Marriage Counseling Therapists in Portland, ME

Photo of Rita Laura Siavelis, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rita Laura Siavelis
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04103
Waitlist for new clients
I love relationships and the amazing feeling you get when you are truly connected to others. This passion has driven me to learn and cultivate skills to help others find this connection in their own lives. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 30 years of experience working with individuals, couples and families. If you are struggling in your relationship, want a more satisfying bond, or find yourself in conflict with those you love; I can help.
I love relationships and the amazing feeling you get when you are truly connected to others. This passion has driven me to learn and cultivate skills to help others find this connection in their own lives. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 30 years of experience working with individuals, couples and families. If you are struggling in your relationship, want a more satisfying bond, or find yourself in conflict with those you love; I can help.
(207) 600-1423 View (207) 600-1423
Photo of Dr. Jeff J. Rocker, PhD, NCC, LPC, LMHC, LCPC, Counselor
Dr. Jeff J. Rocker
Counselor, PhD, NCC, LPC, LMHC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04101
in Marriage and Family therapy from Nova Southeastern University.
With 12 years of experience working with clients going through individual, relationship, and family issues, Celebrity Therapist Dr. Jeff Rocker has provided therapeutic services to clients nationwide. He is Licensed in 22 states and has served clients from all age groups. Over the years, Dr. Jeff has organized lectures and various events in the community, including excursions and retreats for couples to improve their communication and better understand each other. He has experience working with athletes in the NFL, NBA, and MLB. In addition, Dr. Jeff has also worked with clients in the Movie, Music, and Entertainment Industries.
in Marriage and Family therapy from Nova Southeastern University.
With 12 years of experience working with clients going through individual, relationship, and family issues, Celebrity Therapist Dr. Jeff Rocker has provided therapeutic services to clients nationwide. He is Licensed in 22 states and has served clients from all age groups. Over the years, Dr. Jeff has organized lectures and various events in the community, including excursions and retreats for couples to improve their communication and better understand each other. He has experience working with athletes in the NFL, NBA, and MLB. In addition, Dr. Jeff has also worked with clients in the Movie, Music, and Entertainment Industries.
(207) 962-1355 View (207) 962-1355
Photo of V Elizabeth Taxter, MS, LCPC, Counselor
V Elizabeth Taxter
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04103
I provide various modalities of treatment including: psychodynamic psychotherapy, family systems work, play therapy; parent-child therapy; parent & co-parent counseling, marital and divorce counseling.
I am a seasoned clinician who has worked with adults, couples and families for over 30 years. Increased awareness leads to increased options. Often the work of therapy is about making or repairing connections--interpersonal, internal or perhaps even spiritual. I provide individual adult psychodynamic psychotherapy; couples counseling: marital, pre and post divorce. I use a multi modal approach often including assessment and treatment from a family systems perspective and a psychodynamic perspective. I reserve a portion of my practice to provide a safe and intriguing space for children to express themselves and to be understood by adults. Facilitated parent-child sessions often help.
I provide various modalities of treatment including: psychodynamic psychotherapy, family systems work, play therapy; parent-child therapy; parent & co-parent counseling, marital and divorce counseling.
I am a seasoned clinician who has worked with adults, couples and families for over 30 years. Increased awareness leads to increased options. Often the work of therapy is about making or repairing connections--interpersonal, internal or perhaps even spiritual. I provide individual adult psychodynamic psychotherapy; couples counseling: marital, pre and post divorce. I use a multi modal approach often including assessment and treatment from a family systems perspective and a psychodynamic perspective. I reserve a portion of my practice to provide a safe and intriguing space for children to express themselves and to be understood by adults. Facilitated parent-child sessions often help.
(207) 899-4363 View (207) 899-4363
Photo of Nickie Murray - Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Portland
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Portland
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04101
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.
(855) 524-5193 View (855) 524-5193
Photo of Doreen Peasley, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Doreen Peasley
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04103
Doreen Peasley is a licensed Marriage Family Therapist in both Maine and California. In her over forty years as a licensed Marriage Family Therapist, she has successfully assisted individuals, couples and families in discovering and achieving their goals and living more engaged and meaningful lives. Doreen supported our military by working with our service members and their families at military bases in the United States, Europe, and Asia for over twelve years. She completed her Bachelor of Arts in English and Psychology at San Diego State University and received her Master of Arts in Psychology at Pepperdine University.
Doreen Peasley is a licensed Marriage Family Therapist in both Maine and California. In her over forty years as a licensed Marriage Family Therapist, she has successfully assisted individuals, couples and families in discovering and achieving their goals and living more engaged and meaningful lives. Doreen supported our military by working with our service members and their families at military bases in the United States, Europe, and Asia for over twelve years. She completed her Bachelor of Arts in English and Psychology at San Diego State University and received her Master of Arts in Psychology at Pepperdine University.
(207) 819-9122 View (207) 819-9122
Photo of Sarah P. Maloney, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah P. Maloney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04103
I also treat adults transitioning from marriage to divorce with co-parent coaching which is geared toward assisting co-parenting partners with this process.
Fall 2024- minimal openings available. Thank you for exploring my page on Psychology Today. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker I provide individual, couples and family therapy with an approach that integrates cognitive-behavioral therapy and family systems models. (I do not treat children or adolescents in my practice.) My role as therapist is to help stimulate change by facilitating conversations that explore and lead to new ways of thinking about your life and relationships, and ways to initiate meaningful change.
I also treat adults transitioning from marriage to divorce with co-parent coaching which is geared toward assisting co-parenting partners with this process.
Fall 2024- minimal openings available. Thank you for exploring my page on Psychology Today. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker I provide individual, couples and family therapy with an approach that integrates cognitive-behavioral therapy and family systems models. (I do not treat children or adolescents in my practice.) My role as therapist is to help stimulate change by facilitating conversations that explore and lead to new ways of thinking about your life and relationships, and ways to initiate meaningful change.
(207) 482-0218 View (207) 482-0218
Photo of Dahlia Mann - Dr. Dahlia Mann, Couples Counseling Virtually , PhD, LMFT, Psychologist
Dr. Dahlia Mann, Couples Counseling Virtually
Psychologist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04101  (Online Only)
Whether you want to repair a marriage after infidelity, stop recurring fights, deal with ADD in a partner, or something else, I have extensive experience to help you.
Does it seem like your marriage is too difficult to repair? Are you worried that you won't feel happy together again? In counseling, you can learn to recover intimacy, joy, caring, and excitement in your relationship. Through simple, easy-to-implement tools and strategies, you can break free of old resentments and bad patterns, learn to trust each other again, break old habits, and be happier together. In therapy we will work on a dual level, helping you, as a couple, to work out your differences and become closer and, as individuals, to find your place.
Whether you want to repair a marriage after infidelity, stop recurring fights, deal with ADD in a partner, or something else, I have extensive experience to help you.
Does it seem like your marriage is too difficult to repair? Are you worried that you won't feel happy together again? In counseling, you can learn to recover intimacy, joy, caring, and excitement in your relationship. Through simple, easy-to-implement tools and strategies, you can break free of old resentments and bad patterns, learn to trust each other again, break old habits, and be happier together. In therapy we will work on a dual level, helping you, as a couple, to work out your differences and become closer and, as individuals, to find your place.
(207) 360-4899 View (207) 360-4899
Photo of Meredith L Howe, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Meredith L Howe
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04103
Waitlist for new clients
I believe therapy is a collaborative process where we work together to make changes. I focus on your strengths and build on them throughout the therapeutic process. I offer a safe, non-judgmental environment where we can process jointly through life’s daily challenges. As a marriage and family therapist, I believe in a holistic approach where mind and body are connected. We impact each other and the environment in which we live, causing us to act and react to daily stressors.
I believe therapy is a collaborative process where we work together to make changes. I focus on your strengths and build on them throughout the therapeutic process. I offer a safe, non-judgmental environment where we can process jointly through life’s daily challenges. As a marriage and family therapist, I believe in a holistic approach where mind and body are connected. We impact each other and the environment in which we live, causing us to act and react to daily stressors.
(877) 548-0676 View (877) 548-0676
Photo of Sean Mitchell, LCPC-C, NCC, Counselor
Sean Mitchell
Counselor, LCPC-C, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04101
I'm pleased to offer my services in several sectors of therapy for my clients including Personal Therapy, Family Counseling, Couples Therapy, and Marriage Counseling.
Living your best life starts with finding and using the tools you need to build awareness, healthy habits, and a positive outlook. My name is Sean Mitchell, and I look forward to working with you, and embarking on a journey to wellness together. My approach to counseling is based on a humanistic approach that emphasizes the importance of being one's true self in order to lead the most fulfilling life. We all have our own unique ways of looking at the world and this approach involves a core belief that people are good at heart, capable of making the right choices in life and can work towards developing their full potential.
I'm pleased to offer my services in several sectors of therapy for my clients including Personal Therapy, Family Counseling, Couples Therapy, and Marriage Counseling.
Living your best life starts with finding and using the tools you need to build awareness, healthy habits, and a positive outlook. My name is Sean Mitchell, and I look forward to working with you, and embarking on a journey to wellness together. My approach to counseling is based on a humanistic approach that emphasizes the importance of being one's true self in order to lead the most fulfilling life. We all have our own unique ways of looking at the world and this approach involves a core belief that people are good at heart, capable of making the right choices in life and can work towards developing their full potential.
(207) 421-9472 View (207) 421-9472
Photo of Karen Klein, LCP, Psychologist
Karen Klein
Psychologist, LCP
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04103
Hi! I'm Dr. Karen Klein. I'm a licensed Psychologist in Maine. I've been working in Maine for 38 years and have a variety of experiences working in Mental health Centers, nursing homes, and private practice. I've also worked with many different types of people but mostly see individuals who are depressed or anxious or experiencing significant trauma from some past event. I enjoy working with all individuals, especially with couples. When I worked at the Mental Health Center I developed the Marriage and Family Clinic where I trained doctoral students from all over the country in ways to do therapy with couples.
Hi! I'm Dr. Karen Klein. I'm a licensed Psychologist in Maine. I've been working in Maine for 38 years and have a variety of experiences working in Mental health Centers, nursing homes, and private practice. I've also worked with many different types of people but mostly see individuals who are depressed or anxious or experiencing significant trauma from some past event. I enjoy working with all individuals, especially with couples. When I worked at the Mental Health Center I developed the Marriage and Family Clinic where I trained doctoral students from all over the country in ways to do therapy with couples.
(844) 452-1048 View (844) 452-1048
Photo of Nicole Clarke, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nicole Clarke
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04103
My name is Nicole Clarke and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LADC) based in Maine and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, couples relationships, and those with a history of trauma. I utilize a biopsychosocial approach assisting in looking at the entire person.
My name is Nicole Clarke and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LADC) based in Maine and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, couples relationships, and those with a history of trauma. I utilize a biopsychosocial approach assisting in looking at the entire person.
(833) 635-1537 View (833) 635-1537
Photo of Ginger Walker, MA, LCPC
Ginger Walker
Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04101  (Online Only)
I provide marriage and family counseling, eating disorder treatment, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and emotionally-focused therapy.
With compassion and a uniquely client-centered approach to presenting concerns, I support you as you progress through life transitions for healing and growth. Clients say they appreciate the strong rapport, emotional reinforcement, insight, and holistic perspective. My style is interactive and nonjudgmental. I am dedicated to working with a variety of problem areas, including relationship conflict, trauma, anxiety, depression, and multi-cultural concerns. My work is integrative, concentrating on mind/body/spirit wellness. Counseling is offered on a brief or longer-term basis.
I provide marriage and family counseling, eating disorder treatment, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and emotionally-focused therapy.
With compassion and a uniquely client-centered approach to presenting concerns, I support you as you progress through life transitions for healing and growth. Clients say they appreciate the strong rapport, emotional reinforcement, insight, and holistic perspective. My style is interactive and nonjudgmental. I am dedicated to working with a variety of problem areas, including relationship conflict, trauma, anxiety, depression, and multi-cultural concerns. My work is integrative, concentrating on mind/body/spirit wellness. Counseling is offered on a brief or longer-term basis.
(207) 209-1528 View (207) 209-1528
Photo of David Murray, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
David Murray
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04101
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in providing treatment for a number of therapeutic issues such as marital conflict,stress, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, anger management, conflict resolution and sexual addictions.
I like to do a lot of listening and to provide emotional support prior to making any suggestions. Also, I have found that Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is a very effective component to counseling because it helps clients to identify habitual coping strategies that he/she has been employing that have helped to reduce stress in the past but now cause all sorts of problems. In addition to providing emotional support, I will help you to be mindful of these tendencies and practice replacing the thoughts (and the behaviors associated with them) with strategies that will help you live a happier,life.
I specialize in providing treatment for a number of therapeutic issues such as marital conflict,stress, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, anger management, conflict resolution and sexual addictions.
I like to do a lot of listening and to provide emotional support prior to making any suggestions. Also, I have found that Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is a very effective component to counseling because it helps clients to identify habitual coping strategies that he/she has been employing that have helped to reduce stress in the past but now cause all sorts of problems. In addition to providing emotional support, I will help you to be mindful of these tendencies and practice replacing the thoughts (and the behaviors associated with them) with strategies that will help you live a happier,life.
(207) 420-2232 View (207) 420-2232
Photo of Debra A Ouimette, ThD, LADC, CASAC, SAP, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Debra A Ouimette
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, ThD, LADC, CASAC, SAP
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04101  (Online Only)
Pre- marital and Marriage Counseling.
I am a Substance Abuse Professional that blends therapeutic approaches to help each individual recover. I work with each person to help them find solutions to life's problems and reach their fullest potential. I offer tele-health options.I have 30 years experience as an addictions co-occurring therapist and Christian counselor. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy and acceptance and commitment values based therapy to treat addiction problems. Family mediation is available for families in crisis. Couples counseling , individual therapy, mediation,and SAP services for federally licensed drivers are part of my scope of practice. "Every individual is deserving of help, hope, and healing."
Pre- marital and Marriage Counseling.
I am a Substance Abuse Professional that blends therapeutic approaches to help each individual recover. I work with each person to help them find solutions to life's problems and reach their fullest potential. I offer tele-health options.I have 30 years experience as an addictions co-occurring therapist and Christian counselor. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy and acceptance and commitment values based therapy to treat addiction problems. Family mediation is available for families in crisis. Couples counseling , individual therapy, mediation,and SAP services for federally licensed drivers are part of my scope of practice. "Every individual is deserving of help, hope, and healing."
(207) 482-0139 View (207) 482-0139
Photo of Christopher Read, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christopher Read
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04102  (Online Only)
Life, relationships, work, marriage and more provide challenges and are complicated to say the least. I pride myself in creating a therapeutic environment that allows everyone a space to reflect on your inner narrative. We then create a more accurate monologue that will help you transform your relationships with people, places and things.
Life, relationships, work, marriage and more provide challenges and are complicated to say the least. I pride myself in creating a therapeutic environment that allows everyone a space to reflect on your inner narrative. We then create a more accurate monologue that will help you transform your relationships with people, places and things.
(857) 887-3828 View (857) 887-3828
Photo of Heather DiYenno, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heather DiYenno
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04101
Specialties: Couples/ Marriage Counseling, Relationships, Anxiety, Depression. I specialize in helping you and your partner improve communication, increase intimacy, gain new perspectives, work through conflict, and ultimately strengthen your relationship. It requires individual accountability, motivation, and a shared commitment. You are shaped by your lived experiences and your past has a profound impact on how you think, feel, and behave in the present. Understanding the origin of your own communication style, perceptions you hold, and behaviors creates an opportunity for personal growth and a deeper, more intimate connection.
Specialties: Couples/ Marriage Counseling, Relationships, Anxiety, Depression. I specialize in helping you and your partner improve communication, increase intimacy, gain new perspectives, work through conflict, and ultimately strengthen your relationship. It requires individual accountability, motivation, and a shared commitment. You are shaped by your lived experiences and your past has a profound impact on how you think, feel, and behave in the present. Understanding the origin of your own communication style, perceptions you hold, and behaviors creates an opportunity for personal growth and a deeper, more intimate connection.
(207) 707-5490 View (207) 707-5490
Photo of Justin Marchese, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Justin Marchese
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04101
A licensed marital and family therapist by training, I help clients focus on attaining improved relationships with significant people in their lives, including an improved attitude toward themselves.
I see individuals, couples, and families. My goal is to provide clients a safe, supportive therapeutic relationship to talk, feel, heal, and change. Life challenges present us with opportunities for new chapters, new growth. Helping you reach your therapy goals is of utmost importance to me. You do not need to be controlled by the past, yet do you often use old behaviors in situations wanting a new response? Are you suffering from depression, anxieties, relationship problems, fears, self-doubts, or "irrational" worries? Together we will explore ways to help you live with more awareness, more freely, and with more energy for your present.
A licensed marital and family therapist by training, I help clients focus on attaining improved relationships with significant people in their lives, including an improved attitude toward themselves.
I see individuals, couples, and families. My goal is to provide clients a safe, supportive therapeutic relationship to talk, feel, heal, and change. Life challenges present us with opportunities for new chapters, new growth. Helping you reach your therapy goals is of utmost importance to me. You do not need to be controlled by the past, yet do you often use old behaviors in situations wanting a new response? Are you suffering from depression, anxieties, relationship problems, fears, self-doubts, or "irrational" worries? Together we will explore ways to help you live with more awareness, more freely, and with more energy for your present.
(617) 996-7264 View (617) 996-7264
Photo of Katie Kimball, LCPC-C, MS, Counselor
Katie Kimball
Counselor, LCPC-C, MS
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04101
Waitlist for new clients
I provide services for people who are experiencing mental health concerns, challenges with life transitions, and difficulties with relationships. We will endeavor to process your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors on an individual basis as well as through the lens of your larger social context.
I provide services for people who are experiencing mental health concerns, challenges with life transitions, and difficulties with relationships. We will endeavor to process your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors on an individual basis as well as through the lens of your larger social context.
(207) 994-8060 View (207) 994-8060
Photo of Jane Abbott Look, LCPC, CADC, CCS, DEEP, Counselor
Jane Abbott Look
Counselor, LCPC, CADC, CCS, DEEP
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04106  (Online Only)
CUSTOM COUNSELING, LLC is client centered-focused, counseling each unique individual with a personal approach, understanding and treatment. I believe that, if we don't have a 'connection', a relationship upon which to build trust and confidence in our work, we both won't succeed in our work together. Therefore, I spend as much time as needed, in order for that rapport, that connection, to be solid. Sometimes, it takes a brief time, in order to complete therapy with desired/ positive results; sometimes, it's a longer process. Our sessions don't end until we both feel confident and comfortable with our progress.
CUSTOM COUNSELING, LLC is client centered-focused, counseling each unique individual with a personal approach, understanding and treatment. I believe that, if we don't have a 'connection', a relationship upon which to build trust and confidence in our work, we both won't succeed in our work together. Therefore, I spend as much time as needed, in order for that rapport, that connection, to be solid. Sometimes, it takes a brief time, in order to complete therapy with desired/ positive results; sometimes, it's a longer process. Our sessions don't end until we both feel confident and comfortable with our progress.
(207) 420-8880 View (207) 420-8880
Photo of Caitlin Gentilini, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Caitlin Gentilini
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04101
Often people begin counseling to change something and feel differently. Working together we'll explore what may be getting in the way today and work to find ways of dealing with life on a day-to-day basis more resourcefully. When relevant, we'll also look at the past to understand how your history might be part of what you are experiencing currently and to support you in making desired changes for yourself. Part of my role in working together is to bring into your awareness what presently has been outside of your awareness. I use a blend of Transactional Analysis, Redecision Therapy, and Energy Work.
Often people begin counseling to change something and feel differently. Working together we'll explore what may be getting in the way today and work to find ways of dealing with life on a day-to-day basis more resourcefully. When relevant, we'll also look at the past to understand how your history might be part of what you are experiencing currently and to support you in making desired changes for yourself. Part of my role in working together is to bring into your awareness what presently has been outside of your awareness. I use a blend of Transactional Analysis, Redecision Therapy, and Energy Work.
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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.