Marriage Counseling Therapists in West Des Moines, IA
![Photo of Danielle Drew, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1690c3b9-dbd8-440f-a58f-6425b77033b1/3/320x400.jpeg)
Danielle Drew
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50266
**Currently not taking on new clients** Take the first step to living the life you've always imagined! I am a licensed marital and family therapist (LMFT) who primary provides individual and intimate relationship therapy services. I strive to create an environment of open, non-judgmental communication where all clients feel safe, comfortable, and heard by all in the room.
**Currently not taking on new clients** Take the first step to living the life you've always imagined! I am a licensed marital and family therapist (LMFT) who primary provides individual and intimate relationship therapy services. I strive to create an environment of open, non-judgmental communication where all clients feel safe, comfortable, and heard by all in the room.
Christine Lewis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
West Des Moines, IA 50265
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in anxiety and depressive disorders, marital therapy, life transitions, grief and loss, relationship and intimacy issues.
Seeking therapy is part of a healthy self-advocacy strategy where we center our own well-being in order to more fully enjoy life. Through compassionate, honest therapy we can learn to become present to ourselves in ways that allow us to become more fully present for others. Whether you're facing a life-changing transition, one of the many forms of grief, or are in need of a new personal compass, I am ready to listen and guide. With radical empathy, concrete strategies and over 33 years of experience, I look forward to learning your story and walking this journey alongside you.
I specialize in anxiety and depressive disorders, marital therapy, life transitions, grief and loss, relationship and intimacy issues.
Seeking therapy is part of a healthy self-advocacy strategy where we center our own well-being in order to more fully enjoy life. Through compassionate, honest therapy we can learn to become present to ourselves in ways that allow us to become more fully present for others. Whether you're facing a life-changing transition, one of the many forms of grief, or are in need of a new personal compass, I am ready to listen and guide. With radical empathy, concrete strategies and over 33 years of experience, I look forward to learning your story and walking this journey alongside you.
![Photo of Carter DeVary, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51830977-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Carter DeVary
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50266
I provide an open and accepting environment that empowers clients to share their concerns without judgment. From a systemic perspective, I focus on helping individuals, couples and families develop a greater sense of self within their relationships, leading clients to develop and maintain healthy and sustainable relationships beyond therapy. I work with a broad range of clients including individual teenagers to older adults, couples and families, with a diverse set of problems and needs including anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, couple and marital issues, blended family problems, and many more.
I provide an open and accepting environment that empowers clients to share their concerns without judgment. From a systemic perspective, I focus on helping individuals, couples and families develop a greater sense of self within their relationships, leading clients to develop and maintain healthy and sustainable relationships beyond therapy. I work with a broad range of clients including individual teenagers to older adults, couples and families, with a diverse set of problems and needs including anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, couple and marital issues, blended family problems, and many more.
![Photo of Diane Eischeid, MS, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/429ab2c1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Diane Eischeid
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
West Des Moines, IA 50265
Not accepting new clients
I can help you begin to listen to the deep wisdom that resonates within & around you & to help you move past fear & discover your own power. I have experience in treating anxiety, depression, domestic violence, sexual assault, trauma-related issues, marriage/family therapy & grief & loss. I incorporate Attachment-Focused EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Repossessing) which is client centered & emphasizes a reparative therapy approach to strengthen clients. I also utilize the FLASH technique to assist with a multitude of mental health issues.
I can help you begin to listen to the deep wisdom that resonates within & around you & to help you move past fear & discover your own power. I have experience in treating anxiety, depression, domestic violence, sexual assault, trauma-related issues, marriage/family therapy & grief & loss. I incorporate Attachment-Focused EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Repossessing) which is client centered & emphasizes a reparative therapy approach to strengthen clients. I also utilize the FLASH technique to assist with a multitude of mental health issues.
![Photo of Cora Ritter, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e4f5233-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I also provide brief counseling to support couples for these issues: Communication & Conflict Containment, Emotional Connection, Trust, & Intimacy, Discernment for Pre-Separation, Parenting & Co-Parenting Issues, Pre-marital & Cohabitation Concerns, Grief, Trauma, & Mental Health Concerns.
Healing is painful, it's going to hurt, and that's the work, but you don't have to do it alone! Whether it's individual or couple's work, I appreciate that you are taking the time to consider to engage in therapy to improve your well-being. For individuals, things we are going to explore to help you heal: your nervous system’s response to stress & safety, your life’s roadmap (where you came from), your life’s compass (where you are now), the motivation continuum (where you are going), your strengths, resources, & self-care skills.
I also provide brief counseling to support couples for these issues: Communication & Conflict Containment, Emotional Connection, Trust, & Intimacy, Discernment for Pre-Separation, Parenting & Co-Parenting Issues, Pre-marital & Cohabitation Concerns, Grief, Trauma, & Mental Health Concerns.
Healing is painful, it's going to hurt, and that's the work, but you don't have to do it alone! Whether it's individual or couple's work, I appreciate that you are taking the time to consider to engage in therapy to improve your well-being. For individuals, things we are going to explore to help you heal: your nervous system’s response to stress & safety, your life’s roadmap (where you came from), your life’s compass (where you are now), the motivation continuum (where you are going), your strengths, resources, & self-care skills.
![Photo of Amy N Mooney - Des Moines Therapy and Consulting, PC, PhD, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f35b2b9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Depression; Stress Management; Chronic Pain ; Long Term Illness; Cancer; Adjustment Disorders; Anxiety Disorders: Panic Disorder/ Generalized Anxiety/ Test Anxiety; Post Concussive Syndrome/Mild TBI; PTSD: Marriage Counseling, EMDR.
Ames | Des Moines Therapy clinical team provides therapy approaches and techniques which are evidence-based. Dr. Amy Mooney, PhD, LMHC, NCC, ACS, 22 yrs experience, founder and owner. Dr. Terry Augspurger, MD, DLFAPA has over 40 yrs experience in psychiatry. Dr. Richard Stapleton, EdD, NCC, LMHC (IA), LPCC (MN), ACS, BC-TMH, CCTP, Dr. Charles D. Mooney, MD, MPH, Dr. Beth Augspurger, PhD, tLMHC, Brooke Sanders MS, TLMHC, Kelsi York, MS, tLMHC, Grace Macmillan, MSW, LISW
Depression; Stress Management; Chronic Pain ; Long Term Illness; Cancer; Adjustment Disorders; Anxiety Disorders: Panic Disorder/ Generalized Anxiety/ Test Anxiety; Post Concussive Syndrome/Mild TBI; PTSD: Marriage Counseling, EMDR.
Ames | Des Moines Therapy clinical team provides therapy approaches and techniques which are evidence-based. Dr. Amy Mooney, PhD, LMHC, NCC, ACS, 22 yrs experience, founder and owner. Dr. Terry Augspurger, MD, DLFAPA has over 40 yrs experience in psychiatry. Dr. Richard Stapleton, EdD, NCC, LMHC (IA), LPCC (MN), ACS, BC-TMH, CCTP, Dr. Charles D. Mooney, MD, MPH, Dr. Beth Augspurger, PhD, tLMHC, Brooke Sanders MS, TLMHC, Kelsi York, MS, tLMHC, Grace Macmillan, MSW, LISW
![Photo of Naomi E Bloom, MSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/57978400-a87f-4394-9425-e934a5769bf5/2/320x400.jpeg)
In addition to traditional in-office psychotherapy, I am accepting families and couples for intensive in-home therapy for a private fee. Are you looking for a warm, direct, compassionate, non-judgmental therapist who can help you gain greater insight into your thoughts, patterns and behaviors and achieve lasting change? I create a relaxed, confidential environment and never pressure clients to discuss topics before they are ready. I am passionate about helping my clients create authentic, fulfilling lives that reflect their passions. Specializing in relationship/marital therapy and treatment for sexual issues in both men and women.
In addition to traditional in-office psychotherapy, I am accepting families and couples for intensive in-home therapy for a private fee. Are you looking for a warm, direct, compassionate, non-judgmental therapist who can help you gain greater insight into your thoughts, patterns and behaviors and achieve lasting change? I create a relaxed, confidential environment and never pressure clients to discuss topics before they are ready. I am passionate about helping my clients create authentic, fulfilling lives that reflect their passions. Specializing in relationship/marital therapy and treatment for sexual issues in both men and women.
![Photo of Linda M Miller, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5127dd79-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Linda M Miller
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50266
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT).
I usually can get new clients in within 1-2 weeks and have evening appointments available. I see individual adults, couples and families. I have been doing therapy since 1998 and am passionate about helping those I serve resolve conflict. Sometimes new clients tell me they don't really know how therapy works which is ok as I can guide you through the process. I specialize in helping those with depression, anxiety, family conflict, blended families, contemplating divorce and recovering from divorce, couples issues, conflicted relational concerns, career changes, anger management, trauma, sexual abuse, and stress.
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT).
I usually can get new clients in within 1-2 weeks and have evening appointments available. I see individual adults, couples and families. I have been doing therapy since 1998 and am passionate about helping those I serve resolve conflict. Sometimes new clients tell me they don't really know how therapy works which is ok as I can guide you through the process. I specialize in helping those with depression, anxiety, family conflict, blended families, contemplating divorce and recovering from divorce, couples issues, conflicted relational concerns, career changes, anger management, trauma, sexual abuse, and stress.
![Photo of Erica Hecht Kehrberg, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ee7006d4-f74c-4bfa-8bd5-cd251506a96e/3/320x400.jpeg)
Erica Hecht Kehrberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50266
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in helping individuals and couples struggling with infertility, marital issues, anxiety, depression, grief/loss, trauma and life transitions.
Seeking help with life challenges can be intimidating. I believe in creating a safe, nonjudgmental space where people feel comfortable to explore their struggles, reach their goals and find hope that leads to healing. Over the years in a variety of social service roles assisting children and families, I have learned that it is essential to find the right person with whom you can build an authentic connection and from whom you can receive support. I believe we can find that connection together.
I specialize in helping individuals and couples struggling with infertility, marital issues, anxiety, depression, grief/loss, trauma and life transitions.
Seeking help with life challenges can be intimidating. I believe in creating a safe, nonjudgmental space where people feel comfortable to explore their struggles, reach their goals and find hope that leads to healing. Over the years in a variety of social service roles assisting children and families, I have learned that it is essential to find the right person with whom you can build an authentic connection and from whom you can receive support. I believe we can find that connection together.
![Photo of Matt Ness, MA, LMHC, LMFT, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/96466a15-dbbb-4e4a-bf12-63743d247b09/3/320x400.jpeg)
www.kingdomcounseling.com Matt Ness is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) and Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT). He is also an approved supervisor through the Iowa Board of Behavioral Science. Matt completed his undergraduate studies at Central College, receiving a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Business Management. It was there that he recognized his giftings and God’s call on his life into the field of counseling, which led him to Wheaton College where he earned his Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology. Matt’s studies included an emphasis in counseling adults and couples.
www.kingdomcounseling.com Matt Ness is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) and Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT). He is also an approved supervisor through the Iowa Board of Behavioral Science. Matt completed his undergraduate studies at Central College, receiving a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Business Management. It was there that he recognized his giftings and God’s call on his life into the field of counseling, which led him to Wheaton College where he earned his Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology. Matt’s studies included an emphasis in counseling adults and couples.
![Photo of Kristin Haldeman, MS, tLMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/061dbf97-40f2-4ace-8242-4559e97bc8d4/1/320x400.jpeg)
I work with couples, and individuals 14 years of age and older. If clients want to incorporate a spiritual perspective into counseling, I am happy to work with them through a Biblical perspective. My clinical interests are infertility, miscarriages, marriage counseling, trauma, anxiety, phobias, OCD, eating disorders, the rural community, and adjustments to life’s transitions. I have experience working with fertility challenges, miscarriages, anxiety, OCD symptoms, relational issues, couples, eating disorders, adolescents, depression, communication, and coping skills.
I work with couples, and individuals 14 years of age and older. If clients want to incorporate a spiritual perspective into counseling, I am happy to work with them through a Biblical perspective. My clinical interests are infertility, miscarriages, marriage counseling, trauma, anxiety, phobias, OCD, eating disorders, the rural community, and adjustments to life’s transitions. I have experience working with fertility challenges, miscarriages, anxiety, OCD symptoms, relational issues, couples, eating disorders, adolescents, depression, communication, and coping skills.
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These challenges may include treatment resistant anxiety / depression, addictions, marital counseling, etc.
Currently accepting new clients. I work at New Life Counseling's West Des Moines office location, but also meet with clients via Zoom. I specialize in working with couples, mood disorders (Bipolar 1, 2, Cyclothymia, Dysthymia), childhood trauma, and treatment resistant anxiety / depression. In addition to this, I also treat sexual addictions (pornography, affairs, etc.), spiritual issues, and career challenges. My hope is that you would feel supported and understood, as we work together in discovering root issues and consider making adjustments.
These challenges may include treatment resistant anxiety / depression, addictions, marital counseling, etc.
Currently accepting new clients. I work at New Life Counseling's West Des Moines office location, but also meet with clients via Zoom. I specialize in working with couples, mood disorders (Bipolar 1, 2, Cyclothymia, Dysthymia), childhood trauma, and treatment resistant anxiety / depression. In addition to this, I also treat sexual addictions (pornography, affairs, etc.), spiritual issues, and career challenges. My hope is that you would feel supported and understood, as we work together in discovering root issues and consider making adjustments.
![Photo of Lindsey Olsen, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dad1bb6c-81df-489b-9133-4d81b4a2fa06/3/320x400.jpeg)
Lindsey Olsen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50266
Waitlist for new clients
Hi! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and I am passionate about working with individuals, couples, and families to meet their desired goals. I have an interest in working with clients who have experienced trauma and/or PTSD. I am a certified therapist in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR). EMDR is a type of therapy that enables people to heal from symptoms and/or emotional distress that can result from disturbing life experiences. I also work with clients experiencing somatic (body) issues from traumatic experiences. Please do not hesitate to ask questions about specific issues you would like to address.
Hi! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and I am passionate about working with individuals, couples, and families to meet their desired goals. I have an interest in working with clients who have experienced trauma and/or PTSD. I am a certified therapist in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR). EMDR is a type of therapy that enables people to heal from symptoms and/or emotional distress that can result from disturbing life experiences. I also work with clients experiencing somatic (body) issues from traumatic experiences. Please do not hesitate to ask questions about specific issues you would like to address.
![Photo of Natalia Indrasari, MA, MS, LMFT, IADC, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ff5982d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Natalia Indrasari
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MS, LMFT, IADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50266 (Online Only)
With over 20 years of experience as a therapist, I have had the privilege of working with a wide range of clients facing unique and challenging circumstances. My training and education in marriage and family therapy, mental health, and substance abuse counseling have equipped me with the tools necessary to support individuals, couples, and families through complicated issues. As a former international graduate student myself, I am passionate about helping those from diverse backgrounds overcome the unique challenges that they may face.
With over 20 years of experience as a therapist, I have had the privilege of working with a wide range of clients facing unique and challenging circumstances. My training and education in marriage and family therapy, mental health, and substance abuse counseling have equipped me with the tools necessary to support individuals, couples, and families through complicated issues. As a former international graduate student myself, I am passionate about helping those from diverse backgrounds overcome the unique challenges that they may face.
![Photo of Kathleen Jo Alexander - Kathleen Alexander, LMFT, CMPE, LMFT, CMPE, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fe762c1c-083c-416b-9478-50626c384ed6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kathleen Alexander, LMFT, CMPE
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CMPE
Verified Verified
West Des Moines, IA 50266
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). I am passionate about helping individuals, couples, and families meet their desired goals. The atmosphere in my sessions is warm, collaborative and purposeful. I provide practical feedback, including suggestions for new ways of thinking, assessing relationships and improving well-being outside of sessions.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). I am passionate about helping individuals, couples, and families meet their desired goals. The atmosphere in my sessions is warm, collaborative and purposeful. I provide practical feedback, including suggestions for new ways of thinking, assessing relationships and improving well-being outside of sessions.
![Photo of Donald K Gilbert - New Life Counseling, MS, PhD, LMHC, BCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0a649e62-94d0-4a27-afc4-2888f65627c8/2/320x400.jpeg)
New Life Counseling
Counselor, MS, PhD, LMHC, BCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50266
Our professional staff includes 16 clinicians trained in the fields of psychology, mental health counseling, marriage and family therapy, and social work.
Our New Life professionals provide outpatient counseling services for adolescents, adults, couples, families, and groups at our locations in Ankeny and West Des Moines. Our professional training, experience, faith, and commitment to honoring each individual, enables us to offer counseling that empowers you with the tools, techniques, and confidence necessary to improve your life. We offer support and guidance in this journey through life's many changes and transitions as we partner together to work toward meeting your goals. Visit our counselor's page on our website to learn more about our therapists and their areas of focus.
Our professional staff includes 16 clinicians trained in the fields of psychology, mental health counseling, marriage and family therapy, and social work.
Our New Life professionals provide outpatient counseling services for adolescents, adults, couples, families, and groups at our locations in Ankeny and West Des Moines. Our professional training, experience, faith, and commitment to honoring each individual, enables us to offer counseling that empowers you with the tools, techniques, and confidence necessary to improve your life. We offer support and guidance in this journey through life's many changes and transitions as we partner together to work toward meeting your goals. Visit our counselor's page on our website to learn more about our therapists and their areas of focus.
![Photo of Allison Morlan, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44079402-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Allison Morlan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50265
I am also a certified administrator of the PREPARE/ENRICH premarital/marital assessments.
I believe that counseling can help strengthen and empower all individuals. I strive to provide a welcoming, open, and non-judgmental space for my clients to explore concerns and experience true healing and growth.
I am also a certified administrator of the PREPARE/ENRICH premarital/marital assessments.
I believe that counseling can help strengthen and empower all individuals. I strive to provide a welcoming, open, and non-judgmental space for my clients to explore concerns and experience true healing and growth.
![Photo of Mark J. Hillenbrand, MSW, LISW, RCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1ea7b795-6cfc-4c2c-bbd6-891c0745c087/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mark J. Hillenbrand
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW, RCSW
Verified Verified
West Des Moines, IA 50265 (Online Only)
My counseling experience includes providing interventions to positively address stress, life adjustments, marital issues, and psychological issues like addictions, depression, and anxiety. As a traumatic illness counselor, I help people overcome the obstacles associated with their illness. In addition to HIV/AIDS, Huntington's Disease, and Hepatitis, I have extensive experience working with people, couples, and families impacted by illness. A license from the State of Iowa authorizes me to practice as an independent clinical social worker.
My counseling experience includes providing interventions to positively address stress, life adjustments, marital issues, and psychological issues like addictions, depression, and anxiety. As a traumatic illness counselor, I help people overcome the obstacles associated with their illness. In addition to HIV/AIDS, Huntington's Disease, and Hepatitis, I have extensive experience working with people, couples, and families impacted by illness. A license from the State of Iowa authorizes me to practice as an independent clinical social worker.
![Photo of Tracy Miksell - Dr. Tracy's Counseling Services, LISW, PhD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/60e0b311-bc5c-43cb-a435-551560b2c58c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Tracy's Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, PhD
Verified Verified
West Des Moines, IA 50266
Waitlist for new clients
I also am trained in family systems therapy, and am a Level 3 certified Gottman marriage therapist & also Terry Real(RLT) couples certified.
I have 34 years of experience helping adults with many different issues including but not limited to anxiety, depression, addictions, relationship issues and grief. We work together to meet your goals. Thank you for the opportunity to work with you. I know reaching out for help is often difficult.
I also am trained in family systems therapy, and am a Level 3 certified Gottman marriage therapist & also Terry Real(RLT) couples certified.
I have 34 years of experience helping adults with many different issues including but not limited to anxiety, depression, addictions, relationship issues and grief. We work together to meet your goals. Thank you for the opportunity to work with you. I know reaching out for help is often difficult.
![Photo of Rachel Lomen, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fc5ec8bb-10bb-469e-a92e-d85c5b5a7bb9/3/320x400.jpeg)
Rachel Lomen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
West Des Moines, IA 50265
Not accepting new clients
I offer individual, couple/marital and family therapy to older teens and adults.
Every person’s life is a journey that will involve milestones, missteps, detours, and the occasional derailment. We all encounter obstacles - some of our own making, some provided by others. Navigating that path authentically requires self-awareness and self-understanding and sometimes the guidance and support of a fellow traveler. My role is to foster clarity and healing, to make room for life stories to unfold - as they are meant to - not empty of pain or conflict but instead filled with meaning.
I offer individual, couple/marital and family therapy to older teens and adults.
Every person’s life is a journey that will involve milestones, missteps, detours, and the occasional derailment. We all encounter obstacles - some of our own making, some provided by others. Navigating that path authentically requires self-awareness and self-understanding and sometimes the guidance and support of a fellow traveler. My role is to foster clarity and healing, to make room for life stories to unfold - as they are meant to - not empty of pain or conflict but instead filled with meaning.
See more therapy options for West Des Moines
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.