Marriage Counseling Therapists in Chapel Hill, NC

Photo of Edie Campbell, MFT, LMFT, PLLC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Edie Campbell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, LMFT, PLLC
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27516
Now offering 90 minute couple sessions. I am an experienced, licensed marriage and family therapist working with couples, individuals and children. I can help put your history in its rightful place and create a healthy narrative that will allow you to flourish. Let's partner to gain insight on potential blockers and craft practical solutions to move you past them, creating harmony in your relationships. Call today to schedule a free 30 minute meet & greet.
Now offering 90 minute couple sessions. I am an experienced, licensed marriage and family therapist working with couples, individuals and children. I can help put your history in its rightful place and create a healthy narrative that will allow you to flourish. Let's partner to gain insight on potential blockers and craft practical solutions to move you past them, creating harmony in your relationships. Call today to schedule a free 30 minute meet & greet.
(919) 794-8394 View (919) 794-8394
Photo of Johanna E Bridges, LCMHC
Johanna E Bridges
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27514  (Online Only)
Johanna Bridges is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor with 20 years of experience. The majority of the clients she works with are experiencing transitions in their lives; divorce or marriage, retirement, grief from loss, and work transitions, just to name a few. From her many years of experience, Johanna has had the opportunity to work in the areas of military, relationships, life plans, trauma, and sexual issues. She has developed a passion for helping people and meeting them where they are today. Johanna specializes in anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, transition next steps/plans, and trauma.
Johanna Bridges is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor with 20 years of experience. The majority of the clients she works with are experiencing transitions in their lives; divorce or marriage, retirement, grief from loss, and work transitions, just to name a few. From her many years of experience, Johanna has had the opportunity to work in the areas of military, relationships, life plans, trauma, and sexual issues. She has developed a passion for helping people and meeting them where they are today. Johanna specializes in anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, transition next steps/plans, and trauma.
(984) 265-8391 View (984) 265-8391
Photo of Katherine A Prakken, PhD, Psychologist
Katherine A Prakken
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
Not accepting new clients
The best therapy arises out of an authentic connection with an experienced, kind, and curious therapist. I'm serious, yet also warm. Though I've been a therapist for 25+ years, I remain humbled by the privilege of getting to deeply know my clients. I believe that being supported in therapy is necessary, but not sufficient. Real growth often requires encountering uncomfortable parts of ourselves. I strive to to deepen awareness and give practical tools for change, while simultaneously promoting self-compassion. My training and life experience with marriage, parenting, career, and personal growth inform my work.
The best therapy arises out of an authentic connection with an experienced, kind, and curious therapist. I'm serious, yet also warm. Though I've been a therapist for 25+ years, I remain humbled by the privilege of getting to deeply know my clients. I believe that being supported in therapy is necessary, but not sufficient. Real growth often requires encountering uncomfortable parts of ourselves. I strive to to deepen awareness and give practical tools for change, while simultaneously promoting self-compassion. My training and life experience with marriage, parenting, career, and personal growth inform my work.
(919) 648-0557 View (919) 648-0557
Photo of Valencia Sandersdavis - Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Chapel Hill
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Chapel Hill
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
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.
(919) 373-6068 View (919) 373-6068
Photo of Edward Scott Warren, PhD, LCMHC, NCC, Counselor
Edward Scott Warren
Counselor, PhD, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27517
Waitlist for new clients
I provide evaluation, assessment, and counseling for individuals, couples, and groups addressing concerns with relationships and marriage, mood disorders (depression/mania), anxiety disorders, personality disorders, stress, trauma, communication, and personal growth. My specialized training and experience has also prepared me to work with artist's issues as well as philosophical/ethical concerns. Where appropriate, I collaborate with physicians, psychiatrists, and other providers to ensure the highest quality of care. I attempt to develop an empathic, understanding environment, characterized by equality and co-operation that may then facilitate the resolution of your concerns with my assistance. Please contact with any questions.
I provide evaluation, assessment, and counseling for individuals, couples, and groups addressing concerns with relationships and marriage, mood disorders (depression/mania), anxiety disorders, personality disorders, stress, trauma, communication, and personal growth. My specialized training and experience has also prepared me to work with artist's issues as well as philosophical/ethical concerns. Where appropriate, I collaborate with physicians, psychiatrists, and other providers to ensure the highest quality of care. I attempt to develop an empathic, understanding environment, characterized by equality and co-operation that may then facilitate the resolution of your concerns with my assistance. Please contact with any questions.
(919) 407-8190 View (919) 407-8190
Photo of Laura Gilliom, PhD, Psychologist
Laura Gilliom
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
Not accepting new clients
I am a licensed psychologist specializing in couples therapy. I can help with communication, conflict, decision-making, trust, intimacy, parenting issues, developmental transitions, sex, stepfamily issues, and healing after an affair. I have many years of training and experience with couples and am registered as a "marriage friendly" therapist (see my website for more information). I also work with individuals on identity and self-worth, stress and anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and career decisions among other things.
I am a licensed psychologist specializing in couples therapy. I can help with communication, conflict, decision-making, trust, intimacy, parenting issues, developmental transitions, sex, stepfamily issues, and healing after an affair. I have many years of training and experience with couples and am registered as a "marriage friendly" therapist (see my website for more information). I also work with individuals on identity and self-worth, stress and anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and career decisions among other things.
(919) 335-5079 View (919) 335-5079
Photo of David K Donlon, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
David K Donlon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
I meet with adults for both individual therapy and marital/couple therapy. I see therapy as a way to become more aware of yourself and your interactions with the world; to update anachronistic self-concepts and to develop perspective on the trajectory of your life. When feeling accepted, we can shine a light on some of the darker corners of our lives, express novel thoughts and feelings, and become more fully and more comfortably human. For those familiar with the language, my approach can perhaps be characterized as psychodynamically informed humanistic therapy. Please go to www.daviddonlon.com for more information.
I meet with adults for both individual therapy and marital/couple therapy. I see therapy as a way to become more aware of yourself and your interactions with the world; to update anachronistic self-concepts and to develop perspective on the trajectory of your life. When feeling accepted, we can shine a light on some of the darker corners of our lives, express novel thoughts and feelings, and become more fully and more comfortably human. For those familiar with the language, my approach can perhaps be characterized as psychodynamically informed humanistic therapy. Please go to www.daviddonlon.com for more information.
(919) 429-7447 View (919) 429-7447
Photo of Meredith Milke, LCMHC, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Meredith Milke
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCMHC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27517
New Clients - I am only taking a few adults for individual therapy at this time. I am not taking any new couples at this time. - - - - I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor & Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist serving the Chapel Hill, Durham and surrounding areas. I have 20 years experience working with adolescents, adults and families. My work includes a bio-psycho-social-spiritual approach. We will explore your relationships, environment, recent life events and stressors to gain perspective of how you are affected emotionally, physically and spiritually.
New Clients - I am only taking a few adults for individual therapy at this time. I am not taking any new couples at this time. - - - - I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor & Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist serving the Chapel Hill, Durham and surrounding areas. I have 20 years experience working with adolescents, adults and families. My work includes a bio-psycho-social-spiritual approach. We will explore your relationships, environment, recent life events and stressors to gain perspective of how you are affected emotionally, physically and spiritually.
(919) 809-6566 View (919) 809-6566
Photo of Devon Abdo, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Devon Abdo
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27517  (Online Only)
Sex and relationships can be hard to talk about --- But you don't have to do it alone! I am Devon Abdo (her/she), LMFT, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who specializes in Sexuality and Sex Therapy. I work with both couples and individuals who are interested in exploring their relationships and sexuality or need help dealing with this crazy world. I believe in tailoring each session to the needs of each client where they are, of any gender orientation, gender expression, race, or relationship style. I am trans-affirming, fetish-affirming, and poly-affirming.
Sex and relationships can be hard to talk about --- But you don't have to do it alone! I am Devon Abdo (her/she), LMFT, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who specializes in Sexuality and Sex Therapy. I work with both couples and individuals who are interested in exploring their relationships and sexuality or need help dealing with this crazy world. I believe in tailoring each session to the needs of each client where they are, of any gender orientation, gender expression, race, or relationship style. I am trans-affirming, fetish-affirming, and poly-affirming.
(984) 223-5292 View (984) 223-5292
Photo of Kevin L Weber, MS, LCMHC, LMHC, LCAC, NCC, Counselor
Kevin L Weber
Counselor, MS, LCMHC, LMHC, LCAC, NCC
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
With my Gottman Level One Couples Training and experience as a Certified Prepare-Enrich Facilitator, I've enjoyed helping many couples with Pre-Marital & Marriage Counseling.
I offer tailor made counseling services, including traditional & psychedelic therapy as well as coaching, to those experiencing life's difficulties. My compassionate and non-judgmental approach is predicated on offering helpful direction towards specific, realistic, client determined goals. I am very comfortable working with individuals or couples of all ages, veterans and business executives. My approaches based on individual client expectations and needs. Each approach is customized and personal. Phone and video and sessions are available for added convenience. I offer a Christian worldview approach upon request.
With my Gottman Level One Couples Training and experience as a Certified Prepare-Enrich Facilitator, I've enjoyed helping many couples with Pre-Marital & Marriage Counseling.
I offer tailor made counseling services, including traditional & psychedelic therapy as well as coaching, to those experiencing life's difficulties. My compassionate and non-judgmental approach is predicated on offering helpful direction towards specific, realistic, client determined goals. I am very comfortable working with individuals or couples of all ages, veterans and business executives. My approaches based on individual client expectations and needs. Each approach is customized and personal. Phone and video and sessions are available for added convenience. I offer a Christian worldview approach upon request.
(336) 234-2722 View (336) 234-2722
Photo of Kevin Metz, PsyD, MA, Psychologist
Kevin Metz
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27516
I provide individual, couples, and family counseling, and my work spans a variety of issues: depression, anxiety, marital/family challenges, substance abuse, social challenges, AD/HD, gender identity, phobias, and ASD.
My approach to psychotherapy is that of a humanist; that is, successful therapy results in your continued evolution into your true self. My therapeutic style is gentle and engaged, and I respect your intelligence. I strive to provide an atmosphere of care and compassion which allows you to curiously explore what events, past and present are contributing to your challenges. It's important to me to take the time to understand your values and desires so that our work is grounded in how you see yourself.
I provide individual, couples, and family counseling, and my work spans a variety of issues: depression, anxiety, marital/family challenges, substance abuse, social challenges, AD/HD, gender identity, phobias, and ASD.
My approach to psychotherapy is that of a humanist; that is, successful therapy results in your continued evolution into your true self. My therapeutic style is gentle and engaged, and I respect your intelligence. I strive to provide an atmosphere of care and compassion which allows you to curiously explore what events, past and present are contributing to your challenges. It's important to me to take the time to understand your values and desires so that our work is grounded in how you see yourself.
(919) 648-4087 View (919) 648-4087
Photo of Vann Joines, PhD, Psychologist
Vann Joines
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27517
I am certified as a Transactional Analyst, a Redecision Therapist, a Marital and Family Therapist, a Group Psychotherapist, and an Advanced Integrative Therapist which combines a psychodynamic approach with Energy Psychology.
My experience is that the psychological symptoms we experience in the present are the ways we have tried to protect ourselves from the experience of the early trauma that we went through in childhood, and that by clearing the early trauma, we can release the symptoms in the present. My approach is to help clients identify and resolve the early trauma so they can have a joyous life in the present.
I am certified as a Transactional Analyst, a Redecision Therapist, a Marital and Family Therapist, a Group Psychotherapist, and an Advanced Integrative Therapist which combines a psychodynamic approach with Energy Psychology.
My experience is that the psychological symptoms we experience in the present are the ways we have tried to protect ourselves from the experience of the early trauma that we went through in childhood, and that by clearing the early trauma, we can release the symptoms in the present. My approach is to help clients identify and resolve the early trauma so they can have a joyous life in the present.
(919) 300-7807 View (919) 300-7807
Photo of Douglas Todd - Doug Todd, LMFT llc, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Doug Todd, LMFT llc
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27514  (Online Only)
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist who uses EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy), Soloution Focused, Systems, and Coactive Coaching .
Welcome to the first step in your exploration for change. It's probably safe to say that you are here because things could feel better in your life. We can't stop the change or eliminate suffering but we can begin to understand it and learn how to manage all that life throws our way. In an effort to reduce the stress and assist clients with life's challenges I offer secure telemedicine (video) sessions for couples and individuals. Reach out and allow me to team with you to manage what we can and allow these times to inspire positive change.
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist who uses EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy), Soloution Focused, Systems, and Coactive Coaching .
Welcome to the first step in your exploration for change. It's probably safe to say that you are here because things could feel better in your life. We can't stop the change or eliminate suffering but we can begin to understand it and learn how to manage all that life throws our way. In an effort to reduce the stress and assist clients with life's challenges I offer secure telemedicine (video) sessions for couples and individuals. Reach out and allow me to team with you to manage what we can and allow these times to inspire positive change.
(617) 315-2724 View (617) 315-2724
Photo of Donna Boni, MSW, LCSW, LCAS, C-PD, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Donna Boni
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS, C-PD, CCTP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
Advanced training in CBT, DBT, ACT, Relational Therapy and Marriage Counseling.
Your life may not be what you want it to be. You may be struggling with addiction, depression, anxiety, past or present trauma. You need someone to talk to, who will listen, not judge, who wants to help you find a way to a better life. I subscribe to the wise words of Viktor Frankl: "When we are no longer able to change a situation, we are challenged to change ourselves." Let me help you meet that challenge. I strive to create a trusting relationship with my clients, which is the foundation that allows a successful outcome. I have extensive training in trauma and the symptoms that often result from these experiences.
Advanced training in CBT, DBT, ACT, Relational Therapy and Marriage Counseling.
Your life may not be what you want it to be. You may be struggling with addiction, depression, anxiety, past or present trauma. You need someone to talk to, who will listen, not judge, who wants to help you find a way to a better life. I subscribe to the wise words of Viktor Frankl: "When we are no longer able to change a situation, we are challenged to change ourselves." Let me help you meet that challenge. I strive to create a trusting relationship with my clients, which is the foundation that allows a successful outcome. I have extensive training in trauma and the symptoms that often result from these experiences.
(919) 759-5784 View (919) 759-5784
Photo of Steven Clemens - Triangle Wellness Counseling, PLLC, MEd, NCC, LPC, MSA, Counselor
Triangle Wellness Counseling, PLLC
Counselor, MEd, NCC, LPC, MSA
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27516
I am a licensed professional counselor practicing in Orange County, North Carolina. I have extensive experience assisting families and couples with marital discord, behavioral issues, communication breakdowns, and parent-child conflict. My goal is to empower each one of my client's by creating a non-judgmental therapeutic environment that respects their dignity and self-worth. Please access my website where you can find my availability and choose a time that is convenient for you (steven-clemens.clientsecure.me).
I am a licensed professional counselor practicing in Orange County, North Carolina. I have extensive experience assisting families and couples with marital discord, behavioral issues, communication breakdowns, and parent-child conflict. My goal is to empower each one of my client's by creating a non-judgmental therapeutic environment that respects their dignity and self-worth. Please access my website where you can find my availability and choose a time that is convenient for you (steven-clemens.clientsecure.me).
(919) 374-2359 View (919) 374-2359
Photo of Sally F Maslansky, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sally F Maslansky
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27516  (Online Only)
Therapy at its best is a unique collaboration between therapist and client. I offer my education, training and experience along with an open mind and attuned communication to assist my clients' in exploring the issues they bring to therapy. As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I specialize in working with adults, couples, adolescents and families working on interpersonal and intra-personal issues. I am committed to nurturing my client's personal growth and development towards achieving a deeper sense of self knowing and the ability to live an integrated, emotionally regulated and balanced life.
Therapy at its best is a unique collaboration between therapist and client. I offer my education, training and experience along with an open mind and attuned communication to assist my clients' in exploring the issues they bring to therapy. As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I specialize in working with adults, couples, adolescents and families working on interpersonal and intra-personal issues. I am committed to nurturing my client's personal growth and development towards achieving a deeper sense of self knowing and the ability to live an integrated, emotionally regulated and balanced life.
(919) 714-4139 View (919) 714-4139
Photo of Kevin J Ryan, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kevin J Ryan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27514  (Online Only)
The clients I see most often present issues of depression, anxiety, chronic pain, grief or loss and marital or relationship conflicts.
My approach Integrative Psychotherapy draws primarily from Interpersonal Psychotherapy and Insight Meditation. It is my experience that people make changes in their lives in therapy when they feel appropriately supported and understood. This combined with awareness developed through mindfulness practices enables people to take the insights cultivated in therapy sessions and implement them in their lives. I see therapy as an opportunity to explore how our thoughts and perceptions about our life situations, determine the quality of how we experience our lives. Our self-perceptions developed throughout our lives, are often our greatest impediment to changing our lives.
The clients I see most often present issues of depression, anxiety, chronic pain, grief or loss and marital or relationship conflicts.
My approach Integrative Psychotherapy draws primarily from Interpersonal Psychotherapy and Insight Meditation. It is my experience that people make changes in their lives in therapy when they feel appropriately supported and understood. This combined with awareness developed through mindfulness practices enables people to take the insights cultivated in therapy sessions and implement them in their lives. I see therapy as an opportunity to explore how our thoughts and perceptions about our life situations, determine the quality of how we experience our lives. Our self-perceptions developed throughout our lives, are often our greatest impediment to changing our lives.
(828) 547-3620 View (828) 547-3620
Photo of Laurie J Watson - Awakenings Counseling for Couples and Sex Therapy, PhD, LMFT, LCMHC, AASECT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Awakenings Counseling for Couples and Sex Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, LCMHC, AASECT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27516
Do you need online couples counseling, online sex therapy or online marriage counseling near me? Do you feel a lack of sexual desire? Are you missing appreciation? Fighting over sexual frequency? Does he stonewall? Does she not stop criticizing? Anxious and having trust issues because of infidelity? Relationships need both emotional connection, intimacy and sex to be happy. We help repair affairs. Stop the fighting. Stop the criticism and withdrawing. Build a deeper connection, trust, & better communication. Feel love again. We treat erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, anorgasmia, low libido, frequency discrepancy.
Do you need online couples counseling, online sex therapy or online marriage counseling near me? Do you feel a lack of sexual desire? Are you missing appreciation? Fighting over sexual frequency? Does he stonewall? Does she not stop criticizing? Anxious and having trust issues because of infidelity? Relationships need both emotional connection, intimacy and sex to be happy. We help repair affairs. Stop the fighting. Stop the criticism and withdrawing. Build a deeper connection, trust, & better communication. Feel love again. We treat erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, anorgasmia, low libido, frequency discrepancy.
(984) 205-4614 View (984) 205-4614
Photo of Brian Purnell, MEd, LCMHCS, ACS, EAS-C, BC-TMH, Counselor
Brian Purnell
Counselor, MEd, LCMHCS, ACS, EAS-C, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27599
Journey Through Life, PLLC sees all kinds of families that maybe hurting from divorce, grief, blended families and broken relationships. In addition, the practice specializes in significant and marital relationships. The ideal is for a family that may not have the skills to see past the forest, but will be open to the infinite possibilities. Individual, Group Clinical Supervision, and Parenting Workshops are offered at the practice as well.
Journey Through Life, PLLC sees all kinds of families that maybe hurting from divorce, grief, blended families and broken relationships. In addition, the practice specializes in significant and marital relationships. The ideal is for a family that may not have the skills to see past the forest, but will be open to the infinite possibilities. Individual, Group Clinical Supervision, and Parenting Workshops are offered at the practice as well.
(919) 267-2483 View (919) 267-2483
Photo of Katie Brader, LMFT, LPC, SEP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Katie Brader
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC, SEP
Not Verified Not Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
Reaching out for help can be hard. Katie admires and respects the bravery involved in doing so. After living in Austin, TX, for 9 years she's glad to be back on the east coast! Katie received her Master of Arts in Counseling from St. Edward's University, is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), a Somatic Experiencing® Practitioner (SEP), a Bodywork and Somatic Education Practitioner (BASE(tm)), and is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR). Services for individuals, families, couples/same-sex partners, teens, and children are available.
Reaching out for help can be hard. Katie admires and respects the bravery involved in doing so. After living in Austin, TX, for 9 years she's glad to be back on the east coast! Katie received her Master of Arts in Counseling from St. Edward's University, is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), a Somatic Experiencing® Practitioner (SEP), a Bodywork and Somatic Education Practitioner (BASE(tm)), and is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR). Services for individuals, families, couples/same-sex partners, teens, and children are available.
(919) 842-3701 View (919) 842-3701
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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.