Marriage Counseling Therapists in Bolivar, MO

Photo of Tonya McMillen Boone, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tonya McMillen Boone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bolivar, MO 65727
I have been providing individual, marriage and family mental health and substance abuse counseling in Springfield, MO since 1996.
Life is full of transitions. Changes in employment, relationship status, becoming a parent, the illness or death of a loved one, relocating or developing a health condition are some of the most challenging life transitions. Without adequate emotional support and healthy coping skills, the extra stress can lead to more serious physical or mental health problems. Depression, anxiety, insomnia, and relationship conflicts can appear or worsen as a result of not having knowledge of how to effectively cope with life changes. I educate and support my clients as we work to eliminate negative symptoms and develop a brighter future.
I have been providing individual, marriage and family mental health and substance abuse counseling in Springfield, MO since 1996.
Life is full of transitions. Changes in employment, relationship status, becoming a parent, the illness or death of a loved one, relocating or developing a health condition are some of the most challenging life transitions. Without adequate emotional support and healthy coping skills, the extra stress can lead to more serious physical or mental health problems. Depression, anxiety, insomnia, and relationship conflicts can appear or worsen as a result of not having knowledge of how to effectively cope with life changes. I educate and support my clients as we work to eliminate negative symptoms and develop a brighter future.
(417) 708-7858 View (417) 708-7858
Photo of Melissa Rohrbach, MS, NCC, CRADC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Melissa Rohrbach
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, CRADC, LPC
Verified Verified
Bolivar, MO 65613
I offer several services that include assessment, treatment planning, recovery support and case management in addition to counseling. My goal is to do whatever it takes to give you or your loved one the best chance for lasting recovery and improve well being of the whole person. The treatment methodologies utilized are time-tested and have consistently proven successful. I understand that the causes of addiction and mental health are complex and often multifaceted; I am here to guide those we serve and their families every step of the way. 
I offer several services that include assessment, treatment planning, recovery support and case management in addition to counseling. My goal is to do whatever it takes to give you or your loved one the best chance for lasting recovery and improve well being of the whole person. The treatment methodologies utilized are time-tested and have consistently proven successful. I understand that the causes of addiction and mental health are complex and often multifaceted; I am here to guide those we serve and their families every step of the way. 
(417) 619-1595 View (417) 619-1595
Photo of Jessica Hintz Huff, MACP, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jessica Hintz Huff
Licensed Professional Counselor, MACP, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bolivar, MO 65613
Waitlist for new clients
Life is so fast paced with so many paths, which can cause a person to feel stuck. It is easy to feel like one is far behind or should be at a certain milestone in their life. One thing I always tell my clients is to meet themselves where they are at. A simple phrase that takes awhile to fully understand what that is and how to get there. By meeting ourselves where we are at, we can examine what we truly want and begin to trust ourselves. As the journey begins, I will be side by side my clients. I may have the book smart, but they are the expert of themselves.
Life is so fast paced with so many paths, which can cause a person to feel stuck. It is easy to feel like one is far behind or should be at a certain milestone in their life. One thing I always tell my clients is to meet themselves where they are at. A simple phrase that takes awhile to fully understand what that is and how to get there. By meeting ourselves where we are at, we can examine what we truly want and begin to trust ourselves. As the journey begins, I will be side by side my clients. I may have the book smart, but they are the expert of themselves.
(417) 962-8218 View (417) 962-8218
Photo of Andy Anderson, MA, LPC, KPMT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Andy Anderson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, KPMT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Bolivar, MO 65613  (Online Only)
My ideal client would be parents or caregivers seeking treatment for their children with behavioral, emotional, and social problems, such as ODD, ADHD, anxiety, depression, and other typical childhood issues. These clients would be interested in a parent training format for the treatments, indicating a willingness to actively participate in the therapy process and work collaboratively with the therapist. Additionally, the ideal client would be open to utilizing technology for teletherapy sessions, as my services are presented in an online therapy platform.
My ideal client would be parents or caregivers seeking treatment for their children with behavioral, emotional, and social problems, such as ODD, ADHD, anxiety, depression, and other typical childhood issues. These clients would be interested in a parent training format for the treatments, indicating a willingness to actively participate in the therapy process and work collaboratively with the therapist. Additionally, the ideal client would be open to utilizing technology for teletherapy sessions, as my services are presented in an online therapy platform.
(636) 614-1673 View (636) 614-1673
Photo of Lisa C. York, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lisa C. York
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bolivar, MO 65727  (Online Only)
My ideal client is someone looking for a significant change in their life. They may struggle with past hurts, shame, isolation, trauma, low self image, resentment, self-hatred, depression, or anxiety. They need someone to listen and to provide a safe place free of judgement where they will be heard. Their goals might include finding freedom, seeing their situation in a new light, gaining hope, finding their voice, or integrating their life experience and their spirituality.
My ideal client is someone looking for a significant change in their life. They may struggle with past hurts, shame, isolation, trauma, low self image, resentment, self-hatred, depression, or anxiety. They need someone to listen and to provide a safe place free of judgement where they will be heard. Their goals might include finding freedom, seeing their situation in a new light, gaining hope, finding their voice, or integrating their life experience and their spirituality.
(417) 216-7961 View (417) 216-7961

Online Therapists

Photo of Lacey Kinzer, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lacey Kinzer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Springfield, MO 65804
If you are an adult or teenager struggling with anxiety, relationship issues, trauma issues, self-esteem, or setting boundaries, I would love to help you. Couples who are struggling with relationship issues are also welcome as I have a passion and experience in marital/couples therapy and helping relationships succeed. I have also been trained in EMDR which assists clients in rapid reduction of trauma-related symptoms resulting in overall healing. I have had specialized training in DBT and have assisted clients in learning and implementing these skills as well.
If you are an adult or teenager struggling with anxiety, relationship issues, trauma issues, self-esteem, or setting boundaries, I would love to help you. Couples who are struggling with relationship issues are also welcome as I have a passion and experience in marital/couples therapy and helping relationships succeed. I have also been trained in EMDR which assists clients in rapid reduction of trauma-related symptoms resulting in overall healing. I have had specialized training in DBT and have assisted clients in learning and implementing these skills as well.
(417) 275-2688 View (417) 275-2688
Photo of Mary C Turner - Family Therapy of the Ozarks, LCSW, CCDP-D, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Family Therapy of the Ozarks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCDP-D, MSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Springfield, MO 65804
I look forward to working with clients whose life path may have created difficulties for them that has led them not be the best of who they can be. Each individual's path may have been sprinkled with physical or emotional abuse, neglect, assault, grief and loss, domestic violence, marital or parental discord or a myriad of other situations. Sometimes these life paths create in my clients a feeling of hopeless and loss of self-worth, sometimes these path end with someone needing to determine a plan to leave an unsafe living situation. Sometimes these paths lead to turning to substances and illegal drugs to cope with the internal turmoil and pain. It is my privlege to work with clients to help them identify and bring forth the best of who they are and what they want for their life, their family and their future through their own individual strengths.
I look forward to working with clients whose life path may have created difficulties for them that has led them not be the best of who they can be. Each individual's path may have been sprinkled with physical or emotional abuse, neglect, assault, grief and loss, domestic violence, marital or parental discord or a myriad of other situations. Sometimes these life paths create in my clients a feeling of hopeless and loss of self-worth, sometimes these path end with someone needing to determine a plan to leave an unsafe living situation. Sometimes these paths lead to turning to substances and illegal drugs to cope with the internal turmoil and pain. It is my privlege to work with clients to help them identify and bring forth the best of who they are and what they want for their life, their family and their future through their own individual strengths.
(417) 497-3016 View (417) 497-3016
Photo of Hannah L Littlepage, MS , LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Hannah L Littlepage
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS , LPC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Springfield, MO 65803
I'm here to support you as you bravely heal and grow. It's an honor to walk this road with you. I work with women, families, and couples on a wide range of issues, including depression, anxiety, grief and loss, childhood trauma, spirituality, relationship stress, and marital crisis. I also focus on maternal mental health, including pre-pregnancy, infertility, birth trauma, and postpartum issues. Are you ready to dig deep and become the best version of yourself?
I'm here to support you as you bravely heal and grow. It's an honor to walk this road with you. I work with women, families, and couples on a wide range of issues, including depression, anxiety, grief and loss, childhood trauma, spirituality, relationship stress, and marital crisis. I also focus on maternal mental health, including pre-pregnancy, infertility, birth trauma, and postpartum issues. Are you ready to dig deep and become the best version of yourself?
(417) 216-6943 View (417) 216-6943
Photo of Dr. Brian Fidler, LPC-S, LMFT, NCC, CEFT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Brian Fidler
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, LMFT, NCC, CEFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Joplin, MO 64804
Perhaps you are just setting out on the marital journey and desire to move in the right direction and want the guidance counseling can offer.
We all get wounded in the battles of life -- some of us in tragically dramatic ways, and others of us bleed through the piercings of a hundred small injuries. Let me help you get to the core of the struggles and back on the road to living your life again. Perhaps it is an addiction you can't seem to get rid of, or that haunting sense of inadequacy or loneliness. It may be anxiety or depression, gender identity issues, or past trauma. Maybe for you a relationship you value has have become difficult or painful.
Perhaps you are just setting out on the marital journey and desire to move in the right direction and want the guidance counseling can offer.
We all get wounded in the battles of life -- some of us in tragically dramatic ways, and others of us bleed through the piercings of a hundred small injuries. Let me help you get to the core of the struggles and back on the road to living your life again. Perhaps it is an addiction you can't seem to get rid of, or that haunting sense of inadequacy or loneliness. It may be anxiety or depression, gender identity issues, or past trauma. Maybe for you a relationship you value has have become difficult or painful.
(417) 222-2586 View (417) 222-2586
Photo of Katrina Kanwischer, Marriage & Family Therapist
Katrina Kanwischer
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Holden, MO 64040  (Online Only)
As a marriage and family therapist, I empower individuals and couples to overcome hurdles and difficulties to improve their relationships and develop a deeper understanding of themselves. As a therapist I am collaborative, laid back, and yet direct when needed. Your relationship with your therapist should feel supportive and safe. I strive to offer that to each individual I see. Although I work with all individuals, I find my niche to be teenagers, adults and couples that are primarily dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, infertility, and family of origin difficulties. I welcome and work with all individuals regardless of race
As a marriage and family therapist, I empower individuals and couples to overcome hurdles and difficulties to improve their relationships and develop a deeper understanding of themselves. As a therapist I am collaborative, laid back, and yet direct when needed. Your relationship with your therapist should feel supportive and safe. I strive to offer that to each individual I see. Although I work with all individuals, I find my niche to be teenagers, adults and couples that are primarily dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, infertility, and family of origin difficulties. I welcome and work with all individuals regardless of race
(866) 738-3081 View (866) 738-3081
Photo of James Dempsey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
James Dempsey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Jefferson City, MO 65101  (Online Only)
I have over 30 years of direct clinical therapy experience and have been licensed in the states of Alaska, Arkansas and Missouri. I am an expert treating depression, anxiety, grief issues, worry, stress, LGBTQ community, relationship issues, marital therapy, trauma and co-dependency issues. I am an expert on human relations and behaviors.
I have over 30 years of direct clinical therapy experience and have been licensed in the states of Alaska, Arkansas and Missouri. I am an expert treating depression, anxiety, grief issues, worry, stress, LGBTQ community, relationship issues, marital therapy, trauma and co-dependency issues. I am an expert on human relations and behaviors.
(866) 738-3081 View (866) 738-3081
Photo of Latasha Barber, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Latasha Barber
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Forsyth, MO 65653  (Online Only)
When we experience difficult situations in our lives there is nothing more empowering than having a support system to help you find your voice and identity.You have taken a courageous step in seeking counseling and I will provide support and encouragement. I will help in undoing aloneness, increasing one’s capacity to self-love and co create the narrative to become your self at best. Working with me, you will experience an empathetic, non-judgmental, holistic and strength-based approach to conquering your challenges and relationship barriers. I have received a Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy.
When we experience difficult situations in our lives there is nothing more empowering than having a support system to help you find your voice and identity.You have taken a courageous step in seeking counseling and I will provide support and encouragement. I will help in undoing aloneness, increasing one’s capacity to self-love and co create the narrative to become your self at best. Working with me, you will experience an empathetic, non-judgmental, holistic and strength-based approach to conquering your challenges and relationship barriers. I have received a Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy.
(417) 441-3362 View (417) 441-3362
Photo of Timothy Gould, Licensed Professional Counselor
Timothy Gould
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Rolla, MO 65401  (Online Only)
I have been licensed since 1998 and has worked with adolescents in psychiatric units 1(4 years), residential units for adolescents with severe emotional disorders and severe trauma (14 years). I was been the only licensed therapist in an opioid clinic working with addicts and their families. Long term therapies include families, couples, marriage, divorce counseling, alcohol and drug counseling and have worked with sex offenders in the Missouri State Sex offender unit. I have founded and started two non-profit mental health, family support and counseling agencies, both of which have been in continuous operation for 24 years and for
I have been licensed since 1998 and has worked with adolescents in psychiatric units 1(4 years), residential units for adolescents with severe emotional disorders and severe trauma (14 years). I was been the only licensed therapist in an opioid clinic working with addicts and their families. Long term therapies include families, couples, marriage, divorce counseling, alcohol and drug counseling and have worked with sex offenders in the Missouri State Sex offender unit. I have founded and started two non-profit mental health, family support and counseling agencies, both of which have been in continuous operation for 24 years and for
(573) 267-4388 View (573) 267-4388
Photo of Tunyaluk Batchan, MA, SMFT, EMDR, Pre-Licensed Professional
Tunyaluk Batchan
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, SMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
Springfield, MO 65807  (Online Only)
I am a registered Supervised Marriage and Family Therapist under the supervision of Spero's owner, Dr.
I am a bilingual therapist who is passionate and experienced in working with children, adolescents, and adults, including LGBTQIA+ teens and adults who are experiencing depression, anxiety, transitional issues, relationship/separation, and other mental health concerns. I am also trained in EMDR to treat clients who have experienced trauma. I help clients become desensitized and unstuck in unhealthy patterns, painful relationships, or overwhelming circumstances and create hope.
I am a registered Supervised Marriage and Family Therapist under the supervision of Spero's owner, Dr.
I am a bilingual therapist who is passionate and experienced in working with children, adolescents, and adults, including LGBTQIA+ teens and adults who are experiencing depression, anxiety, transitional issues, relationship/separation, and other mental health concerns. I am also trained in EMDR to treat clients who have experienced trauma. I help clients become desensitized and unstuck in unhealthy patterns, painful relationships, or overwhelming circumstances and create hope.
(417) 275-3146 x5 View (417) 275-3146 x5
Photo of Gail Harris, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Gail Harris
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Sunrise Beach, MO 65079  (Online Only)
My specialties include life consultant, eating disorders, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorder, depression, and relationships ( marriage and family).
I believe there are no quick fixes and that change is a continuous process. Goals are set, progress is made, and next thing you know, there is an unexpected set back. Life experience has taught me that, it is great to want to change, it is great to want to move forward, however, it is also very important to live in the here and now. I will work with you to manage expectations, manage emotions, look for something positive to hold onto, and at the same time, examine what we can do to strive for a different future. We will partner together to delve into the past, find patterns of thoughts.
My specialties include life consultant, eating disorders, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorder, depression, and relationships ( marriage and family).
I believe there are no quick fixes and that change is a continuous process. Goals are set, progress is made, and next thing you know, there is an unexpected set back. Life experience has taught me that, it is great to want to change, it is great to want to move forward, however, it is also very important to live in the here and now. I will work with you to manage expectations, manage emotions, look for something positive to hold onto, and at the same time, examine what we can do to strive for a different future. We will partner together to delve into the past, find patterns of thoughts.
(573) 269-3953 View (573) 269-3953
Photo of Lauren Stassel, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lauren Stassel
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Republic, MO 65738
I have been trained in EMDR therapy (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), and assist clients with depression, anxiety, women’s issues, emotional abuse, marriage and family issues, grief and loss, boundaries, and self-regulation.
I specialize in working with tweens through adult ages. During sessions we will focus on your current symptoms and life situation and explore past traumas, loss, or hurts that need to be healed to help you live your best life. I want to partner with you to increase your confidence in dealing with all that life might toss your way. I am currently accepting self-pay clients.
I have been trained in EMDR therapy (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), and assist clients with depression, anxiety, women’s issues, emotional abuse, marriage and family issues, grief and loss, boundaries, and self-regulation.
I specialize in working with tweens through adult ages. During sessions we will focus on your current symptoms and life situation and explore past traumas, loss, or hurts that need to be healed to help you live your best life. I want to partner with you to increase your confidence in dealing with all that life might toss your way. I am currently accepting self-pay clients.
(417) 884-1156 View (417) 884-1156
Photo of Alisha Ross, MS, NCC, LPC, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alisha Ross
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ozark, MO 65721
In addition to EMDR and traditional counseling, I work with engaged couples to help them prepare for a healthy marriage.
I work with adolescents, adults, and families to break generational cycles. I guide and empower individuals to take back control of their lives and become their best self. I have had to overcome hardships that were placed in my life and through counseling, I was able to take back my life! I believe that every individual deserves a safe space to heal. I will provide an atmosphere where people are free to experience change. I believe change is capable of everyone. I believe in our scars telling our story of healing. I believe in growth, forgiveness, second, and third chances. I believe in people. I believe in hope.
In addition to EMDR and traditional counseling, I work with engaged couples to help them prepare for a healthy marriage.
I work with adolescents, adults, and families to break generational cycles. I guide and empower individuals to take back control of their lives and become their best self. I have had to overcome hardships that were placed in my life and through counseling, I was able to take back my life! I believe that every individual deserves a safe space to heal. I will provide an atmosphere where people are free to experience change. I believe change is capable of everyone. I believe in our scars telling our story of healing. I believe in growth, forgiveness, second, and third chances. I believe in people. I believe in hope.
(417) 815-7085 View (417) 815-7085
Photo of Silvia Espinosa Ed.s, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Silvia Espinosa Ed.s
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC
Verified Verified
Springfield, MO 65804
As a marriage intensive therapist for Focus on the Family, I assist couples in interrupting their negative cycles of interactions helping them foster healthier communication & emotional connection.
Have you been suffering in silence or struggling with relationships? Know that hope is near. We all have experienced pain that if left untreated, can keep us trapped, inhibiting our ability to enjoy life. There are three main areas that are dear to my heart: play therapy for children who’ve gone through adverse life experiences, marriage counseling for couples experiencing difficulty, and survivors of betrayal trauma: psychological/emotional, physical or sexual abuse. Know that it will take time to heal, courage to face the reality of your experience, and a steady commitment to your own healing.
As a marriage intensive therapist for Focus on the Family, I assist couples in interrupting their negative cycles of interactions helping them foster healthier communication & emotional connection.
Have you been suffering in silence or struggling with relationships? Know that hope is near. We all have experienced pain that if left untreated, can keep us trapped, inhibiting our ability to enjoy life. There are three main areas that are dear to my heart: play therapy for children who’ve gone through adverse life experiences, marriage counseling for couples experiencing difficulty, and survivors of betrayal trauma: psychological/emotional, physical or sexual abuse. Know that it will take time to heal, courage to face the reality of your experience, and a steady commitment to your own healing.
(417) 453-2767 View (417) 453-2767
Photo of Patricia Alewel, MS, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Patricia Alewel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LCSW
Verified Verified
Jefferson City, MO 65109
With my experience and extensive training, I can offer you individual, couple/ marital and family therapy to address the presenting problems in your life.
Are you feeling stuck and confused about how to manage stress in your life? Do you have a problem(s)/decision(s) that you are not sure how to resolve? Sometimes the thought of seeking a therapist can be scary and intimidating. You may discover, it can ease the struggles that often appear in one's life. I have been a clinician for over 20 yrs with experience from a variety of settings, such as, private practice, in-patient and outpatient behavioral health. I am dedicated to making your journey easier. Whether you are faced with a daily stressor or have major concerns, I am here to support you to find comfort and solutions regarding your challenges.
With my experience and extensive training, I can offer you individual, couple/ marital and family therapy to address the presenting problems in your life.
Are you feeling stuck and confused about how to manage stress in your life? Do you have a problem(s)/decision(s) that you are not sure how to resolve? Sometimes the thought of seeking a therapist can be scary and intimidating. You may discover, it can ease the struggles that often appear in one's life. I have been a clinician for over 20 yrs with experience from a variety of settings, such as, private practice, in-patient and outpatient behavioral health. I am dedicated to making your journey easier. Whether you are faced with a daily stressor or have major concerns, I am here to support you to find comfort and solutions regarding your challenges.
(573) 284-8225 View (573) 284-8225
Photo of Andrew Kendrick, Licensed Professional Counselor
Andrew Kendrick
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Springfield, MO 65807  (Online Only)
I have a lot of experience with relationships, marital, pre- marital and couples counseling.
I'm Andy. I'm a Professional Counselor licensed in Missouri and I've been in the Mental Health field for nearly 30 years. I've had a wide variety of experiences helping people of all ages, problems, genders and religions. To me, each person is an individual with concerns that are unique to them. My focus is always on you and what is of concern to you. My approach is very open, warm, caring and supportive.
I have a lot of experience with relationships, marital, pre- marital and couples counseling.
I'm Andy. I'm a Professional Counselor licensed in Missouri and I've been in the Mental Health field for nearly 30 years. I've had a wide variety of experiences helping people of all ages, problems, genders and religions. To me, each person is an individual with concerns that are unique to them. My focus is always on you and what is of concern to you. My approach is very open, warm, caring and supportive.
(636) 689-2563 View (636) 689-2563

See more therapy options for Bolivar

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.