Marriage Counseling Therapists in Chester County, SC

Photo of Lucy Bedenbaugh - Lucy Bedenbaugh, LPC, LLC, MEd, LPC, NCC, BC-TMH, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lucy Bedenbaugh, LPC, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chester, SC 29706
Each client is unique with their own journey and experiences to share. By providing a safe and nonjudgmental environment, I can work with you on treating any stress that you may be experiencing. I enjoy working with a diverse population of clients. My areas of focus are, but not limited to, anxiety, depression, stress management, relationship issues, and grief/loss.
Each client is unique with their own journey and experiences to share. By providing a safe and nonjudgmental environment, I can work with you on treating any stress that you may be experiencing. I enjoy working with a diverse population of clients. My areas of focus are, but not limited to, anxiety, depression, stress management, relationship issues, and grief/loss.
(803) 350-9165 View (803) 350-9165
Photo of Laura Borell, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Laura Borell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Edgemoor, SC 29712
Laura Borell is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 10 years of experience in the mental health field. Laura offers a compassionate, non-judgmental, and strengths-focused approach in her work. Laura completed both her Bachelor's degree (BA) in Psychology and her Master's degree in Education at Winthrop University and is currently working on her Ph.D. in Counseling Supervision and Education. She is trained in dialectical behavior therapy (DBT).
Laura Borell is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 10 years of experience in the mental health field. Laura offers a compassionate, non-judgmental, and strengths-focused approach in her work. Laura completed both her Bachelor's degree (BA) in Psychology and her Master's degree in Education at Winthrop University and is currently working on her Ph.D. in Counseling Supervision and Education. She is trained in dialectical behavior therapy (DBT).
(803) 882-3948 View (803) 882-3948
Photo of Riketa T Williams, LMFT/A, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Riketa T Williams
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFT/A
Verified Verified
Chester, SC 29706  (Online Only)
One of the biggest lies ever told is sticks and stones may break my bones but words will never hurt me! As humans we experience pain in different ways, and we often give priority to physical pain while ignoring emotional and/or mental pain. Let's change that!
One of the biggest lies ever told is sticks and stones may break my bones but words will never hurt me! As humans we experience pain in different ways, and we often give priority to physical pain while ignoring emotional and/or mental pain. Let's change that!
(803) 291-5616 View (803) 291-5616

Online Therapists

Photo of Joann Ezra Gavalda, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Joann Ezra Gavalda
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
Anderson, SC 29621
MA in Human Services with specialization in Marriage and Family Counseling.
At certain points in life, we all need support. Change is possible! As long as there is life, there is hope! Whether faced with a disappoint, daily stress, relationship conflict, addictive behavior, past trauma, or depression and anxiety, we all need help at times. Within the safety of a therapeutic relationship, I will be happy to join in your journey to help restore purpose, peace and balance to your life; to help you find strength to overcome challenges. I'm here to listen, to understand and to offer my professional knowledge, skills, and passion for life to YOU! It would be my privilege to help you find the solutions you seek.
MA in Human Services with specialization in Marriage and Family Counseling.
At certain points in life, we all need support. Change is possible! As long as there is life, there is hope! Whether faced with a disappoint, daily stress, relationship conflict, addictive behavior, past trauma, or depression and anxiety, we all need help at times. Within the safety of a therapeutic relationship, I will be happy to join in your journey to help restore purpose, peace and balance to your life; to help you find strength to overcome challenges. I'm here to listen, to understand and to offer my professional knowledge, skills, and passion for life to YOU! It would be my privilege to help you find the solutions you seek.
(864) 252-1474 View (864) 252-1474
Photo of Deborah Jean Armstrong, PhD ,  LMFT-S, RPT-S, REAT, REACE, Marriage & Family Therapist
Deborah Jean Armstrong
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD , LMFT-S, RPT-S, REAT, REACE
Verified Verified
Greenville, SC 29615
I have been practicing as a Marriage and Family Therapist for over thirty years. I view therapy as work that is collaborative, certain that each person can grow a life that is satisfying and meaningful. I likewise appreciate accompanying my clients as they move through the challenges that life presents all of us with into not just solutions, but into lives that are inspired by what is authentic, creative, and nourished by relationships that are informed by reciprocity.
I have been practicing as a Marriage and Family Therapist for over thirty years. I view therapy as work that is collaborative, certain that each person can grow a life that is satisfying and meaningful. I likewise appreciate accompanying my clients as they move through the challenges that life presents all of us with into not just solutions, but into lives that are inspired by what is authentic, creative, and nourished by relationships that are informed by reciprocity.
(864) 593-2752 View (864) 593-2752
Photo of Suntia Smith, MSW, LISW-CP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Suntia Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
Greenville, SC 29615
Whether you’re dealing with low self confidence, relationship challenges, navigating a difficult transition in your life, or struggling to heal past traumas, you don’t have to face your problems alone. I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker & Couples Therapist who works with teens, individuals and couples who want to create better lives and healthier relationships. Not only do I offer 1:1 therapy and marriage counseling, but I also offer virtual relationship coaching and HIPAA compliant tele-mental health services, so you can get the support you need from the comfort of your own home. No office visit required!
Whether you’re dealing with low self confidence, relationship challenges, navigating a difficult transition in your life, or struggling to heal past traumas, you don’t have to face your problems alone. I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker & Couples Therapist who works with teens, individuals and couples who want to create better lives and healthier relationships. Not only do I offer 1:1 therapy and marriage counseling, but I also offer virtual relationship coaching and HIPAA compliant tele-mental health services, so you can get the support you need from the comfort of your own home. No office visit required!
(864) 674-1726 View (864) 674-1726
Photo of Brown Dunlap, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brown Dunlap
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Greenville, SC 29601
Specialties include: marital difficulties, anxiety & depression, college students, adolescents, grief, trauma, life adjustment issues, stress management, addiction, and men’s issues.
Thanks for checking out my profile! I'd be happy to talk with you about how therapy might be helpful to you. To learn more about me, please read my bio found on the Greenville Counseling Associates website. www.greenvillecounseling.com/brown-dunlap
Specialties include: marital difficulties, anxiety & depression, college students, adolescents, grief, trauma, life adjustment issues, stress management, addiction, and men’s issues.
Thanks for checking out my profile! I'd be happy to talk with you about how therapy might be helpful to you. To learn more about me, please read my bio found on the Greenville Counseling Associates website. www.greenvillecounseling.com/brown-dunlap
(864) 756-8336 x709 View (864) 756-8336 x709
Photo of Townsend Smith - Columbia Counseling & Therapy, LPC, MASC
Columbia Counseling & Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPC, MASC
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29201
I specialize in Life Transitions & Adjustments, Marriage & Couples Counseling, Anxiety, Stress Management, Depression, Mood Disorders, Intimacy, Inadequacy, Trauma Management (PTSD), Self-Exploration & Identity, Addiction Recovery (substance, behavior, sexual, technology), and Men’s Issues.
I have over 12 years of successful experience helping individuals and couples understand and change the thoughts, patterns, behaviors and situations causing distress, frustration, and emotional pain. I work to help you understand, define, and make a reality of what it means to live your happy life. I am committed to giving you the tools that empower you to become whatever you aspire to be – now and in the long-term future. I strive to provide a comfortable and non-judgmental environment where you feel safe talking about the things that are most difficult to discuss. I’m available for clients of all ages, genders, and orientations.
I specialize in Life Transitions & Adjustments, Marriage & Couples Counseling, Anxiety, Stress Management, Depression, Mood Disorders, Intimacy, Inadequacy, Trauma Management (PTSD), Self-Exploration & Identity, Addiction Recovery (substance, behavior, sexual, technology), and Men’s Issues.
I have over 12 years of successful experience helping individuals and couples understand and change the thoughts, patterns, behaviors and situations causing distress, frustration, and emotional pain. I work to help you understand, define, and make a reality of what it means to live your happy life. I am committed to giving you the tools that empower you to become whatever you aspire to be – now and in the long-term future. I strive to provide a comfortable and non-judgmental environment where you feel safe talking about the things that are most difficult to discuss. I’m available for clients of all ages, genders, and orientations.
(803) 590-9705 View (803) 590-9705
Photo of Jeffrey D Edwards, PhD, LISW-CP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jeffrey D Edwards
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
Spartanburg, SC 29302
We all face challenges and crises in our lives and sometimes they can be too much to handle alone. Whether it is a specific event or a chronic illness, I think by facilitating emotional resilience I can help you overcome those challenges and life stressors. From marriage/intimacy, addiction and substance abuse, adolescent behavioral and mental health issues, trauma and other adverse childhood experiences - there are not many issues I have not encountered. I believe we all possess the ability to make positive, sustainable change and I take pride in working together, along side you to find a harmonious balance in your life.
We all face challenges and crises in our lives and sometimes they can be too much to handle alone. Whether it is a specific event or a chronic illness, I think by facilitating emotional resilience I can help you overcome those challenges and life stressors. From marriage/intimacy, addiction and substance abuse, adolescent behavioral and mental health issues, trauma and other adverse childhood experiences - there are not many issues I have not encountered. I believe we all possess the ability to make positive, sustainable change and I take pride in working together, along side you to find a harmonious balance in your life.
(864) 428-9523 View (864) 428-9523
Photo of Catherine M Mishoe, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Catherine M Mishoe
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29203  (Online Only)
I am also a Certified Prepare / Enrich Marital Counseling/Facilitator.
My focus is on helping you and/or your family reach your goals and helping you see obstacles as stepping stones that can be conquered. My approach to therapy is based on the idea that our thoughts cause our feelings and behaviors. If your life is not going the way you want it to or you are going through a particularly stressful situation, please contact me. I am ready, willing and able to help you.
I am also a Certified Prepare / Enrich Marital Counseling/Facilitator.
My focus is on helping you and/or your family reach your goals and helping you see obstacles as stepping stones that can be conquered. My approach to therapy is based on the idea that our thoughts cause our feelings and behaviors. If your life is not going the way you want it to or you are going through a particularly stressful situation, please contact me. I am ready, willing and able to help you.
(843) 606-1575 View (843) 606-1575
Photo of Gene E Wagstaff
Gene E Wagstaff
Verified Verified
Greenville, SC 29617
In marriage the most often presented issues is two people who love each other who do not feel loved by each other and because of hurts and wounds are no longer to communicate with each other without it turning into an argument and therefore you live in silence or anger.
We are a counseling center with a team of both male and female counselors who can help you if you are suffering from depression, anger, OCD or addictions. We reconcile marriages that are headed towards divorce by: (1) Teaching husbands and wives how to communicate with each other without it leading to the same old argument. (2). Healing the hurts and wounds from the past that lead to the same old arguments. (3). Teaching husbands and wives how to love and meet each other's needs (to feel loved by each other). Visit our website at WOGCounseling.org for further understanding
In marriage the most often presented issues is two people who love each other who do not feel loved by each other and because of hurts and wounds are no longer to communicate with each other without it turning into an argument and therefore you live in silence or anger.
We are a counseling center with a team of both male and female counselors who can help you if you are suffering from depression, anger, OCD or addictions. We reconcile marriages that are headed towards divorce by: (1) Teaching husbands and wives how to communicate with each other without it leading to the same old argument. (2). Healing the hurts and wounds from the past that lead to the same old arguments. (3). Teaching husbands and wives how to love and meet each other's needs (to feel loved by each other). Visit our website at WOGCounseling.org for further understanding
(864) 606-3099 View (864) 606-3099
Photo of Rich Schlauch - Palmetto Counseling & Consulting Services, LLC, MSW, LISW-CP, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Palmetto Counseling & Consulting Services, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-CP, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rock Hill, SC 29732
An award-winning counseling practice that provides individual, family, couples / marital therapy & group counseling in Rock Hill, SC / Fort Mill, SC area.
Palmetto Counseling is an established outpatient behavioral healthcare clinic with two locations — Rock Hill, SC, and Fort Mill, SC, both less than 30 miles from downtown Charlotte, NC. Opening in 2008, we are one of the largest mental health practices committed to offering the highest quality, accessible care, catered to all individuals across our widespread community. To schedule appointment Call 803-329-9639. tion.
An award-winning counseling practice that provides individual, family, couples / marital therapy & group counseling in Rock Hill, SC / Fort Mill, SC area.
Palmetto Counseling is an established outpatient behavioral healthcare clinic with two locations — Rock Hill, SC, and Fort Mill, SC, both less than 30 miles from downtown Charlotte, NC. Opening in 2008, we are one of the largest mental health practices committed to offering the highest quality, accessible care, catered to all individuals across our widespread community. To schedule appointment Call 803-329-9639. tion.
(803) 666-8150 View (803) 666-8150
Photo of Shenna Ganzy- Supervison, MA, LPCS, HPT, LAC, CIMHP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shenna Ganzy- Supervison
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCS, HPT, LAC, CIMHP
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29204
As the CEO and Founder of She's Counseling, I understand people suffer from a wide variety of self-destructive behaviors. I am committed to working with individuals with emotional struggles whether by hair loss due to Trichotillomania, Marital issues, LGBTQ+ challenges, or mood disorders, I understand each person is unique with unique treatment needs. At She's Counseling, my mission is to find what works best for each individual. Im equipped to dig deeper by drawing labs and working with you holistically as your Board Certified Integrative Mental Health Practitioner.
As the CEO and Founder of She's Counseling, I understand people suffer from a wide variety of self-destructive behaviors. I am committed to working with individuals with emotional struggles whether by hair loss due to Trichotillomania, Marital issues, LGBTQ+ challenges, or mood disorders, I understand each person is unique with unique treatment needs. At She's Counseling, my mission is to find what works best for each individual. Im equipped to dig deeper by drawing labs and working with you holistically as your Board Certified Integrative Mental Health Practitioner.
(803) 546-3896 View (803) 546-3896
Photo of Lisa Leidy - The Mind and Body Consortium , LMFT, CAADC, LCSW, LPCMH, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
The Mind and Body Consortium
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMFT, CAADC, LCSW, LPCMH, CADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29201
The Mind and Body Consortium was established out of a passion to deliver premium professional mental health services to children and families in Delaware. Our goal is to improve social conditions by offering quality treatment and therapy to a broad based population seeking psycho-education, self fulfillment, self-actualization, life coaching, individualized counseling, couples/marriage and family counseling. We provide a range of psychiatric and psychological services to effectively meet the needs and enhance the quality of life of those within our communities who seek individual or family therapeutic intervention.
The Mind and Body Consortium was established out of a passion to deliver premium professional mental health services to children and families in Delaware. Our goal is to improve social conditions by offering quality treatment and therapy to a broad based population seeking psycho-education, self fulfillment, self-actualization, life coaching, individualized counseling, couples/marriage and family counseling. We provide a range of psychiatric and psychological services to effectively meet the needs and enhance the quality of life of those within our communities who seek individual or family therapeutic intervention.
(302) 279-2692 View (302) 279-2692
Photo of Lisa Mustard, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lisa Mustard
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29205
With over 15 years of experience as a licensed marriage and family therapist, I specialize in supporting professionals, entrepreneurs, and high-profile individuals like musicians, artists, and politicians who seek both success and balance.
People see you as a high achiever, someone who’s dedicated, dependable, and always delivers. You expect excellence from others, but your expectations for yourself are even higher. You’ve surmounted nearly every challenge you’ve faced and accomplished impressive feats along the way. On the surface, your life looks perfect. You appear to have financial stability, and a loving family to return to every night… Yet, inside, you feel a void. Unfulfilled. Drained. Achieving a work-life balance seems impossible when you’re constantly in the public eye, making it feel like you’re always falling short somewhere.
With over 15 years of experience as a licensed marriage and family therapist, I specialize in supporting professionals, entrepreneurs, and high-profile individuals like musicians, artists, and politicians who seek both success and balance.
People see you as a high achiever, someone who’s dedicated, dependable, and always delivers. You expect excellence from others, but your expectations for yourself are even higher. You’ve surmounted nearly every challenge you’ve faced and accomplished impressive feats along the way. On the surface, your life looks perfect. You appear to have financial stability, and a loving family to return to every night… Yet, inside, you feel a void. Unfulfilled. Drained. Achieving a work-life balance seems impossible when you’re constantly in the public eye, making it feel like you’re always falling short somewhere.
(803) 855-1802 View (803) 855-1802
Photo of Sean Dolan, PhD
Sean Dolan
PhD
Verified Verified
Greer, SC 29650
You want to be happy. That's what you're searching for. That's why you're here. It's that simple. And there is absolutely nothing wrong with that. In fact, it's what we're ALL searching for. The only difference between you and some people is that YOU are actively trying to pursue happiness...you're not just waiting around wishing for it to happen. Whether your goal is to be happier in your marriage or other relationship, happier in your career, or simply happier in general, I've developed a unique solution to help you effectively cultivate a habit of happiness and success.
You want to be happy. That's what you're searching for. That's why you're here. It's that simple. And there is absolutely nothing wrong with that. In fact, it's what we're ALL searching for. The only difference between you and some people is that YOU are actively trying to pursue happiness...you're not just waiting around wishing for it to happen. Whether your goal is to be happier in your marriage or other relationship, happier in your career, or simply happier in general, I've developed a unique solution to help you effectively cultivate a habit of happiness and success.
(864) 662-6062 View (864) 662-6062
Photo of Terri Brown - Firm Foundations Counseling and Consulting, LLC, MA, MEd, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Firm Foundations Counseling and Consulting, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Greenville, SC 29601
However, we also assist clients who are experiencing marital issues, relationship conflict, anger, substance use, past trauma, grief & loss, and more!.
Firm Foundations, LLC is happy to serve your mental wellness needs. We provide quality counseling services in-person at our Duluth GA office and virtually via our safe and secure, HIPAA compliant online platform. Clients can participate in counseling from the comfort of their own home or office! Our services are based on core Christian values. We are committed to serving our clients with integrity, honesty and genuine care. Don't suffer in silence and don't go it alone. Call 864-686-8850 to schedule your session, or visit our website at www.firmfoundationllc.org. We can't wait to meet you!
However, we also assist clients who are experiencing marital issues, relationship conflict, anger, substance use, past trauma, grief & loss, and more!.
Firm Foundations, LLC is happy to serve your mental wellness needs. We provide quality counseling services in-person at our Duluth GA office and virtually via our safe and secure, HIPAA compliant online platform. Clients can participate in counseling from the comfort of their own home or office! Our services are based on core Christian values. We are committed to serving our clients with integrity, honesty and genuine care. Don't suffer in silence and don't go it alone. Call 864-686-8850 to schedule your session, or visit our website at www.firmfoundationllc.org. We can't wait to meet you!
(470) 616-5342 View (470) 616-5342
Photo of Tinesha Lashawn Croom, MS, BA, GCDF, Pre-Licensed Professional
Tinesha Lashawn Croom
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, BA, GCDF
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Irmo, SC 29063  (Online Only)
Anxiety Depression Trauma Stress Relationship Distress Marital/Couples Counseling Child Therapist (ages 5-12) Teen/Adolescent Therapist (ages 13-17) Academic/School difficulties Grief and loss Self-Esteem Life Adjustments (ex: transitions or big changes) BIPOC.
Tinesha recognizes the profound impact that seeking therapy can have on one’s healing journey. Her goal is to cultivate a safe, empathetic, and culturally sensitive space where clients feel empowered to explore their mental health and life challenges without fear of judgment. Drawing from an integrative, trauma-informed approach, Tinesha utilizes a combination of person-centered, cognitive behavioral, and family systems therapy techniques. She offers support to individuals, children, couples, and families as they navigate their unique paths toward growth and healing.
Anxiety Depression Trauma Stress Relationship Distress Marital/Couples Counseling Child Therapist (ages 5-12) Teen/Adolescent Therapist (ages 13-17) Academic/School difficulties Grief and loss Self-Esteem Life Adjustments (ex: transitions or big changes) BIPOC.
Tinesha recognizes the profound impact that seeking therapy can have on one’s healing journey. Her goal is to cultivate a safe, empathetic, and culturally sensitive space where clients feel empowered to explore their mental health and life challenges without fear of judgment. Drawing from an integrative, trauma-informed approach, Tinesha utilizes a combination of person-centered, cognitive behavioral, and family systems therapy techniques. She offers support to individuals, children, couples, and families as they navigate their unique paths toward growth and healing.
(803) 353-1956 View (803) 353-1956
Photo of Shelley McGeorge, PhD, LPC, LMFT, LPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shelley McGeorge
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, LMFT, LPCS
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29201
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I work from a systems perspective.
Whether you are experiencing stress from your own problems, from your family and friends or in the workplace, I am interested in helping you sort through and understand your concerns, help you develop new skills to solve these difficulties, and then to try out these solutions until the intensity of your concerns feels less worrisome.
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I work from a systems perspective.
Whether you are experiencing stress from your own problems, from your family and friends or in the workplace, I am interested in helping you sort through and understand your concerns, help you develop new skills to solve these difficulties, and then to try out these solutions until the intensity of your concerns feels less worrisome.
(803) 393-4217 View (803) 393-4217
Photo of Claudia Graf, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Claudia Graf
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Lexington, SC 29072
Life can be hard! Are you feeling weighed down by depression, crippled by anxiety, overwhelmed by stress? Are you doubting yourself and struggle with low self-esteem? Have you lost someone you love? Are you wondering if the person you are dating is a good match for you and how to build a healthy dating relationship? Do you feel helpless, seeing your marriage slowly falling apart? Do you struggle with the negative impacts your sex addiction has on your life and relationships? Have you been betrayed by the person you love the most? Even though life can be difficult, you do not have to face it alone.
Life can be hard! Are you feeling weighed down by depression, crippled by anxiety, overwhelmed by stress? Are you doubting yourself and struggle with low self-esteem? Have you lost someone you love? Are you wondering if the person you are dating is a good match for you and how to build a healthy dating relationship? Do you feel helpless, seeing your marriage slowly falling apart? Do you struggle with the negative impacts your sex addiction has on your life and relationships? Have you been betrayed by the person you love the most? Even though life can be difficult, you do not have to face it alone.
(803) 594-4596 View (803) 594-4596

See more therapy options for Chester County

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.