Marriage Counseling Therapists in American Fork, UT

Photo of Jennifer Howard, MS, CMHC, Counselor
Jennifer Howard
Counselor, MS, CMHC
Verified Verified
American Fork, UT 84003
I have seen remarkable success in working with these issues and others: Substance abuse including alcoholism and prescription drug addiction, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, Adult Children of Alcoholics, childhood sexual abuse, domestic violence, rape, military trauma, family and marital issues, religious issues, and more.
Whatever life challenges you may be facing, a crucial step toward resolution and healing is to find a compassionate, listening ear, and a safe place where you can be yourself. Whether you are searching for healing for yourself or a loved one, I can help. I value and respect diversity. I believe each person has the power to heal his or her life. I care about what you are going through and I want to hear your story.
I have seen remarkable success in working with these issues and others: Substance abuse including alcoholism and prescription drug addiction, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, Adult Children of Alcoholics, childhood sexual abuse, domestic violence, rape, military trauma, family and marital issues, religious issues, and more.
Whatever life challenges you may be facing, a crucial step toward resolution and healing is to find a compassionate, listening ear, and a safe place where you can be yourself. Whether you are searching for healing for yourself or a loved one, I can help. I value and respect diversity. I believe each person has the power to heal his or her life. I care about what you are going through and I want to hear your story.
(801) 948-3855 View (801) 948-3855
Photo of Whitney Hutchings, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Whitney Hutchings
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
American Fork, UT 84003  (Online Only)
Sometimes parts of our life can feel overwhelming and debilitating. It can be difficult to know who to turn to and what to do. I recognize how important it is to have someone to provide tools and techniques to reach a point of healing. My approach to therapeutic treatment is to work collaboratively with my clients. I have worked with adults, couples, college students, and teens with a range of experiences including depression, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, marital or relationship issues, family relational concerns, grief support, self-harm, and suicidal thoughts. No matter what you may be battling, there is hope for healing.
Sometimes parts of our life can feel overwhelming and debilitating. It can be difficult to know who to turn to and what to do. I recognize how important it is to have someone to provide tools and techniques to reach a point of healing. My approach to therapeutic treatment is to work collaboratively with my clients. I have worked with adults, couples, college students, and teens with a range of experiences including depression, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, marital or relationship issues, family relational concerns, grief support, self-harm, and suicidal thoughts. No matter what you may be battling, there is hope for healing.
(385) 316-7820 View (385) 316-7820
Photo of Jen Cope, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jen Cope
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
American Fork, UT 84003
Waitlist for new clients
I'm skilled in medical family therapy (including chronic illnesses, cancer, medical etc) prenatal/postpartum/women's concerns (including processing traumatic birth), OCD, hair pulling/skin picking, anxiety/depression, and a variety of marital/couple dynamics (including open marriage, polyamory, pornography usage, and other alternative sexual relationships).
Hi! My name is Jen Cope - I'm excited to meet you! I am honored to hear whatever we talk about within our four walls. I am ready to show up authentically and empathetically to your story. I was privileged to study at one of the top ten Marriage and Family Therapy programs in the country, so I feel confident in my abilities to meet you where you're at and for our collaborative work to bring positive changes in your life.
I'm skilled in medical family therapy (including chronic illnesses, cancer, medical etc) prenatal/postpartum/women's concerns (including processing traumatic birth), OCD, hair pulling/skin picking, anxiety/depression, and a variety of marital/couple dynamics (including open marriage, polyamory, pornography usage, and other alternative sexual relationships).
Hi! My name is Jen Cope - I'm excited to meet you! I am honored to hear whatever we talk about within our four walls. I am ready to show up authentically and empathetically to your story. I was privileged to study at one of the top ten Marriage and Family Therapy programs in the country, so I feel confident in my abilities to meet you where you're at and for our collaborative work to bring positive changes in your life.
(385) 206-6451 View (385) 206-6451
Photo of Lex Elizabeth Fackrell, LAMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Lex Elizabeth Fackrell
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LAMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
American Fork, UT 84003
Immediate Openings Available! My experience and work as a marriage and family therapist, it has allowed me to become a compassionate and dedicated therapist specializing in trauma therapy, with a focus on helping individuals navigate and heal from the profound impacts of trauma. With a background in and extensive training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), I enjoy offering a holistic approach to mental health, blending evidence-based techniques with a deep understanding of the human experience.
Immediate Openings Available! My experience and work as a marriage and family therapist, it has allowed me to become a compassionate and dedicated therapist specializing in trauma therapy, with a focus on helping individuals navigate and heal from the profound impacts of trauma. With a background in and extensive training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), I enjoy offering a holistic approach to mental health, blending evidence-based techniques with a deep understanding of the human experience.
(385) 257-3944 View (385) 257-3944
Photo of Nikki Harmon, MA, LMFT, CEFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nikki Harmon
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CEFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
American Fork, UT 84003
I own The Family Therapy Clinic & have several therapists that are supervised by me & have immediate openings. We work with couples, families, & individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, marriage problems, trauma, divorce, family therapy, faith transitions, neurodivergence, and LGBTQ+ issues among other things. I received my Master’s Degree from COAMFTE accredited Alliant International University, which is the highest MFT accreditation in the nation. I am a Certified Emotionally Focused Therapist and utilize that with clients. Our therapists are trained in the latest research based modalities & are committed to helping you heal.
I own The Family Therapy Clinic & have several therapists that are supervised by me & have immediate openings. We work with couples, families, & individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, marriage problems, trauma, divorce, family therapy, faith transitions, neurodivergence, and LGBTQ+ issues among other things. I received my Master’s Degree from COAMFTE accredited Alliant International University, which is the highest MFT accreditation in the nation. I am a Certified Emotionally Focused Therapist and utilize that with clients. Our therapists are trained in the latest research based modalities & are committed to helping you heal.
(385) 308-2700 View (385) 308-2700
Photo of Robert S. Robison, MBA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Robert S. Robison
Marriage & Family Therapist, MBA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
American Fork, UT 84003
Trying to heal can be a lonely and hidden journey. Why open up if you will be judged or condemned? Seventeen years ago, I met a therapist who didn’t judge, and I knew he genuinely cared. I felt it! His genuine compassion, despite my flaws, made me realize healing is possible! From that point on, healing became my passion; it felt contagious. Helping others feel safe, heard, understood, and non-judged. Caused me to change my business career after getting my MBA, to get a 2nd Masters in Marriage & Family Therapy.
Trying to heal can be a lonely and hidden journey. Why open up if you will be judged or condemned? Seventeen years ago, I met a therapist who didn’t judge, and I knew he genuinely cared. I felt it! His genuine compassion, despite my flaws, made me realize healing is possible! From that point on, healing became my passion; it felt contagious. Helping others feel safe, heard, understood, and non-judged. Caused me to change my business career after getting my MBA, to get a 2nd Masters in Marriage & Family Therapy.
(801) 921-8573 View (801) 921-8573
Photo of Sandra R. Jensen, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sandra R. Jensen
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
American Fork, UT 84003
It takes courage to start this process, looking for a therapist. You likely have some hope things can change. Your marriage is very important, and if it isn't going well, your whole world can feel like it's crumbling. If you and your partner are stuck in the same painful go-arounds. Even if you’ve lost sight of each other and feel numb. I can help. I am an EFT trained therapist with over 25 years of experience working with couples. Doing marriage counseling is choosing to invest in you and your loved ones.
It takes courage to start this process, looking for a therapist. You likely have some hope things can change. Your marriage is very important, and if it isn't going well, your whole world can feel like it's crumbling. If you and your partner are stuck in the same painful go-arounds. Even if you’ve lost sight of each other and feel numb. I can help. I am an EFT trained therapist with over 25 years of experience working with couples. Doing marriage counseling is choosing to invest in you and your loved ones.
(801) 692-3883 View (801) 692-3883
Photo of Whittney Howard, MFTI, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Whittney Howard
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MFTI
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
American Fork, UT 84003
Whittney is a Marriage and Family Therapist Intern (MFTi). She has completed a bachelor's degree in Family Science from Utah Valley University, and she is currently attending Utah Tech University's Marriage and Family Therapy master's program. Whittney has certifications in domestic violence, psychological first aid (PFA), drug addiction (SBIRT), skills for psychological recovery (SPR), trauma-focused treatment (TF-CBT, CCTS), and others. She is passionate about meeting clients where they're at, creating a safe space for them to explore and be vulnerable, and collaborating to create change that is both sustainable and meaningful.
Whittney is a Marriage and Family Therapist Intern (MFTi). She has completed a bachelor's degree in Family Science from Utah Valley University, and she is currently attending Utah Tech University's Marriage and Family Therapy master's program. Whittney has certifications in domestic violence, psychological first aid (PFA), drug addiction (SBIRT), skills for psychological recovery (SPR), trauma-focused treatment (TF-CBT, CCTS), and others. She is passionate about meeting clients where they're at, creating a safe space for them to explore and be vulnerable, and collaborating to create change that is both sustainable and meaningful.
(435) 292-3291 View (435) 292-3291
Photo of Dr. Todd Spencer, PhD, LMFT, CFLE, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Todd Spencer
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, CFLE
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
American Fork, UT 84003
Dr. Spencer is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), an AAMFT approved supervisor and an owner and clinical director of Zest for Life Counseling. He has more than a decade of experience working with individuals, couples and families. Dr. Spencer utilizes evidenced based practices and specializes in working with trauma, grief, and couples on the brink of divorce. Dr. Spencer completed a Bachelors degree in Family Studies from Weber State University, a Master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Oklahoma State University, and a Doctorate in Human Development and Family Science also from Oklahoma State University.
Dr. Spencer is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), an AAMFT approved supervisor and an owner and clinical director of Zest for Life Counseling. He has more than a decade of experience working with individuals, couples and families. Dr. Spencer utilizes evidenced based practices and specializes in working with trauma, grief, and couples on the brink of divorce. Dr. Spencer completed a Bachelors degree in Family Studies from Weber State University, a Master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Oklahoma State University, and a Doctorate in Human Development and Family Science also from Oklahoma State University.
(385) 304-4147 View (385) 304-4147
Photo of Emily Freeze, MA, LMFT, MPH, PMH-C, Marriage & Family Therapist
Emily Freeze
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, MPH, PMH-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
American Fork, UT 84003
Have you been feeling like nothing you do is ever good enough...in your marriage, relationships, as a new parent, or in your life? It is not uncommon that thoughts like this can lead you to feel depressed, anxious, stressed, lonely, and out of control in your life. You may be experiencing some of these challenges and feel you have done all you can to cope, yet find things are not changing or improving. You may feel stuck and not know exactly where to go for help, who the best person would be to talk to, or what to expect from therapy. These are normal questions and concerns. I want to reassure you…You are in the right place!
Have you been feeling like nothing you do is ever good enough...in your marriage, relationships, as a new parent, or in your life? It is not uncommon that thoughts like this can lead you to feel depressed, anxious, stressed, lonely, and out of control in your life. You may be experiencing some of these challenges and feel you have done all you can to cope, yet find things are not changing or improving. You may feel stuck and not know exactly where to go for help, who the best person would be to talk to, or what to expect from therapy. These are normal questions and concerns. I want to reassure you…You are in the right place!
(801) 882-2127 View (801) 882-2127
Photo of Kenneth Jeppesen, MMFT, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kenneth Jeppesen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MMFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
American Fork, UT 84003
Every marriage has problems because no one ever taught us how to communicate and handle conflict. Many couples like to avoid conflict altogether and the result is that problems don't get solved and hidden resentment drives people apart. I will teach you what you never learned in school about how to make your marriage a source of greater joy and less stress. I help people find their voice and learn how to share it in a loving way to solve problems. I help couples with a variety of things beyond communication like infidelity and addictions, including pornography.
Every marriage has problems because no one ever taught us how to communicate and handle conflict. Many couples like to avoid conflict altogether and the result is that problems don't get solved and hidden resentment drives people apart. I will teach you what you never learned in school about how to make your marriage a source of greater joy and less stress. I help people find their voice and learn how to share it in a loving way to solve problems. I help couples with a variety of things beyond communication like infidelity and addictions, including pornography.
(801) 783-2312 View (801) 783-2312
Photo of Nikki Harmon - The Family Therapy Clinic, MA, LMFT, CEFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
The Family Therapy Clinic
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CEFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
American Fork, UT 84003
We offer individual, marriage, and family therapy for teens and adults. We offer treatment for anxiety, depression, family conflict, marital issues, blending families and post-divorce therapy among others. Utilizing the latest research we treat clients using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Solution Focused, EMDR, play therapy, Trauma Focused-CBT, and Narrative therapy. We believe most responses are adaptive rather than dysfunctional, and that there is strength within every person. Let us help you find it.
We offer individual, marriage, and family therapy for teens and adults. We offer treatment for anxiety, depression, family conflict, marital issues, blending families and post-divorce therapy among others. Utilizing the latest research we treat clients using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Solution Focused, EMDR, play therapy, Trauma Focused-CBT, and Narrative therapy. We believe most responses are adaptive rather than dysfunctional, and that there is strength within every person. Let us help you find it.
(385) 308-2700 View (385) 308-2700
Photo of Aubrianna DiSpirito, MFTI, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Aubrianna DiSpirito
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MFTI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
American Fork, UT 84003
Reflecting on my journey to becoming a Marriage and Family Therapist, I am reminded of the fundamental role that connection plays in our lives. As humans, we are inherently wired for connection. It’s not just about surviving but about thriving through meaningful relationships. However, these connections can also bring us moments of profound heartache and challenge. This realization fueled my deep-seated passion to enter the therapy field—to help others navigate their connections, find greater joy, and heal from past wounds. I use evidence-based approaches, such as CBT and EMFT, to guide you.
Reflecting on my journey to becoming a Marriage and Family Therapist, I am reminded of the fundamental role that connection plays in our lives. As humans, we are inherently wired for connection. It’s not just about surviving but about thriving through meaningful relationships. However, these connections can also bring us moments of profound heartache and challenge. This realization fueled my deep-seated passion to enter the therapy field—to help others navigate their connections, find greater joy, and heal from past wounds. I use evidence-based approaches, such as CBT and EMFT, to guide you.
(385) 438-6925 View (385) 438-6925
Photo of Alberto Valdez, LMFTI, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Alberto Valdez
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, LMFTI
Verified Verified
American Fork, UT 84003
I am a student at Utah Valley University working on my master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy and.
I enjoy working with adults and teenagers. I especially enjoy working with couples. My journey is unique, just like yours is but there are a lot of similarities that we can draw from in the healing process. Using the skills I've discovered myself and the tools I've learned I want to help you realize there's hope no matter what's going on in your life.
I am a student at Utah Valley University working on my master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy and.
I enjoy working with adults and teenagers. I especially enjoy working with couples. My journey is unique, just like yours is but there are a lot of similarities that we can draw from in the healing process. Using the skills I've discovered myself and the tools I've learned I want to help you realize there's hope no matter what's going on in your life.
(385) 262-8843 View (385) 262-8843
Photo of Brad Tanner, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Brad Tanner
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
American Fork, UT 84003
You can also enhance connection with your partner, igniting passion and understanding in your marriage.
Life's challenges can be overwhelming, leaving you knocked down and unsure how to regain happiness. Intensive Outpatient Treatment Program maybe just what you're looking for being tailored to combat anxiety, trauma, and depression issues. We're dedicated to guiding you toward hope and healing, providing tools to connect, boost self-esteem, and manage life's anxieties effectively. Regain control and embrace joy through our program.
You can also enhance connection with your partner, igniting passion and understanding in your marriage.
Life's challenges can be overwhelming, leaving you knocked down and unsure how to regain happiness. Intensive Outpatient Treatment Program maybe just what you're looking for being tailored to combat anxiety, trauma, and depression issues. We're dedicated to guiding you toward hope and healing, providing tools to connect, boost self-esteem, and manage life's anxieties effectively. Regain control and embrace joy through our program.
(801) 850-0794 View (801) 850-0794
Photo of Josh Sillitoe, MS, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Josh Sillitoe
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
American Fork, UT 84003  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating PTSD, anxiety, depression, and marital conflict.
Whether you desire to eliminate the exhausting drag of worry, stress, and fear, or ignite the passion of motivation again in your life . . . I am here for you. We all want to feel alive, feel invigorated to achieve our greatest desires. There is more to life than just surviving. I believe in the human spirit to thrive and continually be transformed. Your past does not write the next chapter of your life.
I specialize in treating PTSD, anxiety, depression, and marital conflict.
Whether you desire to eliminate the exhausting drag of worry, stress, and fear, or ignite the passion of motivation again in your life . . . I am here for you. We all want to feel alive, feel invigorated to achieve our greatest desires. There is more to life than just surviving. I believe in the human spirit to thrive and continually be transformed. Your past does not write the next chapter of your life.
(385) 334-6357 View (385) 334-6357
Photo of Sarah Lusk, CMHCI, Pre-Licensed Professional
Sarah Lusk
Pre-Licensed Professional, CMHCI
Verified Verified
American Fork, UT 84003
I help clients rediscover love and fun in marriage by enhancing communication, rebuilding trust, and reigniting intimacy.
Struggling with marriage issues can really create problems and take the fun out of the relationship. Not knowing how to move forward or getting stuck in the same narrative can be frustrating. I want to help you learn how to gently navigate through tough issues and find the love and fun you once knew.
I help clients rediscover love and fun in marriage by enhancing communication, rebuilding trust, and reigniting intimacy.
Struggling with marriage issues can really create problems and take the fun out of the relationship. Not knowing how to move forward or getting stuck in the same narrative can be frustrating. I want to help you learn how to gently navigate through tough issues and find the love and fun you once knew.
(385) 479-8742 View (385) 479-8742
Photo of Gordon Alderman - Marriage Counseling - Utah, MA, LMFT, CMHC, LCSW, Counselor
Marriage Counseling - Utah
Counselor, MA, LMFT, CMHC, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
American Fork, UT 84003
We specialize in marriage counseling, family counseling, individual counseling, couples counseling, anxiety, depression, sex therapy, addiction, sexual addiction, infidelity, grief, substance use, divorce, trauma and PTSD, etc.
At Renew Relationship Counseling, we specialize almost exclusively in marriage counseling. For this reason, we’ve developed a proprietary model known as the Renew System for Couples. This system is a highly effective approach that simplifies for couples the complex problems that they face and guides their healing in a manner that gives their marriage the best chance for success. For these reasons, marriage counseling is what we do best, and we are one of the best services available to couples. We also offer Marriage Prep Counseling, Individual Counseling, Family Counseling, and more! Come experience the Renew difference!
We specialize in marriage counseling, family counseling, individual counseling, couples counseling, anxiety, depression, sex therapy, addiction, sexual addiction, infidelity, grief, substance use, divorce, trauma and PTSD, etc.
At Renew Relationship Counseling, we specialize almost exclusively in marriage counseling. For this reason, we’ve developed a proprietary model known as the Renew System for Couples. This system is a highly effective approach that simplifies for couples the complex problems that they face and guides their healing in a manner that gives their marriage the best chance for success. For these reasons, marriage counseling is what we do best, and we are one of the best services available to couples. We also offer Marriage Prep Counseling, Individual Counseling, Family Counseling, and more! Come experience the Renew difference!
(801) 477-4084 View (801) 477-4084
Photo of Tonja Kendrick, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tonja Kendrick
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
American Fork, UT 84003
I enjoy working with couples in their endeavors to enhance their marriage to create a more fulfilling life.
The decision to start counseling is challenging for some. It is often the first step to getting on a better path. I feel privileged to be a partner with my clients on their journey and don't take lightly the trust they place with me. I firmly believe that change is possible and that we gain much from our experiences (both easy and difficult) that will help us learn and grow in ways that could not otherwise be possible.
I enjoy working with couples in their endeavors to enhance their marriage to create a more fulfilling life.
The decision to start counseling is challenging for some. It is often the first step to getting on a better path. I feel privileged to be a partner with my clients on their journey and don't take lightly the trust they place with me. I firmly believe that change is possible and that we gain much from our experiences (both easy and difficult) that will help us learn and grow in ways that could not otherwise be possible.
(253) 263-1875 View (253) 263-1875
Photo of Isabelle Halvorson, LCMHC, MSc, Counselor
Isabelle Halvorson
Counselor, LCMHC, MSc
Verified Verified
American Fork, UT 84003
Wow! Life is hard sometimes! I am here to help you find your way through those difficult experiences. I counsel individuals and married couples. Individuals often come in for depression, anxiety, grief issues and self esteem concerns. You'll find a safe and empathetic atmosphere with the opportunity to find understanding and insight into your problems. Married clients usually feel they need counseling when their marriage has suffered some great trauma. I teach couples how to communicate with compassion, how to be empathetic with each other, understand each other's needs and how to fill those needs.
Wow! Life is hard sometimes! I am here to help you find your way through those difficult experiences. I counsel individuals and married couples. Individuals often come in for depression, anxiety, grief issues and self esteem concerns. You'll find a safe and empathetic atmosphere with the opportunity to find understanding and insight into your problems. Married clients usually feel they need counseling when their marriage has suffered some great trauma. I teach couples how to communicate with compassion, how to be empathetic with each other, understand each other's needs and how to fill those needs.
(801) 810-0736 View (801) 810-0736

See more therapy options for American Fork

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.