Marriage Counseling Therapists in Virginia Beach, VA

Photo of Georgia Phillips, ACSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Georgia Phillips
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, ACSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23462
Every human being at times experiences sadness, anxiety, anger, shame, fear, hopelessness, guilt, uncertainty. But for some, their daily lives are significantly impacted. You may be struggling with your marriage, partnership, children, family, friends, employer, co-workers. Depression and anxiety may cause you to avoid doing the things that matter and/or to choose unhealthy ways of coping. Some struggle with anger issues that result in legal, relationship and/or employment problems. Others have experienced traumatic events as children and/or adults. While pain in life is inevitable, it does not have to take over our lives.
Every human being at times experiences sadness, anxiety, anger, shame, fear, hopelessness, guilt, uncertainty. But for some, their daily lives are significantly impacted. You may be struggling with your marriage, partnership, children, family, friends, employer, co-workers. Depression and anxiety may cause you to avoid doing the things that matter and/or to choose unhealthy ways of coping. Some struggle with anger issues that result in legal, relationship and/or employment problems. Others have experienced traumatic events as children and/or adults. While pain in life is inevitable, it does not have to take over our lives.
(757) 210-7458 View (757) 210-7458
Photo of Jeff Whitfield, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jeff Whitfield
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23452  (Online Only)
I have been a counselor and life coach for over 30 years with a wide range of experience. I work with adults, adolescents, and families within the full gamut of counseling issues, ranging from relational issues to drug and alcohol addiction to symptom management. I have a Master of Arts degree in Marriage and Family Counseling along with a minor in biblical theology. I have lived and worked in Texas, Virginia, and North Carolina, as well as England and Ireland. While I do have a Christian worldview and values that will be sprinkled into conversation, I welcome all comers and will meet you where you are.
I have been a counselor and life coach for over 30 years with a wide range of experience. I work with adults, adolescents, and families within the full gamut of counseling issues, ranging from relational issues to drug and alcohol addiction to symptom management. I have a Master of Arts degree in Marriage and Family Counseling along with a minor in biblical theology. I have lived and worked in Texas, Virginia, and North Carolina, as well as England and Ireland. While I do have a Christian worldview and values that will be sprinkled into conversation, I welcome all comers and will meet you where you are.
(757) 333-1548 View (757) 333-1548
Photo of Natashia Nicole Cowan, MA, LPC, LSATP, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Natashia Nicole Cowan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LSATP, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23464  (Online Only)
Natashia Cowan is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Licensed Substance Abuse Treatment Practitioner (LSATP), National Certified Counselor (NCC), and the owner of Essential Healing Services (EHS). EHS is an outpatient mental health practice that serves individuals, families, couples, and groups in coping with everyday stressors and unresolved issues. Other areas of focus include Grief and Loss, Marital Issues, Anger Management, Addiction, ADHD, Anxiety/Panic Disorders, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, and Mood Disorder.
Natashia Cowan is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Licensed Substance Abuse Treatment Practitioner (LSATP), National Certified Counselor (NCC), and the owner of Essential Healing Services (EHS). EHS is an outpatient mental health practice that serves individuals, families, couples, and groups in coping with everyday stressors and unresolved issues. Other areas of focus include Grief and Loss, Marital Issues, Anger Management, Addiction, ADHD, Anxiety/Panic Disorders, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, and Mood Disorder.
(757) 231-3391 View (757) 231-3391
Photo of Brittany Hamilton, MSW, LMHP-S, Pre-Licensed Professional
Brittany Hamilton
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, LMHP-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23462
Whether preparing for marriage or seeking support, I foster deeper connections and resilience.
Hi! I’m a Certified Trauma-Informed Coach, Human Rights Consultant, and Certified Prepare/Enrich Facilitator specializing in premarital counseling and supporting young adults through life's transitions.
Whether preparing for marriage or seeking support, I foster deeper connections and resilience.
Hi! I’m a Certified Trauma-Informed Coach, Human Rights Consultant, and Certified Prepare/Enrich Facilitator specializing in premarital counseling and supporting young adults through life's transitions.
(757) 384-1296 View (757) 384-1296
Photo of Rachel Stewart - Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Virginia Beach, Counselor
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Virginia Beach
Counselor
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23454
We offer individual counseling, psychiatry/medication management (virtual only), family counseling, couples therapy/marriage counseling, and child & teen therapy.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
We offer individual counseling, psychiatry/medication management (virtual only), family counseling, couples therapy/marriage counseling, and child & teen therapy.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
(757) 919-8858 View (757) 919-8858
Photo of Marie Schiller, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Marie Schiller
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23452
Marie is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist with over 20 years of outpatient experience helping individual, couples, and families obtain optimal mental health and improve their interaction. Using active, solution focused techniques, Marie can help you live your best life. As a Life Coach, Marie can help you attain your goals in a timely manner. Marie will work with you to complete a ten point checklist, encompassing all areas of life, to identify targets for goal attainment and accountability. Divorce Coaching is an additional service to help you progress through the divorce process.
Marie is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist with over 20 years of outpatient experience helping individual, couples, and families obtain optimal mental health and improve their interaction. Using active, solution focused techniques, Marie can help you live your best life. As a Life Coach, Marie can help you attain your goals in a timely manner. Marie will work with you to complete a ten point checklist, encompassing all areas of life, to identify targets for goal attainment and accountability. Divorce Coaching is an additional service to help you progress through the divorce process.
(757) 814-2469 View (757) 814-2469
Photo of Kerry Boone-Savinsky - Beach Therapy & Consulting, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Beach Therapy & Consulting
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23452
Beach Therapy & Consulting provides specialized services tailored to the individual’s needs. We offer individual counseling, marital/couples counseling, family therapy, and group therapy for DBT. We work collaboratively with primary care providers, pediatricians, and other medical providers to ensure coordination of care. Counseling services are available to individuals starting at age 8.
Beach Therapy & Consulting provides specialized services tailored to the individual’s needs. We offer individual counseling, marital/couples counseling, family therapy, and group therapy for DBT. We work collaboratively with primary care providers, pediatricians, and other medical providers to ensure coordination of care. Counseling services are available to individuals starting at age 8.
(757) 340-6100 View (757) 340-6100
Photo of Patty Smith, LPC, LMFT, CSAT, CAC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Patty Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist, LPC, LMFT, CSAT, CAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23455
I have been working as a therapist for 40 years and have been in private practice for 18 years. I treat adults with a wide range of mental health problems, to include mood disorders, anxiety, addiction, couples therapy, and PTSD. My training has been in specific treatment methods such as EMDR, hypnosis, cognitive behavioral therapy, and psychodrama. My credentials are: Licensed Professional Therapist, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Certified Sex Addiction Therapist, and Certified Substance Abuse Counselor. I believe my most effective therapy tool is relationship building.
I have been working as a therapist for 40 years and have been in private practice for 18 years. I treat adults with a wide range of mental health problems, to include mood disorders, anxiety, addiction, couples therapy, and PTSD. My training has been in specific treatment methods such as EMDR, hypnosis, cognitive behavioral therapy, and psychodrama. My credentials are: Licensed Professional Therapist, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Certified Sex Addiction Therapist, and Certified Substance Abuse Counselor. I believe my most effective therapy tool is relationship building.
(757) 982-8458 View (757) 982-8458
Photo of Danny Holland, PhD, LPC, LCMHC, BC-TMH, NCC,ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Danny Holland
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, LCMHC, BC-TMH, NCC,ACS
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23451
Areas of focus have included anxiety disorders, ADHD, depression, marital issues, panic disorders, sexual problems, military issues, mood issues, grief, loss, PTSD, OCD, LGBT issues, life transitions, oppositional defiance, Autism spectrum issues, child behavior issues, foster child issues, parenting issues, as well as spiritual issues.
I am so glad you have taken the time to seek out a therapist to connect with. Your relationship with your therapist is the most important factor. I have helped individuals and couples in different capacities for 35 years and would absolutely love the honor of connecting with you. I have worked with couples struggling with communication, sexual issues, infidelity, blending families, and many other issues. Please call me if you'd like to connect and see if we would be a good match to help you move ahead into the next chapters of your life! I am also to meet with you through telehealth (video) or in person.
Areas of focus have included anxiety disorders, ADHD, depression, marital issues, panic disorders, sexual problems, military issues, mood issues, grief, loss, PTSD, OCD, LGBT issues, life transitions, oppositional defiance, Autism spectrum issues, child behavior issues, foster child issues, parenting issues, as well as spiritual issues.
I am so glad you have taken the time to seek out a therapist to connect with. Your relationship with your therapist is the most important factor. I have helped individuals and couples in different capacities for 35 years and would absolutely love the honor of connecting with you. I have worked with couples struggling with communication, sexual issues, infidelity, blending families, and many other issues. Please call me if you'd like to connect and see if we would be a good match to help you move ahead into the next chapters of your life! I am also to meet with you through telehealth (video) or in person.
(757) 517-2972 View (757) 517-2972
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Virginia Beach
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23452
We offer individual counseling, psychiatry/medication management (virtual only), family counseling, couples therapy/marriage counseling, and child & teen therapy.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
We offer individual counseling, psychiatry/medication management (virtual only), family counseling, couples therapy/marriage counseling, and child & teen therapy.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
(757) 798-1282 View (757) 798-1282
Photo of Kaye-Loni Johnston, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kaye-Loni Johnston
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23452
Waitlist for new clients
I am currently an LMFT and I have over 11 years of experience working in mental health and my passion entails working with individuals 14+, couples, families from all walks of life including pre-marital counseling, co-parenting, & blended families as well as working with the LGBTQIA+ community, poly/ENM communities, and specializing in sex therapy for couples or individuals. I have experience working with dysphoria, anxiety, depression, grief, identity, and life transitions, among other things. Please reach out to me with any questions you have!
I am currently an LMFT and I have over 11 years of experience working in mental health and my passion entails working with individuals 14+, couples, families from all walks of life including pre-marital counseling, co-parenting, & blended families as well as working with the LGBTQIA+ community, poly/ENM communities, and specializing in sex therapy for couples or individuals. I have experience working with dysphoria, anxiety, depression, grief, identity, and life transitions, among other things. Please reach out to me with any questions you have!
(757) 210-7638 View (757) 210-7638
Photo of Lake View Psychotherapy, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Lake View Psychotherapy
Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23462
"Pursue some path, however narrow and crooked, in which you can walk with love and reverence."(Thoreau) Concierge Recovery Care: Unique and innovative outpatient treatment programs for drug and sex addictions, including intensive treatment programs. We utilize individual & group psychodynamic therapy, family and marriage therapy, 12 Step Programs, positive-focused therapy, medical sub-acute detox, auricular acupuncture, EMDR, and agonist therapies. Sober coaching and sober living environments offered. All treatment is personalized to match your individual needs.
"Pursue some path, however narrow and crooked, in which you can walk with love and reverence."(Thoreau) Concierge Recovery Care: Unique and innovative outpatient treatment programs for drug and sex addictions, including intensive treatment programs. We utilize individual & group psychodynamic therapy, family and marriage therapy, 12 Step Programs, positive-focused therapy, medical sub-acute detox, auricular acupuncture, EMDR, and agonist therapies. Sober coaching and sober living environments offered. All treatment is personalized to match your individual needs.
(757) 552-0884 View (757) 552-0884
Photo of Domany Davilmar, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Domany Davilmar
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23464  (Online Only)
in Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling, a B.
When people face trauma or loss of connection with their loved ones, they can feel as if their lives are coming undone. Life after trauma can be overwhelming as we begin to feel fragmented, powerless, and without hope. As a U.S. Marine veteran, I also understand the unique struggles and strengths that military life brings. I am passionate about helping individuals, couples, and families build on their strengths to reconnect with others and bring resilience and comfort back into their lives. I believe that emphasizing our strengths is key to our healing, as we see ourselves more whole and more at peace with each new discovery.
in Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling, a B.
When people face trauma or loss of connection with their loved ones, they can feel as if their lives are coming undone. Life after trauma can be overwhelming as we begin to feel fragmented, powerless, and without hope. As a U.S. Marine veteran, I also understand the unique struggles and strengths that military life brings. I am passionate about helping individuals, couples, and families build on their strengths to reconnect with others and bring resilience and comfort back into their lives. I believe that emphasizing our strengths is key to our healing, as we see ourselves more whole and more at peace with each new discovery.
(757) 347-4349 View (757) 347-4349
Photo of Gail Durant, MSW, LMSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Gail Durant
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23451  (Online Only)
Step into a therapeutic journey where joy and equilibrium intersect! I'm a therapist dedicated to navigating life's paths alongside you. My focus lies in guiding individuals, children, adults, and families toward a harmonious existence. Picture our sessions as sanctuaries where laughter and personal growth flourish side by side. Together, we tackle challenges such as bullying, ADHD, oppositional defiance, low self-esteem, marital discord, career stressors, college adjustments, depression, and anxiety.
Step into a therapeutic journey where joy and equilibrium intersect! I'm a therapist dedicated to navigating life's paths alongside you. My focus lies in guiding individuals, children, adults, and families toward a harmonious existence. Picture our sessions as sanctuaries where laughter and personal growth flourish side by side. Together, we tackle challenges such as bullying, ADHD, oppositional defiance, low self-esteem, marital discord, career stressors, college adjustments, depression, and anxiety.
(757) 453-1877 View (757) 453-1877
Photo of Ramsey Goshert, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ramsey Goshert
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23452
ACT is highly successful in a wide range of concerns including anxiety, depression, PTSD, and marital conflict.
Ready to take charge of your life, mood, relationships, or actions? I want to be in your corner as you work to act more like the person you want to be. I work with individuals interested in building skills in the areas of relationships, communication, parenting, anger control, and problem behaviors. If you are feeling stressed, burned out, overworked, on edge, stuck by anxiety or depression: you are not alone. I will help you create an individualized plan for overcoming life obstacles in ways that build on your current strengths and focus on taking action.
ACT is highly successful in a wide range of concerns including anxiety, depression, PTSD, and marital conflict.
Ready to take charge of your life, mood, relationships, or actions? I want to be in your corner as you work to act more like the person you want to be. I work with individuals interested in building skills in the areas of relationships, communication, parenting, anger control, and problem behaviors. If you are feeling stressed, burned out, overworked, on edge, stuck by anxiety or depression: you are not alone. I will help you create an individualized plan for overcoming life obstacles in ways that build on your current strengths and focus on taking action.
(757) 230-2116 View (757) 230-2116
Photo of Dr. Cyrus R Williams - Rapha Counseling Services Inc, PhD, LPC, CSAT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rapha Counseling Services Inc
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, CSAT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23464
Specific issues that we focus on are couples and marriage counseling, addictions (sex and chemical), anxiety, depression, self-esteem, career and brief counseling.
Let's face it, life can be challenging!! The counselors at Rapha Counseling Services, Inc, a faith based nonprofit counseling service, believes in treating the entire person, mind, body and soul. Our therapists are committed to providing holistic counseling strategies and interventions to help clients become whole and healed. As such counselors provide faith and spiritually centered mental health services to families, couples, adolescents’, adults, and children at an affordable price. All the counselors at Rapha Counseling Services have master’s degrees in counseling, and our registered with the Virginia Board of Counseling.
Specific issues that we focus on are couples and marriage counseling, addictions (sex and chemical), anxiety, depression, self-esteem, career and brief counseling.
Let's face it, life can be challenging!! The counselors at Rapha Counseling Services, Inc, a faith based nonprofit counseling service, believes in treating the entire person, mind, body and soul. Our therapists are committed to providing holistic counseling strategies and interventions to help clients become whole and healed. As such counselors provide faith and spiritually centered mental health services to families, couples, adolescents’, adults, and children at an affordable price. All the counselors at Rapha Counseling Services have master’s degrees in counseling, and our registered with the Virginia Board of Counseling.
(757) 844-5174 View (757) 844-5174
Photo of Juan O Turon, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Juan O Turon
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23454
Juan O. Turón is a native of Azul, Argentina and resides in the United States since 1998. Mr. Turón has a Bachelors of Arts degree in General Psychology, a Masters of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy, and a Certificate of Participation in anthropology courses from the University of Cambridge International Summer School from 2005. Mr. Turón is also a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and approved Marriage and Family Therapy Supervisor through the Virginia Board of Counseling. Mr. Turón is currently finishing his doctoral studies Marriage and Family Therapy at Nova Southeastern University.
Juan O. Turón is a native of Azul, Argentina and resides in the United States since 1998. Mr. Turón has a Bachelors of Arts degree in General Psychology, a Masters of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy, and a Certificate of Participation in anthropology courses from the University of Cambridge International Summer School from 2005. Mr. Turón is also a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and approved Marriage and Family Therapy Supervisor through the Virginia Board of Counseling. Mr. Turón is currently finishing his doctoral studies Marriage and Family Therapy at Nova Southeastern University.
(757) 979-6141 View (757) 979-6141
Photo of Kathy Baker, LPC, RPT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kathy Baker
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23454
Change can be exciting...and scary. Finding the right person to assist you through the change is important. I can help you deal with issues of anxiety, depression, poor self-esteem, relationship conflicts, or marital issues. Using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), play therapy, energy psychology techniques, mindfulness, and family systems therapy I can guide you to a more peaceful and self-fulfilled place in your life.
Change can be exciting...and scary. Finding the right person to assist you through the change is important. I can help you deal with issues of anxiety, depression, poor self-esteem, relationship conflicts, or marital issues. Using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), play therapy, energy psychology techniques, mindfulness, and family systems therapy I can guide you to a more peaceful and self-fulfilled place in your life.
(757) 550-3492 View (757) 550-3492
Photo of Sarah Kooiman, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sarah Kooiman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23452  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I primarily work with individuals and couples, and families.
Just about everyone will experience difficulty at some point in their lives, whether that means grief, relationship conflict, mental health concerns, struggles with identity and purpose, or the question of worthiness and success. It can be difficult to know how to maneuver through the challenges that life can throw our way, and at times it's hard to know where to turn. My goal is to help create an opportunity to explore the workings of your mind, and to help guide you to self-discovery, knowledge, and peace.
As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I primarily work with individuals and couples, and families.
Just about everyone will experience difficulty at some point in their lives, whether that means grief, relationship conflict, mental health concerns, struggles with identity and purpose, or the question of worthiness and success. It can be difficult to know how to maneuver through the challenges that life can throw our way, and at times it's hard to know where to turn. My goal is to help create an opportunity to explore the workings of your mind, and to help guide you to self-discovery, knowledge, and peace.
(757) 330-8737 View (757) 330-8737
Photo of Ashley Ryan, MSW
Ashley Ryan
Supervisee in Clinical Social Work, MSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23452
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in a variety of issues such as anxiety, self esteem & marital distress.
Welcome! I work with couples and individuals as they navigate the stressors in their lives. Some days we feel like we are on an island with our struggles. Sometimes, it is hardest to share our challenges with the people we are closest to. My goal is to create a welcoming and non-judgmental space so that you can begin to heal. I believe that therapy can help people meet their challenges and learn how to grow through them. Strengths-based approaches are the foundation to my work. I encourage using your innate strengths to create the life you want to live. We will work together to meet your goals & find the tools to succeed.
I specialize in a variety of issues such as anxiety, self esteem & marital distress.
Welcome! I work with couples and individuals as they navigate the stressors in their lives. Some days we feel like we are on an island with our struggles. Sometimes, it is hardest to share our challenges with the people we are closest to. My goal is to create a welcoming and non-judgmental space so that you can begin to heal. I believe that therapy can help people meet their challenges and learn how to grow through them. Strengths-based approaches are the foundation to my work. I encourage using your innate strengths to create the life you want to live. We will work together to meet your goals & find the tools to succeed.
(757) 720-7954 View (757) 720-7954
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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.