Marriage Counseling Therapists in Saint Charles County, MO

Photo of Alex Werner, MEd, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alex Werner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Saint Peters, MO 63376
Hello and welcome. For nearly 10 years I have been in practice and have worked in a variety of settings. During this time I have had the privilege of working with some incredible people and have learned a lot about myself and the process of counseling when it comes to relationships with others and the relationship we have with ourselves. If you are searching for a provider who can effectively address issues within a marriage, family, or any other form of relationship than I would be happy to speak with you!
Hello and welcome. For nearly 10 years I have been in practice and have worked in a variety of settings. During this time I have had the privilege of working with some incredible people and have learned a lot about myself and the process of counseling when it comes to relationships with others and the relationship we have with ourselves. If you are searching for a provider who can effectively address issues within a marriage, family, or any other form of relationship than I would be happy to speak with you!
(314) 697-2475 View (314) 697-2475
Photo of Paul Buford, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Paul Buford
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
O Fallon, MO 63366
I offer help in the areas of marriage and family, grief, anger management, and other areas of need.
My ideal clients are individuals, couples, and families needing guidance as they work towards better mental health, effective coping skills, and healthy relationships.
I offer help in the areas of marriage and family, grief, anger management, and other areas of need.
My ideal clients are individuals, couples, and families needing guidance as they work towards better mental health, effective coping skills, and healthy relationships.
(636) 678-4328 View (636) 678-4328
Photo of Alexander John Haushalter, LPC, MEd, NBCCH, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alexander John Haushalter
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MEd, NBCCH
Verified Verified
O Fallon, MO 63366
If you need to address any personal issues such as anxiety, depression, anger, adolescent development , sexual identity, marriage conflicts, and the consequences of divorce; I am eager to assist you.
The ideal client who desire to be equipped and enabled to handle their issues independently. The client has the ability to solve their life's puzzle. My role is to assist the client to anchor the KEY piece(s) and help to develop their own coping skills . I have been helping people all of my life as a teacher, school counselor, and licensed professional counselor and hypnotherapist . Working with individuals, couples and families are areas in which I excel. Many practicing counselors do not blend traditional counseling practices with hypnotherapy. Using both approaches allows the client's mind to be "totally engaged."
If you need to address any personal issues such as anxiety, depression, anger, adolescent development , sexual identity, marriage conflicts, and the consequences of divorce; I am eager to assist you.
The ideal client who desire to be equipped and enabled to handle their issues independently. The client has the ability to solve their life's puzzle. My role is to assist the client to anchor the KEY piece(s) and help to develop their own coping skills . I have been helping people all of my life as a teacher, school counselor, and licensed professional counselor and hypnotherapist . Working with individuals, couples and families are areas in which I excel. Many practicing counselors do not blend traditional counseling practices with hypnotherapy. Using both approaches allows the client's mind to be "totally engaged."
(314) 582-3396 View (314) 582-3396
Photo of Mary Kardasz, PhD, LPC, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mary Kardasz
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Charles, MO 63302
Louis University) specialized with Marriage & Family Therapy and relationship issues.
Hi. Thank you for taking a look at my counseling profile. I love counseling and have been practicing for 30 years. One of the things I've noticed new clients are concerned about is being able to express themselves without being judged, as well as if the experience will be awkward. In all my years of practicing, I've heard almost everything imaginable and judgment is not a part of how I work. Everything in my office is 100% confidential and safe. I know how to ask the right question and keep the conversation flowing.
Louis University) specialized with Marriage & Family Therapy and relationship issues.
Hi. Thank you for taking a look at my counseling profile. I love counseling and have been practicing for 30 years. One of the things I've noticed new clients are concerned about is being able to express themselves without being judged, as well as if the experience will be awkward. In all my years of practicing, I've heard almost everything imaginable and judgment is not a part of how I work. Everything in my office is 100% confidential and safe. I know how to ask the right question and keep the conversation flowing.
(636) 439-2451 View (636) 439-2451
Photo of Tim Bizelli - Tim Bizelli Counseling LLC, LPC, LCSW, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tim Bizelli Counseling LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCSW
Verified Verified
Weldon Spring, MO 63304
Anger Management, Self Harm-Injury, relationship issues, mens issues, womans issues, mood disorders, thought disorders, stress management, anxiety, divorce care, parental issues, marital issues, family issues, suicidal ideation, teaching social skills to Aspergers children and teenagers, Substance Abuse, dual diagnosis, borderline personality disorder.
Tim Counseling LLC is made up of a group of licensed professional counselors and licensed clinical social workers with a combined sixty-five year plus experience in the field of mental health. The goal at Tim Bizelli Counseling LLC is to see clients reach their optimum functioning and reach the mental health goals they set with each individual counselor. Individual, couples, and family counseling are offered in this diverse counseling practice. Our counselors have genuine compassion, empathy, and motivation to be a viable resource to the client and to the community.
Anger Management, Self Harm-Injury, relationship issues, mens issues, womans issues, mood disorders, thought disorders, stress management, anxiety, divorce care, parental issues, marital issues, family issues, suicidal ideation, teaching social skills to Aspergers children and teenagers, Substance Abuse, dual diagnosis, borderline personality disorder.
Tim Counseling LLC is made up of a group of licensed professional counselors and licensed clinical social workers with a combined sixty-five year plus experience in the field of mental health. The goal at Tim Bizelli Counseling LLC is to see clients reach their optimum functioning and reach the mental health goals they set with each individual counselor. Individual, couples, and family counseling are offered in this diverse counseling practice. Our counselors have genuine compassion, empathy, and motivation to be a viable resource to the client and to the community.
(636) 364-7404 View (636) 364-7404
Photo of Gwenda Plummer, MA, DMin, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Gwenda Plummer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, DMin, LPC
Verified Verified
O Fallon, MO 63368
Certified in Prevention and Relationship Enhancement Program for couples; How to Pick a Partner-How to Avoid Marrying a Jerk/Jerkette; Prepare-Enrich; Brief Alcohol Screening and Intervention for College Students; Certified Executive Coach, Marriage Coach, Life Coach; Relationship Enrichment Speaker; Doctor of Ministry Degree in Pastoral Care and Counseling.
Dr. Gwenda Plummer helps individuals, couples, and families develop healthy relationships, identify and change problem behaviors, overcome challenges, find healing from past pain, and discover tools for an overcoming and enriched life. After the initial intake, each session is designed to achieve the client's goals in a safe and welcoming atmosphere. Change and a fulfilled life are possible! Schedule with Gwenda today to begin your journey toward the healthy life you desire!
Certified in Prevention and Relationship Enhancement Program for couples; How to Pick a Partner-How to Avoid Marrying a Jerk/Jerkette; Prepare-Enrich; Brief Alcohol Screening and Intervention for College Students; Certified Executive Coach, Marriage Coach, Life Coach; Relationship Enrichment Speaker; Doctor of Ministry Degree in Pastoral Care and Counseling.
Dr. Gwenda Plummer helps individuals, couples, and families develop healthy relationships, identify and change problem behaviors, overcome challenges, find healing from past pain, and discover tools for an overcoming and enriched life. After the initial intake, each session is designed to achieve the client's goals in a safe and welcoming atmosphere. Change and a fulfilled life are possible! Schedule with Gwenda today to begin your journey toward the healthy life you desire!
(417) 651-5743 View (417) 651-5743
Faith and Hope Counseling Services, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
My name is Rebecca Turay, MSW, LCSW and I provide mental health counseling services for individuals ages 18 years and over: individuals, groups, couples, family, and those with marital or relationship issues for problems with: depression, anxiety, PTSD, panic, phobias/fears, grief and loss issues, death and dying, suicide, miscarriage, abortion, divorce, blended families, parenting, substance abuse, abuse, anger issues, low self-esteem, trauma, and adjustment or life changes. I also provide EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) therapy; and Hypnotherapy. Therapeutic approaches are individualized and provided with respect to client needs and preferences.
My name is Rebecca Turay, MSW, LCSW and I provide mental health counseling services for individuals ages 18 years and over: individuals, groups, couples, family, and those with marital or relationship issues for problems with: depression, anxiety, PTSD, panic, phobias/fears, grief and loss issues, death and dying, suicide, miscarriage, abortion, divorce, blended families, parenting, substance abuse, abuse, anger issues, low self-esteem, trauma, and adjustment or life changes. I also provide EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) therapy; and Hypnotherapy. Therapeutic approaches are individualized and provided with respect to client needs and preferences.
(636) 329-4003 View (636) 329-4003
Photo of James M Morgan, MA, LPC, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
James M Morgan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Saint Peters, MO 63376
Whether you are in a marriage that is struggling, having a problem personally with substances, or just need some help clearing out the clutter in your life, my approach to counseling comes from many different counseling theories. I believe that it is important to focus on the here and now, emphasizing future actions, behaviors, and thoughts, rather than deeply exploring the past. While the past has brought us where we are today, how you believe today and how you act today is of more importance. I believe in being directive and intentional in all aspects of therapy.
Whether you are in a marriage that is struggling, having a problem personally with substances, or just need some help clearing out the clutter in your life, my approach to counseling comes from many different counseling theories. I believe that it is important to focus on the here and now, emphasizing future actions, behaviors, and thoughts, rather than deeply exploring the past. While the past has brought us where we are today, how you believe today and how you act today is of more importance. I believe in being directive and intentional in all aspects of therapy.
(636) 400-3311 View (636) 400-3311
Photo of David Rispoli, MDiv, Pastoral Counselor
David Rispoli
Pastoral Counselor, MDiv
Verified Verified
O Fallon, MO 63368
Louis Marriage Coaching office, conducted over the phone, or over via Zoom.
Hello, my name is David Rispoli. For the past two decades, I have had the opportunity to help hundreds of individuals and couples from all around the world save their broken marriages, and turn their good marriages into great marriages. In fact, my mission in life is to help save a million marriages. Have you and your spouse lost the loving connection that you once shared? Are you living more like roommates than soul mates? You may feel as if there is no hope and there is nothing you can do to turn your situation around. But you can! Let St. Louis Marriage Coaching Help You!
Louis Marriage Coaching office, conducted over the phone, or over via Zoom.
Hello, my name is David Rispoli. For the past two decades, I have had the opportunity to help hundreds of individuals and couples from all around the world save their broken marriages, and turn their good marriages into great marriages. In fact, my mission in life is to help save a million marriages. Have you and your spouse lost the loving connection that you once shared? Are you living more like roommates than soul mates? You may feel as if there is no hope and there is nothing you can do to turn your situation around. But you can! Let St. Louis Marriage Coaching Help You!
(636) 264-8708 View (636) 264-8708
Photo of Lynda Bankston, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lynda Bankston
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Charles, MO 63303
Individual/ Couples/ Family/ Adolescent Therapeutic Sessions Available! Are you Angry and don't know why? Are you dealing with Depression and Anxiety? Are you Dealing with Addiction? Do you have marriage or relationship problems and just don't know what to do? Are you stressed out and don't know how to sort things out? Call today and let's figure things out. Don't wait for things to get better on there own. Call now so we can start you in a new direction. Make Your Mental Health a PRIORITY **Offering Evening and Weekend Appointments**
Individual/ Couples/ Family/ Adolescent Therapeutic Sessions Available! Are you Angry and don't know why? Are you dealing with Depression and Anxiety? Are you Dealing with Addiction? Do you have marriage or relationship problems and just don't know what to do? Are you stressed out and don't know how to sort things out? Call today and let's figure things out. Don't wait for things to get better on there own. Call now so we can start you in a new direction. Make Your Mental Health a PRIORITY **Offering Evening and Weekend Appointments**
(636) 685-2097 View (636) 685-2097
Photo of Heather Michelle Hampton, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Heather Michelle Hampton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Saint Louis, MO 63367  (Online Only)
Is your marriage struggling, or a child having issues at home/school/bullying/anxiety or just need help? You might have some doubts about whether therapy can truly benefit your specific situation. Drawing from my personal life experiences and my educational background, I can provide assurance that therapy is indeed effective. We'll work together to gain a deep understanding of your current position, the journey that brought you here, and the direction you wish to move in the future. The path to improvement varies for each individual, which is why my counseling approach is not fixed but adaptable to meet you at your unique point.
Is your marriage struggling, or a child having issues at home/school/bullying/anxiety or just need help? You might have some doubts about whether therapy can truly benefit your specific situation. Drawing from my personal life experiences and my educational background, I can provide assurance that therapy is indeed effective. We'll work together to gain a deep understanding of your current position, the journey that brought you here, and the direction you wish to move in the future. The path to improvement varies for each individual, which is why my counseling approach is not fixed but adaptable to meet you at your unique point.
(636) 385-5378 View (636) 385-5378
Photo of Sharon Lynn Bass - New Horizons Counseling - Sharon Bass, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
New Horizons Counseling - Sharon Bass
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
O Fallon, MO 63366
Waitlist for new clients
Life can bring many changes, obstacles and difficulties, and it is my passion to help others navigate these challenges. I enjoy working with people of all ages, and specialize in indivdual, child/adolescent-focused, marital and family therapies. Counseling can be beneficial in addressing the following issues: anxiety; depression; ADHD; developmental and learning disabilities; substance abuse; marriage and pre-marital concerns; difficulties experienced in relationship to divorce, remarriage and blended families; career concerns; financial difficulties; loss and grief; trauma; abuse; and women's issues.
Life can bring many changes, obstacles and difficulties, and it is my passion to help others navigate these challenges. I enjoy working with people of all ages, and specialize in indivdual, child/adolescent-focused, marital and family therapies. Counseling can be beneficial in addressing the following issues: anxiety; depression; ADHD; developmental and learning disabilities; substance abuse; marriage and pre-marital concerns; difficulties experienced in relationship to divorce, remarriage and blended families; career concerns; financial difficulties; loss and grief; trauma; abuse; and women's issues.
(636) 249-1527 View (636) 249-1527
Photo of Perry Dodge, MS, MA, LPC, CPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Perry Dodge
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MA, LPC, CPC
Verified Verified
Saint Charles, MO 63303
Are you experiencing stress in your life? Do you want to improve your marriage or family relationships? Are you going through a major life transition? Individuals, couples and families that work with me often experience greater peace, energy, and joy in life and more harmony in their key relationships. My specialties include strengthening marriages, overcoming stress, men's challenges and Christian Counseling. My work has been featured on NBC KSDK NewsChannel 5's Today in St. Louis, Bott Radio Network and St. Louis Woman Magazine, and I am the author of the book The Married Man's Field Manual: 30 Rules of Engagement.
Are you experiencing stress in your life? Do you want to improve your marriage or family relationships? Are you going through a major life transition? Individuals, couples and families that work with me often experience greater peace, energy, and joy in life and more harmony in their key relationships. My specialties include strengthening marriages, overcoming stress, men's challenges and Christian Counseling. My work has been featured on NBC KSDK NewsChannel 5's Today in St. Louis, Bott Radio Network and St. Louis Woman Magazine, and I am the author of the book The Married Man's Field Manual: 30 Rules of Engagement.
(314) 596-2982 View (314) 596-2982
Photo of Linda R Partridge, PhD, MS, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Linda R Partridge
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MS, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
O Fallon, MO 63366
My specialities include emotional trauma, financial worry, marital and relationship problems, self-image issues, spiritual insights, parenting issues, grief concerns, depression, school problems, anxiety, phobias, panic attacks, anger management, and others.
Scared to go to counseling? Whether you are an adult or a child, I offer exciting, non-judgmental, state-of-the-art information that provides clear answers to issues that are terrifying to you or seem impossible to fix. Before you leave your first appointment, you will know why your problem is occurring and HOW to begin achieving immediate, positive change in any situation. The process will not be scary but FUN, no matter how serious the problem! Additionally, you will take with you an empowered insight to life that guarantees the way to substantially happier living!
My specialities include emotional trauma, financial worry, marital and relationship problems, self-image issues, spiritual insights, parenting issues, grief concerns, depression, school problems, anxiety, phobias, panic attacks, anger management, and others.
Scared to go to counseling? Whether you are an adult or a child, I offer exciting, non-judgmental, state-of-the-art information that provides clear answers to issues that are terrifying to you or seem impossible to fix. Before you leave your first appointment, you will know why your problem is occurring and HOW to begin achieving immediate, positive change in any situation. The process will not be scary but FUN, no matter how serious the problem! Additionally, you will take with you an empowered insight to life that guarantees the way to substantially happier living!
(636) 240-2240 View (636) 240-2240
Photo of Melynda Heienickle, MA, LPC, RPT, CSC, CCPC, Counselor
Melynda Heienickle
Counselor, MA, LPC, RPT, CSC, CCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Peters, MO 63376
Counseling for wellness and wisdom. That’s my mission. My goal as your counselor is to accept an invitation into your complex and dynamic world; in hopes that I may offer you the support you are seeking to find peace. If you are searching through this directory, chances are you sense, or maybe even know, something is not quite right in your life. Are you personally struggling and haven’t found a solution or a way to move forward? Is your marriage or committed relationship in a state of turmoil? Perhaps your child or someone else you care deeply for is struggling, and you are unsure of how to help them or even cope yourself.
Counseling for wellness and wisdom. That’s my mission. My goal as your counselor is to accept an invitation into your complex and dynamic world; in hopes that I may offer you the support you are seeking to find peace. If you are searching through this directory, chances are you sense, or maybe even know, something is not quite right in your life. Are you personally struggling and haven’t found a solution or a way to move forward? Is your marriage or committed relationship in a state of turmoil? Perhaps your child or someone else you care deeply for is struggling, and you are unsure of how to help them or even cope yourself.
(636) 434-2402 View (636) 434-2402
Photo of Katie Dorwart, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katie Dorwart
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Charles, MO 63303
My interest and involvement working with such issues include: neurodivergence, anxiety, depression, adult and child trauma, marital issues, abandonment issues, co-dependency, grief, loss, stress management, relaxation techniques, and psychoeducational information.
Every person deserves the chance to create happiness from within themselves. As the therapist, I will work with the inner strengths of those individuals and help them navigate their life to become their truest self. My therapeutic practice is based on the client's individual needs. I believe that there is no one model to fit all people and the therapy should be molded to the client's individual goals.
My interest and involvement working with such issues include: neurodivergence, anxiety, depression, adult and child trauma, marital issues, abandonment issues, co-dependency, grief, loss, stress management, relaxation techniques, and psychoeducational information.
Every person deserves the chance to create happiness from within themselves. As the therapist, I will work with the inner strengths of those individuals and help them navigate their life to become their truest self. My therapeutic practice is based on the client's individual needs. I believe that there is no one model to fit all people and the therapy should be molded to the client's individual goals.
(314) 551-9331 View (314) 551-9331
Photo of Michele Calvin, MA, PLPC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Michele Calvin
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, PLPC
Verified Verified
Saint Charles, MO 63303
In addition to counseling, I also offer Marital/Premarital, and Family counseling.
Accepting New Clients-As we go through life, it can deliver trials, obstacles, and you may be on an ongoing roller coaster ride; and through these trying situations, you may feel out of control, hopeless, and ponder whom you can seek for help. Starting therapy can seem overwhelming, but I am here to guide the way. Counseling is personable and distinctive; I believe your therapeutic journey should lead to positive changes in your life by incorporating Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Person-Centered Therapy (PCT) practices.
In addition to counseling, I also offer Marital/Premarital, and Family counseling.
Accepting New Clients-As we go through life, it can deliver trials, obstacles, and you may be on an ongoing roller coaster ride; and through these trying situations, you may feel out of control, hopeless, and ponder whom you can seek for help. Starting therapy can seem overwhelming, but I am here to guide the way. Counseling is personable and distinctive; I believe your therapeutic journey should lead to positive changes in your life by incorporating Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Person-Centered Therapy (PCT) practices.
(636) 238-2652 View (636) 238-2652
Photo of Andrew Kendrick, Licensed Professional Counselor
Andrew Kendrick
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Saint Peters, MO 63376  (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
Photo of Dr. Kelley Mount At Dragonfly Wellness, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Kelley Mount At Dragonfly Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Charles, MO 63303
Dr. Mount earned her Ph.D. in Counseling & Family Therapy from St. Louis University. Dr. Mount has been in private practice since 1996, and has specialized in the treatment of children and families. Additionally, Dr. Mount also provides individual and couples/marital therapy. Dr. Mount enjoys working with individuals and couples who are ready to create lasting change in their lives. She provides a caring non-judgmental environment for those ready to take their first steps towards lasting change.
Dr. Mount earned her Ph.D. in Counseling & Family Therapy from St. Louis University. Dr. Mount has been in private practice since 1996, and has specialized in the treatment of children and families. Additionally, Dr. Mount also provides individual and couples/marital therapy. Dr. Mount enjoys working with individuals and couples who are ready to create lasting change in their lives. She provides a caring non-judgmental environment for those ready to take their first steps towards lasting change.
(636) 442-4978 View (636) 442-4978
Photo of Carolyn Tinker, MA, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Carolyn Tinker
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Carolyn operates from a systems way of thinking. I believe that there are many aspects that can affect each individual and exploring these aspects best helps the individual. I use therapies such as CBT, DBT, Solution-Focused Therapy, EFT with couples and other modalities. I work with children ages 10+, adolescents, individuals, couples and families. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, divorce, marital separation, premarital counseling, marriage counseling, sexual issues including addiction, affairs, pornography, abuse and LGBTQ+, grief and other situations that may arise.
Carolyn operates from a systems way of thinking. I believe that there are many aspects that can affect each individual and exploring these aspects best helps the individual. I use therapies such as CBT, DBT, Solution-Focused Therapy, EFT with couples and other modalities. I work with children ages 10+, adolescents, individuals, couples and families. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, divorce, marital separation, premarital counseling, marriage counseling, sexual issues including addiction, affairs, pornography, abuse and LGBTQ+, grief and other situations that may arise.
(636) 306-4196 View (636) 306-4196
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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.