Marriage Counseling Therapists in Wilmington, NC

Photo of Marion Gittings, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marion Gittings
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
In relationship counseling, I’ll help you work together to problem-solve areas of conflict, name what your want in you marriage and solve communication issues.
You feel drained, exhausted and completely frustrated. Your partner is clueless about how to connect with you and you are sure there is no possible way you could make it clearer! They’re just as angry and frustrated. The tension is palpable. And you feel, naturally, angry, lonely, tired. It’s painful. You have put your heart in to this relationship and you are not ready to throw in the towel but the attempts you each make to fix it only land with a thud and result in you both feeling like a failure.
In relationship counseling, I’ll help you work together to problem-solve areas of conflict, name what your want in you marriage and solve communication issues.
You feel drained, exhausted and completely frustrated. Your partner is clueless about how to connect with you and you are sure there is no possible way you could make it clearer! They’re just as angry and frustrated. The tension is palpable. And you feel, naturally, angry, lonely, tired. It’s painful. You have put your heart in to this relationship and you are not ready to throw in the towel but the attempts you each make to fix it only land with a thud and result in you both feeling like a failure.
(910) 406-6923 View (910) 406-6923
Photo of Rebecca Zumpe, MAEd, LCMHCA, LCASA, NCC, Counselor
Rebecca Zumpe
Counselor, MAEd, LCMHCA, LCASA, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
Are you feeling like your life and/or your relationship is falling apart? That no matter how hard you try to be strong on the outside, on the inside you are feeling scared and anxious. Hi, I’m Rebecca, a licensed clinical mental health counselor and licensed clinical addictions specialist. I help individuals using a strengths-based approach to meet you where you are, as well as help couples utilizing the Gottman method of relationship counseling, the most researched and effective couples counseling. My specialties include marriage counseling, couples therapy, and individuals with addiction issues, anxiety and depression.
Are you feeling like your life and/or your relationship is falling apart? That no matter how hard you try to be strong on the outside, on the inside you are feeling scared and anxious. Hi, I’m Rebecca, a licensed clinical mental health counselor and licensed clinical addictions specialist. I help individuals using a strengths-based approach to meet you where you are, as well as help couples utilizing the Gottman method of relationship counseling, the most researched and effective couples counseling. My specialties include marriage counseling, couples therapy, and individuals with addiction issues, anxiety and depression.
(910) 335-9307 View (910) 335-9307
Photo of Joelle Scholer, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joelle Scholer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28403
Whether the issue is negative communication or feeling like they're just roommates, I assist couples when the romance has faded, whether due to a new baby or mid-marriage challenges.
Hi, I'm Joelle! I specialize in working with couples in crisis, with a special concentration in infidelity recovery. I am dedicated to guiding couples through the challenges of 'putting the pieces back together' even when it seems impossible. My goal is to help couples rebuild trust and communication after betrayal, driven by a strong belief in the possibility of healing. I am committed to empowering couples to reclaim intimacy and strengthen their bonds. I also specialize in working with disconnected couples and recently separated and divorced couples to achieve conscious co-parenting.
Whether the issue is negative communication or feeling like they're just roommates, I assist couples when the romance has faded, whether due to a new baby or mid-marriage challenges.
Hi, I'm Joelle! I specialize in working with couples in crisis, with a special concentration in infidelity recovery. I am dedicated to guiding couples through the challenges of 'putting the pieces back together' even when it seems impossible. My goal is to help couples rebuild trust and communication after betrayal, driven by a strong belief in the possibility of healing. I am committed to empowering couples to reclaim intimacy and strengthen their bonds. I also specialize in working with disconnected couples and recently separated and divorced couples to achieve conscious co-parenting.
(910) 400-8224 View (910) 400-8224
Photo of Gregg Goodwin - Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Wilmington, Counselor
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Wilmington
Counselor
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28403
We offer individual counseling, psychiatry/medication management (virtual only), family counseling, couples therapy/marriage counseling, and child & teen therapy.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
We offer individual counseling, psychiatry/medication management (virtual only), family counseling, couples therapy/marriage counseling, and child & teen therapy.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
(910) 996-5516 View (910) 996-5516
Photo of David Lee Crenshaw, D, Min, LMFT, LCAS, Marriage & Family Therapist
David Lee Crenshaw
Marriage & Family Therapist, D, Min, LMFT, LCAS
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28401
I would like to help you with the many stressors that can make it difficult to make decisions and to live life with passion. My background in Marriage and Family Issue, Addictions, and Faith-Based Counseling help me to facilitate the peace of mind that is needed for you to effectively live life and address challenges. These challenges may include anxiety, depression, or addiction in your family. My greatest satisfaction is to help you to restore healing, hope, and balance to your life.
I would like to help you with the many stressors that can make it difficult to make decisions and to live life with passion. My background in Marriage and Family Issue, Addictions, and Faith-Based Counseling help me to facilitate the peace of mind that is needed for you to effectively live life and address challenges. These challenges may include anxiety, depression, or addiction in your family. My greatest satisfaction is to help you to restore healing, hope, and balance to your life.
(910) 479-4376 View (910) 479-4376
Photo of Bola Ruff, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Bola Ruff
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28403  (Online Only)
Bola is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT) with over 13 years of experience in the mental health field. She has an affinity for working with children, families, and couples. She has many years of experience helping families navigate the challenges of parenting children with mental health challenges, co-parenting in divorce, and other stages of life hurdles.
Bola is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT) with over 13 years of experience in the mental health field. She has an affinity for working with children, families, and couples. She has many years of experience helping families navigate the challenges of parenting children with mental health challenges, co-parenting in divorce, and other stages of life hurdles.
(910) 312-2550 View (910) 312-2550
Photo of Leah Webster - Love Thrives Therapy, MS, LCMHC
Love Thrives Therapy
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28405  (Online Only)
I completed my degree for Couple, Marital, and Family Counseling at Portland State University.
I am a teletherapist for the state of North Carolina! It is my passion to assist others in realizing their fullest potential, whether that be on an individual level, in a relationship, or in a family context. I adore working with pre-teens, teenagers, individuals, and couples on issues such as anxiety, communication, "self betterment", identity, sexuality, intimacy. phobias, depression, sexual dysfunction, and many other areas. Please email lovethrivestherapy@gmail.com for an appointment, and see more at www.lovethrivestherapy.com
I completed my degree for Couple, Marital, and Family Counseling at Portland State University.
I am a teletherapist for the state of North Carolina! It is my passion to assist others in realizing their fullest potential, whether that be on an individual level, in a relationship, or in a family context. I adore working with pre-teens, teenagers, individuals, and couples on issues such as anxiety, communication, "self betterment", identity, sexuality, intimacy. phobias, depression, sexual dysfunction, and many other areas. Please email lovethrivestherapy@gmail.com for an appointment, and see more at www.lovethrivestherapy.com
(828) 558-0054 View (828) 558-0054
Photo of Rob Moser, MEd, LCMHCA, LCASA, Counselor
Rob Moser
Counselor, MEd, LCMHCA, LCASA
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28403
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage issues, relationship struggles, parenting/child/teen problems, pain, addiction, pornography, or a faith crisis? Or maybe just seeking peace amidst life’s general uncertainty? Rob’s 20-year career in counseling, six years as a lead pastor, and four years as an overseas missionary, as well as his experience as a foster/adoptive parent, give him the confidence to wade into a myriad of life’s challenges with you.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage issues, relationship struggles, parenting/child/teen problems, pain, addiction, pornography, or a faith crisis? Or maybe just seeking peace amidst life’s general uncertainty? Rob’s 20-year career in counseling, six years as a lead pastor, and four years as an overseas missionary, as well as his experience as a foster/adoptive parent, give him the confidence to wade into a myriad of life’s challenges with you.
(910) 812-8310 View (910) 812-8310
Photo of Troy Peverall, LCMHCS, LCAS, CCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Troy Peverall
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHCS, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
I am passionate about strengthening marriages, helping couples navigate bad choices, better communication, and how to recover from the difficulty of an affair. I believe in your marriage! Hang on! Men and women are trapped with porn addiction, and I am committed to help you as a person find the true path to restoration. The porn addiction cycle is tough, but with your commitment to work hard we can do this together. I will help you find healing from its personal devastation and within your marriage. My practice also includes helping church leaders find restoration from burn out or other struggles such as pornography or infidelity.
I am passionate about strengthening marriages, helping couples navigate bad choices, better communication, and how to recover from the difficulty of an affair. I believe in your marriage! Hang on! Men and women are trapped with porn addiction, and I am committed to help you as a person find the true path to restoration. The porn addiction cycle is tough, but with your commitment to work hard we can do this together. I will help you find healing from its personal devastation and within your marriage. My practice also includes helping church leaders find restoration from burn out or other struggles such as pornography or infidelity.
(910) 550-2362 View (910) 550-2362
Photo of Genevieve R Hansler, MSW, LCSW, LCAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Genevieve R Hansler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who received my advanced clinical training working with adolescents, children and families at the Yale Child Study Center, a department of Yale University Medical School in New Haven, Connecticut. When addressing issues related to anxiety, depression, AD/HD, parent-child conflict, couple/marital issues, trauma, and/or substance abuse/addictions, I apply a variety of treatment modalities and therapeutic interventions to best address the individual situation.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who received my advanced clinical training working with adolescents, children and families at the Yale Child Study Center, a department of Yale University Medical School in New Haven, Connecticut. When addressing issues related to anxiety, depression, AD/HD, parent-child conflict, couple/marital issues, trauma, and/or substance abuse/addictions, I apply a variety of treatment modalities and therapeutic interventions to best address the individual situation.
(910) 248-3108 View (910) 248-3108
Photo of Dennis G Mendleson, LCMHCS, LCAS, ACH, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dennis G Mendleson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHCS, LCAS, ACH
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28405
Sometimes, starting therapy for the first time, or re-engaging in therapy can feel daunting. Often unsure of what to expect or how long you may need to be in therapy. Anxiety or depression can develop as a response to unresolved grief or trauma. Life transitions such as graduation, marriage, becoming a parent, changing professions, buying a house, or retirement invoke anxiety. Childhood trauma, abusive relationships with partners or parents can lead to depression. I will help you work through problems, or when struggling with life transitions. I help you find solutions to your dilemmas allowing you to move forward with your life.
Sometimes, starting therapy for the first time, or re-engaging in therapy can feel daunting. Often unsure of what to expect or how long you may need to be in therapy. Anxiety or depression can develop as a response to unresolved grief or trauma. Life transitions such as graduation, marriage, becoming a parent, changing professions, buying a house, or retirement invoke anxiety. Childhood trauma, abusive relationships with partners or parents can lead to depression. I will help you work through problems, or when struggling with life transitions. I help you find solutions to your dilemmas allowing you to move forward with your life.
(910) 565-9030 View (910) 565-9030
Photo of Krista Bronisas, MS, LMFT, PC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Krista Bronisas
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, PC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
I specialize in treating relationships. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I work with individuals, couples and families seeking fulfilling, peaceful lives. The majority of clients are individuals and couples seeking answers to have better, more meaningful relationships. Therapy starts withy understanding current struggles in a "systems" framework. We look at patterns; of affection, conflict, repair, relating, reacting. Common issues include: communication, infidelity, feeling a lack of respect, divorce, parent/child discord, and relational harmony goals. Therapy is provided with warmth, thoughtfulness and empathy.
I specialize in treating relationships. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I work with individuals, couples and families seeking fulfilling, peaceful lives. The majority of clients are individuals and couples seeking answers to have better, more meaningful relationships. Therapy starts withy understanding current struggles in a "systems" framework. We look at patterns; of affection, conflict, repair, relating, reacting. Common issues include: communication, infidelity, feeling a lack of respect, divorce, parent/child discord, and relational harmony goals. Therapy is provided with warmth, thoughtfulness and empathy.
(910) 729-6195 View (910) 729-6195
Photo of Julie Sams - Bowman Family Services, MA, LCMHCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bowman Family Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28405
I am the owner of Bowman Family Services, and a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Supervisor with over 26 years of experience working with children, adults, and families. My carefully selected team of child, adolescent, adult, couples and family therapists, and psychologists utilize play, art and yoga therapy, sound therapy, mindfulness, EMDR, CBT, trauma-focused CBT, DBT, Pre-Marital and psychological testing. We receive ongoing trainings to utilize the best therapy approaches in our field. We specialize in anxiety, depression, ADHD, relationship issues, and trauma. We have offices in Wake Forest, Raleigh, Rolesville, and Cary NC.
I am the owner of Bowman Family Services, and a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Supervisor with over 26 years of experience working with children, adults, and families. My carefully selected team of child, adolescent, adult, couples and family therapists, and psychologists utilize play, art and yoga therapy, sound therapy, mindfulness, EMDR, CBT, trauma-focused CBT, DBT, Pre-Marital and psychological testing. We receive ongoing trainings to utilize the best therapy approaches in our field. We specialize in anxiety, depression, ADHD, relationship issues, and trauma. We have offices in Wake Forest, Raleigh, Rolesville, and Cary NC.
(919) 229-8943 View (919) 229-8943
Photo of Shelley Bunn, MA, LCMHCA, Counselor
Shelley Bunn
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
Feeling misunderstood and unloved by those closest to us is living hell. Pain, hopelessness, and anger burrow deep as repair seems impossible. It's exhausting to cope with past trauma while trying to keep things together in the present. Any added stress, anxiety, or depression is overwhelming. Those of you with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) are struggling with these symptoms simultaneously and it's unbearable. I specialize in relationship repair and borderline personality disorder. In family, individual, or marriage counseling I can help you heal, connect, and once again find hope.
Feeling misunderstood and unloved by those closest to us is living hell. Pain, hopelessness, and anger burrow deep as repair seems impossible. It's exhausting to cope with past trauma while trying to keep things together in the present. Any added stress, anxiety, or depression is overwhelming. Those of you with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) are struggling with these symptoms simultaneously and it's unbearable. I specialize in relationship repair and borderline personality disorder. In family, individual, or marriage counseling I can help you heal, connect, and once again find hope.
(910) 708-4632 View (910) 708-4632
Photo of Erika Geisler, PsyD, Psychologist
Erika Geisler
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
I AM CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. I have successfully worked with couples for over 20 years. I specialize in marriages/relationships and marriage/relationship dynamics. I believe that over time our marriages and relationships begin to change. We experience traumas, changes, distance, betrayals and neglect. I will help you to rebuild yourself and your relationship. I will help you to heal from your traumas. I will help you to learn how to communicate with you partner so that you can rekindle the love, intimacy, passion and friendship you once had. I will work for your relationship and marriage.
I AM CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. I have successfully worked with couples for over 20 years. I specialize in marriages/relationships and marriage/relationship dynamics. I believe that over time our marriages and relationships begin to change. We experience traumas, changes, distance, betrayals and neglect. I will help you to rebuild yourself and your relationship. I will help you to heal from your traumas. I will help you to learn how to communicate with you partner so that you can rekindle the love, intimacy, passion and friendship you once had. I will work for your relationship and marriage.
(910) 370-8792 View (910) 370-8792
Photo of Olivia Danilko, MAEd, LCMHC, NCC, Counselor
Olivia Danilko
Counselor, MAEd, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28409
Is your life feeling difficult right now and you need support in navigating the chaos? Do you need help resolving past traumas, talking kinder to yourself, or letting go of toxic relationships? Are daily tasks feeling impossible, and you just want to give up? Is your marriage feeling strained or irreparable? Maybe you consider yourself a people pleaser and have difficulties expressing your needs, or maybe you're going through a brutal break-up. There are times in all of our lives where we could benefit from extra support. I get it - being human is messy, but we don't have to do it alone. I'd love to support you through your journey.
Is your life feeling difficult right now and you need support in navigating the chaos? Do you need help resolving past traumas, talking kinder to yourself, or letting go of toxic relationships? Are daily tasks feeling impossible, and you just want to give up? Is your marriage feeling strained or irreparable? Maybe you consider yourself a people pleaser and have difficulties expressing your needs, or maybe you're going through a brutal break-up. There are times in all of our lives where we could benefit from extra support. I get it - being human is messy, but we don't have to do it alone. I'd love to support you through your journey.
(336) 502-7824 View (336) 502-7824
Photo of Deborah J Taylor - Deborah J. Taylor, Psy.D., PsyD, Psychologist
Deborah J. Taylor, Psy.D.
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28403
I also work with couples regarding marital concerns and parenting challenges.
Our therapeutic experience will be a more interactive one. Whether you want to chat about current stressors, or have made the decision to work seriously on long-term goals for personal improvement in your emotional life, we will work together to determine where best to begin. In addition to working with clients around traditional counseling concerns such as depression, grief, loss, anxiety, stress, and addiction, I also focus on other challenges clients face.
I also work with couples regarding marital concerns and parenting challenges.
Our therapeutic experience will be a more interactive one. Whether you want to chat about current stressors, or have made the decision to work seriously on long-term goals for personal improvement in your emotional life, we will work together to determine where best to begin. In addition to working with clients around traditional counseling concerns such as depression, grief, loss, anxiety, stress, and addiction, I also focus on other challenges clients face.
(910) 356-9956 View (910) 356-9956
Photo of Ralph W. Fox II - Dr. Ralph Fox II, LCMHC-S, LCMHC
Dr. Ralph Fox II
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC-S, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28405
Anxiety, Marital Tensions, Desire, Fetish/Kink/Poly, Pain, ED, Confusion, LBGTQIA+, Apprehension, and more.
In a blink of an eye, life's path can derail. Anger, stress, sadness, embarrassment, inability to cope, doubting your self-worth & so much more, can have you struggling to exist. You need a place to express yourself without judgement of friends & family. Let's determine your needs in a safe, non-judgmental environment. Let me help empower you, stabilize, & deal with anger, sadness, anxiety, grief, etc. Together we develop a plan. Privacy, discretion, stability & compassion are important to your life & career. I strive to enable people to smile again! Let me guide you through life's ups & downs. Individuals & couples welcome
Anxiety, Marital Tensions, Desire, Fetish/Kink/Poly, Pain, ED, Confusion, LBGTQIA+, Apprehension, and more.
In a blink of an eye, life's path can derail. Anger, stress, sadness, embarrassment, inability to cope, doubting your self-worth & so much more, can have you struggling to exist. You need a place to express yourself without judgement of friends & family. Let's determine your needs in a safe, non-judgmental environment. Let me help empower you, stabilize, & deal with anger, sadness, anxiety, grief, etc. Together we develop a plan. Privacy, discretion, stability & compassion are important to your life & career. I strive to enable people to smile again! Let me guide you through life's ups & downs. Individuals & couples welcome
(910) 216-4872 View (910) 216-4872
Photo of Tracy Boyer-Matthews, MA, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tracy Boyer-Matthews
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28401
Relationship Therapy is how I describe my expertise as a Licensed Professional Counselor. Certified in Imago Relationship Therapy for over decade, my passion is working with clients on the core relationships in life. In Couples or Marriage Therapy, my immediate focus is dismantling ineffective communication patterns that evoke circular power struggles. With singles in Individual Therapy I assist in examining relationship histories and learning new ways to attract and keep sustainable love relationships. I also specialize in sex therapy as it pertains to dysfunction, aging, abuse. pornography or reviving new passion in relationships.
Relationship Therapy is how I describe my expertise as a Licensed Professional Counselor. Certified in Imago Relationship Therapy for over decade, my passion is working with clients on the core relationships in life. In Couples or Marriage Therapy, my immediate focus is dismantling ineffective communication patterns that evoke circular power struggles. With singles in Individual Therapy I assist in examining relationship histories and learning new ways to attract and keep sustainable love relationships. I also specialize in sex therapy as it pertains to dysfunction, aging, abuse. pornography or reviving new passion in relationships.
(910) 550-3878 View (910) 550-3878
Photo of Beverly D. Brooks, PhD, PA, Psychologist
Beverly D. Brooks
Psychologist, PhD, PA
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28409
Cognitive-behavioral therapies, including "DBT"; John Gottman's marital research, and most importantly, clarification of clients' own faith and values often provide foundation for resolving roadblocks.
I help people find their courage to learn new behavior, build better relationships, embrace change, overcome negative effects of damaging life experiences, resolve grief, and transform losses into well-earned wisdom and productive action. Getting "unstuck" requires new perspectives, persistence while sorting through complexities and confusion, and practice with new skills and strategies. I strive to be kind, ethical, informative, interactive, responsive, and a rigorous "coach" who can be helpful to you.
Cognitive-behavioral therapies, including "DBT"; John Gottman's marital research, and most importantly, clarification of clients' own faith and values often provide foundation for resolving roadblocks.
I help people find their courage to learn new behavior, build better relationships, embrace change, overcome negative effects of damaging life experiences, resolve grief, and transform losses into well-earned wisdom and productive action. Getting "unstuck" requires new perspectives, persistence while sorting through complexities and confusion, and practice with new skills and strategies. I strive to be kind, ethical, informative, interactive, responsive, and a rigorous "coach" who can be helpful to you.
(910) 909-3687 View (910) 909-3687
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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.