Marriage Counseling Therapists in Dekalb County, TN

Photo of Ronald J Lee, MMFT, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ronald J Lee
Marriage & Family Therapist, MMFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
Smithville, TN 37166
I have a Masters degree in Marriage and Family Therapy, which does not limit me to working only with couples and families, but helps me to be able to better assess how those around a person, their "system", impacts his/her situation and functioning.
As a Christian and a professional I endeavor to provide professional counseling within a Christian worldview. As a therapist I try to be a good listener as well as someone who helps to clarify and provide input. I have been trained in a variety of counseling approaches but find that having a caring attitude and listening ear is beneficial to my clients.
I have a Masters degree in Marriage and Family Therapy, which does not limit me to working only with couples and families, but helps me to be able to better assess how those around a person, their "system", impacts his/her situation and functioning.
As a Christian and a professional I endeavor to provide professional counseling within a Christian worldview. As a therapist I try to be a good listener as well as someone who helps to clarify and provide input. I have been trained in a variety of counseling approaches but find that having a caring attitude and listening ear is beneficial to my clients.
(931) 536-1292 View (931) 536-1292
Photo of Mark Clinton Pafford - Authentic Being Counseling Services, LPCMHSP, MDiv, Licensed Professional Counselor
Authentic Being Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMHSP, MDiv
Verified Verified
Smithville, TN 37166
At whatever stage we find ourselves in life, we are challenged by unexpected events, perceived emotional limitations, as well as trauma or fear. Even so, we have the potential to overcome these challenges and progress as authentic beings, embracing our self and our relationships.
At whatever stage we find ourselves in life, we are challenged by unexpected events, perceived emotional limitations, as well as trauma or fear. Even so, we have the potential to overcome these challenges and progress as authentic beings, embracing our self and our relationships.
(931) 236-2262 View (931) 236-2262

Online Therapists

Photo of Brianna Westphalen, MS, MFT-I, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Brianna Westphalen
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MS, MFT-I
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37408
If you are looking for restoration in your marriage or other significant relationships, ways to cope with anxiety, a sense of direction in life, a better sense of your authentic self and your values, or ways to heal from wounds of the past, please reach out through email for a free phone consultation! This is a brave step.
Are you experiencing stressors in your life that are overwhelming and don’t know where to turn for support? We all reach a point in life where we feel stuck and lost, especially when the relationships around us are painful or when unexpected change happens. I believe that everything you are experiencing makes sense in your holistic context, but this does not have to be the end of your story. I am passionate about helping children, adolescents, and adult individuals, couples in all stages of life, and families seeking help with life transitions, grief, trauma, identity issues, and relational conflict.
If you are looking for restoration in your marriage or other significant relationships, ways to cope with anxiety, a sense of direction in life, a better sense of your authentic self and your values, or ways to heal from wounds of the past, please reach out through email for a free phone consultation! This is a brave step.
Are you experiencing stressors in your life that are overwhelming and don’t know where to turn for support? We all reach a point in life where we feel stuck and lost, especially when the relationships around us are painful or when unexpected change happens. I believe that everything you are experiencing makes sense in your holistic context, but this does not have to be the end of your story. I am passionate about helping children, adolescents, and adult individuals, couples in all stages of life, and families seeking help with life transitions, grief, trauma, identity issues, and relational conflict.
(423) 456-9479 View (423) 456-9479
Photo of Naomi Boothe, LPC, LPCMHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Naomi Boothe
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LPCMHSP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37405
I have additional training and experience with trauma, addiction and recovery, marriage and family therapy, domestic violence, anxiety, depression, mood regulation.
I acknowledge and respect the effort it takes to reach out for help. The strength it takes to say "enough!, I'm sick and tired of being sick and tired". The courage it takes to choose towards something more, something better, than where you are at right now. Thank you for being here! What if every wrongness was a strength not yet acknowledged? You are stronger than you think and worth so much more than you can imagine. The fact that you are reading this right now is proof of that!
I have additional training and experience with trauma, addiction and recovery, marriage and family therapy, domestic violence, anxiety, depression, mood regulation.
I acknowledge and respect the effort it takes to reach out for help. The strength it takes to say "enough!, I'm sick and tired of being sick and tired". The courage it takes to choose towards something more, something better, than where you are at right now. Thank you for being here! What if every wrongness was a strength not yet acknowledged? You are stronger than you think and worth so much more than you can imagine. The fact that you are reading this right now is proof of that!
(423) 218-4314 View (423) 218-4314
Photo of Jon Nemcek, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jon Nemcek
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37203
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist at The Briggs Institute, Inc. The therapists at the Institute are graduates of Lipscomb University's Master of Marriage and Family Therapy Program. As the only COAMFTE accredited program in Nashville, the Lipscomb MFT program has earned its fine reputation by meeting the highest academic and clinical experience standards in the country. Because we practice under the supervision of the Lipscomb MFT program core faculty, we remain connected to academia. This means our work is informed by state-of-the-art scientific research that most private practice therapists can't easily access.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist at The Briggs Institute, Inc. The therapists at the Institute are graduates of Lipscomb University's Master of Marriage and Family Therapy Program. As the only COAMFTE accredited program in Nashville, the Lipscomb MFT program has earned its fine reputation by meeting the highest academic and clinical experience standards in the country. Because we practice under the supervision of the Lipscomb MFT program core faculty, we remain connected to academia. This means our work is informed by state-of-the-art scientific research that most private practice therapists can't easily access.
(615) 205-0423 View (615) 205-0423
Photo of Joy Reeves Samuels, DMin, LPCMHSP, FT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Joy Reeves Samuels
Licensed Professional Counselor, DMin, LPCMHSP, FT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Franklin, TN 37064  (Online Only)
It can be the loss of a dream, a marriage, a future expectation of what we planned, saved, and hoped for.
It’s a common human experience: difficult times, rough waters, confusing turns in life. Sometimes these events last longer, and are deeper, than you expected. You don’t have to have it all figured out to move forward. Listening can help, talking about it can help, and having someone be a part of these conversations can help. Crafting moments of deep calm from deep loss. Exploring grounding values as guiding principles for difficult decisions and honoring your journey to date as you create your next chapter. I can help you with these conversations.
It can be the loss of a dream, a marriage, a future expectation of what we planned, saved, and hoped for.
It’s a common human experience: difficult times, rough waters, confusing turns in life. Sometimes these events last longer, and are deeper, than you expected. You don’t have to have it all figured out to move forward. Listening can help, talking about it can help, and having someone be a part of these conversations can help. Crafting moments of deep calm from deep loss. Exploring grounding values as guiding principles for difficult decisions and honoring your journey to date as you create your next chapter. I can help you with these conversations.
(615) 640-3794 View (615) 640-3794
Photo of Connie Taylor, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Connie Taylor
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Franklin, TN 37064
I work with a wide range of populations from individuals, families, parents, premarital, ADHD, autism/Asperger's, giftedness, twice-exceptional (2e) & beyond. As a licensed marriage & family therapist, I believe in therapy for the whole person to include mind, body, spirit. We are all made for connection - to ourselves & to others. When we open ourselves to another person, we trust that person with our most vulnerable self. My goal is to provide that safe place. As you find safety in nurturing the essence of who you are, you will discover that growth begins. With that growth, comes healing within yourself & your relationships
I work with a wide range of populations from individuals, families, parents, premarital, ADHD, autism/Asperger's, giftedness, twice-exceptional (2e) & beyond. As a licensed marriage & family therapist, I believe in therapy for the whole person to include mind, body, spirit. We are all made for connection - to ourselves & to others. When we open ourselves to another person, we trust that person with our most vulnerable self. My goal is to provide that safe place. As you find safety in nurturing the essence of who you are, you will discover that growth begins. With that growth, comes healing within yourself & your relationships
(615) 492-8957 View (615) 492-8957
Photo of Rob Wheeler, MAC, MDiv, LPC, MHSP, (temp), Licensed Professional Counselor
Rob Wheeler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAC, MDiv, LPC, MHSP, (temp)
Verified Verified
Brentwood, TN 37027
It's through my experiences, including my own individual and marriage counseling, that I've found many of my resources and orientation toward others.
Have you been wounded? Many wounds occurred through relationships, and it is through relationship where they can be restored. Though not easy, many of those I work with begin to take risks, experience more meaningful relationships, and even a greater sense of joy in life. Real change is possible and I'd love to walk that path with you.
It's through my experiences, including my own individual and marriage counseling, that I've found many of my resources and orientation toward others.
Have you been wounded? Many wounds occurred through relationships, and it is through relationship where they can be restored. Though not easy, many of those I work with begin to take risks, experience more meaningful relationships, and even a greater sense of joy in life. Real change is possible and I'd love to walk that path with you.
(629) 201-7316 View (629) 201-7316
Photo of Serenity Counseling - Serenity Counseling & Mediation Center, Marriage & Family Therapist
Serenity Counseling & Mediation Center
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Gallatin, TN 37066
Reunification Specialist, Supervised Visitation, High Conflict Divorce Solutions, Divorce Mediation, Parenting Plan Modifications, Weekend Marriage Intensives and much more.
Serenity Counseling & Mediation Center is an Elite Integrative Private Practice in Gallatin, TN and Virtual service. Serenity Offers Message Therapy, YOGA, Meditation Classes and much more for holistic healing. We are accepting new clients with insurance for only a few of our counselors and self pay. We are Conflict Resolution Specialist for Family Law/Juvinile/Criminal Courts and Reunification Specialist helping families find solutions. Our providers for COURT matters DO NOT accept insurance. If you find a counselor you like and they do NOT accept insurance we do provide a superbill for reimbursement and also have interns.
Reunification Specialist, Supervised Visitation, High Conflict Divorce Solutions, Divorce Mediation, Parenting Plan Modifications, Weekend Marriage Intensives and much more.
Serenity Counseling & Mediation Center is an Elite Integrative Private Practice in Gallatin, TN and Virtual service. Serenity Offers Message Therapy, YOGA, Meditation Classes and much more for holistic healing. We are accepting new clients with insurance for only a few of our counselors and self pay. We are Conflict Resolution Specialist for Family Law/Juvinile/Criminal Courts and Reunification Specialist helping families find solutions. Our providers for COURT matters DO NOT accept insurance. If you find a counselor you like and they do NOT accept insurance we do provide a superbill for reimbursement and also have interns.
(615) 551-5281 View (615) 551-5281
Photo of Justin W Forgette, LPC , MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Justin W Forgette
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC , MHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ooltewah, TN 37363  (Online Only)
Hello, I am a Christian Licensed Professional Counselor based in Tennessee. As a husband and father, I bring over 14 years of experience, mainly in an Intensive Outpatient Program setting. My expertise includes working with adolescents and adults battling co-occurring disorders. In my individual practice I enjoy helping individuals with Men's issues, marital struggles, ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, and Self-esteem. Additionally, I provide supervision to pre-licensed counselors in Tennessee. I currently have openings within the next 2-5 days.
Hello, I am a Christian Licensed Professional Counselor based in Tennessee. As a husband and father, I bring over 14 years of experience, mainly in an Intensive Outpatient Program setting. My expertise includes working with adolescents and adults battling co-occurring disorders. In my individual practice I enjoy helping individuals with Men's issues, marital struggles, ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, and Self-esteem. Additionally, I provide supervision to pre-licensed counselors in Tennessee. I currently have openings within the next 2-5 days.
(423) 512-3014 View (423) 512-3014
Photo of Susan Hyatt-Birnholz, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Susan Hyatt-Birnholz
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brentwood, TN 37027
Sometimes life gives you more than you can manage and you need someone to talk to who can really listen without judgement, can empathize and give you the right tools to help you work your way through a crisis. I want to be that person for you. Whether you are going through a personal crisis, divorce/marital problems, you're single in dead-end relationships, you're a caregiver to a special needs child or dying elderly parent or you are a band or musician needing career counseling - we will walk through your journey together and create a healthier you.
Sometimes life gives you more than you can manage and you need someone to talk to who can really listen without judgement, can empathize and give you the right tools to help you work your way through a crisis. I want to be that person for you. Whether you are going through a personal crisis, divorce/marital problems, you're single in dead-end relationships, you're a caregiver to a special needs child or dying elderly parent or you are a band or musician needing career counseling - we will walk through your journey together and create a healthier you.
(615) 667-8218 View (615) 667-8218
Photo of Lexie Holcomb, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lexie Holcomb
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37203
This private practice is unlike most others. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist at The Briggs Institute, Inc. The therapists at the Institute are graduates of Lipscomb University's Master of Marriage and Family Therapy Program. As the only COAMFTE accredited program in Nashville, the Lipscomb MFT program has earned its reputation by meeting the highest academic and clinical experience standards in the country. Because we practice under the supervision of the Lipscomb MFT program faculty, we remain connected to academia. This means our work is informed by state-of-the-art research.
This private practice is unlike most others. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist at The Briggs Institute, Inc. The therapists at the Institute are graduates of Lipscomb University's Master of Marriage and Family Therapy Program. As the only COAMFTE accredited program in Nashville, the Lipscomb MFT program has earned its reputation by meeting the highest academic and clinical experience standards in the country. Because we practice under the supervision of the Lipscomb MFT program faculty, we remain connected to academia. This means our work is informed by state-of-the-art research.
(615) 247-6345 View (615) 247-6345
Photo of Brooke Douglas, MFT-I, Pre-Licensed Professional
Brooke Douglas
Pre-Licensed Professional, MFT-I
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37408
When working with premarital couples my hope is to equip you with the skills to communicate, talk about difficult topics and to help you build the foundation for a life giving marriage.
Whether you feel stuck or just need support in learning to communicate with one another, I am here for you. My goal is to offer a safe comforting space free of the fear of judgement and rejection for you or your family to explore what healing looks like for you. My passion is walking along side teens ages 12-18, their families, and couples. I offer help with those struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, substance abuse, ADHD, grief, adoption, and more. As a therapist I have experience working with adolescents, families, and premarital couples counseling!
When working with premarital couples my hope is to equip you with the skills to communicate, talk about difficult topics and to help you build the foundation for a life giving marriage.
Whether you feel stuck or just need support in learning to communicate with one another, I am here for you. My goal is to offer a safe comforting space free of the fear of judgement and rejection for you or your family to explore what healing looks like for you. My passion is walking along side teens ages 12-18, their families, and couples. I offer help with those struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, substance abuse, ADHD, grief, adoption, and more. As a therapist I have experience working with adolescents, families, and premarital couples counseling!
(423) 528-9902 View (423) 528-9902
Photo of Eboni S. Long, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Eboni S. Long
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Chattanooga, TN 37412  (Online Only)
I received my Master's of Science degree from Lee University in Marriage and Family Therapy and I am currently pursuing a Ph.
Hi, I am Eboni S. Long, LMFT. I thoroughly enjoy working with individuals and couples to create change in their interpersonal relationships and other areas of their lives. Using a trauma lens helps me to see my clients past their presenting problems and acknowledge all the paralyzing hurts they have experienced physically, mentally and emotionally. While I see a variety of presenting problems, I am passionate about treating individuals and couples who have experienced trauma and infidelity.
I received my Master's of Science degree from Lee University in Marriage and Family Therapy and I am currently pursuing a Ph.
Hi, I am Eboni S. Long, LMFT. I thoroughly enjoy working with individuals and couples to create change in their interpersonal relationships and other areas of their lives. Using a trauma lens helps me to see my clients past their presenting problems and acknowledge all the paralyzing hurts they have experienced physically, mentally and emotionally. While I see a variety of presenting problems, I am passionate about treating individuals and couples who have experienced trauma and infidelity.
(423) 358-2221 View (423) 358-2221
Photo of Jana L Chatham, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jana L Chatham
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, TN 38401  (Online Only)
Do you need wisdom, inspiration, and a strategy that can move you from feeling "stuck" to "empowered"? I specialize in trauma, marriage and parenting issues, sexual betrayal, depression and overcoming grief. Guided by the power of the Holy Spirit, and using my skills in Cognitive Behavior Therapy and EMDR, we will work together to move you towards holistic healing.
Do you need wisdom, inspiration, and a strategy that can move you from feeling "stuck" to "empowered"? I specialize in trauma, marriage and parenting issues, sexual betrayal, depression and overcoming grief. Guided by the power of the Holy Spirit, and using my skills in Cognitive Behavior Therapy and EMDR, we will work together to move you towards holistic healing.
(909) 366-5137 View (909) 366-5137
Photo of John Steven Ferraro, LPC-, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
John Steven Ferraro
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-, MHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cookeville, TN 38501
I work with those with anxiety/depression issues, substance use disorders, co-curing use disorders, trauma, relational and marriage issues.
Hello, my name is John, been counseling for over 35 years, beside being licensed also have license to supervise counselor working for licensure. My focus has been developing evidenced based treatment, cognitive behavior, dialectical behavior therapy, positive therapy and EMDR with a Rogerian style.
I work with those with anxiety/depression issues, substance use disorders, co-curing use disorders, trauma, relational and marriage issues.
Hello, my name is John, been counseling for over 35 years, beside being licensed also have license to supervise counselor working for licensure. My focus has been developing evidenced based treatment, cognitive behavior, dialectical behavior therapy, positive therapy and EMDR with a Rogerian style.
(931) 650-5162 View (931) 650-5162
Photo of Taraleigh Stemler, LMFT, CIMHP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Taraleigh Stemler
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CIMHP
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37216
I am a Certified Integrative Mental Health Professional who specializes in treating trauma using EMDR with a background in marriage and family therapy. Additional EMDR training allows me to specifically help performers reach peak performance and work past mental blocks or "yips". Post-EMDR areas of growth may include identity formation, boundaries, and communication skills. Overall, I want my clients to be equipped to pursue a healthy, productive lifestyle. Using an integrative approach, I help clients increase self-efficacy by educating them on health practices they control that positively impact their mental wellbeing.
I am a Certified Integrative Mental Health Professional who specializes in treating trauma using EMDR with a background in marriage and family therapy. Additional EMDR training allows me to specifically help performers reach peak performance and work past mental blocks or "yips". Post-EMDR areas of growth may include identity formation, boundaries, and communication skills. Overall, I want my clients to be equipped to pursue a healthy, productive lifestyle. Using an integrative approach, I help clients increase self-efficacy by educating them on health practices they control that positively impact their mental wellbeing.
(615) 258-7078 View (615) 258-7078
Photo of Brandon Santan, PhD, LPC, NCC, CCMHC, BC-TMH, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brandon Santan
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC, CCMHC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
Chattanooga, TN 37421
Santan is a licensed mental health counselor and specializes in anxiety disorders (such as general anxiety, panic/anxiety attacks, phobias and OCD), romantic relationship challenges (marriage and pre-marriage), financial wellness and spiritual wellness (including healing from bad church experiences).
When you need help for emotional/mental health, financial and relationship challenges, it can feel like your world is closing in on you. Let Dr. Santan help you find the relief that you've been looking for. Dr. Santan works to get to the root of the issue and will help you explore the root causes while also helping with symptom management.
Santan is a licensed mental health counselor and specializes in anxiety disorders (such as general anxiety, panic/anxiety attacks, phobias and OCD), romantic relationship challenges (marriage and pre-marriage), financial wellness and spiritual wellness (including healing from bad church experiences).
When you need help for emotional/mental health, financial and relationship challenges, it can feel like your world is closing in on you. Let Dr. Santan help you find the relief that you've been looking for. Dr. Santan works to get to the root of the issue and will help you explore the root causes while also helping with symptom management.
(423) 380-0724 View (423) 380-0724
Photo of Blair Falconello Orcutt, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Blair Falconello Orcutt
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Brentwood, TN 37027
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist in the state of Tennessee. I am well versed in working with young adult females, couples, families, and parents. I am experienced in working with challenges ranging from self esteem, family of origin issues, anxiety, family, relationship conflicts, boundary setting, parenting, life stage transitioning, and communication. Therapy goals that I commonly work with include communication, increasing self esteem, effectively coping with anxiety, boundary setting, emotional expression and increasing couple/family connection for an overall better quality of life and relationships.
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist in the state of Tennessee. I am well versed in working with young adult females, couples, families, and parents. I am experienced in working with challenges ranging from self esteem, family of origin issues, anxiety, family, relationship conflicts, boundary setting, parenting, life stage transitioning, and communication. Therapy goals that I commonly work with include communication, increasing self esteem, effectively coping with anxiety, boundary setting, emotional expression and increasing couple/family connection for an overall better quality of life and relationships.
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Photo of Barbara Jo Koehnemann, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Barbara Jo Koehnemann
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37221
Accepting new couples who desire a better relationship. Reactivity and emotional turmoil in relationships are often signs of potential growth. One of the most satisfying experiences in my work is coaching a couple or family toward a new way to communicate. A way that increases their connection to one another. It is an honor and privilege to facilitate and witness it everyday. As a licensed Marriage and Family, and Certified IMAGO Therapist, improving communication and increasing connectivity are what keep me motivated and charged to do what I do, day in and day out. I welcome the challenge of your relationships.
Accepting new couples who desire a better relationship. Reactivity and emotional turmoil in relationships are often signs of potential growth. One of the most satisfying experiences in my work is coaching a couple or family toward a new way to communicate. A way that increases their connection to one another. It is an honor and privilege to facilitate and witness it everyday. As a licensed Marriage and Family, and Certified IMAGO Therapist, improving communication and increasing connectivity are what keep me motivated and charged to do what I do, day in and day out. I welcome the challenge of your relationships.
(615) 395-6079 View (615) 395-6079
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.