Marriage Counseling Therapists in Grand Rapids, MI

Photo of Rachael J Kelly, MA, LLPC, Counselor
Rachael J Kelly
Counselor, MA, LLPC
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49507
Offering services in; anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma, family/marital therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), behavioral therapy, play therapy, person-centered therapy.
Rachael has been interested in mental health since she can remember. Growing up, this manifested itself into her being a nosy kiddo :). However, as she aged she turned that "nosiness" into a passion, an education, and a career. Rachael is excited about the relief and clarity offered in working through a therapeutic process. Being a Christian, Rachael is also sure that God cares deeply about the wholeness of His people.
Offering services in; anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma, family/marital therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), behavioral therapy, play therapy, person-centered therapy.
Rachael has been interested in mental health since she can remember. Growing up, this manifested itself into her being a nosy kiddo :). However, as she aged she turned that "nosiness" into a passion, an education, and a career. Rachael is excited about the relief and clarity offered in working through a therapeutic process. Being a Christian, Rachael is also sure that God cares deeply about the wholeness of His people.
(616) 369-9206 View (616) 369-9206
Photo of Linh Tran, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Linh Tran
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49503  (Online Only)
We live in a world of constant change. My goal as a therapist is to help you prepare for, embrace, and navigate change in its many forms. Whether you’re graduating from high school, dealing with work stress, preparing for marriage, or navigating conflict in relationships, I can help! As an immigrant, my lived experience is an important part of my approach to therapy. I love working with diverse populations because, like you, I have experienced the ups and downs of life. I understand the frustration of being misunderstood, the pain of being othered, and the realities of “being different.”
We live in a world of constant change. My goal as a therapist is to help you prepare for, embrace, and navigate change in its many forms. Whether you’re graduating from high school, dealing with work stress, preparing for marriage, or navigating conflict in relationships, I can help! As an immigrant, my lived experience is an important part of my approach to therapy. I love working with diverse populations because, like you, I have experienced the ups and downs of life. I understand the frustration of being misunderstood, the pain of being othered, and the realities of “being different.”
(616) 326-3897 View (616) 326-3897
Photo of Natalie Blauer, LMSW, CAADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Natalie Blauer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAADC
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
I enjoy working with folks on relationship issues, co-parenting issues, marital issues, and general women's issues.
If you want help making your life more manageable or finding a way out of the chaos, you have come to the right place. If you feel like you are struggling to reconcile experiences or find coping skills to manage mental health concerns, relationship issues, and/or addictions, you have also come to the right place. We will work together to identify the source of your discomfort and unmanageability and then identify tools to move forward. Once we have identified the problem, we can work towards a solution. I am very solution focused in my approach and enjoy working with individuals who are ready to make sustainable change.
I enjoy working with folks on relationship issues, co-parenting issues, marital issues, and general women's issues.
If you want help making your life more manageable or finding a way out of the chaos, you have come to the right place. If you feel like you are struggling to reconcile experiences or find coping skills to manage mental health concerns, relationship issues, and/or addictions, you have also come to the right place. We will work together to identify the source of your discomfort and unmanageability and then identify tools to move forward. Once we have identified the problem, we can work towards a solution. I am very solution focused in my approach and enjoy working with individuals who are ready to make sustainable change.
(616) 404-4155 View (616) 404-4155
Photo of Betsy Love, LMFT, MSMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Betsy Love
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MSMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49505  (Online Only)
Come as you are. I have many years of experience working with people and have seen people travel from brokenness to restoration. This isn't the end of your story. It takes an incredible amount of courage to face things in life but you don't have to be alone. I know that it can be scary to walk into a therapy room and share things that require great vulnerability. Lack of self-love. Infertility. Pregnancy Loss. Postpartum Depression. Guilt/Shame. Life Transitions. Identity. Marriage and Family Issues. Whatever you're facing, I would love to help you find healing.
Come as you are. I have many years of experience working with people and have seen people travel from brokenness to restoration. This isn't the end of your story. It takes an incredible amount of courage to face things in life but you don't have to be alone. I know that it can be scary to walk into a therapy room and share things that require great vulnerability. Lack of self-love. Infertility. Pregnancy Loss. Postpartum Depression. Guilt/Shame. Life Transitions. Identity. Marriage and Family Issues. Whatever you're facing, I would love to help you find healing.
(616) 426-6532 View (616) 426-6532
Photo of Brian Willshire, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brian Willshire
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49508
Thank you for visiting my page, I specialize in anxiety, depression and communication, especially about interpersonal, marital, and premarital relationships. My faith is grounded in the Catholic church and many of my clientele appreciate and benefit from a shared belief, but my professional religious framework does welcome and include other faiths. God willing, I will be ordained a Catholic Deacon in April, so this is the lens through which I see and interact with the world.
Thank you for visiting my page, I specialize in anxiety, depression and communication, especially about interpersonal, marital, and premarital relationships. My faith is grounded in the Catholic church and many of my clientele appreciate and benefit from a shared belief, but my professional religious framework does welcome and include other faiths. God willing, I will be ordained a Catholic Deacon in April, so this is the lens through which I see and interact with the world.
(616) 737-0422 View (616) 737-0422
Photo of Diane Schroeder - Diane Schroeder, MA, LPC, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Diane Schroeder, MA, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
Why hire Diane? Not only is Diane a proficient counselor, she's been through the gamut herself (childhood trauma, depression, anxiety/stress, re-marriage, parenting, corporate relocation/downsizing, and re-education); she understands what it's like to achieve goals and can help you believe and achieve yours too!.
Are life's challenges getting in the way of you living fulfilled and satisfied? Do anxious thoughts, stress, or past hurts control your life? Whatever is holding you back, Diane believes you don't have to stay that way - healing and growth are possible! Diane is a skilled problem solver who can help you figure out what's happening and collaborate with you to make change. She will strategize with you to put together a unique, customized plan (which may include Neurofeedback Brain Training), focused entirely on your specific situation and story.
Why hire Diane? Not only is Diane a proficient counselor, she's been through the gamut herself (childhood trauma, depression, anxiety/stress, re-marriage, parenting, corporate relocation/downsizing, and re-education); she understands what it's like to achieve goals and can help you believe and achieve yours too!.
Are life's challenges getting in the way of you living fulfilled and satisfied? Do anxious thoughts, stress, or past hurts control your life? Whatever is holding you back, Diane believes you don't have to stay that way - healing and growth are possible! Diane is a skilled problem solver who can help you figure out what's happening and collaborate with you to make change. She will strategize with you to put together a unique, customized plan (which may include Neurofeedback Brain Training), focused entirely on your specific situation and story.
(616) 920-8135 View (616) 920-8135
Photo of Jamie LaFontsee, MA, LLMFT, LLPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jamie LaFontsee
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LLMFT, LLPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49508
Does something feel off? Do you feel like you're getting by okay but need a little something? Therapy might be just the right tool to get you back to your full functioning self again. Sometimes life makes us carry way more than we can handle (although we rarely admit it) and that load takes a burden on us emotionally, physically, and mentally. It affects our relationships at work, home, and even our sex lives! It's not YOU, it's LIFE! My Specific areas of interest include marital conflict, divorce and/or remarriage, Infidelity, sex addiction, grief/loss, and more. If your LIFE is weighing you down, let's talk.
Does something feel off? Do you feel like you're getting by okay but need a little something? Therapy might be just the right tool to get you back to your full functioning self again. Sometimes life makes us carry way more than we can handle (although we rarely admit it) and that load takes a burden on us emotionally, physically, and mentally. It affects our relationships at work, home, and even our sex lives! It's not YOU, it's LIFE! My Specific areas of interest include marital conflict, divorce and/or remarriage, Infidelity, sex addiction, grief/loss, and more. If your LIFE is weighing you down, let's talk.
(616) 557-7924 View (616) 557-7924
Photo of Kimberly Hoke, MA, LPC, LMFT, NCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kimberly Hoke
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LPC, LMFT, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49508
Do you feel stuck having the same arguments where you know how things will end before it begins? Everyone experiences periods of difficulties as life changes and turns in unexpected directions. Whatever difficulties you are facing, you do not need to face them alone. As a marriage and family therapist, I will provide you and your family the tools needed to navigate life’s challenges in a safe, warm and understanding environment. Seeking help is not always easy although it can be rewarding.
Do you feel stuck having the same arguments where you know how things will end before it begins? Everyone experiences periods of difficulties as life changes and turns in unexpected directions. Whatever difficulties you are facing, you do not need to face them alone. As a marriage and family therapist, I will provide you and your family the tools needed to navigate life’s challenges in a safe, warm and understanding environment. Seeking help is not always easy although it can be rewarding.
(616) 236-2672 View (616) 236-2672
Photo of Krystal LaCoy, MMFC/T, LMFT, LLC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Krystal LaCoy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MMFC/T, LMFT, LLC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
I am also PREPARE/ENRICH certified, which means I’m equipped to help premarital couples learn more about each other, communicate better, and build a strong foundation for marriage.
Trying to figure out which therapist is right for you? I’ve been there...knowing you want counseling, but not knowing where to start. It can be an intimidating time, worrying if your problem is too big or if there’s even hope. During our first session, my goal is to get to know you and create a plan together. I have a passion for working with couples and helping them find healing within their most cherished relationship. In our work together, I help couples find the patterns in their relationship they want to change and create a new way forward. A fulfilling relationship includes being able to be seen and heard by your partner.
I am also PREPARE/ENRICH certified, which means I’m equipped to help premarital couples learn more about each other, communicate better, and build a strong foundation for marriage.
Trying to figure out which therapist is right for you? I’ve been there...knowing you want counseling, but not knowing where to start. It can be an intimidating time, worrying if your problem is too big or if there’s even hope. During our first session, my goal is to get to know you and create a plan together. I have a passion for working with couples and helping them find healing within their most cherished relationship. In our work together, I help couples find the patterns in their relationship they want to change and create a new way forward. A fulfilling relationship includes being able to be seen and heard by your partner.
(616) 439-2584 View (616) 439-2584
Photo of Anyssa Grendel, BS, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anyssa Grendel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BS, LMSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49525
Anyssa specializes in supporting mental health/medical professionals and areas of depression/anxiety, obsessive/intrusive thinking, psychosomatic experiences, perinatal/parenting and marriage issues. Anyssa provides LLMSW and MSW intern supervision. Also a believer in both the human connection and animal support to our emotional and mental health, conducts ESA assessments. Her group practice supports the needs of children, teens, adults and couples so visit our website for more information on our practice and individual providers. www.mindbodysoulutionsllc.com
Anyssa specializes in supporting mental health/medical professionals and areas of depression/anxiety, obsessive/intrusive thinking, psychosomatic experiences, perinatal/parenting and marriage issues. Anyssa provides LLMSW and MSW intern supervision. Also a believer in both the human connection and animal support to our emotional and mental health, conducts ESA assessments. Her group practice supports the needs of children, teens, adults and couples so visit our website for more information on our practice and individual providers. www.mindbodysoulutionsllc.com
(616) 877-9050 View (616) 877-9050
Photo of Robert J. Baird, PhD, MSW, MDiv, Psychologist
Robert J. Baird
Psychologist, PhD, MSW, MDiv
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
If you're searching for a therapist who will encourage you to stay in counseling for years while holding your hand singing camp songs, I suggest you keep looking. But if you prefer a trained clinician whose approach to counseling is goal-oriented and solution-focused, contact my office staff to set up an appointment. You can trust that I will be sensitive and empathetic, but since you are hiring me to do a job, I will be directive in identifying the best approach to solve your problems. Most of my clinical practice focuses on Relational/Marriage issues as well as Anxiety/Depression.
If you're searching for a therapist who will encourage you to stay in counseling for years while holding your hand singing camp songs, I suggest you keep looking. But if you prefer a trained clinician whose approach to counseling is goal-oriented and solution-focused, contact my office staff to set up an appointment. You can trust that I will be sensitive and empathetic, but since you are hiring me to do a job, I will be directive in identifying the best approach to solve your problems. Most of my clinical practice focuses on Relational/Marriage issues as well as Anxiety/Depression.
(616) 458-0692 View (616) 458-0692
Photo of Tim Ulstad, MA, LLPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tim Ulstad
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LLPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49505
These area's include: Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Trauma, Spiritual, and Faith Issues for individuals as well as Marriage and Pre-marriage counseling for couples.
As a counselor it is my desire to see people grow and change in order to achieve their goals. I enjoy working with clients to help them see their potential and to take steps in the growth process. Life isn't always easy and sometimes we can all benefit from some guidance as we work to overcome the difficulties and obstacles we face.
These area's include: Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Trauma, Spiritual, and Faith Issues for individuals as well as Marriage and Pre-marriage counseling for couples.
As a counselor it is my desire to see people grow and change in order to achieve their goals. I enjoy working with clients to help them see their potential and to take steps in the growth process. Life isn't always easy and sometimes we can all benefit from some guidance as we work to overcome the difficulties and obstacles we face.
(616) 773-2480 View (616) 773-2480
Photo of Tristen Davis, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tristen Davis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49512
I earned my Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy/Counseling from Capella University and am currently pursuing my PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision there as well.
Evening spots available! Empathy is at the heart of my practice. I work hard to understand your unique background, making sure therapy is a space where you feel respected and heard. I use methods that are more inclusive and sensitive to different cultures. I'm committed to making therapy affordable, especially for LGBTQ+ folks, because I believe everyone deserves good mental health care. My passion is providing supportive and affirming services that help you heal and grow.
I earned my Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy/Counseling from Capella University and am currently pursuing my PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision there as well.
Evening spots available! Empathy is at the heart of my practice. I work hard to understand your unique background, making sure therapy is a space where you feel respected and heard. I use methods that are more inclusive and sensitive to different cultures. I'm committed to making therapy affordable, especially for LGBTQ+ folks, because I believe everyone deserves good mental health care. My passion is providing supportive and affirming services that help you heal and grow.
(616) 522-8593 View (616) 522-8593
Photo of Alyssa Albright, LMSW, CAADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alyssa Albright
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAADC
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49506
Life comes at you fast. The world around us can feel as though it has an endless supply of curve balls, surprises, and challenges. In the thick of change and transition, it can feel as though you are so utterly alone. But, heavy things, are much easier carried when we do it together. I am here to help you navigate life's challenges whether they be anxiety, depression, addiction, or trauma, or life transitions such as new parenthood, marriage, divorce, or grief. I see individuals (18+) and couples to empower them as they work toward a braver tomorrow.
Life comes at you fast. The world around us can feel as though it has an endless supply of curve balls, surprises, and challenges. In the thick of change and transition, it can feel as though you are so utterly alone. But, heavy things, are much easier carried when we do it together. I am here to help you navigate life's challenges whether they be anxiety, depression, addiction, or trauma, or life transitions such as new parenthood, marriage, divorce, or grief. I see individuals (18+) and couples to empower them as they work toward a braver tomorrow.
(616) 202-5687 View (616) 202-5687
Photo of Heather Hemphill, LPC, LLMFT, CAADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Heather Hemphill
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LLMFT, CAADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
I have worked with individuals, couples, and families experiencing issues such as anxiety, depression, alcohol and drug addiction, marriage problems, and other types of relationship problems.
I believe in the innate capabilities, strength, and wellness of my clients and that the counseling relationship provides the basis from which change can occur. My approach is to walk beside you and validate your personal experiences and invite you to make changes based on your priorities and values. We will work together to decide on your goals and the means for accomplishing them. It can be scary to take the first steps and believe you can achieve your goals. By working together, we can find the path that works for you to heal and grow in all areas of your life.
I have worked with individuals, couples, and families experiencing issues such as anxiety, depression, alcohol and drug addiction, marriage problems, and other types of relationship problems.
I believe in the innate capabilities, strength, and wellness of my clients and that the counseling relationship provides the basis from which change can occur. My approach is to walk beside you and validate your personal experiences and invite you to make changes based on your priorities and values. We will work together to decide on your goals and the means for accomplishing them. It can be scary to take the first steps and believe you can achieve your goals. By working together, we can find the path that works for you to heal and grow in all areas of your life.
(616) 300-2310 View (616) 300-2310
Photo of Kerry Hart, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kerry Hart
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Not Verified Not Verified
2 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
Kerry Hart is a Couple and Family Therapist working from a systemic approach. Kerry helps her clients understand their pasts and helps shape their futures by pointing out patterns that have developed in her client's lives, as well as within their families, and family history. Kerry received her Master's in Family Therapy from Drexel University in Philadelphia, PA and is a member of the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT). Kerry enjoys working from a client centered perspective, with individuals, couples, families, teens, and adults.
Kerry Hart is a Couple and Family Therapist working from a systemic approach. Kerry helps her clients understand their pasts and helps shape their futures by pointing out patterns that have developed in her client's lives, as well as within their families, and family history. Kerry received her Master's in Family Therapy from Drexel University in Philadelphia, PA and is a member of the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT). Kerry enjoys working from a client centered perspective, with individuals, couples, families, teens, and adults.
(616) 298-3169 View (616) 298-3169
Photo of Timothy Dean, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Timothy Dean
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
Life can be difficult and we don't have to walk through it alone. If you want to feel more connected with your spouse, have a better relationship with your children, or find more meaning in life, therapy can help you achieve these goals and many others. As your therapist my goal is to work alongside you, and through our therapeutic relationship, help you identify goals and remove barriers that have been holding you back from reaching these goals. I work with individuals, couples, and families to address marital/couple conflict, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, stress, PTSD/Trauma, as well as finding more purpose in life.
Life can be difficult and we don't have to walk through it alone. If you want to feel more connected with your spouse, have a better relationship with your children, or find more meaning in life, therapy can help you achieve these goals and many others. As your therapist my goal is to work alongside you, and through our therapeutic relationship, help you identify goals and remove barriers that have been holding you back from reaching these goals. I work with individuals, couples, and families to address marital/couple conflict, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, stress, PTSD/Trauma, as well as finding more purpose in life.
(616) 580-0801 x107 View (616) 580-0801 x107
Photo of Sophia Dykstra, LPC, NCC, CAADC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sophia Dykstra
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CAADC, ACS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Teens having issues going back to school? Anxiety getting out of control? Tired of just coping with family problems? Marriage heading in a bad direction? You don't want to wait around, hoping things will get better. You want to get moving with actionable steps. You want to find healing and wholeness. Don't want to pack up all the kids? We offer therapy in your home. For more information on couples, teen, and family counseling in Florida and Michigan, visit Family-Wholeness.com.
Teens having issues going back to school? Anxiety getting out of control? Tired of just coping with family problems? Marriage heading in a bad direction? You don't want to wait around, hoping things will get better. You want to get moving with actionable steps. You want to find healing and wholeness. Don't want to pack up all the kids? We offer therapy in your home. For more information on couples, teen, and family counseling in Florida and Michigan, visit Family-Wholeness.com.
(616) 236-5483 View (616) 236-5483
Photo of Cathy Betti, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cathy Betti
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49503  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I provide a nonjudgmental and safe therapeutic environment for my clients and I value client-therapist alliance above anything else. I have a direct yet empathetic therapy style, collaborating with my clients to help achieve their goals. I love working with couples who struggle with communication and connection, who want to learn how to reconnect or "fight better". I also love empowering partners to find their voice and express their needs in a relationship.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I provide a nonjudgmental and safe therapeutic environment for my clients and I value client-therapist alliance above anything else. I have a direct yet empathetic therapy style, collaborating with my clients to help achieve their goals. I love working with couples who struggle with communication and connection, who want to learn how to reconnect or "fight better". I also love empowering partners to find their voice and express their needs in a relationship.
(616) 208-5843 View (616) 208-5843
Photo of Jeromy Krogman, LPC, Counselor
Jeromy Krogman
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
Do you struggle with intrusive thoughts? Is it hard to get moving in the mornings? Is your life not what you wanted it to be? Then you have come to the right place. I work with a wide range of clients but specialize helping those with OCD and anxiety. I am also certified in helping couples improve their communication and build trust back into the relationship. I have helped couples deal with marriage infidelity as well as financial hardship. I also specialize in working through men's struggles. I have a very relaxed personality, which helps most clients feel at ease in talking in session.
Do you struggle with intrusive thoughts? Is it hard to get moving in the mornings? Is your life not what you wanted it to be? Then you have come to the right place. I work with a wide range of clients but specialize helping those with OCD and anxiety. I am also certified in helping couples improve their communication and build trust back into the relationship. I have helped couples deal with marriage infidelity as well as financial hardship. I also specialize in working through men's struggles. I have a very relaxed personality, which helps most clients feel at ease in talking in session.
(616) 947-4103 View (616) 947-4103
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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.