Marriage Counseling Therapists in Ottawa County, MI

Photo of Lynnel Brewster, RN, LPC, LLMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lynnel Brewster
Marriage & Family Therapist, RN, LPC, LLMFT
Verified Verified
Marne, MI 49435
Lynnel Brewster is the Clinical Director at Sanford Behavioral Health. She has worked in the health field for 24 years. She is a registered nurse as well as a licensed professional counselor. Lynnel’s years of experience include working in hospital and home settings, residential addiction treatment centers, and private practice. Lynnel also has her limited license in marriage and family therapy. In addition, sh is a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. Lynnel has counseled groups, families, and individuals with substance use and co-occurrng disorders. She is backed by a mulitdimentional team of clinical and medical professionals.
Lynnel Brewster is the Clinical Director at Sanford Behavioral Health. She has worked in the health field for 24 years. She is a registered nurse as well as a licensed professional counselor. Lynnel’s years of experience include working in hospital and home settings, residential addiction treatment centers, and private practice. Lynnel also has her limited license in marriage and family therapy. In addition, sh is a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. Lynnel has counseled groups, families, and individuals with substance use and co-occurrng disorders. She is backed by a mulitdimentional team of clinical and medical professionals.
(616) 205-9868 x1 View (616) 205-9868 x1
Photo of Nichole D Kurth - Serenity Shores Counseling, LLC, LMSW, TF-CBT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Serenity Shores Counseling, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, TF-CBT
Verified Verified
Spring Lake, MI 49456
I am a Trauma Expert and hold certifications in DBT, TF-CBT, Safe and Sound Protocol, and EMDR which are tools that I use to help people regardless of gender or age who have gone through really tough experiences. If you struggle with anxiety, painful memories, and worry then reach out because you do not have to go through this alone. I am also an ADHD specialist and can help with testing and finding solutions to help you get on track by turning obstacles into strengths. In addition, I do offer couples counseling and retreats as a Certified Gottman Marriage Therapist.
I am a Trauma Expert and hold certifications in DBT, TF-CBT, Safe and Sound Protocol, and EMDR which are tools that I use to help people regardless of gender or age who have gone through really tough experiences. If you struggle with anxiety, painful memories, and worry then reach out because you do not have to go through this alone. I am also an ADHD specialist and can help with testing and finding solutions to help you get on track by turning obstacles into strengths. In addition, I do offer couples counseling and retreats as a Certified Gottman Marriage Therapist.
(231) 261-2882 View (231) 261-2882
Photo of Sara Tysman, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sara Tysman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spring Lake, MI 49456
Waitlist for new clients
Life can be challenging, and you don't have to go through it alone. If you're seeking a closer, more meaningful relationship with your partner, desiring a better connection with your kids, or longing for a deeper sense of fulfillment and meaning in life, therapy can provide the support and guidance you need. My practice is dedicated to providing support to women and couples as they navigate through various challenges such as marital conflict, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, stress, PTSD/trauma, and the pursuit of a more meaningful life. Go to www.lifetreecounseling.net to find out more and contact me today!
Life can be challenging, and you don't have to go through it alone. If you're seeking a closer, more meaningful relationship with your partner, desiring a better connection with your kids, or longing for a deeper sense of fulfillment and meaning in life, therapy can provide the support and guidance you need. My practice is dedicated to providing support to women and couples as they navigate through various challenges such as marital conflict, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, stress, PTSD/trauma, and the pursuit of a more meaningful life. Go to www.lifetreecounseling.net to find out more and contact me today!
(616) 557-7847 View (616) 557-7847
Photo of Hillari Madison, MA, MLP
Hillari Madison
MA, MLP
Verified Verified
Grand Haven, MI 49417
Waitlist for new clients
I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and families in areas relating to anxiety, depression, general relationship concerns, health issues, life transitions, marriage counseling, ADHD/ADD, and faith. I also specialize in psychological assessing for ADHD/ADD, professional/organizational development as well as other areas.
I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and families in areas relating to anxiety, depression, general relationship concerns, health issues, life transitions, marriage counseling, ADHD/ADD, and faith. I also specialize in psychological assessing for ADHD/ADD, professional/organizational development as well as other areas.
(616) 359-0073 View (616) 359-0073
Photo of Danielle Fall, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Danielle Fall
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Hudsonville, MI 49426
Some of which include anxiety, depression, life transitions, and marital distress.
Hello! I view each person (or couple) as unique and autonomous. I believe everyone has a story of where they have been, where they are, and where they are hoping to go. These stories are complex and I believe everyone has biological, emotional, social, and spiritual needs. I like to work with clients to understand how they can get those met in healthy ways and how they can navigate this journey we call life. I also enjoy setting goals with my clients. It's through setting and achieving goals, that you will feel you're getting the most out of our time together.
Some of which include anxiety, depression, life transitions, and marital distress.
Hello! I view each person (or couple) as unique and autonomous. I believe everyone has a story of where they have been, where they are, and where they are hoping to go. These stories are complex and I believe everyone has biological, emotional, social, and spiritual needs. I like to work with clients to understand how they can get those met in healthy ways and how they can navigate this journey we call life. I also enjoy setting goals with my clients. It's through setting and achieving goals, that you will feel you're getting the most out of our time together.
(616) 253-8871 x518 View (616) 253-8871 x518
Photo of Leslie B Roberts, PhD, LP, LPC, Psychologist
Leslie B Roberts
Psychologist, PhD, LP, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Holland, MI 49423
However, my training throughout my doctoral program focused on ADHD evaluations and treating anxiety, as well as High Conflict Divorce, Divorce Collaboration, and Marriage Therapy.
Although I spend a lot of time conducting psychological assessments, I truly enjoy the time I get to spend as a therapist walking through life with my clients. At one point in time or another, all of us struggle with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, relationships, big-emotions and overall ineffectiveness in our life. In therapy, we not only spend time discussing ongoing issues and current difficulties, but we also focus on themes in our lives and the ways that our thinking patterns can inhibit our ability to create the unique life that we want to live.
However, my training throughout my doctoral program focused on ADHD evaluations and treating anxiety, as well as High Conflict Divorce, Divorce Collaboration, and Marriage Therapy.
Although I spend a lot of time conducting psychological assessments, I truly enjoy the time I get to spend as a therapist walking through life with my clients. At one point in time or another, all of us struggle with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, relationships, big-emotions and overall ineffectiveness in our life. In therapy, we not only spend time discussing ongoing issues and current difficulties, but we also focus on themes in our lives and the ways that our thinking patterns can inhibit our ability to create the unique life that we want to live.
(616) 344-4982 View (616) 344-4982
Photo of Susan Van Wyngarden, MA, LPC, Counselor
Susan Van Wyngarden
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Holland, MI 49423
I love working with a client earnestly seeking life change. We pursue self reflection and cognitive restructuring.while probing the roots of a client's faith. I have also found that my life experience, which includes a 32-year marriage and the raising of 3 young adults now heading out into the world, provides a rich source of good counsel. My style is characterized by a personal approach that is warm and supportive with a holistic focus and my sincere hope for all my clients is a personal awareness that brings the emotional and mental stability that leads to positive behaviors.
I love working with a client earnestly seeking life change. We pursue self reflection and cognitive restructuring.while probing the roots of a client's faith. I have also found that my life experience, which includes a 32-year marriage and the raising of 3 young adults now heading out into the world, provides a rich source of good counsel. My style is characterized by a personal approach that is warm and supportive with a holistic focus and my sincere hope for all my clients is a personal awareness that brings the emotional and mental stability that leads to positive behaviors.
(616) 871-2436 View (616) 871-2436
Photo of Tony Bordenkircher, LMFT, CSAT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tony Bordenkircher
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAT
Verified Verified
Holland, MI 49423
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist in the Holland / Zeeland area providing supportive yet challenging services in my specialty areas of couples, family, and their teens. I also specialize in the assessment and treatment of Sexual Addiction. Clients choose me because of my specific training, particularly with couples, and my ability to integrate matters of faith. Please view my website or contact me to schedule an appointment!
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist in the Holland / Zeeland area providing supportive yet challenging services in my specialty areas of couples, family, and their teens. I also specialize in the assessment and treatment of Sexual Addiction. Clients choose me because of my specific training, particularly with couples, and my ability to integrate matters of faith. Please view my website or contact me to schedule an appointment!
(616) 420-2579 View (616) 420-2579
Photo of Jennifer W Kates, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer W Kates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Holland, MI 49423
Waitlist for new clients
I have worked as a Hospice Social Worker, an outpatient therapist for Pine Rest, and as a therapist treating adults with major mental health disorders with two Community Mental Health organizations. I have experience treating a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, sleep issues, compulsive behaviors, bipolar disorder, relationship and marital issues, grief and loss, domestic violence, stress, post-traumatic stress, trauma, anger management, and women's issues. I currently have immediate openings and no waiting list.
I have worked as a Hospice Social Worker, an outpatient therapist for Pine Rest, and as a therapist treating adults with major mental health disorders with two Community Mental Health organizations. I have experience treating a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, sleep issues, compulsive behaviors, bipolar disorder, relationship and marital issues, grief and loss, domestic violence, stress, post-traumatic stress, trauma, anger management, and women's issues. I currently have immediate openings and no waiting list.
(616) 499-6087 View (616) 499-6087
Photo of Bradley J Stalker - Authentic Wellbeing, LLC, MA, LLPC, Counselor
Authentic Wellbeing, LLC
Counselor, MA, LLPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jenison, MI 49428
I specialize in obtaining comprehensive and detailed information that can assist our process to define problems, clarify values, and develop goals in focus areas such as career guidance, marriage counseling, & some addictions.
My name is Bradley Stalker, and I'm glad you're here! If you've ever been in a situation where you continuously try but nothing seems to work out the way you expect, or wonder how you'll ever get ahead or out of an addiction cycle, or anxiety and depression makes life overwhelming, you came to the right spot. Have career difficulties, transition fears, don't know what fits your work skills or interests? Think that counseling is a little taboo? Maybe you're stuck in a negative pattern and just don't know how to turn it around. Just having the initial conversation can make a big difference!
I specialize in obtaining comprehensive and detailed information that can assist our process to define problems, clarify values, and develop goals in focus areas such as career guidance, marriage counseling, & some addictions.
My name is Bradley Stalker, and I'm glad you're here! If you've ever been in a situation where you continuously try but nothing seems to work out the way you expect, or wonder how you'll ever get ahead or out of an addiction cycle, or anxiety and depression makes life overwhelming, you came to the right spot. Have career difficulties, transition fears, don't know what fits your work skills or interests? Think that counseling is a little taboo? Maybe you're stuck in a negative pattern and just don't know how to turn it around. Just having the initial conversation can make a big difference!
(616) 404-4564 View (616) 404-4564
Photo of Rachel Morr, MA, LLPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rachel Morr
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LLPC
Verified Verified
Spring Lake, MI 49456
My name is Rachel Morr, and I am a clinical mental health counselor in the state of Michigan. I graduated with my master’s from the University of the Cumberlands in 2022. I am paneled with Mosaic Counseling in Grand Haven and work with sliding scale fees. I have experience working with teens and adults who are experiencing depression, anxiety, marital difficulties, anger management, trauma, postpartum issues, and relational concerns. I have experience leading groups. I am eager to get to know you better and assist you on your path towards wellness. Please feel free to reach out to me at any time, and we can schedule a time to meet.
My name is Rachel Morr, and I am a clinical mental health counselor in the state of Michigan. I graduated with my master’s from the University of the Cumberlands in 2022. I am paneled with Mosaic Counseling in Grand Haven and work with sliding scale fees. I have experience working with teens and adults who are experiencing depression, anxiety, marital difficulties, anger management, trauma, postpartum issues, and relational concerns. I have experience leading groups. I am eager to get to know you better and assist you on your path towards wellness. Please feel free to reach out to me at any time, and we can schedule a time to meet.
(616) 741-2811 View (616) 741-2811
Photo of Tara S Romano, LMSW, ACSW, BCD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tara S Romano
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMSW, ACSW, BCD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Holland, MI 49423
I am Licensed in Social Work and Marriage and Couples counseling, a Board Certified Diplomate in clinical social work, a certified Level II EMDR practitioner, an alumna of the Chicago Family Institute two year post-graduate program in Marriage and Family Therapy and a field instructor for advanced level clinical practitioners.
My style is warm, with a desire to continually learn and use new skills that best suit the "hopeful" and the "hopeless." My life has been spent working with individuals and families and their experiences with sexual, substance, or physical abuse and trauma.
I am Licensed in Social Work and Marriage and Couples counseling, a Board Certified Diplomate in clinical social work, a certified Level II EMDR practitioner, an alumna of the Chicago Family Institute two year post-graduate program in Marriage and Family Therapy and a field instructor for advanced level clinical practitioners.
My style is warm, with a desire to continually learn and use new skills that best suit the "hopeful" and the "hopeless." My life has been spent working with individuals and families and their experiences with sexual, substance, or physical abuse and trauma.
(616) 439-0920 View (616) 439-0920
Photo of Diane C Streng, MLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Diane C Streng
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MLP
Verified Verified
Grand Haven, MI 49417
Counseling for abuse, anxiety, behavioral problems, depression, fears, self-esteem, stress, marital, pre- marital, divorce, pregancy, relationship issues, parenting and step-parenting problems, employment, school, adoption, grief, death, religious issues.
Individual, family, and couples counseling for all ages and problems.Counseling for abuse, anxiety, behavioral problems, depression, fears, self-esteem, stress, marital, pre- marital, divorce, pregancy, relationship issues, parenting and step-parenting problems, employment, school, adoption, grief, death, religious issues. Twenty five years of experience. Located downtown Grand Haven at the Harbourfront Place, Suite 370.
Counseling for abuse, anxiety, behavioral problems, depression, fears, self-esteem, stress, marital, pre- marital, divorce, pregancy, relationship issues, parenting and step-parenting problems, employment, school, adoption, grief, death, religious issues.
Individual, family, and couples counseling for all ages and problems.Counseling for abuse, anxiety, behavioral problems, depression, fears, self-esteem, stress, marital, pre- marital, divorce, pregancy, relationship issues, parenting and step-parenting problems, employment, school, adoption, grief, death, religious issues. Twenty five years of experience. Located downtown Grand Haven at the Harbourfront Place, Suite 370.
(616) 847-1530 View (616) 847-1530
Photo of Kris Pence - Pivot Counseling, MA, LPC, LMFT, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kris Pence - Pivot Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMFT, NCC
Verified Verified
Zeeland, MI 49464
Unhelpful thoughts, unwise choices, honest mistakes, unforeseen change, traumatic pasts… Life will include very difficult circumstances. You may question your ability to change, lack clarity about which direction to go, and doubt whether you deserve something better. Men and women, individuals and couples, have worked with me to: 1) change their understanding of who they are, 2) achieve freedom from unhealthy sexual desires and behaviors, 3) develop a plan to build the life they want, 4) gain clarity about what they want, and 5) repair or reinvigorate their marriage.
Unhelpful thoughts, unwise choices, honest mistakes, unforeseen change, traumatic pasts… Life will include very difficult circumstances. You may question your ability to change, lack clarity about which direction to go, and doubt whether you deserve something better. Men and women, individuals and couples, have worked with me to: 1) change their understanding of who they are, 2) achieve freedom from unhealthy sexual desires and behaviors, 3) develop a plan to build the life they want, 4) gain clarity about what they want, and 5) repair or reinvigorate their marriage.
(616) 504-2954 View (616) 504-2954
Photo of Lara Helmus - EnCourage Counseling LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
EnCourage Counseling LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Holland, MI 49423
We are a small, local collection of therapists (Clinical Social Workers, Marriage and Family Therapists and Licensed Professional Counselors). We LOVE to work a wide range of people and concerns. We have therapists who only work via telehealth, some who see people in person, and many who do both. We work with children as young as 7 or 8 years old and up. We can work with individuals, couples and families. Our goal is to help your identify and achieve YOUR goals for a happier, healthier life.
We are a small, local collection of therapists (Clinical Social Workers, Marriage and Family Therapists and Licensed Professional Counselors). We LOVE to work a wide range of people and concerns. We have therapists who only work via telehealth, some who see people in person, and many who do both. We work with children as young as 7 or 8 years old and up. We can work with individuals, couples and families. Our goal is to help your identify and achieve YOUR goals for a happier, healthier life.
(616) 693-5708 View (616) 693-5708
Photo of Kyle Williams, LMSW, ACSW, Coach, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kyle Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, ACSW, Coach
Verified Verified
Grand Haven, MI 49417
Kyle is experienced in helping with grief and loss; changes in relationships, employment, health; marital problems and infidelity, broader marital needs for improving communication, intimacy, navigating differences effectively; mental health challenges, behavioral or relational problems in families between siblings or parents; hospice and chronic illness.
With over 30 years of clinical experience, Kyle is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and nationally certified by NASW's Academy of Certified Social Workers as well as a certified MentorCoach. "I am a pragmatist with a knack for developing interpersonal power in others. With a practical and research-guided approach, I help families and individuals draw on their strengths and replicate successes, both small and large. I work with individuals, couples, multi-generational family systems, families with children - and I am trained and experienced in working with a wide variety of life issues."
Kyle is experienced in helping with grief and loss; changes in relationships, employment, health; marital problems and infidelity, broader marital needs for improving communication, intimacy, navigating differences effectively; mental health challenges, behavioral or relational problems in families between siblings or parents; hospice and chronic illness.
With over 30 years of clinical experience, Kyle is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and nationally certified by NASW's Academy of Certified Social Workers as well as a certified MentorCoach. "I am a pragmatist with a knack for developing interpersonal power in others. With a practical and research-guided approach, I help families and individuals draw on their strengths and replicate successes, both small and large. I work with individuals, couples, multi-generational family systems, families with children - and I am trained and experienced in working with a wide variety of life issues."
(616) 374-2071 View (616) 374-2071
Photo of Michael Walton, MDiv, MA, LLPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michael Walton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MDiv, MA, LLPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Jenison, MI 49428
I have personally walked with individuals through many different relational issues, struggles and trauma. I specialize in the areas of sexual and gender identity, intimacy and pornography addiction, couples, pre marital and marriage counseling, as well as counseling services for ministers My other specialities include: therapy for depression and anxiety, career-related issues, conflict resolution, grief counseling, stress management, work-life balance issues, trauma and crisis, spiritual issues and concerns, communication issues, assertiveness, men's issues/pornography. I am also a licensed as a Prepare/Enrich pre marital and marriage counselor.
I have personally walked with individuals through many different relational issues, struggles and trauma. I specialize in the areas of sexual and gender identity, intimacy and pornography addiction, couples, pre marital and marriage counseling, as well as counseling services for ministers My other specialities include: therapy for depression and anxiety, career-related issues, conflict resolution, grief counseling, stress management, work-life balance issues, trauma and crisis, spiritual issues and concerns, communication issues, assertiveness, men's issues/pornography. I am also a licensed as a Prepare/Enrich pre marital and marriage counselor.
(616) 298-3386 View (616) 298-3386
Photo of Lisa Giles, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lisa Giles
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Holland, MI 49424  (Online Only)
Whether you are a parent of a hurting child, a couple who feels like the spark in their marriage is no longer there, an empty-nester trying to rediscover your identity without children, or are struggling with depression/anxiety, I would like to help you work through this hard time.
To start, I am an Internal Family Systems Therapist and most clients I see are looking for IFS therapy. Now, Are you at a place in your life where you just want more? Maybe your marriage is not necessarily "bad" but a part of you feels like you are missing out on what you know it could be. Maybe a part of you is critical of yourself and is keeping you from reaching your dreams. I believe that better understanding and getting to know your own internal world helps you see the world differently. It is from that centered place that you can better get to know your compassionate, curious, and confident self. Life can be so much more!
Whether you are a parent of a hurting child, a couple who feels like the spark in their marriage is no longer there, an empty-nester trying to rediscover your identity without children, or are struggling with depression/anxiety, I would like to help you work through this hard time.
To start, I am an Internal Family Systems Therapist and most clients I see are looking for IFS therapy. Now, Are you at a place in your life where you just want more? Maybe your marriage is not necessarily "bad" but a part of you feels like you are missing out on what you know it could be. Maybe a part of you is critical of yourself and is keeping you from reaching your dreams. I believe that better understanding and getting to know your own internal world helps you see the world differently. It is from that centered place that you can better get to know your compassionate, curious, and confident self. Life can be so much more!
(760) 642-6094 View (760) 642-6094
Curtis J Birky PhD
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LMSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Holland, MI 49423
Couples come to me in order to improve communication, resolve conflicts, recover from an affair, revitalize their relationship, decide whether of not to stay together, adjust to a new marriage, improve intimacy, etc.
When things are especially stressful or overwhelming therapy can be a good resource. I am trained to assist as you make significant decisions or figure out how to proceed. Typically I help people with relationship or family matters, depression and anxiety, loss of a loved one, unexpected circumstances, and matters of personal growth or change.
Couples come to me in order to improve communication, resolve conflicts, recover from an affair, revitalize their relationship, decide whether of not to stay together, adjust to a new marriage, improve intimacy, etc.
When things are especially stressful or overwhelming therapy can be a good resource. I am trained to assist as you make significant decisions or figure out how to proceed. Typically I help people with relationship or family matters, depression and anxiety, loss of a loved one, unexpected circumstances, and matters of personal growth or change.
(269) 202-4258 View (269) 202-4258
Photo of Susan L King, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Susan L King
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Holland, MI 49423
As a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I often work with clients who are suffering from anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, life transitions, esteem issues, and relationship difficulties. I take a collaborative and relational approach to counseling. I can offer a warm and safe space for exploration and growth. The populations I am best suited to work with are individuals who are motivated toward healthier intrapersonal development, clients interested in creating stronger interpersonal connections, as well as women in destructive relationships.
As a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I often work with clients who are suffering from anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, life transitions, esteem issues, and relationship difficulties. I take a collaborative and relational approach to counseling. I can offer a warm and safe space for exploration and growth. The populations I am best suited to work with are individuals who are motivated toward healthier intrapersonal development, clients interested in creating stronger interpersonal connections, as well as women in destructive relationships.
(586) 474-5772 View (586) 474-5772
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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.