Marriage Counseling Therapists in Harrisburg, PA

Photo of Dan Karlow, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dan Karlow
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Harrisburg, PA 17112  (Online Only)
Many of my clients are men or women who are going through some type of life challenge. Many of these individuals are looking to talk to someone about their relationship, their marriage, their divorce...many are fathers or mothers looking for advice. I have noticed more and more men have tried therapy in the last few years, Many people are at a breaking point, and need help. Sometimes it just takes one person who hears you, understands you and is there to help guide you. The next step is to reach out.
Many of my clients are men or women who are going through some type of life challenge. Many of these individuals are looking to talk to someone about their relationship, their marriage, their divorce...many are fathers or mothers looking for advice. I have noticed more and more men have tried therapy in the last few years, Many people are at a breaking point, and need help. Sometimes it just takes one person who hears you, understands you and is there to help guide you. The next step is to reach out.
(223) 332-4461 View (223) 332-4461
Photo of Dr. Christopher T. Watts Sr, PhD, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Christopher T. Watts Sr
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17102
Watts looks forward to working with individuals and families struggling with anxiety, depression, excessive worries, marriage/couples conflict, child and adolescent development, addiction, select mutism, and various other psychosocial concerns.
Dr. Christopher T. Watts, Sr is a Licensed Professional Counselor, National Board Certified Counselor, and National Certified Custody Evaluator who has worked with children, adolescence, adults, couples, families, and groups since 2005. He is the founder and owner of C.T. Watts & Associates, PC located in Harrisburg, PA.
Watts looks forward to working with individuals and families struggling with anxiety, depression, excessive worries, marriage/couples conflict, child and adolescent development, addiction, select mutism, and various other psychosocial concerns.
Dr. Christopher T. Watts, Sr is a Licensed Professional Counselor, National Board Certified Counselor, and National Certified Custody Evaluator who has worked with children, adolescence, adults, couples, families, and groups since 2005. He is the founder and owner of C.T. Watts & Associates, PC located in Harrisburg, PA.
(717) 963-2269 View (717) 963-2269
Photo of Deborah Coulston - The Family Wellness Center, MA, MATS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
The Family Wellness Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MATS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17109  (Online Only)
Deborah specializes in Eating Disorders, Weight management, Trauma & PTSD, Mood Disorders, Behavioral Addictions, Codependency, Grief Counseling, Expressive Art Therapies, Nutrition Psychology and Marital & Family Therapy.
Deborah Coulston, MA, MATS, CIMHP, LMFT, is an experienced professional psychotherapist, marital and family therapist, expressive arts therapist, and pioneer in the field of nutrition psychology, integrative mental health and alternative health modalities. Ms. Coulston is well known for her work in the treatment field of eating disorders & weight management, and for her expertise in both childhood and adult trauma, as well as the field of behavioral addictions. As the owner of The Family Wellness Center, she brings a diversified background to the practice of expressive arts therapy, clinical counseling, & holistic psychotherapy.
Deborah specializes in Eating Disorders, Weight management, Trauma & PTSD, Mood Disorders, Behavioral Addictions, Codependency, Grief Counseling, Expressive Art Therapies, Nutrition Psychology and Marital & Family Therapy.
Deborah Coulston, MA, MATS, CIMHP, LMFT, is an experienced professional psychotherapist, marital and family therapist, expressive arts therapist, and pioneer in the field of nutrition psychology, integrative mental health and alternative health modalities. Ms. Coulston is well known for her work in the treatment field of eating disorders & weight management, and for her expertise in both childhood and adult trauma, as well as the field of behavioral addictions. As the owner of The Family Wellness Center, she brings a diversified background to the practice of expressive arts therapy, clinical counseling, & holistic psychotherapy.
(717) 229-0492 x1 View (717) 229-0492 x1
Photo of Kelly M Myers - Kelly Myers Therapy LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelly Myers Therapy LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17109
Some specialties I have are women's issues, generational and childhood trauma, school issues, marital issues, anxiety, depression, family conflict and borderline personality disorder.
Hello! My name is Kelly and I have been a practicing clinician for over 20 years, working with all age groups. I hail from the suburbs of Detroit, MI but am currently living in Harrisburg, PA. I am able to see clients from both PA and MI. I hold a BS from Michigan State Univ. and my Master of Social Work from Wayne State University. I work as an eclectic practitioner, meaning, I pull a lot of different treatment modalities in when we work together in order to help support you along your journey towards self empowerment. I’m very personable and really love to get to know you to see if we're a good match. I can't wait to meet you!
Some specialties I have are women's issues, generational and childhood trauma, school issues, marital issues, anxiety, depression, family conflict and borderline personality disorder.
Hello! My name is Kelly and I have been a practicing clinician for over 20 years, working with all age groups. I hail from the suburbs of Detroit, MI but am currently living in Harrisburg, PA. I am able to see clients from both PA and MI. I hold a BS from Michigan State Univ. and my Master of Social Work from Wayne State University. I work as an eclectic practitioner, meaning, I pull a lot of different treatment modalities in when we work together in order to help support you along your journey towards self empowerment. I’m very personable and really love to get to know you to see if we're a good match. I can't wait to meet you!
(717) 899-9680 View (717) 899-9680
Photo of Latreshia Lilly, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Latreshia Lilly
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrisburg, PA 17110
As a Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT), I work with all clients to manage life and their relationships. I work with people of all ages who are experiencing challenges with Depression, Anxiety, Grief, Loss, Adjustment/transitions (into College, a new job, Adulthood, etc.) Relationship Conflicts, Communication, Intimacy, ADHD, Trauma, Self-Harm, Identity, Gender Identity, and Drug/Alcohol addictions. In-office and Virtual Sessions are available for Couples, Individuals (adults and children), and Families. "You never have to do life alone." I'm here for you!
As a Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT), I work with all clients to manage life and their relationships. I work with people of all ages who are experiencing challenges with Depression, Anxiety, Grief, Loss, Adjustment/transitions (into College, a new job, Adulthood, etc.) Relationship Conflicts, Communication, Intimacy, ADHD, Trauma, Self-Harm, Identity, Gender Identity, and Drug/Alcohol addictions. In-office and Virtual Sessions are available for Couples, Individuals (adults and children), and Families. "You never have to do life alone." I'm here for you!
(717) 523-9340 View (717) 523-9340
Photo of Tony Reigle, PhD, CCTP-II, NLP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tony Reigle
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, CCTP-II, NLP
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17109
I completed my graduate degree in Marriage and Family Therapy and my doctorate in Psychology.
Reigle Therapeutics Group uses virtual and office based services to meet your every day needs! We provide psychotherapeutic support to Adults, Adolescents, and Children in individual, couples, or family settings as well as specialize in psychotherapeutic support to First Responders, Veterans/Military and Healthcare Workers trying to manage the personal and professional impacts of the work they do.
I completed my graduate degree in Marriage and Family Therapy and my doctorate in Psychology.
Reigle Therapeutics Group uses virtual and office based services to meet your every day needs! We provide psychotherapeutic support to Adults, Adolescents, and Children in individual, couples, or family settings as well as specialize in psychotherapeutic support to First Responders, Veterans/Military and Healthcare Workers trying to manage the personal and professional impacts of the work they do.
(717) 952-9508 View (717) 952-9508
Photo of Vincent Rogers, MSW, LCSW, SAP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Vincent Rogers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, SAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrisburg, PA 17109
I specialize in individual therapy and marital counseling helping clients get back on the right path in life.
Are you experiencing life stressors? Are you feeling down and blue or having a hard time with work stress? If you are, then maybe I can help you get back on the right path to happiness. Is your marriage in trouble? Is your relationship facing problems and conflict? If so, my passion is to help couples reconnect to rediscover each other in a loving, caring manner. I can help you establish stronger communication patterns by providing couples with the tools to help them to have a healthy marriage/relationship.
I specialize in individual therapy and marital counseling helping clients get back on the right path in life.
Are you experiencing life stressors? Are you feeling down and blue or having a hard time with work stress? If you are, then maybe I can help you get back on the right path to happiness. Is your marriage in trouble? Is your relationship facing problems and conflict? If so, my passion is to help couples reconnect to rediscover each other in a loving, caring manner. I can help you establish stronger communication patterns by providing couples with the tools to help them to have a healthy marriage/relationship.
(717) 253-9152 View (717) 253-9152
Photo of Merle Mullins, LCSW, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Merle Mullins
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17110
I help my clients overcome the issues that arise in family and work life: anxiety and depression, marital discord, healing after an affair, parenting strategies, anger management, addictions, step-family difficulties, or dealing with separation or divorce. I help people deal with behavior problems and relationship issues in the workplace, school, or community, including depression, anxiety, stress, substance abuse, obsessions and compulsions, grief and loss, and an inability to find meaning or purpose in life. I am also available for telecounseling sessions.
I help my clients overcome the issues that arise in family and work life: anxiety and depression, marital discord, healing after an affair, parenting strategies, anger management, addictions, step-family difficulties, or dealing with separation or divorce. I help people deal with behavior problems and relationship issues in the workplace, school, or community, including depression, anxiety, stress, substance abuse, obsessions and compulsions, grief and loss, and an inability to find meaning or purpose in life. I am also available for telecounseling sessions.
(717) 546-9750 View (717) 546-9750
Photo of Laura Chandler, EdD, MA, LPCMH, LPC, Counselor
Laura Chandler
Counselor, EdD, MA, LPCMH, LPC
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17112  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with anger, trauma, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or ADHD? Do you have a child with behavioral problems, anxiety, or depression? Is your marriage falling apart? Do you want a therapist that can help you to live a better life?
Are you struggling with anger, trauma, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or ADHD? Do you have a child with behavioral problems, anxiety, or depression? Is your marriage falling apart? Do you want a therapist that can help you to live a better life?
(302) 488-5479 View (302) 488-5479
Photo of Michael 'Moshe' Raskind - Serenity Psychotherapy   , LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Serenity Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17112  (Online Only)
Getting to the root of your pain: learning to deal with it, building upon your strengths then learning to act versus react to people and events, takes a mindfulness that I will help you develop. I have a long history of working with diverse populations, who have developed varied problems: Mental Health, Substance Abuse, Marital, Parenting, Academic. My approach is to work with my client's strengths; help them develop new views and skills and then organize them into a plan that works for them in obtaining their goals. I also have associates through my group Serenity Psychotherapy LLC to provide the best match for you.
Getting to the root of your pain: learning to deal with it, building upon your strengths then learning to act versus react to people and events, takes a mindfulness that I will help you develop. I have a long history of working with diverse populations, who have developed varied problems: Mental Health, Substance Abuse, Marital, Parenting, Academic. My approach is to work with my client's strengths; help them develop new views and skills and then organize them into a plan that works for them in obtaining their goals. I also have associates through my group Serenity Psychotherapy LLC to provide the best match for you.
(484) 282-3047 View (484) 282-3047
Photo of Walter Sposkoski Jr, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Walter Sposkoski Jr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17101
I am accepting new clients! I accept Medicare, Medicaid and commercial insurance. I am available for in-person and telehealth. I provide individual, marriage and family counseling. I counsel children, teens, and adults from 5 years old thru retirement. I provide counseling for depression and anxiety; anger and stress management; grief and mourning; interpersonal, family, marriage and relationship difficulties; work and school related stressors and life adjustment challenges such as marriage, parenting and retirement. My goal is for you to improve functioning and feel better.
I am accepting new clients! I accept Medicare, Medicaid and commercial insurance. I am available for in-person and telehealth. I provide individual, marriage and family counseling. I counsel children, teens, and adults from 5 years old thru retirement. I provide counseling for depression and anxiety; anger and stress management; grief and mourning; interpersonal, family, marriage and relationship difficulties; work and school related stressors and life adjustment challenges such as marriage, parenting and retirement. My goal is for you to improve functioning and feel better.
(412) 376-4589 View (412) 376-4589
Photo of Kate R Knapp, LMHC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kate R Knapp
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Harrisburg, PA 17103
I have been trained in DBT, CBT, Gestalt, Narrative, Gottman Marriage Therapy level I and II certified and Solution Focused therapies, which provide direction for sessions.
I am currently practicing in NY, PA and VA. I believe that therapy offers a unique and safe place to heal and grow. Walking through my clients' difficulties with them creates a space to promote healing and growth. I enjoy the challenge of supporting clients as they gain a sense of empowerment. I work with people from all faith backgrounds, and while I do not consider myself to be solely a "Christian counselor", my faith is a large part of my life and I invite clients to lead the role that faith plays in our work together. My work has included supporting people who experience anxiety, depression, poor relationships and life changes.
I have been trained in DBT, CBT, Gestalt, Narrative, Gottman Marriage Therapy level I and II certified and Solution Focused therapies, which provide direction for sessions.
I am currently practicing in NY, PA and VA. I believe that therapy offers a unique and safe place to heal and grow. Walking through my clients' difficulties with them creates a space to promote healing and growth. I enjoy the challenge of supporting clients as they gain a sense of empowerment. I work with people from all faith backgrounds, and while I do not consider myself to be solely a "Christian counselor", my faith is a large part of my life and I invite clients to lead the role that faith plays in our work together. My work has included supporting people who experience anxiety, depression, poor relationships and life changes.
(585) 492-6045 View (585) 492-6045
Photo of Darrell L Wilt, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Darrell L Wilt
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Harrisburg, PA 17101
Whether it's your marriage, your personal life, or your professional goals, you can be sure that I will help you find solutions to your problems and help you discover how to overcome the challenges in your life. I customize my style to fit yours, so that you have the best opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed. I offer more than a conversation through the use of role-playing and visual technologies, to include marker board illustrations to demonstrate key concepts so that you see what is being discussed in order to improve your understanding.
Whether it's your marriage, your personal life, or your professional goals, you can be sure that I will help you find solutions to your problems and help you discover how to overcome the challenges in your life. I customize my style to fit yours, so that you have the best opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed. I offer more than a conversation through the use of role-playing and visual technologies, to include marker board illustrations to demonstrate key concepts so that you see what is being discussed in order to improve your understanding.
(717) 467-4274 View (717) 467-4274
Photo of Andrea Curtis - Andrea Curtis Counseling, LLC, LPC, MFT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Andrea Curtis Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MFT
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17101
I primarily treat relationship issues, anxiety, depression, and adjustment to various life challenges such as marriage difficulties, divorce, teenage struggles, and parenting support.
We all need a little help sometimes, and I try to create a safe, supportive environment. I am passionate about helping individuals, couples, and families identify the resources, strengths, and resiliency they already have. I work with the client to help find solutions to achieve their true potential.
I primarily treat relationship issues, anxiety, depression, and adjustment to various life challenges such as marriage difficulties, divorce, teenage struggles, and parenting support.
We all need a little help sometimes, and I try to create a safe, supportive environment. I am passionate about helping individuals, couples, and families identify the resources, strengths, and resiliency they already have. I work with the client to help find solutions to achieve their true potential.
(717) 210-5679 View (717) 210-5679
Photo of Lynn Brooks, MS, MFT
Lynn Brooks
MS, MFT
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17112
Specifically, sexual concerns, marital conflicts, divorce, coparenting, children, and various personality and mental health diagnoses.
Is now the time for you? Life is a journey and can be both rewarding and challenging. If you decide to make yourself a priority and come in for therapy, I will provide you with a relaxed, safe environment which nurtures positive growth. I will coach, encourage and support you on your personal process and journey. It is important to focus on your strengths and help empower you with awareness and resources. You matter and there is HOPE for you. Where there is hope, there is healing and new beginnings are ignited.
Specifically, sexual concerns, marital conflicts, divorce, coparenting, children, and various personality and mental health diagnoses.
Is now the time for you? Life is a journey and can be both rewarding and challenging. If you decide to make yourself a priority and come in for therapy, I will provide you with a relaxed, safe environment which nurtures positive growth. I will coach, encourage and support you on your personal process and journey. It is important to focus on your strengths and help empower you with awareness and resources. You matter and there is HOPE for you. Where there is hope, there is healing and new beginnings are ignited.
(717) 516-5032 View (717) 516-5032
Photo of Cliff Weldon, MA, CAADC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cliff Weldon
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, CAADC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrisburg, PA 17102  (Online Only)
I have over 40 years of marital experience.
All life issues offer an opportunity for growth, I base my process of therapy on the therapeutic relationship. No special psychotherapy techniques, my goal for you, is to have a better handle on your current challenge. We incorporate sand trays, an expressive therapy with children or adults to create scenes of miniature worlds that reflect a person's inner thoughts, struggles, and issues.
I have over 40 years of marital experience.
All life issues offer an opportunity for growth, I base my process of therapy on the therapeutic relationship. No special psychotherapy techniques, my goal for you, is to have a better handle on your current challenge. We incorporate sand trays, an expressive therapy with children or adults to create scenes of miniature worlds that reflect a person's inner thoughts, struggles, and issues.
(215) 631-3225 View (215) 631-3225
Photo of Lealar (Lil) Weldon, MA, LPC, RPT-S, CCPT, LPCMH, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lealar (Lil) Weldon
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, RPT-S, CCPT, LPCMH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrisburg, PA 17101  (Online Only)
Is your child experiencing a decline in academics, increased anxiety or struggle with controlling their anger? With over 20 years of experience, I am equipped to handle these challenges and give you the tools to help your child be the best version of themselves. I incorporate sand tray, an expressive therapy with children or adults to create scenes of miniature worlds that reflect a person's inner thoughts, struggles and issues. I assist children & parents by teaching them coping skills, ways to improve their decision making and better navigate their lives. . We work with couples on early marital adjustment and conflict containment
Is your child experiencing a decline in academics, increased anxiety or struggle with controlling their anger? With over 20 years of experience, I am equipped to handle these challenges and give you the tools to help your child be the best version of themselves. I incorporate sand tray, an expressive therapy with children or adults to create scenes of miniature worlds that reflect a person's inner thoughts, struggles and issues. I assist children & parents by teaching them coping skills, ways to improve their decision making and better navigate their lives. . We work with couples on early marital adjustment and conflict containment
(267) 281-1898 View (267) 281-1898
Photo of Chris Weidler - There Is Liberty Counseling Services, MACO, LPC, MDiv, MAFT, Licensed Professional Counselor
There Is Liberty Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, MACO, LPC, MDiv, MAFT
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17111  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with clients who are experiencing: Anxiety & related issues (OCD & phobias); Depressive symptoms (low motivation & lack of purpose); Lifestyle addictions (porn, alcohol, food, etc); Positive disciplines & habit formation; career stress; men's issues; marital stress (communication, infidelity, parenting); pre- marital counseling; social anxiety.
Hello! I am Chris Weidler. My counseling practice is founded on three pillars: Christian faith - clinical counseling skills - libertarian philosophy. My goal is to help you experience the abundant life that Jesus promises, but that often feels elusive. I believe that experiencing God's unconditional love, in an environment free from political and social coercion, combined with some discoveries from the field of psychology is a recipe for healing and flourishing. I enjoy working with individuals (over the age of 18) and couples throughout Pennsylvania who are seeking a Christian therapist who holds no judgement.
I enjoy working with clients who are experiencing: Anxiety & related issues (OCD & phobias); Depressive symptoms (low motivation & lack of purpose); Lifestyle addictions (porn, alcohol, food, etc); Positive disciplines & habit formation; career stress; men's issues; marital stress (communication, infidelity, parenting); pre- marital counseling; social anxiety.
Hello! I am Chris Weidler. My counseling practice is founded on three pillars: Christian faith - clinical counseling skills - libertarian philosophy. My goal is to help you experience the abundant life that Jesus promises, but that often feels elusive. I believe that experiencing God's unconditional love, in an environment free from political and social coercion, combined with some discoveries from the field of psychology is a recipe for healing and flourishing. I enjoy working with individuals (over the age of 18) and couples throughout Pennsylvania who are seeking a Christian therapist who holds no judgement.
(717) 973-8412 View (717) 973-8412
Photo of Christian Counseling Associates Of Central Pennsylvania, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christian Counseling Associates Of Central Pennsylvania
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17101
Christian Counseling Associates (CCA) provides individual, marriage, and family counseling. We serve Christians who want their faith integrated into the counseling process and those holding any beliefs or attitudes toward spirituality. Our counselors will help you identify the core issues that have caused your emotional and personal problems and immediately develop strategies to resolve these issues. CCA is able to provide a full range of clinical services. Please visit our website for a complete description of our faith based counseling services, locations, and counseling staff.
Christian Counseling Associates (CCA) provides individual, marriage, and family counseling. We serve Christians who want their faith integrated into the counseling process and those holding any beliefs or attitudes toward spirituality. Our counselors will help you identify the core issues that have caused your emotional and personal problems and immediately develop strategies to resolve these issues. CCA is able to provide a full range of clinical services. Please visit our website for a complete description of our faith based counseling services, locations, and counseling staff.
(717) 535-8046 View (717) 535-8046
Photo of Dr. L. Wayne Kenney, MHS, LPC, CAADC, EAPS, PhD, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. L. Wayne Kenney
Licensed Professional Counselor, MHS, LPC, CAADC, EAPS, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrisburg, PA 17105
Hello everyone I am accepting new virtual patients in Pennsylvania. I am here to help you overcome personal issues and life challenges. I am a psychotherapist, who specializes in working with adults, children and adolescents who suffer from mood disorders, trauma, and disruptive behavioral disorders. I also work with young/older adults struggling with marital issues, grief & loss or life transitions. I strive to help clients realize and actualize their strengths in their life, marriage, home environments and in their relationships. I am a veteran, author, lecturer, consultant, and founder of Next Level Therapy LLC.
Hello everyone I am accepting new virtual patients in Pennsylvania. I am here to help you overcome personal issues and life challenges. I am a psychotherapist, who specializes in working with adults, children and adolescents who suffer from mood disorders, trauma, and disruptive behavioral disorders. I also work with young/older adults struggling with marital issues, grief & loss or life transitions. I strive to help clients realize and actualize their strengths in their life, marriage, home environments and in their relationships. I am a veteran, author, lecturer, consultant, and founder of Next Level Therapy LLC.
(215) 608-2408 View (215) 608-2408
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.