Marriage Counseling Therapists in Huntsville, AL

Photo of Joanne Weis, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Joanne Weis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Huntsville, AL 35806
I believe everyone has the power to improve their own lives by making positive changes. I desire to help you use your life struggles to become stronger and feel more empowered. In working with clients I strive to determine the best type of therapy for each client based on their needs and goals. I work with individuals with a variety of concerns, including parenting & teen issues, marriage & divorce issues, relationship difficulties, anxiety & depression, self-esteem issues, domestic violence, as well as coping with military related issues. I work with couples using Gottman Method and Emotionally Focused Therapy techniques.
I believe everyone has the power to improve their own lives by making positive changes. I desire to help you use your life struggles to become stronger and feel more empowered. In working with clients I strive to determine the best type of therapy for each client based on their needs and goals. I work with individuals with a variety of concerns, including parenting & teen issues, marriage & divorce issues, relationship difficulties, anxiety & depression, self-esteem issues, domestic violence, as well as coping with military related issues. I work with couples using Gottman Method and Emotionally Focused Therapy techniques.
(256) 600-2123 View (256) 600-2123
Photo of Elizabeth Graves, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Graves
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Huntsville, AL 35801
pre-marital and marital counseling services on cash basis.
If 2020 has taught us anything it is that our lives can change in an instant. We had to learn how to navigate working from home, homeschooling our children, social distancing, and being away from our loved ones. Throughout these difficult times it is easy to forget about our mental health and how much it effects our physical health. My name is Elizabeth, and I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker. I have worked with all populations and have come to believe therapy is about respect and meeting people in their current season of life. I have experience providing individual and family therapy to children, adults,
pre-marital and marital counseling services on cash basis.
If 2020 has taught us anything it is that our lives can change in an instant. We had to learn how to navigate working from home, homeschooling our children, social distancing, and being away from our loved ones. Throughout these difficult times it is easy to forget about our mental health and how much it effects our physical health. My name is Elizabeth, and I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker. I have worked with all populations and have come to believe therapy is about respect and meeting people in their current season of life. I have experience providing individual and family therapy to children, adults,
(256) 563-4395 View (256) 563-4395
Photo of Lyn Crawford, EdS, LPC, NCC, MAC, RPT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lyn Crawford
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPC, NCC, MAC, RPT
Verified Verified
Huntsville, AL 35806
Hello, I'm glad you're here. I can be reached at Eagle Consulting/Counseling Division. The number is 256-716-0811 or fill out the online paperwork at www.eaglecounselingtec.com. Believe me you do not have to go through life's struggles alone. I want to help you stop surviving and start thriving. People who seek counseling may be dealing with several issues at the same time. These issues can include, but are not limited to, children acting-out, anxiety, depression, divorce, grief, low self-esteem, marriage, substance use, secondary trauma and, wounds from life.
Hello, I'm glad you're here. I can be reached at Eagle Consulting/Counseling Division. The number is 256-716-0811 or fill out the online paperwork at www.eaglecounselingtec.com. Believe me you do not have to go through life's struggles alone. I want to help you stop surviving and start thriving. People who seek counseling may be dealing with several issues at the same time. These issues can include, but are not limited to, children acting-out, anxiety, depression, divorce, grief, low self-esteem, marriage, substance use, secondary trauma and, wounds from life.
(938) 888-7866 View (938) 888-7866
Photo of Atonte Roxanne Myers, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Atonte Roxanne Myers
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntsville, AL 35801
Is your marriage falling a part? Are you one step away from calling a divorce attorney? Call me first! Are you feeling sad or anxious? Are you wanting a happier marriage and a deeper connection? Unresolved childhood trauma, depression, anxiety can be a barrier to peace and happiness. I work with couples, individuals and families helping them to resolve conflict and to find inner peace. As a wife and a mother I understand the challenges that come with marriage and family. As my client you will learn practical tools to overcome these challenges you are facing. You will learn how to reconnect and truly become one again!
Is your marriage falling a part? Are you one step away from calling a divorce attorney? Call me first! Are you feeling sad or anxious? Are you wanting a happier marriage and a deeper connection? Unresolved childhood trauma, depression, anxiety can be a barrier to peace and happiness. I work with couples, individuals and families helping them to resolve conflict and to find inner peace. As a wife and a mother I understand the challenges that come with marriage and family. As my client you will learn practical tools to overcome these challenges you are facing. You will learn how to reconnect and truly become one again!
(256) 363-6230 View (256) 363-6230
Photo of Brandon Lee Adair, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brandon Lee Adair
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Huntsville, AL 35802
Brandon Adair is a licensed professional counselor who earned his master’s in clinical psychology from Alabama A&M University in Normal, AL. He has over twenty years in the inpatient / counseling field with his key focuses being in the areas of marriage and family counseling, addiction, anxiety, depression, daily stressors, PTSD, developing coping strategies, and men’s issues. Brandon’s therapy approach includes cognitive behavioral therapy, person-centered, solution focused, motivational interviewing, and positive psychology. Brandon welcomes individual, couples, and families, including adolescents.
Brandon Adair is a licensed professional counselor who earned his master’s in clinical psychology from Alabama A&M University in Normal, AL. He has over twenty years in the inpatient / counseling field with his key focuses being in the areas of marriage and family counseling, addiction, anxiety, depression, daily stressors, PTSD, developing coping strategies, and men’s issues. Brandon’s therapy approach includes cognitive behavioral therapy, person-centered, solution focused, motivational interviewing, and positive psychology. Brandon welcomes individual, couples, and families, including adolescents.
(256) 305-4102 View (256) 305-4102
Photo of Choya Wise, LICSW, PIP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Choya Wise
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, PIP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntsville, AL 35806  (Online Only)
Are you having trouble maintaining intimacy in your relationships? Do you often find that when you express your feelings or choose not to express your feelings, there seems to be conflict? Are you looking for an improved style of communicating that will help you to strengthen your relationships in marriage, dating, with family, and with your peers?
Are you having trouble maintaining intimacy in your relationships? Do you often find that when you express your feelings or choose not to express your feelings, there seems to be conflict? Are you looking for an improved style of communicating that will help you to strengthen your relationships in marriage, dating, with family, and with your peers?
(256) 980-0938 View (256) 980-0938
Photo of Clay Coppage, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Clay Coppage
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Huntsville, AL 35802
Waitlist for new clients
I have been trained in Acceptance Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Hypnotherapy, Strength At Home (Evidence Based Intimate Partner Violence curriculum), and Gottman Marriage Therapy.
We all face difficulties in our lives. Negative emotions and thoughts are inevitable but they have the power to stop us dead in our tracks. Fortunately, we can take our power back using research based strategies. It takes a lot of courage to take the first step towards breaking cycles. I have worked with many clients who have either not had a good impression of therapy or who had a bad experience with it. My hope is that your experience with me will be a positive one and that you will walk away with noticeable change and real strategies to help you.
I have been trained in Acceptance Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Hypnotherapy, Strength At Home (Evidence Based Intimate Partner Violence curriculum), and Gottman Marriage Therapy.
We all face difficulties in our lives. Negative emotions and thoughts are inevitable but they have the power to stop us dead in our tracks. Fortunately, we can take our power back using research based strategies. It takes a lot of courage to take the first step towards breaking cycles. I have worked with many clients who have either not had a good impression of therapy or who had a bad experience with it. My hope is that your experience with me will be a positive one and that you will walk away with noticeable change and real strategies to help you.
(256) 980-0546 x700 View (256) 980-0546 x700
Photo of Rev. Joseph L Follette Jr - Lifestyle Therapy & Coaching, MDiv, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lifestyle Therapy & Coaching
Marriage & Family Therapist, MDiv, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Huntsville, AL 35813  (Online Only)
Having trouble finding happiness in your marriage? With over 25 years of experience, I specialize in assisting couples through challenging situations. My focus is on enhancing women's mental well-being, enabling them to cultivate successful relationships. Count on me to provide honest insights and dedicated efforts to help you achieve a fulfilling and positive marriage. I tackle various issues like trauma and limiting beliefs that pose a threat to the bond between spouses. I also offer support for compulsive problems that could potentially jeopardize your marriage. I've witnessed marriages not only surviving infidelity but thriving.
Having trouble finding happiness in your marriage? With over 25 years of experience, I specialize in assisting couples through challenging situations. My focus is on enhancing women's mental well-being, enabling them to cultivate successful relationships. Count on me to provide honest insights and dedicated efforts to help you achieve a fulfilling and positive marriage. I tackle various issues like trauma and limiting beliefs that pose a threat to the bond between spouses. I also offer support for compulsive problems that could potentially jeopardize your marriage. I've witnessed marriages not only surviving infidelity but thriving.
(256) 485-4769 View (256) 485-4769
Photo of Ronald Ashley, LMFT, CCDP-D, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ronald Ashley
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CCDP-D
Verified Verified
Huntsville, AL 35806
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a member of the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapist.
Welcome to Psychological & Counseling Associates I provide services for families experiencing complexities including; family counseling, mental health issues, parenting issues, substance and alcohol abuse, court mediations, seminars and workshops and EAP services. I provide these services through a comprehensive culturally competent system of care, including community-based support services comprised of partnerships among the Mental Health Services and other agencies with the understanding that families are entitled to dignified and meaningful lives.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a member of the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapist.
Welcome to Psychological & Counseling Associates I provide services for families experiencing complexities including; family counseling, mental health issues, parenting issues, substance and alcohol abuse, court mediations, seminars and workshops and EAP services. I provide these services through a comprehensive culturally competent system of care, including community-based support services comprised of partnerships among the Mental Health Services and other agencies with the understanding that families are entitled to dignified and meaningful lives.
(256) 877-5132 View (256) 877-5132
Photo of Derrick Knight, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Derrick Knight
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Huntsville, AL 35802  (Online Only)
I am a Certified Facilitator of Prepare/Enrich, the most widely used assessment and program for marital and pre-marital counseling.
Derrick is a licensed therapist with over 20 years of experience providing services to adolescents and adults. He believes that everyone has potential to recover and heal from whatever they've been through as long as they're willing to put in the work and trust in God. He wholeheartedly believes that there is nothing you've been through that you cannot overcome. By using a myriad of psychological strategies and concepts Derrick has helped many people recover, heal, and thrive. In addition to providing therapy, he has taught psychological courses and facilitated couples and men's conferences.
I am a Certified Facilitator of Prepare/Enrich, the most widely used assessment and program for marital and pre-marital counseling.
Derrick is a licensed therapist with over 20 years of experience providing services to adolescents and adults. He believes that everyone has potential to recover and heal from whatever they've been through as long as they're willing to put in the work and trust in God. He wholeheartedly believes that there is nothing you've been through that you cannot overcome. By using a myriad of psychological strategies and concepts Derrick has helped many people recover, heal, and thrive. In addition to providing therapy, he has taught psychological courses and facilitated couples and men's conferences.
(256) 284-4664 View (256) 284-4664
Photo of Dr. Travis L. Davis, MS, ALC, Counselor
Dr. Travis L. Davis
Counselor, MS, ALC
Verified Verified
Huntsville, AL 35801
We also specialize in marriage therapy.
Many people were taught early on that emotions and feelings should not be outwardly discussed or displayed; others become aware of the stigma surrounding mental health issues as they mature. This can lead to a fear of being labeled as mentally ill, which often serves as an obstacle to seeking therapy. Unhealthy thought patterns surrounding mental health have led to ongoing, systemic problems that create a lack of public awareness and prioritization of mental health issues. However, change can occur on the individual level once a person makes the courageous decision to seek out counseling, which can provide them with a fresh start.
We also specialize in marriage therapy.
Many people were taught early on that emotions and feelings should not be outwardly discussed or displayed; others become aware of the stigma surrounding mental health issues as they mature. This can lead to a fear of being labeled as mentally ill, which often serves as an obstacle to seeking therapy. Unhealthy thought patterns surrounding mental health have led to ongoing, systemic problems that create a lack of public awareness and prioritization of mental health issues. However, change can occur on the individual level once a person makes the courageous decision to seek out counseling, which can provide them with a fresh start.
(256) 937-2525 View (256) 937-2525
Photo of Dr. Clarissa Tibbs, PhD, LPC , Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Clarissa Tibbs
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Huntsville, AL 35806
I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults specializing in the treatment of anxiety, depression, Attention-Deficit-Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), marriage/couples therapy and grief and loss.
Beginning the healing journey can be both challenging and rewarding, nonetheless, it takes much courage to reach out for help. I commend you for taking those necessary steps and would be delighted to help you navigate the next steps to a more rewarding and fulfilled life. Through our work together, we will be able to explore appropriate coping tools and ways to improve overall emotional functioning. My motto is "progress is progress no matter how big or small" and certainly reaching out for help is the first necessary and major steps towards personal progress.
I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults specializing in the treatment of anxiety, depression, Attention-Deficit-Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), marriage/couples therapy and grief and loss.
Beginning the healing journey can be both challenging and rewarding, nonetheless, it takes much courage to reach out for help. I commend you for taking those necessary steps and would be delighted to help you navigate the next steps to a more rewarding and fulfilled life. Through our work together, we will be able to explore appropriate coping tools and ways to improve overall emotional functioning. My motto is "progress is progress no matter how big or small" and certainly reaching out for help is the first necessary and major steps towards personal progress.
(256) 827-5119 View (256) 827-5119
Photo of Lorna S Bell, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lorna S Bell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntsville, AL 35802
I specialize in Marriage & Family Therapy, Couples Counseling, Mindfulness Therapy, Motivational Interviewing skills, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Focused Therapy.
Greetings, I am Lorna Bell and I've been available to help individuals for over 20 years with many challenges along life's journey. I am open to serving clients with a willingness and desire for change. Helping you to achieve your healthiest version of yourself. I'd love to help you work through concerns involving mood, anxiety and depression by utilizing Motivational Interviewing skills, CBT and Solution Focused Therapy. It will be my pleasure to assist you with kindness and compassion with a personalized Treatment and Acton plan.
I specialize in Marriage & Family Therapy, Couples Counseling, Mindfulness Therapy, Motivational Interviewing skills, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Focused Therapy.
Greetings, I am Lorna Bell and I've been available to help individuals for over 20 years with many challenges along life's journey. I am open to serving clients with a willingness and desire for change. Helping you to achieve your healthiest version of yourself. I'd love to help you work through concerns involving mood, anxiety and depression by utilizing Motivational Interviewing skills, CBT and Solution Focused Therapy. It will be my pleasure to assist you with kindness and compassion with a personalized Treatment and Acton plan.
(938) 253-9412 View (938) 253-9412
Photo of Sherri Cohen, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sherri Cohen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Huntsville, AL 35806
Areas of expertise include: Certified EMDR therapist, Depression; Anxiety, Panic Attacks, Social Anxiety, and Phobias; Relationship/Marriage Counseling; Grief and Loss; Stress Management; Trauma/Abuse/PTSD; Addiction and Recovery.
Stressful, overwhelming times create a sense of powerlessness. With therapy, you can regain a sense of control and work through the emotional obstacles holding you back My purpose (Nia) is to help you navigate those difficult times. * Regain balance * Use anger constructively * Nurture yourself and others * Redraw your life's path * Learn to navigate past barriers
Areas of expertise include: Certified EMDR therapist, Depression; Anxiety, Panic Attacks, Social Anxiety, and Phobias; Relationship/Marriage Counseling; Grief and Loss; Stress Management; Trauma/Abuse/PTSD; Addiction and Recovery.
Stressful, overwhelming times create a sense of powerlessness. With therapy, you can regain a sense of control and work through the emotional obstacles holding you back My purpose (Nia) is to help you navigate those difficult times. * Regain balance * Use anger constructively * Nurture yourself and others * Redraw your life's path * Learn to navigate past barriers
(256) 973-9848 View (256) 973-9848
Susan Walker Ratliff
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Huntsville, AL 35801
Susan W. Ratliff LPC Susan is a Licensed Professional Counselor. She earned a Bachelor’s Degree from Athens University in Behavioral Science, and a Masters Degree in Clinical Psychology from A&M University. Susan has been in practice in North Alabama for the past 25 years, with experience in both outpatient and inpatient settings. She has served a variety of populations, and has led individual, group, marital, and family therapy sessions. She currently works with children, adolescents and adults in therapy. Susan’s main passion in work is to improve individuals, and families lives by assisting in their development.
Susan W. Ratliff LPC Susan is a Licensed Professional Counselor. She earned a Bachelor’s Degree from Athens University in Behavioral Science, and a Masters Degree in Clinical Psychology from A&M University. Susan has been in practice in North Alabama for the past 25 years, with experience in both outpatient and inpatient settings. She has served a variety of populations, and has led individual, group, marital, and family therapy sessions. She currently works with children, adolescents and adults in therapy. Susan’s main passion in work is to improve individuals, and families lives by assisting in their development.
(256) 900-8350 View (256) 900-8350
Photo of Kitson Francis - Family Consult Counseling Service, PhD, MSW, LGSW, MAC, MSWAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Family Consult Counseling Service
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, MSW, LGSW, MAC, MSWAC
Verified Verified
Huntsville, AL 35816
Although I work well with clients across the broad spectrum of needs, I prefer working with couples who are experiencing marital, relationship and family difficulties. I also work with clients experiencing domestic violence, grief and PTSD. I come armed with 34 years of experience that allows me to help clients work on the ongoing development of the self including their internal strength; becoming less dependent on others for validation. I also work with an acute focus on intercultural difficulties.
Although I work well with clients across the broad spectrum of needs, I prefer working with couples who are experiencing marital, relationship and family difficulties. I also work with clients experiencing domestic violence, grief and PTSD. I come armed with 34 years of experience that allows me to help clients work on the ongoing development of the self including their internal strength; becoming less dependent on others for validation. I also work with an acute focus on intercultural difficulties.
(256) 743-6586 View (256) 743-6586
Photo of Kenneth Sullivan, PhD, Psychologist
Kenneth Sullivan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Huntsville, AL 35802  (Online Only)
Dr. Sullivan has been a licensed psychologist for over thirty years and has seen a lot of therapy fads come and go. He has maintained a sensible approach to people's problems, and has found that common sense is an excellent guide for what works in this field. Dr. Sullivan holds family, marriage, and honesty in high priority when working with individuals.
Dr. Sullivan has been a licensed psychologist for over thirty years and has seen a lot of therapy fads come and go. He has maintained a sensible approach to people's problems, and has found that common sense is an excellent guide for what works in this field. Dr. Sullivan holds family, marriage, and honesty in high priority when working with individuals.
(256) 880-8202 View (256) 880-8202
Photo of John Thorington, LPC, MA, SRT, DMin, Licensed Professional Counselor
John Thorington
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, SRT, DMin
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Huntsville, AL 35805
Are you having marital problems but don't have sexual addiction issues? We can help.
I am a Sexual Recovery Therapist (SRT) with specialization in sexual addictions and couples/marriages. I also work extensively with teens struggling with sexual compulsivity issues. My clients learn to replace destructive behaviors and avoidance of intimacies through healthy and meaningful interactions. As a pastor for three decades, I also have a passionate desire to assist pastors and their spouses. Pastors face some unique challenges in maintaining sexual purity and having healthy marriages. I offer them a safe, confidential, and proven place to find solutions.
Are you having marital problems but don't have sexual addiction issues? We can help.
I am a Sexual Recovery Therapist (SRT) with specialization in sexual addictions and couples/marriages. I also work extensively with teens struggling with sexual compulsivity issues. My clients learn to replace destructive behaviors and avoidance of intimacies through healthy and meaningful interactions. As a pastor for three decades, I also have a passionate desire to assist pastors and their spouses. Pastors face some unique challenges in maintaining sexual purity and having healthy marriages. I offer them a safe, confidential, and proven place to find solutions.
(256) 330-5668 View (256) 330-5668
Photo of Lindsay Harrison Burleson, LPC-S, MEd, MTS, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lindsay Harrison Burleson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, MEd, MTS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntsville, AL 35801
I am a practicing LPC-S in the Huntsville, AL area specializing in helping adolescents and adults struggling with OCD, substance abuse/addiction issues, behavioral problems, anxiety, depression, and ADD/ADHD. I have additional experience with marriage and family counseling. I am a licensing supervisor (SC-03282), currently accepting individuals working toward their LPC.
I am a practicing LPC-S in the Huntsville, AL area specializing in helping adolescents and adults struggling with OCD, substance abuse/addiction issues, behavioral problems, anxiety, depression, and ADD/ADHD. I have additional experience with marriage and family counseling. I am a licensing supervisor (SC-03282), currently accepting individuals working toward their LPC.
(256) 258-8531 View (256) 258-8531
Photo of Dr. Wayne Wilson, EdD, Psychologist
Dr. Wayne Wilson
Psychologist, EdD
Verified Verified
Huntsville, AL 35801
Marriage, Anxiety, Depression, Family Dynamics and Grief Work.
Are you having difficulties maintaining relationships, struggling with divorce, fighting with depression or experiencing anxiety and/or panic attacks? Do you have problems with emotional intimacy or the inability to live alone? Maybe you have a high stress position at work. These are just a few of the many problems that people deal with on a daily basis and if not dealt with properly can adversely affect your quality of life. There is something you can do. You don't have to experience these feelings alone. For over 30 years I have helped people deal with these and many other trying situations.
Marriage, Anxiety, Depression, Family Dynamics and Grief Work.
Are you having difficulties maintaining relationships, struggling with divorce, fighting with depression or experiencing anxiety and/or panic attacks? Do you have problems with emotional intimacy or the inability to live alone? Maybe you have a high stress position at work. These are just a few of the many problems that people deal with on a daily basis and if not dealt with properly can adversely affect your quality of life. There is something you can do. You don't have to experience these feelings alone. For over 30 years I have helped people deal with these and many other trying situations.
(256) 278-4236 View (256) 278-4236
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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.