Marriage Counseling Therapists in Charles County, MD

Photo of Lisa Connors, PhD, MA, MDiv, LCPC, LPC
Lisa Connors
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, PhD, MA, MDiv, LCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
Bryantown, MD 20617  (Online Only)
My specialty is grief, life, professional, career, relationship, and marriage.
Do you feel sad, rejected, and abandoned? Do you have unforgivesness, relationship issues, or low-self-esteem? Have you experienced trauma? If you answered yes, I am here to help you! I have many years of experience working with women in diverse settings. I provide services to individuals who have experienced and are experiencing issues that affect their ability to live whole, completely, and abundantly. My desire is that individuals heal through the knowledge of God's Word through counseling and coaching, by utilizing various techniques, and by offering spiritual guidance and support. I look forward to serving you!
My specialty is grief, life, professional, career, relationship, and marriage.
Do you feel sad, rejected, and abandoned? Do you have unforgivesness, relationship issues, or low-self-esteem? Have you experienced trauma? If you answered yes, I am here to help you! I have many years of experience working with women in diverse settings. I provide services to individuals who have experienced and are experiencing issues that affect their ability to live whole, completely, and abundantly. My desire is that individuals heal through the knowledge of God's Word through counseling and coaching, by utilizing various techniques, and by offering spiritual guidance and support. I look forward to serving you!
(301) 355-2271 View (301) 355-2271
Photo of Shantel Gaskins, MS, LGMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Shantel Gaskins
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LGMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waldorf, MD 20602
As an LGMFT I now provide a wide range of services such as mental health therapy, marriage and family counseling, couples counseling, individual counseling, and workshops.
I am a Licensed Graduate Marriage and Family Therapist (LGMFT). Prior to becoming licensed, I worked in the social services field, assisting ex-offenders to reintegrate back into the community. In doing so, I used therapeutic techniques (such as Motivational Interviewing and Cognitive Behavioral interventions) to reduce clients' resistance towards change and address antisocial cognitions that were barriers to their success in adapting new prosocial cognitions and behavior.
As an LGMFT I now provide a wide range of services such as mental health therapy, marriage and family counseling, couples counseling, individual counseling, and workshops.
I am a Licensed Graduate Marriage and Family Therapist (LGMFT). Prior to becoming licensed, I worked in the social services field, assisting ex-offenders to reintegrate back into the community. In doing so, I used therapeutic techniques (such as Motivational Interviewing and Cognitive Behavioral interventions) to reduce clients' resistance towards change and address antisocial cognitions that were barriers to their success in adapting new prosocial cognitions and behavior.
(240) 474-9479 View (240) 474-9479
Photo of Mollie M Thorn - The Pinnacle Center, MEd, LCPC
The Pinnacle Center
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MEd, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waldorf, MD 20602
Mollie Thorn is a founding member of The Pinnacle Center, where she provides counseling and psychotherapy to children, adolescents, adults and couples. In addition to individual, marriage and family counseling, Mrs. Thorn has specialities in Parenting Skills training, conflict resolution, and couples & family communication. Mrs. Thorn focuses on helping individuals bring out the best in themselves and others. Clients find her experience and empathy to be reassuring and insightful. In the years before she and her husband, Dr. Phil Thorn, started a counseling practice together, Mrs. Thorn worked as a teacher, an elementary counselor, and a consultant on parent-child issues.
Mollie Thorn is a founding member of The Pinnacle Center, where she provides counseling and psychotherapy to children, adolescents, adults and couples. In addition to individual, marriage and family counseling, Mrs. Thorn has specialities in Parenting Skills training, conflict resolution, and couples & family communication. Mrs. Thorn focuses on helping individuals bring out the best in themselves and others. Clients find her experience and empathy to be reassuring and insightful. In the years before she and her husband, Dr. Phil Thorn, started a counseling practice together, Mrs. Thorn worked as a teacher, an elementary counselor, and a consultant on parent-child issues.
(301) 531-5611 View (301) 531-5611
Photo of Milicent Mack, LMSW
Milicent Mack
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
Waldorf, MD 20603  (Online Only)
Specializing in evidence-based practices, Milicent offers individual, marriage, and group therapy sessions.
Milicent Mack, a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW), obtained her Master of Social Work degree from Fordham University. With a dedication to serving diverse communities, Milicent possesses extensive experience working with seniors, adults, and youth. Through the application of effective coping strategies, Milicent assists her clients in navigating life's obstacles with resilience and confidence.
Specializing in evidence-based practices, Milicent offers individual, marriage, and group therapy sessions.
Milicent Mack, a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW), obtained her Master of Social Work degree from Fordham University. With a dedication to serving diverse communities, Milicent possesses extensive experience working with seniors, adults, and youth. Through the application of effective coping strategies, Milicent assists her clients in navigating life's obstacles with resilience and confidence.
(301) 453-8195 View (301) 453-8195
Photo of Daisha Miller, LGPC, Counselor
Daisha Miller
Counselor, LGPC
Verified Verified
Waldorf, MD 20603  (Online Only)
I am a licensed Associate Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California and a licensed Graduate Professional Counselor in Maryland. My focus is on couples, families, children, adolescents, and adults.
I am a licensed Associate Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California and a licensed Graduate Professional Counselor in Maryland. My focus is on couples, families, children, adolescents, and adults.
(301) 409-5946 View (301) 409-5946
Photo of Desney V Bowen, MA, LCPC
Desney V Bowen
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waldorf, MD 20603  (Online Only)
My experience extends to issues including Relationship difficulties within marriage, Pre- Marital Counseling, Anxiety, Trauma and Depression with adults.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor specializing in therapy for adults and couples. I'm passionate about empowering individuals in developing skills to improve self-awareness and make positive changes in their lives.
My experience extends to issues including Relationship difficulties within marriage, Pre- Marital Counseling, Anxiety, Trauma and Depression with adults.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor specializing in therapy for adults and couples. I'm passionate about empowering individuals in developing skills to improve self-awareness and make positive changes in their lives.
(301) 533-7803 View (301) 533-7803
Photo of Jessica L. Webb, MEd, LCPC, Counselor
Jessica L. Webb
Counselor, MEd, LCPC
Verified Verified
Waldorf, MD 20601  (Online Only)
My specialties include marriage/couples, family as well as individual therapies.
Are you in a marriage that you find unsatisfactory? Are you lacking the tools to effectively communicate with your spouse or children? Are you frustrated with the course of your relationships and struggling to find peace? Let me help! I use my 10+ years of experience as a Psychotherapist to assist my clients in reaching their goals and furthering self awareness to bring positive changes to personal growth and relationships.
My specialties include marriage/couples, family as well as individual therapies.
Are you in a marriage that you find unsatisfactory? Are you lacking the tools to effectively communicate with your spouse or children? Are you frustrated with the course of your relationships and struggling to find peace? Let me help! I use my 10+ years of experience as a Psychotherapist to assist my clients in reaching their goals and furthering self awareness to bring positive changes to personal growth and relationships.
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Photo of Sabrena M Barnes-Montgomery - Healing Minds and Hearts Services, LLC, MSW, LCSW-C, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Healing Minds and Hearts Services, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Plata, MD 20646  (Online Only)
SELF PAY FEES: Bariatric Surgery Evaluation Cost: $250 Individual: $140 per session Couples/ Marriage: $180 per session (Couples Self Pay ONLY) OUT-OF-NETWORK: .
YOUR HEALING BEGINS NOW! YOU DON'T HAVE TO SUFFER ALONE! We are here to support you. We believe in the ideals of building mental & emotional well-belling through self-empowerment of the mind, body, & spirit providing a relatable approach with realistic insight. We utilize a compassionate & innovative care approach in a non-judgmental environment. We are dedicated and enjoy providing mental health treatment to those that come for support and resolve in dealing with life issues. We are focused on providing services with the highest levels of customer satisfaction & we will do all we can to meet your expectations.
SELF PAY FEES: Bariatric Surgery Evaluation Cost: $250 Individual: $140 per session Couples/ Marriage: $180 per session (Couples Self Pay ONLY) OUT-OF-NETWORK: .
YOUR HEALING BEGINS NOW! YOU DON'T HAVE TO SUFFER ALONE! We are here to support you. We believe in the ideals of building mental & emotional well-belling through self-empowerment of the mind, body, & spirit providing a relatable approach with realistic insight. We utilize a compassionate & innovative care approach in a non-judgmental environment. We are dedicated and enjoy providing mental health treatment to those that come for support and resolve in dealing with life issues. We are focused on providing services with the highest levels of customer satisfaction & we will do all we can to meet your expectations.
(301) 965-1925 View (301) 965-1925
Photo of Howard Mabry - Institute for Behavioral Change, Inc, PhD, Psychologist
Institute for Behavioral Change, Inc
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Waldorf, MD 20601
We are offer the following services: Intensive Outpatient Programs, Drug and Alcohol Programs Crisis Management Couples and Pre- Marital, Grief Counseling Individual and Group, LGBTQIA+, Juvenile Re-Entry, and Medication Management.
You are not alone, we are here for you. The Institute for Behavioral Change Inc., is here for you and your family. We believe that everyone with the right help can live a fulfilling life. We provide individual, group, and community-based services to youth and adults. We take the time to listen, understand your thoughts and emotions, and work with you to achieve your goals. If you are experiencing disorders that affect your mood, thinking and behavior such as depression, anxiety disorders, eating disorders and addictive behaviors, we will work with you in developing an individualized treatment program.
We are offer the following services: Intensive Outpatient Programs, Drug and Alcohol Programs Crisis Management Couples and Pre- Marital, Grief Counseling Individual and Group, LGBTQIA+, Juvenile Re-Entry, and Medication Management.
You are not alone, we are here for you. The Institute for Behavioral Change Inc., is here for you and your family. We believe that everyone with the right help can live a fulfilling life. We provide individual, group, and community-based services to youth and adults. We take the time to listen, understand your thoughts and emotions, and work with you to achieve your goals. If you are experiencing disorders that affect your mood, thinking and behavior such as depression, anxiety disorders, eating disorders and addictive behaviors, we will work with you in developing an individualized treatment program.
(301) 679-7267 View (301) 679-7267
Photo of Dr. Philip A Thorn, LCPC
Dr. Philip A Thorn
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Waldorf, MD 20602
You may have thought about getting some counseling or coaching for a while. Please set your worries aside. There's not a person alive who couldn't benefit from professional guidance from time to time. Whether you are suffering from chronic pain, anxiety, sadness, anger, a loss of meaning in life, or a difficult relationship, I could be of help. Also, if you simply want to have less stress, a better marriage or improved motivation, I can help. While I do not accept insurance, my office will give you a claim form that you can submit to your insurer. Importantly, I also offer a sliding fee scale for consultation and coaching.
You may have thought about getting some counseling or coaching for a while. Please set your worries aside. There's not a person alive who couldn't benefit from professional guidance from time to time. Whether you are suffering from chronic pain, anxiety, sadness, anger, a loss of meaning in life, or a difficult relationship, I could be of help. Also, if you simply want to have less stress, a better marriage or improved motivation, I can help. While I do not accept insurance, my office will give you a claim form that you can submit to your insurer. Importantly, I also offer a sliding fee scale for consultation and coaching.
(301) 246-2918 View (301) 246-2918
Photo of Sabrena Montgomery, MSW, LCSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sabrena Montgomery
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Waldorf, MD 20602  (Online Only)
SELF PAY FEES: Bariatric Surgery Evaluation Cost: $250 Individual: $140 per session Couples/ Marriage: $180 per session (Couples Self Pay ONLY) OUT-OF-NETWORK: .
YOUR HEALING BEGINS NOW! YOU DON'T HAVE TO SUFFER ALONE! We are here to support you. We believe in the ideals of building mental & emotional well-belling through self-empowerment of the mind, body, & spirit providing a relatable approach with realistic insight. We utilize a compassionate & innovative care approach in a non-judgmental environment. We are dedicated and enjoy providing mental health treatment to those that come for support and resolve in dealing with life issues. We are focused on providing services with the highest levels of customer satisfaction & we will do all we can to meet your expectations.
SELF PAY FEES: Bariatric Surgery Evaluation Cost: $250 Individual: $140 per session Couples/ Marriage: $180 per session (Couples Self Pay ONLY) OUT-OF-NETWORK: .
YOUR HEALING BEGINS NOW! YOU DON'T HAVE TO SUFFER ALONE! We are here to support you. We believe in the ideals of building mental & emotional well-belling through self-empowerment of the mind, body, & spirit providing a relatable approach with realistic insight. We utilize a compassionate & innovative care approach in a non-judgmental environment. We are dedicated and enjoy providing mental health treatment to those that come for support and resolve in dealing with life issues. We are focused on providing services with the highest levels of customer satisfaction & we will do all we can to meet your expectations.
(210) 405-3793 View (210) 405-3793
Photo of Cameron Harris-Swan, LCPC
Cameron Harris-Swan
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waldorf, MD 20603  (Online Only)
My experience includes providing individual, marriage, group & family counseling.
Hi, my name is Cameron & welcome to Point of Need Christian Counseling. I’m passionate about helping people cultivate clarity, healing & peace within themselves. As well as in their relationship to others. My goals as a counselor, are to raise a standard that prioritizes the health of our minds. To provide hope that change can be a real & attainable possibility! & to encourage every person that I work with, to know that you don't have to live through your challenges unsupported & alone.
My experience includes providing individual, marriage, group & family counseling.
Hi, my name is Cameron & welcome to Point of Need Christian Counseling. I’m passionate about helping people cultivate clarity, healing & peace within themselves. As well as in their relationship to others. My goals as a counselor, are to raise a standard that prioritizes the health of our minds. To provide hope that change can be a real & attainable possibility! & to encourage every person that I work with, to know that you don't have to live through your challenges unsupported & alone.
(443) 781-8649 View (443) 781-8649
Photo of Ashton Morgan, MBA, MAMFT, LCMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ashton Morgan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MBA, MAMFT, LCMFT
Verified Verified
Waldorf, MD 20601  (Online Only)
Mr. Morgan treats individuals, couples, families, and children. Mr. Morgan currently provides clinical supervision to Marriage and Family Counselors. He enjoys working with clients who have a broad spectrum of relationship problems.
Mr. Morgan treats individuals, couples, families, and children. Mr. Morgan currently provides clinical supervision to Marriage and Family Counselors. He enjoys working with clients who have a broad spectrum of relationship problems.
(443) 720-0016 View (443) 720-0016
Photo of Tia Myers, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Tia Myers
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waldorf, MD 20602  (Online Only)
Life is full of transitions and it can be difficult dealing with the day to day challenges of family, work, school, health concerns, loss of a friend/family, marriage, or divorce . The help of a Professional Counselor may be necessary to get through some of these moments. My passion is to work with individuals (children and adults) and families to cope with life's stressors. Whether you are looking to work through an unexpected difficult situation or need assistance with developing a short or long term plan to achieve your personal or family mental health goals, I am here to help.
Life is full of transitions and it can be difficult dealing with the day to day challenges of family, work, school, health concerns, loss of a friend/family, marriage, or divorce . The help of a Professional Counselor may be necessary to get through some of these moments. My passion is to work with individuals (children and adults) and families to cope with life's stressors. Whether you are looking to work through an unexpected difficult situation or need assistance with developing a short or long term plan to achieve your personal or family mental health goals, I am here to help.
(667) 660-4310 View (667) 660-4310
Photo of Kendra Jackson-Ralph - Love Sex And Intimacy, LPC, CST, NBCCH, Counselor
Kendra Jackson-Ralph - Love Sex And Intimacy
Counselor, LPC, CST, NBCCH
Verified Verified
Waldorf, MD 20603
As a therapist, she helps her clients with extra marital affairs, low sexual desires, premature ejaculation, erectile dysfunction, female pelvic pain, female arousal, paraphilias, sexual identity, pornography, divorce and separation.
Kendra Jackson-Ralph is a licensed professional counselor in DC, MD, and VA. She is also a practicing AASECT certified Sex Therapist and certified Clinical Hypnotherapist. In addition, for years she began advocating against domestic violence with survivors and treating the batterers for change within intimate relationships. Mrs. Ralph works with individuals and couples to address mental health issues; in addition, to rebuild and improve what's missing in the intimate relationship. Do you need to rebuild trust or communication in your relationship, create a satisfying sexual connection or decrease sexual dysfunctions?
As a therapist, she helps her clients with extra marital affairs, low sexual desires, premature ejaculation, erectile dysfunction, female pelvic pain, female arousal, paraphilias, sexual identity, pornography, divorce and separation.
Kendra Jackson-Ralph is a licensed professional counselor in DC, MD, and VA. She is also a practicing AASECT certified Sex Therapist and certified Clinical Hypnotherapist. In addition, for years she began advocating against domestic violence with survivors and treating the batterers for change within intimate relationships. Mrs. Ralph works with individuals and couples to address mental health issues; in addition, to rebuild and improve what's missing in the intimate relationship. Do you need to rebuild trust or communication in your relationship, create a satisfying sexual connection or decrease sexual dysfunctions?
(757) 568-7277 View (757) 568-7277
Photo of Bobby E Vann Jr, LCPC, Counselor
Bobby E Vann Jr
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
La Plata, MD 20646  (Online Only)
Welcome to our practice! We are currently accepting new clients for the summer months and meeting completely online for telehealth sessions in Maryland. Are you tired of trying to get through to your partner? Do you feel stuck and unclear about what to do in your marriage or relationship after an affair? Are you feeling disconnected and hopeless in your career, relationships or with your partner? If so, we can help!
Welcome to our practice! We are currently accepting new clients for the summer months and meeting completely online for telehealth sessions in Maryland. Are you tired of trying to get through to your partner? Do you feel stuck and unclear about what to do in your marriage or relationship after an affair? Are you feeling disconnected and hopeless in your career, relationships or with your partner? If so, we can help!
(410) 844-5192 View (410) 844-5192
Photo of Tiara Williams, LMSW
Tiara Williams
Master Social Work, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waldorf, MD 20602  (Online Only)
Are you looking for a therapist with 10+ years working with children, adolescents, and adults? How about one who's passionate about empowering others to reach their full potential by developing skills to make positive changes. I specialize in working with adolescents and adults experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, relationship/peer issues and ADHD. I also work with families navigating parent/child conflict. I teach them effective communication and how to relate to one another in the age of social media. I help individuals regain balance and assist them in making meaningful strides towards their goals for treatment.
Are you looking for a therapist with 10+ years working with children, adolescents, and adults? How about one who's passionate about empowering others to reach their full potential by developing skills to make positive changes. I specialize in working with adolescents and adults experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, relationship/peer issues and ADHD. I also work with families navigating parent/child conflict. I teach them effective communication and how to relate to one another in the age of social media. I help individuals regain balance and assist them in making meaningful strides towards their goals for treatment.
(240) 607-5672 View (240) 607-5672
Photo of Myriah Davis, LMSW
Myriah Davis
LMSW
Verified Verified
Waldorf, MD 20603
Hello, and thanks for stopping by! I’m a dedicated therapist with over 13 years of experience. If you’re feeling lost, uncertain about your next steps, or struggling with the state of your relationship, As a compassionate guide, I aim to support you in reaching your full potential and therapeutic goals. Whether you’re seeking in-person or virtual sessions, I provide a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore and overcome life’s challenges. I believe in meeting you where you are and walking alongside you on your journey toward healing. I look forward to meeting you and assisting you on this journey.
Hello, and thanks for stopping by! I’m a dedicated therapist with over 13 years of experience. If you’re feeling lost, uncertain about your next steps, or struggling with the state of your relationship, As a compassionate guide, I aim to support you in reaching your full potential and therapeutic goals. Whether you’re seeking in-person or virtual sessions, I provide a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore and overcome life’s challenges. I believe in meeting you where you are and walking alongside you on your journey toward healing. I look forward to meeting you and assisting you on this journey.
(301) 507-1795 View (301) 507-1795
Photo of LaShondra Brown, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
LaShondra Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waldorf, MD 20603  (Online Only)
I enjoy the process of helping my clients, besides my vocation, it is my passion and I have been in the social work field for more than a decade. Through online therapy I have had the opportunity to help people both near and far from me. It's time that the fact of going to therapy stopped being stigmatized, so one of my goals is that the client feels comfortable during the process. Telling how we feel does not make us weak, on the contrary, it is the first and most important step to feel better, that is why at One Alkaline Life we have always focused on offering you the best to accompany you in your learning process.
I enjoy the process of helping my clients, besides my vocation, it is my passion and I have been in the social work field for more than a decade. Through online therapy I have had the opportunity to help people both near and far from me. It's time that the fact of going to therapy stopped being stigmatized, so one of my goals is that the client feels comfortable during the process. Telling how we feel does not make us weak, on the contrary, it is the first and most important step to feel better, that is why at One Alkaline Life we have always focused on offering you the best to accompany you in your learning process.
(903) 282-3435 View (903) 282-3435
Photo of Anita Wiley - PC Counseling Services, LLC, MS, LCPC, NCC
PC Counseling Services, LLC
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Plata, MD 20646
I AM HERE TO HELP. If you are feeling upset, sad, or even angry because of a recent breakup, divorce, loss of a loved one, or the loss of your ability to function well due to a chronic illness, let me assist you so that you can begin to enjoy your life again. I am a Board Certified Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with a Master's degree from Loyola University College. I have over thirteen years of clinical experience treating individuals with emotional and mental health issues. Call today to schedule an appointment!
I AM HERE TO HELP. If you are feeling upset, sad, or even angry because of a recent breakup, divorce, loss of a loved one, or the loss of your ability to function well due to a chronic illness, let me assist you so that you can begin to enjoy your life again. I am a Board Certified Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with a Master's degree from Loyola University College. I have over thirteen years of clinical experience treating individuals with emotional and mental health issues. Call today to schedule an appointment!
(240) 428-6636 View (240) 428-6636
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See more therapy options for Charles County

Marriage Counseling Therapists

How does marriage counseling work?

Marriage counseling works by teaching couples concrete skills to communicate with one another and solve disagreements in healthy ways. A trained mental health professional works with both members of a couple to explore difficulties the couple may be having and helps them develop skills to address these matters. Couples who don’t have any difficulties but want to prepare for marriage may develop skills for the future.

How long does marriage counseling typically last?

Marriage counseling is a short-term form of therapy; the process may last between four and eight sessions. Other forms of relationship guidance from mental health professionals, such as couples therapy, are longer lasting, may focus on the past rather than just the present, and are tailored to the individual couple and their emotions, history, and patterns in the relationship. Couples therapy often lasts for 12 weeks or longer.

Is marriage counseling effective?

Marriage counseling helps many couples develop relationship skills that may not have been acquired or tested in a relationship; partners may be better able to communicate and address conflict following counseling. However, there are many different forms of marriage counseling, and this form of counseling does not have as strong an evidence base as other modalities such as couples therapy.

Is marriage counseling effective if only one partner wants to go?

Yes, marriage counseling can still be effective if one partner convinces the other to engage in the process. Of course, whether counseling is effective depends on the couple’s commitment to work on their relationship; however, the short-term, skills-based nature of marriage counseling makes it a relatively easy “ask” of a partner, and the hesitant individual may see its value once counseling begins.