Marriage Counseling Therapists in Grand Rapids, MI

Photo of Timothy Dean, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Timothy Dean
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
Life comes with difficulties and we don't need to face them alone. If you want to feel more connected with your spouse, have a better relationship with your children, or find more meaning in life, therapy can help you achieve these goals and many others. As your therapist my goal is to work alongside you, and through our therapeutic relationship, help you identify goals and remove barriers that have been holding you back from reaching these goals. I work with individuals, couples, and families to address marital/couple conflict, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, stress, PTSD/Trauma, as well as finding more purpose in life.
Life comes with difficulties and we don't need to face them alone. If you want to feel more connected with your spouse, have a better relationship with your children, or find more meaning in life, therapy can help you achieve these goals and many others. As your therapist my goal is to work alongside you, and through our therapeutic relationship, help you identify goals and remove barriers that have been holding you back from reaching these goals. I work with individuals, couples, and families to address marital/couple conflict, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, stress, PTSD/Trauma, as well as finding more purpose in life.
(616) 580-0801 x107 View (616) 580-0801 x107
Photo of Larry L Sonksen, LMSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Larry L Sonksen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
My wife does marriage intensives with me and I have found her female perspective on marital issues to be powerful and helpful to the process of strengthening and restoring the heart of marriages.
Sometimes, the reasons why partners become upset with each other run deeper than the present circumstances. When partners persist in doing or saying things that upset each other over and over again, there is often something more at stake than meets the eye. Stop feeling stuck in the same old problem cycle. I have over 30 years helping couples, individuals, and families find new solutions to old problems. I have found my post-graduate training in marriage and family therapy to be a valuable resource in helping others achieve their goals and potential. I have also presented at national conferences.
My wife does marriage intensives with me and I have found her female perspective on marital issues to be powerful and helpful to the process of strengthening and restoring the heart of marriages.
Sometimes, the reasons why partners become upset with each other run deeper than the present circumstances. When partners persist in doing or saying things that upset each other over and over again, there is often something more at stake than meets the eye. Stop feeling stuck in the same old problem cycle. I have over 30 years helping couples, individuals, and families find new solutions to old problems. I have found my post-graduate training in marriage and family therapy to be a valuable resource in helping others achieve their goals and potential. I have also presented at national conferences.
(616) 710-4404 View (616) 710-4404
Photo of Jan Talen - Us And Kids Communication Program, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Us And Kids Communication Program
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49546  (Online Only)
Couples with young kiddo are particularly at risk for marriage and family strife because they are so busy, and because there is so much that is new to their brains, emotions and relationship. Figuring out how to be both mom and dad as well as husband and wife is often overwhelming and troubling. Tension builds when the relationship energy gets split between kiddos needs (and there are a lot of them!) and marriage needs (and those are valid as well). The energy to figure out how to integrate all those needs, wants, wishes becomes divided and divisive. Disconnected and discontent brew and relationship trouble stews. What to do?
Couples with young kiddo are particularly at risk for marriage and family strife because they are so busy, and because there is so much that is new to their brains, emotions and relationship. Figuring out how to be both mom and dad as well as husband and wife is often overwhelming and troubling. Tension builds when the relationship energy gets split between kiddos needs (and there are a lot of them!) and marriage needs (and those are valid as well). The energy to figure out how to integrate all those needs, wants, wishes becomes divided and divisive. Disconnected and discontent brew and relationship trouble stews. What to do?
(616) 843-0985 View (616) 843-0985
Photo of Robert J. Baird, PhD, MSW, MDiv, Psychologist
Robert J. Baird
Psychologist, PhD, MSW, MDiv
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
If you're searching for a therapist who will encourage you to stay in counseling for years while holding your hand singing camp songs, I suggest you keep looking. But if you prefer a trained clinician whose approach to counseling is goal-oriented and solution-focused, contact my office staff to set up an appointment. You can trust that I will be sensitive and empathetic, but since you are hiring me to do a job, I will be directive in identifying the best approach to solve your problems. Most of my clinical practice focuses on Relational/Marriage issues as well as Anxiety/Depression.
If you're searching for a therapist who will encourage you to stay in counseling for years while holding your hand singing camp songs, I suggest you keep looking. But if you prefer a trained clinician whose approach to counseling is goal-oriented and solution-focused, contact my office staff to set up an appointment. You can trust that I will be sensitive and empathetic, but since you are hiring me to do a job, I will be directive in identifying the best approach to solve your problems. Most of my clinical practice focuses on Relational/Marriage issues as well as Anxiety/Depression.
(616) 458-0692 View (616) 458-0692
Photo of Emily Nikodemski, MA, LLPC, Counselor
Emily Nikodemski
Counselor, MA, LLPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49506
I have experience in working on several issues including depression, anxiety, marital and relational issues, sexuality, test anxiety, and academic performance issues.
Hello all, I’m Emily. Trying to heal while dealing with the challenges that life entails can be difficult and enraging. I am here to tell you that you do not have to do it alone. I offer non-judgmental and inclusive therapy by providing a safe and comfortable space to explore your emotions and start the healing process. I obtained my B.A. in Psychology from Saint Mary’s College in 2020 and my M.A. in Mental Health Counseling from Aquinas College in 2023.
I have experience in working on several issues including depression, anxiety, marital and relational issues, sexuality, test anxiety, and academic performance issues.
Hello all, I’m Emily. Trying to heal while dealing with the challenges that life entails can be difficult and enraging. I am here to tell you that you do not have to do it alone. I offer non-judgmental and inclusive therapy by providing a safe and comfortable space to explore your emotions and start the healing process. I obtained my B.A. in Psychology from Saint Mary’s College in 2020 and my M.A. in Mental Health Counseling from Aquinas College in 2023.
(616) 441-4058 View (616) 441-4058
Photo of Kimberly Hoke, MA, LPC, LMFT, NCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kimberly Hoke
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LPC, LMFT, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49508
Do you feel stuck having the same arguments where you know how things will end before it begins? Everyone experiences periods of difficulties as life changes and turns in unexpected directions. Whatever difficulties you are facing, you do not need to face them alone. As a marriage and family therapist, I will provide you and your family the tools needed to navigate life’s challenges in a safe, warm and understanding environment. Seeking help is not always easy although it can be rewarding.
Do you feel stuck having the same arguments where you know how things will end before it begins? Everyone experiences periods of difficulties as life changes and turns in unexpected directions. Whatever difficulties you are facing, you do not need to face them alone. As a marriage and family therapist, I will provide you and your family the tools needed to navigate life’s challenges in a safe, warm and understanding environment. Seeking help is not always easy although it can be rewarding.
(616) 236-2672 View (616) 236-2672
Photo of Hannah Borman, MA, LLPC, Counselor
Hannah Borman
Counselor, MA, LLPC
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
Are you weary of feeling consistently 'stuck' in the fast lane, wondering if your body and mind can remember what it is like to slow down and rest? Or maybe you're feeling shut down and it takes effort to do the bare minimum? Struggling to feel connection in your close relationships, or wondering how to move forward in a partnership or marriage that feels stagnant? I value the opportunity to create an environment where you can breathe, connect with safety in mind and body, and engage in a therapeutic relationship as you journey toward greater self-discovery and freedom.
Are you weary of feeling consistently 'stuck' in the fast lane, wondering if your body and mind can remember what it is like to slow down and rest? Or maybe you're feeling shut down and it takes effort to do the bare minimum? Struggling to feel connection in your close relationships, or wondering how to move forward in a partnership or marriage that feels stagnant? I value the opportunity to create an environment where you can breathe, connect with safety in mind and body, and engage in a therapeutic relationship as you journey toward greater self-discovery and freedom.
(616) 537-6596 View (616) 537-6596
Photo of Helen Ceballo-Hernandez, MA, LLPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Helen Ceballo-Hernandez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LLPC
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
I counsel individuals, families, couples and pre-marital couples.
You will be respected and your story acknowledged. No one has your exact story and circumstance. Together we will work so that the rest of your life's story may be genuine and fulfilling. I practice a predominantly humanistic approach in which you receive unconditional, positive regard. In other words, regardless of what you say, you will be accepted and supported and treated with value. Your healing, progress and strive will be the forefront of our work. Counseling requires work and courage to make healthy changes. I will be honored to work along with you. Let's be courageous together.
I counsel individuals, families, couples and pre-marital couples.
You will be respected and your story acknowledged. No one has your exact story and circumstance. Together we will work so that the rest of your life's story may be genuine and fulfilling. I practice a predominantly humanistic approach in which you receive unconditional, positive regard. In other words, regardless of what you say, you will be accepted and supported and treated with value. Your healing, progress and strive will be the forefront of our work. Counseling requires work and courage to make healthy changes. I will be honored to work along with you. Let's be courageous together.
(616) 427-1787 View (616) 427-1787
Photo of Sophia Dykstra, LPC, NCC, CAADC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sophia Dykstra
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CAADC, ACS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Tired of just coping with family problems? Marriage heading in a bad direction? Teens having issues? You don't want to wait around, hoping things will get better. You want actionable steps and to get moving. You want to find healing and wholeness. Don't want to pack up all the kids? We offer therapy in your home. For more information on couples, teen, and family counseling in Florida and Michigan, visit Family-Wholeness.com.
Tired of just coping with family problems? Marriage heading in a bad direction? Teens having issues? You don't want to wait around, hoping things will get better. You want actionable steps and to get moving. You want to find healing and wholeness. Don't want to pack up all the kids? We offer therapy in your home. For more information on couples, teen, and family counseling in Florida and Michigan, visit Family-Wholeness.com.
(616) 236-5483 View (616) 236-5483
Photo of Diane Schroeder - Diane Schroeder, MA, LPC, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Diane Schroeder, MA, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
Why hire Diane? Not only is Diane a proficient counselor, she's been through the gamut herself (childhood trauma, depression, anxiety/stress, re-marriage, parenting, corporate relocation/downsizing, and re-education); she understands what it's like to achieve goals and can help you believe and achieve yours too!.
Are life's challenges getting in the way of you living fulfilled and satisfied? Do anxious thoughts, stress, or past hurts control your life? Whatever is holding you back, Diane believes you don't have to stay that way - healing and growth are possible! Diane is a skilled problem solver who can help you figure out what's happening and collaborate with you to make change. She will strategize with you to put together a unique, customized plan (which may include Neurofeedback Brain Training), focused entirely on your specific situation and story.
Why hire Diane? Not only is Diane a proficient counselor, she's been through the gamut herself (childhood trauma, depression, anxiety/stress, re-marriage, parenting, corporate relocation/downsizing, and re-education); she understands what it's like to achieve goals and can help you believe and achieve yours too!.
Are life's challenges getting in the way of you living fulfilled and satisfied? Do anxious thoughts, stress, or past hurts control your life? Whatever is holding you back, Diane believes you don't have to stay that way - healing and growth are possible! Diane is a skilled problem solver who can help you figure out what's happening and collaborate with you to make change. She will strategize with you to put together a unique, customized plan (which may include Neurofeedback Brain Training), focused entirely on your specific situation and story.
(616) 920-8135 View (616) 920-8135
Photo of LaDawn N Evans, MA, LPC-S, Counselor
LaDawn N Evans
Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
Specifications/Certifications: Prepare and Enrich/Pre-marriage and Marriage Counseling, Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Life Coaching, Trauma-focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy.
Whether dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, or life turmoil, you’ve made a tremendous step in your healing journey and my goal is to help you along the path to restoration and growth! You were gifted with the attributes to reach your dreams and goals. It is my job and joy to supply you with tools to unearth those jewels that are within you. I received my Bachelor’s of Science in Psychology from Cornerstone University and Masters of Arts in Counseling from Spring Arbor University. I have served as a life coach for 15+ years. I provide counseling and life coaching services to adults, couples, and families.
Specifications/Certifications: Prepare and Enrich/Pre-marriage and Marriage Counseling, Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Life Coaching, Trauma-focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy.
Whether dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, or life turmoil, you’ve made a tremendous step in your healing journey and my goal is to help you along the path to restoration and growth! You were gifted with the attributes to reach your dreams and goals. It is my job and joy to supply you with tools to unearth those jewels that are within you. I received my Bachelor’s of Science in Psychology from Cornerstone University and Masters of Arts in Counseling from Spring Arbor University. I have served as a life coach for 15+ years. I provide counseling and life coaching services to adults, couples, and families.
(616) 208-2138 x700 View (616) 208-2138 x700
Photo of Benjamin A Taylor, MDiv, LLPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Benjamin A Taylor
Licensed Professional Counselor, MDiv, LLPC
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49525
Waitlist for new clients
My experience includes the following areas: Pre-marital, marriage and family, anxiety/depression, faith-specific issues, grief/loss, communication skills, anger, stress, substance abuse, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and other mental illnesses.
My role as a therapist is to help you recognize your needs and wants, and to offer you support during the process of healing and growth. My therapeutic philosophy is a strength-based approach that is based on my belief that you are the expert of your life. We will work together to discover the best way for you to find answers to your problems.
My experience includes the following areas: Pre-marital, marriage and family, anxiety/depression, faith-specific issues, grief/loss, communication skills, anger, stress, substance abuse, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and other mental illnesses.
My role as a therapist is to help you recognize your needs and wants, and to offer you support during the process of healing and growth. My therapeutic philosophy is a strength-based approach that is based on my belief that you are the expert of your life. We will work together to discover the best way for you to find answers to your problems.
(616) 201-3585 View (616) 201-3585
Photo of Caleb Charles Rudd, MA, LPC, Counselor
Caleb Charles Rudd
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
It would be horrible to go to someone for help in working through problems in your relationship, only to find someone convinced you are the problem in your marriage.
After the fresh passion of a new or developing relationship cools, partners in marriages and committed relationships often find they experience a distancing from one another. Often this distancing results in anger and resentment toward partners. Problems which were once minor irritants now seem to be major issues which seem to always be a source of conflict and anger, or may be avoided entirely for fear of conflict. In counseling couples and families using the Gottman method, my passion is helping my clients transform their relationships and gain a new sense of optimism in their relational pursuits.
It would be horrible to go to someone for help in working through problems in your relationship, only to find someone convinced you are the problem in your marriage.
After the fresh passion of a new or developing relationship cools, partners in marriages and committed relationships often find they experience a distancing from one another. Often this distancing results in anger and resentment toward partners. Problems which were once minor irritants now seem to be major issues which seem to always be a source of conflict and anger, or may be avoided entirely for fear of conflict. In counseling couples and families using the Gottman method, my passion is helping my clients transform their relationships and gain a new sense of optimism in their relational pursuits.
(269) 234-1686 View (269) 234-1686
Photo of Anyssa Grendel, BS, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anyssa Grendel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BS, LMSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49525
Anyssa specializes in supporting mental health/medical professionals and areas of depression/anxiety, obsessive/intrusive thinking, psychosomatic experiences, perinatal/parenting and marriage issues. Anyssa provides LLMSW and MSW intern supervision. Also a believer in both the human connection and animal support to our emotional and mental health and conduct ESA assessments. As a group practice we support the needs of children, teens, adults and couples so visit our website for more information on our practice and individual providers.
Anyssa specializes in supporting mental health/medical professionals and areas of depression/anxiety, obsessive/intrusive thinking, psychosomatic experiences, perinatal/parenting and marriage issues. Anyssa provides LLMSW and MSW intern supervision. Also a believer in both the human connection and animal support to our emotional and mental health and conduct ESA assessments. As a group practice we support the needs of children, teens, adults and couples so visit our website for more information on our practice and individual providers.
(616) 877-9050 View (616) 877-9050
Photo of Keturah Bell, MA, LPC, LLMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Keturah Bell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LPC, LLMFT
Not Verified Not Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49506  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
As a Marriage and Family Therapist I provide a safe, calming, and judgment free space to assist you in navigating through life’s obstacles.
Are you stressed and overwhelmed with work, school, daily tasks, or relationships? Have you been trying to overcome a past issue or loss? Has depression and anxiety been something you have struggled with?
As a Marriage and Family Therapist I provide a safe, calming, and judgment free space to assist you in navigating through life’s obstacles.
Are you stressed and overwhelmed with work, school, daily tasks, or relationships? Have you been trying to overcome a past issue or loss? Has depression and anxiety been something you have struggled with?
(616) 347-6259 View (616) 347-6259
Photo of Kurt Visker, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kurt Visker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
I have specific experience with helping couples through post partum depression, marital therapy, and healing from traumatic events.
Our many experiences in life shape the way we think about ourselves and the world around us. We use these shaped thoughts to make decisions and form relationships. Many times they are healthy rational thoughts, but at times we fall into an unhealthy irrational pattern that can create chaos in our lives. My role as a therapist is to help you increase your awareness and sort out the chaos. I enjoy building strong therapeutic relationships founded on empathy and respect that shapes a safe environment. Join me in a conversation that will walk you down a path of self discovery.
I have specific experience with helping couples through post partum depression, marital therapy, and healing from traumatic events.
Our many experiences in life shape the way we think about ourselves and the world around us. We use these shaped thoughts to make decisions and form relationships. Many times they are healthy rational thoughts, but at times we fall into an unhealthy irrational pattern that can create chaos in our lives. My role as a therapist is to help you increase your awareness and sort out the chaos. I enjoy building strong therapeutic relationships founded on empathy and respect that shapes a safe environment. Join me in a conversation that will walk you down a path of self discovery.
(616) 449-2086 View (616) 449-2086
Photo of Heather Hemphill, LPC, LLMFT, CAADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Heather Hemphill
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LLMFT, CAADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
I have worked with individuals, couples, and families experiencing issues such as anxiety, depression, alcohol and drug addiction, marriage problems, and other types of relationship problems.
I believe in the innate capabilities, strength, and wellness of my clients and that the counseling relationship provides the basis from which change can occur. My approach is to walk beside you and validate your personal experiences and invite you to make changes based on your priorities and values. We will work together to decide on your goals and the means for accomplishing them. It can be scary to take the first steps and believe you can achieve your goals. By working together, we can find the path that works for you to heal and grow in all areas of your life.
I have worked with individuals, couples, and families experiencing issues such as anxiety, depression, alcohol and drug addiction, marriage problems, and other types of relationship problems.
I believe in the innate capabilities, strength, and wellness of my clients and that the counseling relationship provides the basis from which change can occur. My approach is to walk beside you and validate your personal experiences and invite you to make changes based on your priorities and values. We will work together to decide on your goals and the means for accomplishing them. It can be scary to take the first steps and believe you can achieve your goals. By working together, we can find the path that works for you to heal and grow in all areas of your life.
(616) 300-2310 View (616) 300-2310
Photo of Dr. Kristin Vanden Hoek, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Kristin Vanden Hoek
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
Kristin earned her Bachelor's degree from Calvin College, and her Master's and Doctoral degree from Wheaton College. Kristin enjoys working with adolescents, adults, and families, who are experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, or grief. Kristin is trained as a generalist psychologist and also completed specialized training and concentrations in Marriage & Family, and Children & Adolescent Treatment.
Kristin earned her Bachelor's degree from Calvin College, and her Master's and Doctoral degree from Wheaton College. Kristin enjoys working with adolescents, adults, and families, who are experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, or grief. Kristin is trained as a generalist psychologist and also completed specialized training and concentrations in Marriage & Family, and Children & Adolescent Treatment.
(616) 431-4310 View (616) 431-4310
Photo of Alyssa Albright, LMSW, CAADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alyssa Albright
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAADC
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49506
Life comes at you fast. The world around us can feel as though it has an endless supply of curve balls, surprises, and challenges. In the thick of change and transition, it can feel as though you are so utterly alone. But, heavy things, are much easier carried when we do it together. I am here to help you navigate life's challenges whether they be anxiety, depression, addiction, or trauma, or life transitions such as new parenthood, marriage, divorce, or grief. I see individuals (18+) and couples to empower them as they work toward a braver tomorrow.
Life comes at you fast. The world around us can feel as though it has an endless supply of curve balls, surprises, and challenges. In the thick of change and transition, it can feel as though you are so utterly alone. But, heavy things, are much easier carried when we do it together. I am here to help you navigate life's challenges whether they be anxiety, depression, addiction, or trauma, or life transitions such as new parenthood, marriage, divorce, or grief. I see individuals (18+) and couples to empower them as they work toward a braver tomorrow.
(616) 202-5687 View (616) 202-5687
Photo of Jennifer L Selent, MA LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jennifer L Selent
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist that has been working with Families, Couples, and Individuals with many diagnosis for over 15 years. I have a very wide array of experience, but do provide specialized training for the following populations: First Responders, individuals suffering from traumatic stress, eating disorders/disordered eating, addiction, and grief as well as their families. I also can support with performance issues related to competition, work, etc. I expect you would find me to be down to earth and practical, but clinically sophisticated in my approach. My goal is partnership and empowerment.
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist that has been working with Families, Couples, and Individuals with many diagnosis for over 15 years. I have a very wide array of experience, but do provide specialized training for the following populations: First Responders, individuals suffering from traumatic stress, eating disorders/disordered eating, addiction, and grief as well as their families. I also can support with performance issues related to competition, work, etc. I expect you would find me to be down to earth and practical, but clinically sophisticated in my approach. My goal is partnership and empowerment.
(616) 537-6729 View (616) 537-6729
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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.