Marriage Counseling Therapists in Murfreesboro, TN

Photo of Hope Craig Seay, MEd, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Hope Craig Seay
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Murfreesboro, TN 37129  (Online Only)
Whether you're struggling in your marriage, or dealing with anxiety, is important to know that while each of these experiences are very real and can bring with them pain and discouragement, these struggles do not have to define how you think and feel the rest of your life! You can learn and apply tools that can help you achieve the changes you seek!.
Have you thought things like, "My spouse and I used to have fun together, but now we keep getting into arguments. We talk through things and do better for a little while but then we start fighting again over the same things." Or maybe you have thought things like, "I have got to make some changes. I am weighed down with worry and it is starting to affect my relationships. I want to change and I have tried everything I know to do, even counseling, but I can't seem to make the changes stick. Sometimes I feel better, but it does not last. I am a Christian; is it normal for me to feel like this?"
Whether you're struggling in your marriage, or dealing with anxiety, is important to know that while each of these experiences are very real and can bring with them pain and discouragement, these struggles do not have to define how you think and feel the rest of your life! You can learn and apply tools that can help you achieve the changes you seek!.
Have you thought things like, "My spouse and I used to have fun together, but now we keep getting into arguments. We talk through things and do better for a little while but then we start fighting again over the same things." Or maybe you have thought things like, "I have got to make some changes. I am weighed down with worry and it is starting to affect my relationships. I want to change and I have tried everything I know to do, even counseling, but I can't seem to make the changes stick. Sometimes I feel better, but it does not last. I am a Christian; is it normal for me to feel like this?"
(615) 703-3417 View (615) 703-3417
Photo of Beth Wheeler - Wheeler & Wheeler Counseling, Pastoral Counselor
Wheeler & Wheeler Counseling
Pastoral Counselor
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Murfreesboro, TN 37130
When looking for a couples counselor why choose between a male or female counselor? Why not have both? At Wheeler and Wheeler Counseling we work as a husband and wife duo providing both individual counseling - individually, as well as couples counseling - collaboratively. We are licensed Christian counselors who integrate faith with the daily challenges our clients face. We love collaborating with couples in marriage counseling, premarital counseling, and what we like to call prebaby counseling. As partners in both life and practice, we bring a deep understanding of the joys, struggles, and intricacies in relationships.
When looking for a couples counselor why choose between a male or female counselor? Why not have both? At Wheeler and Wheeler Counseling we work as a husband and wife duo providing both individual counseling - individually, as well as couples counseling - collaboratively. We are licensed Christian counselors who integrate faith with the daily challenges our clients face. We love collaborating with couples in marriage counseling, premarital counseling, and what we like to call prebaby counseling. As partners in both life and practice, we bring a deep understanding of the joys, struggles, and intricacies in relationships.
(615) 640-4154 View (615) 640-4154
Photo of Breanna Bell, MA, SrLPE
Breanna Bell
MA, SrLPE
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Murfreesboro, TN 37129
I have specialized training from the Gottman Institute in Seattle Washington for couples and marriage therapy to includes gay and lesbian couples.
Are you looking for effective counseling techniques, experience and excellence in counseling? I have been practicing for 20+ years, have trained throughout those years in proven techniques including cognitive behavioral therapy, reality therapy, mindfulness and meditative therapies, positive psychology, emotional intelligence and intimacy building, and I have specialized training for marriage, couples and family therapy. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, relationship or any adjustment issue (illness/grief/loss, divorce, or any life transition) we will work together to implement known techniques that address and improve your life experience. All individuals are welcome. I do not discriminate based on any factor.
I have specialized training from the Gottman Institute in Seattle Washington for couples and marriage therapy to includes gay and lesbian couples.
Are you looking for effective counseling techniques, experience and excellence in counseling? I have been practicing for 20+ years, have trained throughout those years in proven techniques including cognitive behavioral therapy, reality therapy, mindfulness and meditative therapies, positive psychology, emotional intelligence and intimacy building, and I have specialized training for marriage, couples and family therapy. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, relationship or any adjustment issue (illness/grief/loss, divorce, or any life transition) we will work together to implement known techniques that address and improve your life experience. All individuals are welcome. I do not discriminate based on any factor.
(615) 864-9348 View (615) 864-9348
Photo of Kim Turner - Birds on a Wire Counseling, MA, NCCA, Pastoral Counselor
Birds on a Wire Counseling
Pastoral Counselor, MA, NCCA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Murfreesboro, TN 37130
Life can feel overwhelming at times. Struggles can come about through a variety of reasons; marriage, kids, work, or an unexpected crisis. They all add up to a lot of pressure and stress leaving you feeling hopeless and out of balance. Having the tools to navigate these challenges can help you feel confident and deepen your self-awareness.
Life can feel overwhelming at times. Struggles can come about through a variety of reasons; marriage, kids, work, or an unexpected crisis. They all add up to a lot of pressure and stress leaving you feeling hopeless and out of balance. Having the tools to navigate these challenges can help you feel confident and deepen your self-awareness.
(615) 547-3214 View (615) 547-3214
Photo of Amanda May - Nashville Relationship Expert, MS
Nashville Relationship Expert
MS
Verified Verified
Murfreesboro, TN 37129
Are you struggling in your marriage? If you want the hurt, disappointment, or disconnection to stop, you've come to the right place. Clents say my approach is highly relatable and more productive than traditional couples counseling. Areas of focus include: emotional connection, communication enrichment, desire & intimacy, love languages, marital crisis, family issues, and more. I've delved deep into the work of researchers like Dr. John Gottman, Dr. Gary Chapman, and Esther Perel, amongst others, often using their findings to guide sessions.
Are you struggling in your marriage? If you want the hurt, disappointment, or disconnection to stop, you've come to the right place. Clents say my approach is highly relatable and more productive than traditional couples counseling. Areas of focus include: emotional connection, communication enrichment, desire & intimacy, love languages, marital crisis, family issues, and more. I've delved deep into the work of researchers like Dr. John Gottman, Dr. Gary Chapman, and Esther Perel, amongst others, often using their findings to guide sessions.
(615) 909-2270 View (615) 909-2270
Photo of Mark Schmahl, MMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mark Schmahl
Marriage & Family Therapist, MMFT, MA
Verified Verified
Murfreesboro, TN 37129
Are you feeling stuck in your marriage or relationship? Do you love and care for your partner but are struggling to communicate and get on the same page? Do you want to move from feeling like roommates who are surviving into a place where you are thriving? Relationships are hard and can lead to a great deal of stress, but they can also be the most amazing blessing of all when two people are willing to work on creating the life they have always wanted together. If this describes you or your relationship, I can help!
Are you feeling stuck in your marriage or relationship? Do you love and care for your partner but are struggling to communicate and get on the same page? Do you want to move from feeling like roommates who are surviving into a place where you are thriving? Relationships are hard and can lead to a great deal of stress, but they can also be the most amazing blessing of all when two people are willing to work on creating the life they have always wanted together. If this describes you or your relationship, I can help!
(615) 437-9595 View (615) 437-9595
Photo of Allison Hunnicutt, LMFT, CCTP, CSAT-S, CMAT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Allison Hunnicutt
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CCTP, CSAT-S, CMAT
Verified Verified
Murfreesboro, TN 37128
Being trained in marriage and family therapy means that I am not only trained in traditional psychotherapy, but also in family systems.
In my personal and professional life, I have found one thing to be true: Life can be hard. I have a passion for supporting others in resolving pain and reclaiming fullness in life. While pain is an inevitable part of the human experience, suffering is optional. I am dedicated to helping individuals, couples, and families heal from relational and other traumas, problematic sexual behaviors, addictions, and intimacy disorders. I see men and women whose lives have spiraled out of control become desperate for help. I see brokenhearted adults and children as they learn to cope with an unstable world. My heart is to heal the broken hearted and give hope where hope was once lost.
Being trained in marriage and family therapy means that I am not only trained in traditional psychotherapy, but also in family systems.
In my personal and professional life, I have found one thing to be true: Life can be hard. I have a passion for supporting others in resolving pain and reclaiming fullness in life. While pain is an inevitable part of the human experience, suffering is optional. I am dedicated to helping individuals, couples, and families heal from relational and other traumas, problematic sexual behaviors, addictions, and intimacy disorders. I see men and women whose lives have spiraled out of control become desperate for help. I see brokenhearted adults and children as they learn to cope with an unstable world. My heart is to heal the broken hearted and give hope where hope was once lost.
(615) 488-5389 View (615) 488-5389
Photo of Scott Russell - Threshold Biblical Counseling, MDiv, Pastoral Counselor
Threshold Biblical Counseling
Pastoral Counselor, MDiv
Verified Verified
Murfreesboro, TN 37130
My specialties include addiction and recovery, doubts in faith, marriage, depression, anxiety, relational conflicts and helping you discover your purpose.
After pastoring for 7 yrs and working on the mission field for 5 yrs, I found myself in a mental and spiritual crisis confounded by a crippling addiction. By God’s Grace, through wise counselors and taking healthy steps, I found healing. My calling now is to walk together with those who seek freedom, faith, and hope that can be found in Jesus and his blue print for the abundant life. My passion is to help others remove obstacles that keep them from living the abundant life.
My specialties include addiction and recovery, doubts in faith, marriage, depression, anxiety, relational conflicts and helping you discover your purpose.
After pastoring for 7 yrs and working on the mission field for 5 yrs, I found myself in a mental and spiritual crisis confounded by a crippling addiction. By God’s Grace, through wise counselors and taking healthy steps, I found healing. My calling now is to walk together with those who seek freedom, faith, and hope that can be found in Jesus and his blue print for the abundant life. My passion is to help others remove obstacles that keep them from living the abundant life.
(615) 492-8157 View (615) 492-8157
Photo of Nakia Nyree Thomas, LMFT, MS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nakia Nyree Thomas
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
Verified Verified
Murfreesboro, TN 37128
Nakia Thomas is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) #1821, an Imago Therapist in Training, and an AAMFT Approved Supervisor in Mentorship. My goal is to make each and every one of my clients feel comfortable, valued, and heard. My approach is direct, relational and intimacy driven, walking with you on your journey to live life on purpose. I work with individuals, couples, and families towards healing to transform our communities through the blending of theory, practice, experience, and beliefs. Relationships are my passion, beginning with the relationship one has with self, the foundation of every relationship.
Nakia Thomas is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) #1821, an Imago Therapist in Training, and an AAMFT Approved Supervisor in Mentorship. My goal is to make each and every one of my clients feel comfortable, valued, and heard. My approach is direct, relational and intimacy driven, walking with you on your journey to live life on purpose. I work with individuals, couples, and families towards healing to transform our communities through the blending of theory, practice, experience, and beliefs. Relationships are my passion, beginning with the relationship one has with self, the foundation of every relationship.
(615) 604-0842 View (615) 604-0842
Photo of Tiffany R Sweeley, LCPC, Pastoral Counselor
Tiffany R Sweeley
Pastoral Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Murfreesboro, TN 37129
I want to see the divorce rate go down, so I am focusing on marriage counseling, pre marital counseling and post divorce counseling.
Having the opportunity to help people grow and heal is why I became a counselor. Sometimes we need help and that can be hard to ask for. I am a Christian counselor and have been ordained for 14 years. If a person is in a marriage crisis I want to be there to see if we can get thru to the other side. My experience in my own personal life has lead me to this place of helping couples, pre marital counseling, or any other individual who feels lost. Most people need good advice. They need someone who is a third objective party. That's what I am. That's what I enjoy. Helping people see things from a different perspective.
I want to see the divorce rate go down, so I am focusing on marriage counseling, pre marital counseling and post divorce counseling.
Having the opportunity to help people grow and heal is why I became a counselor. Sometimes we need help and that can be hard to ask for. I am a Christian counselor and have been ordained for 14 years. If a person is in a marriage crisis I want to be there to see if we can get thru to the other side. My experience in my own personal life has lead me to this place of helping couples, pre marital counseling, or any other individual who feels lost. Most people need good advice. They need someone who is a third objective party. That's what I am. That's what I enjoy. Helping people see things from a different perspective.
(629) 263-7263 View (629) 263-7263
Photo of Chris Gygi, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Chris Gygi
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Murfreesboro, TN 37129
I utilize EMDR trauma therapy, and am certified in Prepare/Enrich pre-marital and newlywed counseling.
We all face challenges in life, but we do not have to face them alone. It is important to be able to communicate our feelings and needs in a safe environment. And sometimes, we need a guide to help us navigate the difficult inner territory that stands between us and our best selves. I seek to create a safe space where you can heal and grow, and to help you work through the struggles, losses and wounds that keep you from thriving.
I utilize EMDR trauma therapy, and am certified in Prepare/Enrich pre-marital and newlywed counseling.
We all face challenges in life, but we do not have to face them alone. It is important to be able to communicate our feelings and needs in a safe environment. And sometimes, we need a guide to help us navigate the difficult inner territory that stands between us and our best selves. I seek to create a safe space where you can heal and grow, and to help you work through the struggles, losses and wounds that keep you from thriving.
(615) 237-7098 View (615) 237-7098
Photo of Nathan Jernigan, MA, LSPE, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nathan Jernigan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LSPE, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Murfreesboro, TN 37130
As a Christian Psychotherapist, I offer a faith based practice which allows my clients' spirituality to be as much of the process as they would like. My formal education is in Clinical Psychology. My practicum work as well as two Post-Masters Internships were in Marital and Family Therapy. I have two professional practice licenses granted by the State of Tennessee Department of Health Related Boards. I am a Licensed Senior Psychological Examiner and a Licensed Professional Counselor with Mental Health Service Provider designation. I am also a Nationally Certified Counselor. I have been in practice for 30+ years.
As a Christian Psychotherapist, I offer a faith based practice which allows my clients' spirituality to be as much of the process as they would like. My formal education is in Clinical Psychology. My practicum work as well as two Post-Masters Internships were in Marital and Family Therapy. I have two professional practice licenses granted by the State of Tennessee Department of Health Related Boards. I am a Licensed Senior Psychological Examiner and a Licensed Professional Counselor with Mental Health Service Provider designation. I am also a Nationally Certified Counselor. I have been in practice for 30+ years.
(615) 208-5218 View (615) 208-5218
Photo of Bethany Bratcher - Transformed By Grace Counseling, MA, Pastoral Counselor
Transformed By Grace Counseling
Pastoral Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Murfreesboro, TN 37130
Whether you're facing personal struggles, marital issues, parenting stress/challenges, or seeking spiritual growth, we will work together to find solutions and inner peace.
Welcome to Transformed By Grace Counseling. I'm Bethany and I am a Christian counselor focused on helping individuals, couples, and families find hope, healing, and restoration through the transformative power of faith and counseling. I have 12 years of counseling experience helping people of all ages navigate life's challenges with an emphasis working with children and teens. My mission is to create a calm, supportive space where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, and work towards positive change and personal growth so that you can enjoy the peaceful, joy-filled life you were created for.
Whether you're facing personal struggles, marital issues, parenting stress/challenges, or seeking spiritual growth, we will work together to find solutions and inner peace.
Welcome to Transformed By Grace Counseling. I'm Bethany and I am a Christian counselor focused on helping individuals, couples, and families find hope, healing, and restoration through the transformative power of faith and counseling. I have 12 years of counseling experience helping people of all ages navigate life's challenges with an emphasis working with children and teens. My mission is to create a calm, supportive space where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, and work towards positive change and personal growth so that you can enjoy the peaceful, joy-filled life you were created for.
(615) 570-3522 View (615) 570-3522
Photo of Allison Hunnicutt, LMFT, CCTP, CSAT-S, CMAT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Allison Hunnicutt
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CCTP, CSAT-S, CMAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Murfreesboro, TN 37128
Being trained in marriage and family therapy means that I am not only trained in traditional psychotherapy, but also in family systems.
In my personal and professional life, I have found one thing to be true: Life can be hard. I have a passion for supporting others in resolving pain and reclaiming fullness in life. While pain is an inevitable part of the human experience, suffering is optional. I am dedicated to helping individuals, couples, and families heal from relational and other traumas, problematic sexual behaviors, addictions, and intimacy disorders. I see brokenhearted adults and children as they learn to cope with an unstable world. My heart is to heal the broken hearted and give hope where hope was once lost.
Being trained in marriage and family therapy means that I am not only trained in traditional psychotherapy, but also in family systems.
In my personal and professional life, I have found one thing to be true: Life can be hard. I have a passion for supporting others in resolving pain and reclaiming fullness in life. While pain is an inevitable part of the human experience, suffering is optional. I am dedicated to helping individuals, couples, and families heal from relational and other traumas, problematic sexual behaviors, addictions, and intimacy disorders. I see brokenhearted adults and children as they learn to cope with an unstable world. My heart is to heal the broken hearted and give hope where hope was once lost.
(615) 395-2912 View (615) 395-2912
Photo of Shelia McKay, MA, Pastoral Counselor
Shelia McKay
Pastoral Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
Murfreesboro, TN 37129
As a temperament counselor, I give clients a questionnaire to complete in order to help them identify their soul needs. Once a client understands their temperament, we can develop a strategy to live a life that is more stable and fruitful. Teens who struggle to understand their identity, self worth and passions are also favorite clients. Premarital counseling is so vital to set a solid foundation before entering into the marriage union. Marriage counseling is important and necessary for strong families and communities which I spend a fair amount of time navigating these unions.
As a temperament counselor, I give clients a questionnaire to complete in order to help them identify their soul needs. Once a client understands their temperament, we can develop a strategy to live a life that is more stable and fruitful. Teens who struggle to understand their identity, self worth and passions are also favorite clients. Premarital counseling is so vital to set a solid foundation before entering into the marriage union. Marriage counseling is important and necessary for strong families and communities which I spend a fair amount of time navigating these unions.
(615) 492-2249 View (615) 492-2249
Photo of Nancy Spears, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nancy Spears
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Murfreesboro, TN 37129
A successful counseling experience begins with a strong client/therapist rapport. As you consider your many highly-qualified options, look for professionals who specialize in your area of need and share your passion for growth. With an emphasis on high-conflict marital therapy, my expertise lies in helping clients develop crucial life-enhancement skills (e.g.-communication/conflict resolution/anger management) and a healthy sense of self. Using a variety of approaches, we will work together to build on strengths to maximize growth by learning and adapting more productive inter-relational methods, resulting in greater relationship satisfaction.
A successful counseling experience begins with a strong client/therapist rapport. As you consider your many highly-qualified options, look for professionals who specialize in your area of need and share your passion for growth. With an emphasis on high-conflict marital therapy, my expertise lies in helping clients develop crucial life-enhancement skills (e.g.-communication/conflict resolution/anger management) and a healthy sense of self. Using a variety of approaches, we will work together to build on strengths to maximize growth by learning and adapting more productive inter-relational methods, resulting in greater relationship satisfaction.
(615) 437-4121 View (615) 437-4121
Photo of Ellen K Slicker, PhD, HSP, RPT-S, Psychologist
Ellen K Slicker
Psychologist, PhD, HSP, RPT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Murfreesboro, TN 37129
Whether you are dealing with problems from a dysfunctional family of origin, women's issues, men's issues, marital issues, relationship issues, anxiety, depressed mood, ADHD, I seek clients who are willing to work to make changes in themselves through cognitive-behavioral counseling rather than those who only want others to change.
A large part of my practice centers around working with families and helping parents of children who may be having behavior problems at home or at school and working with the children and adolescents themselves. I incorporate child-centered play therapy with young children as well as Adlerian and behavioral concepts with parents. I am a licensed psychologist with Health Service Provider in Psychology credential, a Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor, and a retired MTSU professor after teaching in the Professional Counseling Program for 25+ years. In addition to helping families, I also work extensively with couples and individuals who may be experiencing a variety of problematic daily living situations.
Whether you are dealing with problems from a dysfunctional family of origin, women's issues, men's issues, marital issues, relationship issues, anxiety, depressed mood, ADHD, I seek clients who are willing to work to make changes in themselves through cognitive-behavioral counseling rather than those who only want others to change.
A large part of my practice centers around working with families and helping parents of children who may be having behavior problems at home or at school and working with the children and adolescents themselves. I incorporate child-centered play therapy with young children as well as Adlerian and behavioral concepts with parents. I am a licensed psychologist with Health Service Provider in Psychology credential, a Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor, and a retired MTSU professor after teaching in the Professional Counseling Program for 25+ years. In addition to helping families, I also work extensively with couples and individuals who may be experiencing a variety of problematic daily living situations.
(615) 763-4975 View (615) 763-4975
Photo of Tameka L Dennis, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tameka L Dennis
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Murfreesboro, TN 37129
Tameka provides Individual, Pre-Marital and Couples Counseling.
Our journey through life can be challenging at times. Everyone needs a little support as they walk their own unique path. Allow me the opportunity to walk with you on your journey. Together, we will discover your peace. Journey to Peace Counseling offers a safe supportive atmosphere that allows clients to explore his or her own thoughts and feelings without judgment.
Tameka provides Individual, Pre-Marital and Couples Counseling.
Our journey through life can be challenging at times. Everyone needs a little support as they walk their own unique path. Allow me the opportunity to walk with you on your journey. Together, we will discover your peace. Journey to Peace Counseling offers a safe supportive atmosphere that allows clients to explore his or her own thoughts and feelings without judgment.
(615) 492-2724 View (615) 492-2724
Photo of Amanda May - Nashville Marriage Academy , MS
Nashville Marriage Academy
MS
Verified Verified
Murfreesboro, TN 37129
Offering Private Couples Retreats, Full-day and Half-day Intensives for committed couples. All services are completely private, providing a highly personalized and confidential experience, within an emotionally safe space. Do you want to grow and strengthen your marriage or address serious issues/concerns in your relationship? My approach harnesses the power of concentrated focus, while prioritizing the emotional needs of each partner. Intensives and retreats are designed to challenge a couple in a comfortable, but very real way. Change and growth is possible with true desire, dedication, and open hearts.
Offering Private Couples Retreats, Full-day and Half-day Intensives for committed couples. All services are completely private, providing a highly personalized and confidential experience, within an emotionally safe space. Do you want to grow and strengthen your marriage or address serious issues/concerns in your relationship? My approach harnesses the power of concentrated focus, while prioritizing the emotional needs of each partner. Intensives and retreats are designed to challenge a couple in a comfortable, but very real way. Change and growth is possible with true desire, dedication, and open hearts.
(615) 544-6132 View (615) 544-6132
Photo of Jonathan Moore, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jonathan Moore
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Murfreesboro, TN 37129
Among many unique modalities, I am specially trained in topics surrounding marital, adolescent, family, men's issues, and spiritual and/or religious difficulties.
I am passionate about seeing people restored mentally, emotionally, and spiritually through compassionate and holistic care. I specializing in working with men, adolescents, and couples.
Among many unique modalities, I am specially trained in topics surrounding marital, adolescent, family, men's issues, and spiritual and/or religious difficulties.
I am passionate about seeing people restored mentally, emotionally, and spiritually through compassionate and holistic care. I specializing in working with men, adolescents, and couples.
(615) 861-8712 View (615) 861-8712

See more therapy options for Murfreesboro

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.