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Professional/Career Issues Medical and Health Concerns Gender Roles Grief Loss Marriage & Family Issues Stress Management ADHD .
As CEO/Owner of Gordon and Gordon Counseling LLC, the focus of my private practice is to incorporate a healthy perspective of one's mental health. Helping clients maneuver through daily challenges and identifing triggers will help them use coping skills to reduce stressors.
(225) 396-4828 View (225) 396-4828
Photo of Myiesha Beard, LPC-S, NCC, LMHP, CAMS-II, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Myiesha Beard
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, NCC, LMHP, CAMS-II, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Zachary, LA 70791
The purpose of therapy is to restore the client to a healthy state of life by helping to remove barriers that may hinder this process. I specialize in the mental health care of children, adults, couples and families. My services include individual, group, marriage counseling and family therapy. Parent training, workshops, play therapy and prevention groups are also offered. I have twenty years experience working within the field of mental health. I utilize a number of therapeutic techniques and interventions that are tailored to the the client. I'm an Independent Assessor, Clinical Supervisor, mentor and coaching consultant.
The purpose of therapy is to restore the client to a healthy state of life by helping to remove barriers that may hinder this process. I specialize in the mental health care of children, adults, couples and families. My services include individual, group, marriage counseling and family therapy. Parent training, workshops, play therapy and prevention groups are also offered. I have twenty years experience working within the field of mental health. I utilize a number of therapeutic techniques and interventions that are tailored to the the client. I'm an Independent Assessor, Clinical Supervisor, mentor and coaching consultant.
(225) 570-4999 View (225) 570-4999
Photo of LaTonya Scriven Charles - Bayou Mental Health Services, LLC, LCSW, CGCS, MBA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bayou Mental Health Services, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CGCS, MBA
Verified Verified
Alexandria, LA 71301
We are trained and experienced in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (Trauma), Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Mindfulness and Narrative therapy, and Trauma Informed Therapy, Marriage and Family Therapy.
We commend you for making the right choice for you, to create the life that you desire by working through whatever concerns or challenges that you may be experiencing. We know that sharing intimate details about your life may be challenging, but it will be our pleasure to help you navigate your way through this process. We have over 30 years of combined experience. We have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, couples counseling, life skills development, parenting issues, career planning and coaching, ADHD, substance abuse, Military issues/concerns, sexual assault & PTSD.
We are trained and experienced in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (Trauma), Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Mindfulness and Narrative therapy, and Trauma Informed Therapy, Marriage and Family Therapy.
We commend you for making the right choice for you, to create the life that you desire by working through whatever concerns or challenges that you may be experiencing. We know that sharing intimate details about your life may be challenging, but it will be our pleasure to help you navigate your way through this process. We have over 30 years of combined experience. We have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, couples counseling, life skills development, parenting issues, career planning and coaching, ADHD, substance abuse, Military issues/concerns, sexual assault & PTSD.
(318) 239-7635 View (318) 239-7635
Photo of Christina Thibodeaux, LPC, LMFT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christina Thibodeaux
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lafayette, LA 70503
I hold current and active licenses as a Licensed Professional Counselor in Louisiana, Virginia, and Arkansas and as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Louisiana.
Marital, family, and individual struggles impact our day-to-day lives and important moments. Counseling during difficult times can greatly increase our ability to improve the situation and gives us confidence to do so without requiring years of therapy. I work with adolescents, adults, couples, and families facing many difficult issues such as Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, difficulty adjusting to Life Circumstances, Infidelity, Panic, Poor Communication, Relationship Problems, Self-Harm/Thoughts of Self-Harm, Feelings of Discontent, Unhealthy Patterns of Behavior, and General Unhappiness.
I hold current and active licenses as a Licensed Professional Counselor in Louisiana, Virginia, and Arkansas and as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Louisiana.
Marital, family, and individual struggles impact our day-to-day lives and important moments. Counseling during difficult times can greatly increase our ability to improve the situation and gives us confidence to do so without requiring years of therapy. I work with adolescents, adults, couples, and families facing many difficult issues such as Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, difficulty adjusting to Life Circumstances, Infidelity, Panic, Poor Communication, Relationship Problems, Self-Harm/Thoughts of Self-Harm, Feelings of Discontent, Unhealthy Patterns of Behavior, and General Unhappiness.
(337) 427-8767 View (337) 427-8767
Photo of Antoinette Woods, LPC , Licensed Professional Counselor
Antoinette Woods
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70816
My name is Antoinette Woods, and I am a licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor. I believe in utilizing a compassionate, non-judgmental approach when providing therapy services. I view each client as a unique individual and I have experience providing individual, group and couple's therapy. I have worked with many diverse backgrounds with various clinical needs and diversity. I am experienced with working with clients that suffer from Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, ODD, Trauma, Substance Abuse, Self-Esteem, OCD, marriage and family therapy and many other identified treatment areas.
My name is Antoinette Woods, and I am a licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor. I believe in utilizing a compassionate, non-judgmental approach when providing therapy services. I view each client as a unique individual and I have experience providing individual, group and couple's therapy. I have worked with many diverse backgrounds with various clinical needs and diversity. I am experienced with working with clients that suffer from Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, ODD, Trauma, Substance Abuse, Self-Esteem, OCD, marriage and family therapy and many other identified treatment areas.
(225) 629-8430 View (225) 629-8430
Photo of Donna M Blackburn, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Donna M Blackburn
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
I'm trained as Trauma Resolution Specialist, an EMDR Therapist, a Marriage Therapist, a Christian Counselor, a Mediator, a Critical Incident Stress Manager w/over 2000 hrs covering LA, MS, 1.
With over 30 years of experience as a Licensed Professional Counselor, my motto is Live Laugh Love! We have been called to live an abundant life.....and this is possible--even after tragedies, illnesses, divorce, and disappointments. I am committed to helping you do more than survive. My goal is to teach you to dance....even in the rain!! TEXTING MY OFFICE IS BEST!! 2259241676
I'm trained as Trauma Resolution Specialist, an EMDR Therapist, a Marriage Therapist, a Christian Counselor, a Mediator, a Critical Incident Stress Manager w/over 2000 hrs covering LA, MS, 1.
With over 30 years of experience as a Licensed Professional Counselor, my motto is Live Laugh Love! We have been called to live an abundant life.....and this is possible--even after tragedies, illnesses, divorce, and disappointments. I am committed to helping you do more than survive. My goal is to teach you to dance....even in the rain!! TEXTING MY OFFICE IS BEST!! 2259241676
(225) 230-2979 View (225) 230-2979
Photo of Tracy Bijeaux- Lotus Counseling And Wellness, MA, PLPC, PLMFT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Tracy Bijeaux- Lotus Counseling And Wellness
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, PLPC, PLMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lafayette, LA 70508
Hello, my name is Tracy Bijeaux. My desire is to see individuals, couples, and families reach their full potential. I am so grateful you have chosen me to walk along beside you in this journey. I will provide a safe non-judgemental place of rest as you explore and grow. We will work together as a team, working toward the goals you set. I believe it is important to set measurable goals and routinely checking to make sure we are moving in the direction of set goals. My areas of focus are: marriage, premarital, families and individuals dealing with grief, trauma, depression, chronic pain/ illness, and anxiety.
Hello, my name is Tracy Bijeaux. My desire is to see individuals, couples, and families reach their full potential. I am so grateful you have chosen me to walk along beside you in this journey. I will provide a safe non-judgemental place of rest as you explore and grow. We will work together as a team, working toward the goals you set. I believe it is important to set measurable goals and routinely checking to make sure we are moving in the direction of set goals. My areas of focus are: marriage, premarital, families and individuals dealing with grief, trauma, depression, chronic pain/ illness, and anxiety.
(337) 454-5220 View (337) 454-5220
Photo of Debhora W Singleton, MA, LPC-S, LMFT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Debhora W Singleton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, LMFT
Verified Verified
Prairieville, LA 70769  (Online Only)
I am also a Marriage and Family Therapist.
My ideal client is one who challenges me to work hard to come up with different therapy approaches in order to create necessary change. I am excited and look forward to our sessions because clients are open to change, are able to trust, and somewhat understand the benefits of therapy. They live in various places and have multiple careers. Some might not be employed, but retired or disabled. They come to me because they have a desire for me to provide therapy services and are open to communication; have experienced disappointments previously; are tired of feeling depressed, self-defeated; low self-esteem; anxiety and or trauma.
I am also a Marriage and Family Therapist.
My ideal client is one who challenges me to work hard to come up with different therapy approaches in order to create necessary change. I am excited and look forward to our sessions because clients are open to change, are able to trust, and somewhat understand the benefits of therapy. They live in various places and have multiple careers. Some might not be employed, but retired or disabled. They come to me because they have a desire for me to provide therapy services and are open to communication; have experienced disappointments previously; are tired of feeling depressed, self-defeated; low self-esteem; anxiety and or trauma.
(225) 638-2494 View (225) 638-2494

See more therapy options for Acadia Parish

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.