Marriage Counseling Therapists in Springfield, MO

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 Kristen Crane, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kristen Crane
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Springfield, MO 65810
Do you find yourself constantly worrying or feeling hopeless? Do everyday tasks seem daunting, leaving you feeling restless, on edge, and unable to stop racing thoughts? Maybe you feel lonely or disconnected in your marriage or walking on eggshells with your own family- where tension and unresolved issues create a constant undercurrent of stress. If any of these sound familiar, you are not alone. As a compassionate and experienced counselor, I strive to provide a safe space where we can work together to understand your unique experiences. My goal is to empower you to overcome obstacles and find balance, healing, and fulfillment.
Do you find yourself constantly worrying or feeling hopeless? Do everyday tasks seem daunting, leaving you feeling restless, on edge, and unable to stop racing thoughts? Maybe you feel lonely or disconnected in your marriage or walking on eggshells with your own family- where tension and unresolved issues create a constant undercurrent of stress. If any of these sound familiar, you are not alone. As a compassionate and experienced counselor, I strive to provide a safe space where we can work together to understand your unique experiences. My goal is to empower you to overcome obstacles and find balance, healing, and fulfillment.
(417) 383-2469 View (417) 383-2469
Photo of Leslie Bashioum, MS, LPC, NCC , CFRC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Leslie Bashioum
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC , CFRC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Springfield, MO 65810
I have extensive training in Christian counseling, marriage counseling, and Christian sex therapy.
Do you find yourself running on empty, constantly overthinking or worrying? Do you struggle with past wounds or find yourself trying to navigate through a traumatic experience? Maybe you are feeling alone or disconnected, struggling to communicate, and wondering if there is any hope. Whether you are wrestling with the weight of anxiety and depression, navigating a challenging experience, or experiencing difficulty in your marriage- you are not alone! My passion is to help my clients move towards freedom from past hurt and pain so they can feel equipped to experience safe, connected, healthy relationships with themselves and others.
I have extensive training in Christian counseling, marriage counseling, and Christian sex therapy.
Do you find yourself running on empty, constantly overthinking or worrying? Do you struggle with past wounds or find yourself trying to navigate through a traumatic experience? Maybe you are feeling alone or disconnected, struggling to communicate, and wondering if there is any hope. Whether you are wrestling with the weight of anxiety and depression, navigating a challenging experience, or experiencing difficulty in your marriage- you are not alone! My passion is to help my clients move towards freedom from past hurt and pain so they can feel equipped to experience safe, connected, healthy relationships with themselves and others.
(417) 815-4641 View (417) 815-4641
Photo of Lyndsey Cherry, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lyndsey Cherry
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Springfield, MO 65804
Since 2014 I have worked with hundreds couples through Focus on the Family's Hope Restored Marriage Intensives.
My ideal client to work with is one who comes ready to look at the why behind the what, going deeper to understand the roots that cause one to act and think the way they do. The purpose and goal in being curious about the roots is to heal from the wounds and deep-rooted beliefs about ourselves and the world that we have picked up along our own journey in life. The benefit of this work is to live more freely in the Truth of who we were created to be, not allowing fear and past wounds to control one’s life. This growth can equip and lead to more safe, connected, and healthy relationships with ourselves and our loved ones.
Since 2014 I have worked with hundreds couples through Focus on the Family's Hope Restored Marriage Intensives.
My ideal client to work with is one who comes ready to look at the why behind the what, going deeper to understand the roots that cause one to act and think the way they do. The purpose and goal in being curious about the roots is to heal from the wounds and deep-rooted beliefs about ourselves and the world that we have picked up along our own journey in life. The benefit of this work is to live more freely in the Truth of who we were created to be, not allowing fear and past wounds to control one’s life. This growth can equip and lead to more safe, connected, and healthy relationships with ourselves and our loved ones.
(417) 453-2397 View (417) 453-2397
Photo of Gabriel Cline, PhD, Psychologist
Gabriel Cline
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Springfield, MO 65804
As owner of Psych Associates I can provide quick access to other specialists on our team as your situation dictates: including trauma therapists, experts in helping children with behavioral issues, marriage and couples therapy, and addiction issues.
I specialize in High-performance individuals that live under a constant state of performance pressure, Parents who want to understand what their child needs in education (gifted or learning difficulties), and Attorneys that want fair and honest data to decide what needs to happen in complex child custody cases. As someone who has lived in these scenarios, I've developed tools and techniques to help you find the answers you need. Whether you are worried about your child, feeling burned out, or need an accurate assessment for court, I'll strive to give you the care and attention I'd want for my own family.
As owner of Psych Associates I can provide quick access to other specialists on our team as your situation dictates: including trauma therapists, experts in helping children with behavioral issues, marriage and couples therapy, and addiction issues.
I specialize in High-performance individuals that live under a constant state of performance pressure, Parents who want to understand what their child needs in education (gifted or learning difficulties), and Attorneys that want fair and honest data to decide what needs to happen in complex child custody cases. As someone who has lived in these scenarios, I've developed tools and techniques to help you find the answers you need. Whether you are worried about your child, feeling burned out, or need an accurate assessment for court, I'll strive to give you the care and attention I'd want for my own family.
(417) 414-0333 View (417) 414-0333
Photo of Cara Love, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cara Love
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Springfield, MO 65804
I have experience working with clients of all ages and backgrounds struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, and marital issues.
What a Stressful world we are living in today! Sometimes life can feel overwhelming. In a society that values hard work over mental health, it can be difficult to carve out time for yourself. As challenging as it is, you deserve to find balance and peace in your life. There is a way to find happiness again and to improve relationships with the ones you love. It is my passion to teach self-love, acceptance, relaxation techniques, and empowerment to women, couples, and families. With this in mind, we will uncover root causes of suffering and work towards healing and solutions.
I have experience working with clients of all ages and backgrounds struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, and marital issues.
What a Stressful world we are living in today! Sometimes life can feel overwhelming. In a society that values hard work over mental health, it can be difficult to carve out time for yourself. As challenging as it is, you deserve to find balance and peace in your life. There is a way to find happiness again and to improve relationships with the ones you love. It is my passion to teach self-love, acceptance, relaxation techniques, and empowerment to women, couples, and families. With this in mind, we will uncover root causes of suffering and work towards healing and solutions.
(417) 497-2849 View (417) 497-2849
Photo of Brent Sugg - Brent Sugg Counseling Services LLC, MS, LPC, Counselor
Brent Sugg Counseling Services LLC
Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Springfield, MO 65804
I have over 28 years of experience working with Individuals struggling with depression, trauma, anxiety, marital difficulties and family stressors. My goal is to help people find symptom relief and a life path that they find fulfilling.
I have over 28 years of experience working with Individuals struggling with depression, trauma, anxiety, marital difficulties and family stressors. My goal is to help people find symptom relief and a life path that they find fulfilling.
(417) 246-2213 View (417) 246-2213
Photo of Stephanie Marie Wacaser, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Marie Wacaser
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Springfield, MO 65804
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Level 1, certified Gottman marriage therapist, which has greatly enhanced my knowledge working with couples.
Whether its difficulty navigating a toxic work environment, dealing with a difficult boss, experiencing marriage or relationship problems, or feeling lost and alone you may need to evaluate what your needs or wants are. Your mind and body is telling you something if you are feeling stressed, feeling sad, have problems sleeping, feeling lonely even in a crowd, or getting angry over the littlest thing, its letting you know change needs to happen. We all struggle at times with trying to navigate life and I believe that we all could benefit from support. Reaching out for help is the key to working towards a healthier way of living.
I am a Level 1, certified Gottman marriage therapist, which has greatly enhanced my knowledge working with couples.
Whether its difficulty navigating a toxic work environment, dealing with a difficult boss, experiencing marriage or relationship problems, or feeling lost and alone you may need to evaluate what your needs or wants are. Your mind and body is telling you something if you are feeling stressed, feeling sad, have problems sleeping, feeling lonely even in a crowd, or getting angry over the littlest thing, its letting you know change needs to happen. We all struggle at times with trying to navigate life and I believe that we all could benefit from support. Reaching out for help is the key to working towards a healthier way of living.
(417) 815-4465 View (417) 815-4465
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 Dustin Ray, MA, Pastoral Counselor
Dustin Ray
Pastoral Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Springfield, MO 65804
I am blessed to serve men, women, and children who need help walking through life's struggles. I am honored to help individuals, couples, those seeking pre- marriage counseling, marriage counseling intervention, and those needing coaching through tough issues and questions. I offer appointments starting at 6:00 am and evening appointments up to 7:00 pm, and Saturday appointments from 6:00 am to 7:00 pm. I joyfully own and operate Queen City Biblical Counseling in Springfield, MO. Visit queencitybc.com for more information.
I am blessed to serve men, women, and children who need help walking through life's struggles. I am honored to help individuals, couples, those seeking pre- marriage counseling, marriage counseling intervention, and those needing coaching through tough issues and questions. I offer appointments starting at 6:00 am and evening appointments up to 7:00 pm, and Saturday appointments from 6:00 am to 7:00 pm. I joyfully own and operate Queen City Biblical Counseling in Springfield, MO. Visit queencitybc.com for more information.
(417) 387-2590 View (417) 387-2590
Photo of Hannah L Littlepage, MS , LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Hannah L Littlepage
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS , LPC
Verified Verified
6 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 LaBryon Williams - Counseling Group of the Ozarks, MA, LPC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Counseling Group of the Ozarks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Springfield, MO 65804
Waitlist for new clients
You even checking out this site shows how much strength and bravery you have. Just know that you don’t have to go through things alone. We believe people seek out help when the things they do to deal with life no longer work. A lot of people think counseling is only for those who need “professional help,” but it’s really about talking to someone who is safe and not biased about what you should think or feel. You make think “there must be better out there,” — a better life, a way to feel less stressed, a happier marriage, a job you love… but you are just trying to survive this day.
You even checking out this site shows how much strength and bravery you have. Just know that you don’t have to go through things alone. We believe people seek out help when the things they do to deal with life no longer work. A lot of people think counseling is only for those who need “professional help,” but it’s really about talking to someone who is safe and not biased about what you should think or feel. You make think “there must be better out there,” — a better life, a way to feel less stressed, a happier marriage, a job you love… but you are just trying to survive this day.
(417) 212-5724 View (417) 212-5724
Photo of Tonya McMillen Boone, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tonya McMillen Boone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Springfield, MO 65807
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 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 Thomas Ryan Todd, MS, PLPC, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Thomas Ryan Todd
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, PLPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Springfield, MO 65804
Services also include marriage counseling, blended-family counseling, pre marital counseling, and Christian counseling.
Finding a space to feel comfortable and be heard is the most important aspect in therapy. My clients range from teens, young adults, and families trying to find peace in a time of chaos and confusion. Mental health is often taken for granted and it is important to learn how to effectively communicate and practice healthy habits to get the best out of your life.
Services also include marriage counseling, blended-family counseling, pre marital counseling, and Christian counseling.
Finding a space to feel comfortable and be heard is the most important aspect in therapy. My clients range from teens, young adults, and families trying to find peace in a time of chaos and confusion. Mental health is often taken for granted and it is important to learn how to effectively communicate and practice healthy habits to get the best out of your life.
(417) 796-4735 View (417) 796-4735
Photo of Cecily Mitchell, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cecily Mitchell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Springfield, MO 65807
Some of the main issues that I have helped with are: sense of self, anxiety, depression, adoption, relationships, parent-child relationships, marriage, life transitions, etc.
Since 2012 I have been working with adolescents and young adults navigating various different struggles of their life. Together, with their families (when appropriate) we work to develop a plan and a path towards health and healing. It isn't always easy, in fact it’s often counterintuitive and confusing. Healing isn't linear, but what I can offer is a chance to communicate better, connect, and return your home to a peaceful place. Whether you are struggling with relationships, yourself, school or work, I am ready to help you navigate whatever it is that is going on in your mind, and move you towards a more meaningful life.
Some of the main issues that I have helped with are: sense of self, anxiety, depression, adoption, relationships, parent-child relationships, marriage, life transitions, etc.
Since 2012 I have been working with adolescents and young adults navigating various different struggles of their life. Together, with their families (when appropriate) we work to develop a plan and a path towards health and healing. It isn't always easy, in fact it’s often counterintuitive and confusing. Healing isn't linear, but what I can offer is a chance to communicate better, connect, and return your home to a peaceful place. Whether you are struggling with relationships, yourself, school or work, I am ready to help you navigate whatever it is that is going on in your mind, and move you towards a more meaningful life.
(417) 739-0674 View (417) 739-0674
Photo of Vonita Kelly, MS, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Vonita Kelly
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Springfield, MO 65804
I'm committed to the restoration of families and our community. I am a member of the American Counseling Association, Association for Play Therapy, International Association of Addictions & Offender Counselors, Association of Missouri Mediators and the Professional Mediation Association. I counsel all populations from ages 3 to 81 and employ an integrated modality approach. My practice includes child therapy, couples & relationship counseling, family counseling and individual counseling. I am also certified in Prepare/Enrich, a marital and pre marital counseling course.
I'm committed to the restoration of families and our community. I am a member of the American Counseling Association, Association for Play Therapy, International Association of Addictions & Offender Counselors, Association of Missouri Mediators and the Professional Mediation Association. I counsel all populations from ages 3 to 81 and employ an integrated modality approach. My practice includes child therapy, couples & relationship counseling, family counseling and individual counseling. I am also certified in Prepare/Enrich, a marital and pre marital counseling course.
(417) 231-4546 View (417) 231-4546
Photo of Karin Wiese, MA, LMFT, BEdHons, BPsych, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist
Karin Wiese
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, BEdHons, BPsych, EMDR
Verified Verified
Springfield, MO 65804  (Online Only)
There are many reasons to feel overwhelmed by emotional pain and distress. You may be overwhelmed with ongoing conflict in relationships, intimacy issues, feeling unloved and misunderstood, career or children, your marriage, infidelity, addiction or just feeling hopeless. Perhaps you have stopped dreaming? When we are not being heard or understood it can be very difficult to move forward. This is your opportunity to reach out and find a safe space to talk and be heard. Together we will navigate coping skills and new ways of moving forward.
There are many reasons to feel overwhelmed by emotional pain and distress. You may be overwhelmed with ongoing conflict in relationships, intimacy issues, feeling unloved and misunderstood, career or children, your marriage, infidelity, addiction or just feeling hopeless. Perhaps you have stopped dreaming? When we are not being heard or understood it can be very difficult to move forward. This is your opportunity to reach out and find a safe space to talk and be heard. Together we will navigate coping skills and new ways of moving forward.
(417) 641-2146 View (417) 641-2146
Photo of Emma McGlasson, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Emma McGlasson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Springfield, MO 65804  (Online Only)
Emerge Counseling Ministries accepts clients 12 yrs and older in the state of Ohio and Missouri (telehealth only in MO). We help those in need of marriage, couples, families or individual counseling. We help clients deal with many different mental health conditions from relationship and school-related issues to more specialized mental health issues. Our group is trained and skilled in the treatment of depression and anxiety-related disorders and multiple other mental health or life issues. We take most insurances within the state of Ohio. Please call us at (330)-867-5603 with any questions or send us an email.
Emerge Counseling Ministries accepts clients 12 yrs and older in the state of Ohio and Missouri (telehealth only in MO). We help those in need of marriage, couples, families or individual counseling. We help clients deal with many different mental health conditions from relationship and school-related issues to more specialized mental health issues. Our group is trained and skilled in the treatment of depression and anxiety-related disorders and multiple other mental health or life issues. We take most insurances within the state of Ohio. Please call us at (330)-867-5603 with any questions or send us an email.
(330) 594-9743 View (330) 594-9743
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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.