Marriage Counseling Therapists in Middletown, KY

Photo of Laura Duke, MBA, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Laura Duke
Marriage & Family Therapist, MBA, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Middletown, KY 40243
Laura specializes in mood and personality disorders, chemical dependency, marriage and family/relationship issues, gender identity concerns, and trauma/PTSD.
Laura Duke, MSC, LMFT, graduated from Eastern Kentucky University with a Bachelor of Science degree in psychology and a minor in religion and philosophy. She completed her Master of counseling degree at Campbellsville University in Louisville, Kentucky. Ms. Duke has provided counseling services and/or training and supervision for over 10 years in a variety of settings including therapeutic foster care, community counseling, substance abuse treatment and homelessness facilities, EAP, and private practice settings serving children, adults, groups, and individuals, and families for a myriad of problems.
Laura specializes in mood and personality disorders, chemical dependency, marriage and family/relationship issues, gender identity concerns, and trauma/PTSD.
Laura Duke, MSC, LMFT, graduated from Eastern Kentucky University with a Bachelor of Science degree in psychology and a minor in religion and philosophy. She completed her Master of counseling degree at Campbellsville University in Louisville, Kentucky. Ms. Duke has provided counseling services and/or training and supervision for over 10 years in a variety of settings including therapeutic foster care, community counseling, substance abuse treatment and homelessness facilities, EAP, and private practice settings serving children, adults, groups, and individuals, and families for a myriad of problems.
(502) 747-1114 View (502) 747-1114
Photo of Jay Close, MDiv, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jay Close
Marriage & Family Therapist, MDiv, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Middletown, KY 40243
I enjoy pre- marital counseling.
Are you struggling to manage life or yourself? Are your relationships less than the good they could be in your life? Are you getting in your own way? You may be stressed or stuck. I have worked through, and walked others through struggles. I don't have magic but I have experience in life, counseling, and faith. We can sit together and I will care for you and help you build a better life plan.
I enjoy pre- marital counseling.
Are you struggling to manage life or yourself? Are your relationships less than the good they could be in your life? Are you getting in your own way? You may be stressed or stuck. I have worked through, and walked others through struggles. I don't have magic but I have experience in life, counseling, and faith. We can sit together and I will care for you and help you build a better life plan.
(502) 413-2528 View (502) 413-2528
Photo of Chelsey Gorham - Innovative Family Therapy, MSc, LMFT, GC-C, Marriage & Family Therapist
Innovative Family Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MSc, LMFT, GC-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Middletown, KY 40243
All of our therapists are trained in many types of therapy, and each have their own specialties such as grief counseling, anxiety, marital/couple's issues, depression, behavioral issues, parenting, trauma, play therapy, addiction and many more.
Immediate openings for daytime, evening, & weekends for in person and teletherapy sessions! We understand that life is full of ups and downs that sometimes lead us to feeling overwhelmed and unsure what steps to take. Our goal at IFT is to provide that space where you can find the support needed to navigate the challenges you are facing, and to not feel alone in your journey. We are that unbiased someone you can put your trust in to help improve your mental health and quality of life. We have an amazing team of therapists ready to provide the support and guidance you need!
All of our therapists are trained in many types of therapy, and each have their own specialties such as grief counseling, anxiety, marital/couple's issues, depression, behavioral issues, parenting, trauma, play therapy, addiction and many more.
Immediate openings for daytime, evening, & weekends for in person and teletherapy sessions! We understand that life is full of ups and downs that sometimes lead us to feeling overwhelmed and unsure what steps to take. Our goal at IFT is to provide that space where you can find the support needed to navigate the challenges you are facing, and to not feel alone in your journey. We are that unbiased someone you can put your trust in to help improve your mental health and quality of life. We have an amazing team of therapists ready to provide the support and guidance you need!
(502) 612-9129 View (502) 612-9129
Photo of Terry Hagan - Psychotherapy at Hagan Health, LCSW, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Psychotherapy at Hagan Health
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
Middletown, KY 40243
Welcome to Empowering Encounters—the psychotherapy department at Hagan Health! We have a team of excellent mental health providers who see a wide variety of diagnoses and issues. Our therapists, Colleen, Vern, Suzy, Sheana, & Ervina are trained in a variety of backgrounds including social worker & marriage & family therapy. They are experienced in treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, PTSD, among other diagnosis. We offer individual, couple and family sessions.
Welcome to Empowering Encounters—the psychotherapy department at Hagan Health! We have a team of excellent mental health providers who see a wide variety of diagnoses and issues. Our therapists, Colleen, Vern, Suzy, Sheana, & Ervina are trained in a variety of backgrounds including social worker & marriage & family therapy. They are experienced in treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, PTSD, among other diagnosis. We offer individual, couple and family sessions.
(502) 547-9656 View (502) 547-9656
Photo of Cheri Alicia Levinson - Louisville OCD Clinic, PhD, Psychologist
Louisville OCD Clinic
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Middletown, KY 40243
We specialize in the assessment and treatment of OCD and OCD-related disorders across all ages. Treatment consists of evidence-based approaches that help our patients to weaken the cycle of worry and improve overall life satisfaction. We currently provide two levels of care at LOCD: outpatient & intensive outpatient programming. Evidence-based approaches utilized in the provision of OCD treatment include exposure with response prevention (ERP), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and mindful self-compassion. Individual and group options are available for care.
We specialize in the assessment and treatment of OCD and OCD-related disorders across all ages. Treatment consists of evidence-based approaches that help our patients to weaken the cycle of worry and improve overall life satisfaction. We currently provide two levels of care at LOCD: outpatient & intensive outpatient programming. Evidence-based approaches utilized in the provision of OCD treatment include exposure with response prevention (ERP), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and mindful self-compassion. Individual and group options are available for care.
(502) 237-8234 View (502) 237-8234
Photo of Melanie Hettinger, MSSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melanie Hettinger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Middletown, KY 40243
I have been practicing in the Louisville area since 2002. My experience ranges from acute inpatient care to out-patient therapy; working with children, adolescents and adults, as well as families and couples. Through my experience I am hoping to further apply my skills working with those who may be dealing with the following issues: anxiety, depressive/mood disorders, grief/death/dying issues, self esteem issues, peer conflicts, ADHD/ADD, social skills, parent/child relationships, and parenting skills. I want to work together to develop a therapeutic relationship that addresses your area of needs combined with empathetic understanding and validation of feelings.
I have been practicing in the Louisville area since 2002. My experience ranges from acute inpatient care to out-patient therapy; working with children, adolescents and adults, as well as families and couples. Through my experience I am hoping to further apply my skills working with those who may be dealing with the following issues: anxiety, depressive/mood disorders, grief/death/dying issues, self esteem issues, peer conflicts, ADHD/ADD, social skills, parent/child relationships, and parenting skills. I want to work together to develop a therapeutic relationship that addresses your area of needs combined with empathetic understanding and validation of feelings.
(502) 265-3930 View (502) 265-3930
Photo of Lisa Shapiro, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa Shapiro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Middletown, KY 40243
My clients generally feel hopeful almost as soon as making contact with me. It's reassuring to know that your therapist has 30 yrs' experience and can help! I am warm yet direct, creative yet informative, engaged yet objective. My expertise includes: family therapy, individual therapy, couples therapy and group therapy. I am very skilled in counseling adolescents and adults. Through psychotherapy, my clients have enjoyed success in replacing destructive communication patterns in the family with effective skills, overcoming anxiety and depression, connecting with others-intimately or otherwise, and increasing self-esteem.
My clients generally feel hopeful almost as soon as making contact with me. It's reassuring to know that your therapist has 30 yrs' experience and can help! I am warm yet direct, creative yet informative, engaged yet objective. My expertise includes: family therapy, individual therapy, couples therapy and group therapy. I am very skilled in counseling adolescents and adults. Through psychotherapy, my clients have enjoyed success in replacing destructive communication patterns in the family with effective skills, overcoming anxiety and depression, connecting with others-intimately or otherwise, and increasing self-esteem.
(502) 225-3835 View (502) 225-3835
Photo of Stacy Seitz Conley, MA, LPP
Stacy Seitz Conley
MA, LPP
Verified Verified
Middletown, KY 40243
If you have been struggling with emotional difficulties, or if your family has had difficulties adjusting, I have over 20 years of experience helping adults, children, teens, and families who struggle with a variety of emotional and relational problems. In therapy I integrate CBT, ACT, mindfulness, and expressive activities with a client-centered nature infused interpersonal approach. I give regular homework and coach clients to practice skills learned and encourage family involvement to accelerate their therapeutic progress. I assess each individual's biopsychosocialspiritual needs and develop goals addressing their entire being.
If you have been struggling with emotional difficulties, or if your family has had difficulties adjusting, I have over 20 years of experience helping adults, children, teens, and families who struggle with a variety of emotional and relational problems. In therapy I integrate CBT, ACT, mindfulness, and expressive activities with a client-centered nature infused interpersonal approach. I give regular homework and coach clients to practice skills learned and encourage family involvement to accelerate their therapeutic progress. I assess each individual's biopsychosocialspiritual needs and develop goals addressing their entire being.
(502) 610-0157 View (502) 610-0157
Photo of Jessica Flores - Mindive, MSSW, LMFT, LPAT, ATR-BC, Art Therapist
Mindive
Art Therapist, MSSW, LMFT, LPAT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Middletown, KY 40243
Our ideal clients include children, families, individuals, and couples seeking support through life’s challenges. They may face issues like anxiety, relationship struggles, trauma, or personal growth barriers. They seek a safe space to explore emotions, develop coping skills, and achieve meaningful change. Whether they aim to improve relationships, build self-esteem, or enhance mental wellness, they want compassionate guidance to help them understand themselves better and achieve their goals. Our team is here to provide personalized, effective support tailored to each client's unique needs.
Our ideal clients include children, families, individuals, and couples seeking support through life’s challenges. They may face issues like anxiety, relationship struggles, trauma, or personal growth barriers. They seek a safe space to explore emotions, develop coping skills, and achieve meaningful change. Whether they aim to improve relationships, build self-esteem, or enhance mental wellness, they want compassionate guidance to help them understand themselves better and achieve their goals. Our team is here to provide personalized, effective support tailored to each client's unique needs.
(502) 306-3456 View (502) 306-3456

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Ashlee Mayberry-Marshall - Pursuing Resilience, LPCC
Pursuing Resilience
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40223  (Online Only)
I have worked with a wide range of ages from 4-60+ providing providing individual, family and couples/ marriage counseling.
Life can be a rollercoaster and sometimes hard to navigate on your own. Do you find yourself feeling overwhelmed by life demands and struggling to find your peace of mind and happiness in day-to-day life? Are you struggling to communicate with your partner(s) and feeling misunderstood? Struggling with feeling disconnected or has infidelity been an issue in your relationship/ marriage? Are there unresolved issues in your familial relationships? Everyone could use a little help to address such issues from time to time.
I have worked with a wide range of ages from 4-60+ providing providing individual, family and couples/ marriage counseling.
Life can be a rollercoaster and sometimes hard to navigate on your own. Do you find yourself feeling overwhelmed by life demands and struggling to find your peace of mind and happiness in day-to-day life? Are you struggling to communicate with your partner(s) and feeling misunderstood? Struggling with feeling disconnected or has infidelity been an issue in your relationship/ marriage? Are there unresolved issues in your familial relationships? Everyone could use a little help to address such issues from time to time.
(502) 206-1712 View (502) 206-1712
Photo of Mendy Mason, LPCC, Counselor
Mendy Mason
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40243
For couples, I use the Gottman Method which is a scientific-based marital therapy system that provides practical tools to improve communication and enhance emotional/physical intimacy.
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and I specialize in couples counseling, trauma/PTSD, depression, anxiety, addiction, and women’s issues. For those who desire it, I can integrate Christian counseling into the sessions. My approach enables me to support you in a way that respects your values and beliefs while also making use of the best practices in mental health care. My goal is to create a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space where clients can explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors while using evidence-based therapy.
For couples, I use the Gottman Method which is a scientific-based marital therapy system that provides practical tools to improve communication and enhance emotional/physical intimacy.
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and I specialize in couples counseling, trauma/PTSD, depression, anxiety, addiction, and women’s issues. For those who desire it, I can integrate Christian counseling into the sessions. My approach enables me to support you in a way that respects your values and beliefs while also making use of the best practices in mental health care. My goal is to create a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space where clients can explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors while using evidence-based therapy.
(502) 503-5490 View (502) 503-5490
Photo of Geneva M. Drane -  Center for Discovery 502 Counseling, MA, LPCA , LMFTA
Center for Discovery 502 Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPCA , LMFTA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40223
Do you seek guidance with anxiety, fears, depression, relationships, parenting, child, family counseling, or couples/ marriage therapy? It takes courage to ask for help, admitting you can’t do everything alone is the first step toward achieving wellness, in a fast-paced, demanding world. As an experienced licensed professional counselor of 15+ years, I am honored to assist you in exploring your core issues and moving toward a healthy, fulfilling life. You are not alone, I can help by supporting you! I have a diverse background in many different areas of counseling. I also have an LMFTA Indiana License.
Do you seek guidance with anxiety, fears, depression, relationships, parenting, child, family counseling, or couples/ marriage therapy? It takes courage to ask for help, admitting you can’t do everything alone is the first step toward achieving wellness, in a fast-paced, demanding world. As an experienced licensed professional counselor of 15+ years, I am honored to assist you in exploring your core issues and moving toward a healthy, fulfilling life. You are not alone, I can help by supporting you! I have a diverse background in many different areas of counseling. I also have an LMFTA Indiana License.
(502) 305-5304 View (502) 305-5304
Photo of Jennifer Komis Phelps, LMFT, MDiv, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jennifer Komis Phelps
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MDiv
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40245
My passion as a licensed marriage and family therapist is helping you know that new ways of solving problems and healing are countless, and that hope is always available to you, however dismal life may seem.
Do you feel sad, worried, or unsatisfied and not sure why? Does your body feel tired or stressed? Do you feel like, at some point, your life, career, or relationship went off the rails and you need to pause and consider your next steps? All of us face thoughts and transitions like this; you are not alone. I'm here to help you manage these moments, helping you find direction, make decisions, and feel mental, physical and spiritual peace again.
My passion as a licensed marriage and family therapist is helping you know that new ways of solving problems and healing are countless, and that hope is always available to you, however dismal life may seem.
Do you feel sad, worried, or unsatisfied and not sure why? Does your body feel tired or stressed? Do you feel like, at some point, your life, career, or relationship went off the rails and you need to pause and consider your next steps? All of us face thoughts and transitions like this; you are not alone. I'm here to help you manage these moments, helping you find direction, make decisions, and feel mental, physical and spiritual peace again.
(502) 289-6393 View (502) 289-6393
Photo of Dr. Olivia Hilchey, PhD
Dr. Olivia Hilchey
PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40243
It’s my passion to help individuals and couples improve their quality of life. I'm a specialist in helping couples with marital problems and individuals with depression or anxiety. As a clinical psychologist, I am dedicated to helping you live a happier, healthier, and more authentic life both individually and in your romantic relationship. For individuals, I am trained in evidence-based therapy methods including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT). For couples, I'm trained in the Gottman Method which was created to prevent divorce and improve the overall quality of your marriage.
It’s my passion to help individuals and couples improve their quality of life. I'm a specialist in helping couples with marital problems and individuals with depression or anxiety. As a clinical psychologist, I am dedicated to helping you live a happier, healthier, and more authentic life both individually and in your romantic relationship. For individuals, I am trained in evidence-based therapy methods including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT). For couples, I'm trained in the Gottman Method which was created to prevent divorce and improve the overall quality of your marriage.
(502) 273-0291 View (502) 273-0291
Photo of Tiffany Keith, MAMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Tiffany Keith
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MAMFTA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40223
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist Associate who enjoys working with children ages 13 and older, individuals, couples, and families. My approach in the therapeutic relationship is to be a companion with you on your journey of discovery and understanding. I work with clients experiencing symptoms of ADHD, anxiety, depression, grief, childhood behavioral issues, relational distress, trauma, and race based traumatic stress. I work with individuals who have been marginalized, put in a box and/or overlooked. You are both welcomed and respected.
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist Associate who enjoys working with children ages 13 and older, individuals, couples, and families. My approach in the therapeutic relationship is to be a companion with you on your journey of discovery and understanding. I work with clients experiencing symptoms of ADHD, anxiety, depression, grief, childhood behavioral issues, relational distress, trauma, and race based traumatic stress. I work with individuals who have been marginalized, put in a box and/or overlooked. You are both welcomed and respected.
(502) 237-0379 View (502) 237-0379
Photo of Don Delafield - HopeWell Heights Counseling, LMFT, PMHNP, LCSW, MSW, M Div, Marriage & Family Therapist
HopeWell Heights Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PMHNP, LCSW, MSW, M Div
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40222
At HopeWell Heights Counseling, our goal is to guide you towards lasting personal, relational, and spiritual transformation. Our experienced staff provides a safe and compassionate environment where you can find healing and hope. HopeWell has 2 licensed therapists (Don Delafield and Christina Gaspar) and 4 Marriage and Family Therapy Associates (Melanie, Jason, Kayla, and Ethan). HopeWell also has a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (Angela Keane) and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (MaryLynn Crenshaw). Our team has various specialties to serve you. HopeWell offers services with student counselors at reduced rate.
At HopeWell Heights Counseling, our goal is to guide you towards lasting personal, relational, and spiritual transformation. Our experienced staff provides a safe and compassionate environment where you can find healing and hope. HopeWell has 2 licensed therapists (Don Delafield and Christina Gaspar) and 4 Marriage and Family Therapy Associates (Melanie, Jason, Kayla, and Ethan). HopeWell also has a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (Angela Keane) and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (MaryLynn Crenshaw). Our team has various specialties to serve you. HopeWell offers services with student counselors at reduced rate.
(502) 912-1243 View (502) 912-1243
Photo of Donna Lynch Russow, LCSW, ACSW, CLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Donna Lynch Russow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW, CLC
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40223  (Online Only)
Looking for hope, strategies and understanding? I am a Certified Life Coach and Licensed Therapist of 35 years and Past President of the Ky. Assn for Marriage and Family Therapy. My website lists my specialised trainings. Current openings for individual and couple coaching. Develop specific action plans to get back on track, regulate your emotions, gain clarity and create solutions. I offer a safe, supportive, affordable healing environment. Helping couples recover from issues such as betrayal and individuals navigate transitions and create fresh starts. If you’re not sure where to begin, a consultation may be just what you need!
Looking for hope, strategies and understanding? I am a Certified Life Coach and Licensed Therapist of 35 years and Past President of the Ky. Assn for Marriage and Family Therapy. My website lists my specialised trainings. Current openings for individual and couple coaching. Develop specific action plans to get back on track, regulate your emotions, gain clarity and create solutions. I offer a safe, supportive, affordable healing environment. Helping couples recover from issues such as betrayal and individuals navigate transitions and create fresh starts. If you’re not sure where to begin, a consultation may be just what you need!
(502) 305-7585 View (502) 305-7585
Photo of Lisa Howard Cardwell, MDiv, MAMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lisa Howard Cardwell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MDiv, MAMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40223
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapy with a creative, collaborative approach to therapy. I enjoy working with clients of all ages and find working with children and families especially rewarding. I am currently working toward certification in Play Therapy. I believe therapy should be a safe space for healing and growth. My work is client-centered so your priorities and goals will become mine as we work together.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapy with a creative, collaborative approach to therapy. I enjoy working with clients of all ages and find working with children and families especially rewarding. I am currently working toward certification in Play Therapy. I believe therapy should be a safe space for healing and growth. My work is client-centered so your priorities and goals will become mine as we work together.
(502) 305-8872 View (502) 305-8872
Photo of Robert Price, LPCC, Counselor
Robert Price
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40223  (Online Only)
Hello, my name is Rob and I have been in practice for over 30 years. I have experience with virtually all populations, including working with children, teens, adults, families, and marriage counseling. I have experience with substance abuse treatment and multiple mood and other psychological disorders. I have helped folks deal with vocational issues and well as relationship problems. I treat a wide variety of issues, but usually deal with short term, solution focused counseling that is designed to provide concrete, measurable results.
Hello, my name is Rob and I have been in practice for over 30 years. I have experience with virtually all populations, including working with children, teens, adults, families, and marriage counseling. I have experience with substance abuse treatment and multiple mood and other psychological disorders. I have helped folks deal with vocational issues and well as relationship problems. I treat a wide variety of issues, but usually deal with short term, solution focused counseling that is designed to provide concrete, measurable results.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Janie Hewitt, MSEd, MMFT, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Janie Hewitt
Marriage & Family Therapist, MSEd, MMFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40243
I'm a marriage and family therapist, licensed in Kentucky and Indiana, who is dedicated to fostering a supportive therapeutic space for individuals and couples. With expertise in addressing trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, infidelity, and mood issues, I employ a collaborative approach by viewing you as the expert in your own life. Through evidence-based techniques, I tailor our sessions to meet your unique needs, guiding you towards your desired destination. My philosophy centers on respect, empathy, and empowerment, creating a non-judgmental environment for open exploration.
I'm a marriage and family therapist, licensed in Kentucky and Indiana, who is dedicated to fostering a supportive therapeutic space for individuals and couples. With expertise in addressing trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, infidelity, and mood issues, I employ a collaborative approach by viewing you as the expert in your own life. Through evidence-based techniques, I tailor our sessions to meet your unique needs, guiding you towards your desired destination. My philosophy centers on respect, empathy, and empowerment, creating a non-judgmental environment for open exploration.
(502) 743-4305 View (502) 743-4305

See more therapy options for Middletown

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.