Marriage Counseling Therapists in Gaston County, NC
![Photo of Edward Blevins, LMFT , LCAS , CCS, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/473d2138-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Edward Blevins
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT , LCAS , CCS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Gastonia, NC 28056 (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist, Certified Clinical Supervisor and Pastoral Care Counselor with over 15 years of experience.
Life can bring both positive and negative experiences as we navigate through time. The negative experiences can change the course of one’s life. Journey to Better Living Counseling and Consultation is here to help individuals readjust their life’s journey and become better at living. My name is Edward Blevins and I’m the owner and lead therapist of Journey to Better Living. I recognize the significant role the family system plays in the development of the individual and emphasize understanding clients through the lens of their family interactions. I help clients obtain greater awareness and develop skills to live life better. It
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist, Certified Clinical Supervisor and Pastoral Care Counselor with over 15 years of experience.
Life can bring both positive and negative experiences as we navigate through time. The negative experiences can change the course of one’s life. Journey to Better Living Counseling and Consultation is here to help individuals readjust their life’s journey and become better at living. My name is Edward Blevins and I’m the owner and lead therapist of Journey to Better Living. I recognize the significant role the family system plays in the development of the individual and emphasize understanding clients through the lens of their family interactions. I help clients obtain greater awareness and develop skills to live life better. It
![Photo of Shelton D Davis, MA, MDiv, LCMHC, NCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c561cfa-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Shelton D Davis
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, MDiv, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Belmont, NC 28012
I work with adult clients struggling with grief, depression, anxiety, marital issues, perinatal loss/miscarriage, life transitions & finding meaning in life.
At Serenity Pastoral Counseling, you will find a confidential space in which to share your story & reflect on your experiences. Serenity is not just about finding peace. It's about managing life’s challenges with a sense of purpose & preparing to face the future with confidence. We will address together your emotional health with an emphasis on you as a whole person. You may also choose to engage your spiritual concerns, an area in which I am specially trained with people of all faiths. What is pastoral counseling? Pastoral counseling is the integration of evidence-based psychological techniques with client-driven spirituality.
I work with adult clients struggling with grief, depression, anxiety, marital issues, perinatal loss/miscarriage, life transitions & finding meaning in life.
At Serenity Pastoral Counseling, you will find a confidential space in which to share your story & reflect on your experiences. Serenity is not just about finding peace. It's about managing life’s challenges with a sense of purpose & preparing to face the future with confidence. We will address together your emotional health with an emphasis on you as a whole person. You may also choose to engage your spiritual concerns, an area in which I am specially trained with people of all faiths. What is pastoral counseling? Pastoral counseling is the integration of evidence-based psychological techniques with client-driven spirituality.
![Photo of Amber Gibson, LCMHC, MA, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ef086ea-ed79-4b4e-899e-8789edf0b500/1/320x400.jpeg)
Life can be so difficult and even more difficult to navigate emotionally. I have extensive experience in Christian counseling. I offer support with depression, anxiety, self-worth, self-harm, bi-polar disorder, grief and loss, communication, and relationship issues. I also specialize with clients with ADHD and ASD related issues. I complete assessments for ADHD through private pay, as needed. Using an emotionally focused couples therapy approach, I help find fulfillment in marriage through effective communication, boundaries and overcoming obstacle and applying Christian principles.
Life can be so difficult and even more difficult to navigate emotionally. I have extensive experience in Christian counseling. I offer support with depression, anxiety, self-worth, self-harm, bi-polar disorder, grief and loss, communication, and relationship issues. I also specialize with clients with ADHD and ASD related issues. I complete assessments for ADHD through private pay, as needed. Using an emotionally focused couples therapy approach, I help find fulfillment in marriage through effective communication, boundaries and overcoming obstacle and applying Christian principles.
![Photo of Kelly Carpenter, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bcd24f5d-8a92-4a2a-8239-226964bc6972/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kelly Carpenter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mount Holly, NC 28120
I especially enjoy helping people adjust to transitions in their lives such as moving into adulthood, marriage, becoming parents, divorce and loss of loved ones.
Schedule now online though our website! CreativePerspectivesTherapy.com Often we know that we want to make changes in our lives but don't know how or where to start. As a therapist I try to take the intimidation out of therapy by creating a trusting and mutually respectful relationship. I feel that the therapist client relationship is a partnership and my goal it to help you become empowered to navigate the challenges in life. I work with you to identify the issues, set specific goals and develop coping mechanisms to help you improve your life.
I especially enjoy helping people adjust to transitions in their lives such as moving into adulthood, marriage, becoming parents, divorce and loss of loved ones.
Schedule now online though our website! CreativePerspectivesTherapy.com Often we know that we want to make changes in our lives but don't know how or where to start. As a therapist I try to take the intimidation out of therapy by creating a trusting and mutually respectful relationship. I feel that the therapist client relationship is a partnership and my goal it to help you become empowered to navigate the challenges in life. I work with you to identify the issues, set specific goals and develop coping mechanisms to help you improve your life.
![Photo of Quincy Johnson, MS, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45cd17c9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Quincy Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gastonia, NC 28054 (Online Only)
Next-day appointments available! Another day of arguments, misunderstandings, and frustration. Feeling overwhelmed and underappreciated. It feels like you are just going through the motions in your marriage and not finding true fulfillment. You are finding that your time at work is more enjoyable than your time at home. These experiences lead you to ask yourself questions like, “Do I still want this relationship? Did I choose the wrong person?” Just thinking about spending the rest of your life in a horrible or mediocre marriage makes you sick to your stomach and causes dread. All you want is to feel loved, heard, and appreciated.
Next-day appointments available! Another day of arguments, misunderstandings, and frustration. Feeling overwhelmed and underappreciated. It feels like you are just going through the motions in your marriage and not finding true fulfillment. You are finding that your time at work is more enjoyable than your time at home. These experiences lead you to ask yourself questions like, “Do I still want this relationship? Did I choose the wrong person?” Just thinking about spending the rest of your life in a horrible or mediocre marriage makes you sick to your stomach and causes dread. All you want is to feel loved, heard, and appreciated.
![Photo of Dr. Susan Wilkie McHale, PhD, LMFT, LCMHC, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40a6e48c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Susan Wilkie McHale
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cramerton, NC 28032
Dr. Susan B. Wilkie (PhD, LCMHC, LMFT) is an experienced, licensed clinical mental health counselor (LCMHC) and licensed marriage & family therapist (LMFT) in private practice (NC & SC) . Dr. Wilkie earned her PhD in Mental Health Counseling at the University of New Orleans in 1994. Her post doctoral work was committed to Couple & Family Therapy for (16) years where she recently served as the Founding Director of the Marriage & Family Therapy Program at Pfeiffer University's Graduate School in Charlotte. She is now committed to her full-time practice and serves Belmont/Cramerton/Gastonia/Lake Wiley/Steele Creek/and Clover areas.
Dr. Susan B. Wilkie (PhD, LCMHC, LMFT) is an experienced, licensed clinical mental health counselor (LCMHC) and licensed marriage & family therapist (LMFT) in private practice (NC & SC) . Dr. Wilkie earned her PhD in Mental Health Counseling at the University of New Orleans in 1994. Her post doctoral work was committed to Couple & Family Therapy for (16) years where she recently served as the Founding Director of the Marriage & Family Therapy Program at Pfeiffer University's Graduate School in Charlotte. She is now committed to her full-time practice and serves Belmont/Cramerton/Gastonia/Lake Wiley/Steele Creek/and Clover areas.
![Photo of Jessica Barnes, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7cb96bec-62bd-4036-8330-50ce36100c65/2/320x400.jpeg)
Would you like to release to become a better you? Here at Release Counseling center, PLLC we help client's release anything that is preventing them from living their healthiest lives. Jessica Barnes is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), she works with children, young adults, individuals, and families using an approach tailored to the unique needs of each new client. She specialties in trauma-based therapy (TFCBT/ EMDR) and also have experience in marital crisis, child / family issues, anxiety, depression, anger, or even just day to day stress. Jessica will also incorporate Christian concepts at your request.
Would you like to release to become a better you? Here at Release Counseling center, PLLC we help client's release anything that is preventing them from living their healthiest lives. Jessica Barnes is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), she works with children, young adults, individuals, and families using an approach tailored to the unique needs of each new client. She specialties in trauma-based therapy (TFCBT/ EMDR) and also have experience in marital crisis, child / family issues, anxiety, depression, anger, or even just day to day stress. Jessica will also incorporate Christian concepts at your request.
![Photo of Jerry Wayne Guy, MA, LCMHC, LCAS](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43c454f4-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Jerry Wayne Guy
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gastonia, NC 28052
Whether you are facing struggles in your marriage, dealing with anxiety, depression, divorce or want to learn how to communicate more effectively. Together we will help you grow and overcome the issues and barriers that are holding you back from the life you want. I specialize in working with couples and adults to identify and create solutions for the obstacles you face. At the Groves Counseling Center, we focus on providing a space for you to explore the life you have and work towards the life you want. I look forward to partnering with you and your loved ones to help you thrive, not just survive.
Whether you are facing struggles in your marriage, dealing with anxiety, depression, divorce or want to learn how to communicate more effectively. Together we will help you grow and overcome the issues and barriers that are holding you back from the life you want. I specialize in working with couples and adults to identify and create solutions for the obstacles you face. At the Groves Counseling Center, we focus on providing a space for you to explore the life you have and work towards the life you want. I look forward to partnering with you and your loved ones to help you thrive, not just survive.
![Photo of Chad McGhee, LMFTA, MACC, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42bb9a1d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFTA) I enjoy working with individuals, couples and families. I have experience working with Anxiety, Depression, trauma, grief, marital and pre-marital to name a few.
As a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFTA) I enjoy working with individuals, couples and families. I have experience working with Anxiety, Depression, trauma, grief, marital and pre-marital to name a few.
![Photo of Michelle M Watkins, LMFT, LCAS, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44cd8353-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Michelle M Watkins
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCAS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Gastonia, NC 28054
When life presents challenges that can feel overwhelming, counseling can help to provide you with a safe, non-judgmental place where hope and healing can begin. Whether you are faced with an addiction, marital crisis, family issues, anxiety, depression, or even just day to day stress, I am here to help you through. I am a marriage and family therapist and a licensed clinical addictions specialist. Since 2009, I have worked with individuals, couples, and families from all different walks of life. I enjoy helping my clients to improve their lives.
When life presents challenges that can feel overwhelming, counseling can help to provide you with a safe, non-judgmental place where hope and healing can begin. Whether you are faced with an addiction, marital crisis, family issues, anxiety, depression, or even just day to day stress, I am here to help you through. I am a marriage and family therapist and a licensed clinical addictions specialist. Since 2009, I have worked with individuals, couples, and families from all different walks of life. I enjoy helping my clients to improve their lives.
![Photo of Alysia Leak, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2e55801f-bcc0-4ae2-b84f-136f106409cb/2/320x400.jpeg)
Alysia Leak
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Gastonia, NC 28054
Waitlist for new clients
Saturday Appointments (in person and virtual) - Hello & congratulations on helping yourself by looking for a counselor! I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapy Therapist trained in the practice of therapy for relationships, families, groups, and individuals. I am from Charlotte, NC & I am committed to helping people solve problems. I work to help my clients feel better by exploring your personal path to healing. I specialize in all kinds of relationships including business, roommate, romantic, and familial relationships. I also enjoy using strength & empowerment in individuals dealing with stress, anxiety, and depression.
Saturday Appointments (in person and virtual) - Hello & congratulations on helping yourself by looking for a counselor! I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapy Therapist trained in the practice of therapy for relationships, families, groups, and individuals. I am from Charlotte, NC & I am committed to helping people solve problems. I work to help my clients feel better by exploring your personal path to healing. I specialize in all kinds of relationships including business, roommate, romantic, and familial relationships. I also enjoy using strength & empowerment in individuals dealing with stress, anxiety, and depression.
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![Photo of Gerald Evariste, MA, LCMHCA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c2a6ef10-5b4d-4bce-a63b-31c0c05d258c/1/320x400.jpeg)
It is my belief that within each of us, the mind, body, and spirit work in unison to maintain a sense of balance and wellness. However, there are times when we may encounter challenges and unanticipated events that may cause a disturbance in these areas, which may be evidenced by undesirable thoughts, feelings or behaviors. I have the required training, licensure and experience to practice individual, group, and marriage/family counseling with all age groups encompassing a general range of presenting problems/concerns.
It is my belief that within each of us, the mind, body, and spirit work in unison to maintain a sense of balance and wellness. However, there are times when we may encounter challenges and unanticipated events that may cause a disturbance in these areas, which may be evidenced by undesirable thoughts, feelings or behaviors. I have the required training, licensure and experience to practice individual, group, and marriage/family counseling with all age groups encompassing a general range of presenting problems/concerns.
![Photo of Jerry Jeffrey Watts - The Groves Counseling Center, MA, MDiv, LPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/451b91c7-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
The Groves Counseling Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MDiv, LPCS
Verified Verified
Gastonia, NC 28054
Non-Profit Counseling Center. Helping Families and individuals with marriage and family issues.
Non-Profit Counseling Center. Helping Families and individuals with marriage and family issues.
![Photo of Kerri B Morris, MAEdS, LCMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/400cdb19-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Christian Counselor with a deep genuine desire and compassion to meet people where they are and to walk alongside them through struggles or challenges they may be facing. I enjoy working with families, kids, teenagers, parents, adults, and couples: specifically, pre-marital and marital counseling. Some other interests include: healing from a traumatic past or stressful childhood, setting healthy boundaries in one's own life and in relationships, working with parents to set consistent boundaries or adjusting to life with a baby/child, spiritual growth and development, fear/anxiety, depression, stress, self-confidence, and lack of motivation.
I am a Christian Counselor with a deep genuine desire and compassion to meet people where they are and to walk alongside them through struggles or challenges they may be facing. I enjoy working with families, kids, teenagers, parents, adults, and couples: specifically, pre-marital and marital counseling. Some other interests include: healing from a traumatic past or stressful childhood, setting healthy boundaries in one's own life and in relationships, working with parents to set consistent boundaries or adjusting to life with a baby/child, spiritual growth and development, fear/anxiety, depression, stress, self-confidence, and lack of motivation.
![Photo of Dr. Scott Hammontree, LCMHCS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6f8ae868-65af-498c-afab-d34bb5464e9a/1/320x400.jpeg)
He is one of the areas leading experts in intensive marital work, family interventions, and business consulting/coaching.
Dr. Scott Hammontree has been a clinical counselor, administrator, business consultant/coach, and clinician training supervisor over 30 years. He has spent his entire career helping children, teens, adults, couples, and families lead more fulfilling and happier lives. Dr. Hammontree has trained numerous mental health professionals to be more effective therapists, and he has consulted and coached many businesses to be more productive and more profitable. He provides intensive treatment and is consistently rated as an extremely effective therapist and consultant. If you are motivated for change and want more in your life, call me!
He is one of the areas leading experts in intensive marital work, family interventions, and business consulting/coaching.
Dr. Scott Hammontree has been a clinical counselor, administrator, business consultant/coach, and clinician training supervisor over 30 years. He has spent his entire career helping children, teens, adults, couples, and families lead more fulfilling and happier lives. Dr. Hammontree has trained numerous mental health professionals to be more effective therapists, and he has consulted and coached many businesses to be more productive and more profitable. He provides intensive treatment and is consistently rated as an extremely effective therapist and consultant. If you are motivated for change and want more in your life, call me!
![Photo of Gary W. McFarland, DMin, LMFT, LPCS, CFBPPC, Pastoral Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/454ca23c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have been in practice since 1984. I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and families on a variety of issues. Among these are marital and family issues, relationship issues, depression and anxiety, spiritual concerns, life phase problems, and work difficulties. I believe in the value of the individual, and consider therapy a partnership between myself and my clients, with the goal of a more balanced, fulfilling life for my clients.
I have been in practice since 1984. I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and families on a variety of issues. Among these are marital and family issues, relationship issues, depression and anxiety, spiritual concerns, life phase problems, and work difficulties. I believe in the value of the individual, and consider therapy a partnership between myself and my clients, with the goal of a more balanced, fulfilling life for my clients.
![Photo of Daryle Cox Hines, LCMHC, NCC, RTC, MHDL](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4bb4f26b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Daryle Cox Hines
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, NCC, RTC, MHDL
Verified Verified
Mount Holly, NC 28120
As a Christian counselor, I am drawn to help people who hurt find HOPE. Is your marriage struggling? Have you lost yourself in the throes of depression? Do you suffer from PTSD? Are you plagued by anxiety? My role is to help you shift your focus to see yourself through God's eyes. I weave together scripture, prayer, and a blend of psychological techniques to establish goals and to provide solutions for success. God doesn't want us to live a life of misery, but one of JOY. I look forward to supporting you on your journey towards healing.
As a Christian counselor, I am drawn to help people who hurt find HOPE. Is your marriage struggling? Have you lost yourself in the throes of depression? Do you suffer from PTSD? Are you plagued by anxiety? My role is to help you shift your focus to see yourself through God's eyes. I weave together scripture, prayer, and a blend of psychological techniques to establish goals and to provide solutions for success. God doesn't want us to live a life of misery, but one of JOY. I look forward to supporting you on your journey towards healing.
![Photo of Bobby Fisher, LCMHCS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54404fb5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Bobby Fisher
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cherryville, NC 28021
At Solid Foundations Counseling Center, we are a team of 21 therapists with specializations ranging from substance abuse to trauma focused cognitive-behavioral therapy to marriage and family.
Are you feeling lost? Struggling to make changes in your life? Do you need encouragement and help? In 2014 I began Solid Foundations Counseling Center to bring hope and change to the lives of individuals, families and communities. I believe in treating people with dignity and respect regardless of background or struggle. You matter. I provide individual, couple, family and group counseling to children and adults. Areas I specialize in include mood disorders, ADHD, parenting skills, defiant behaviors, domestic violence, trauma, physical and sexual abuse and relationships.
At Solid Foundations Counseling Center, we are a team of 21 therapists with specializations ranging from substance abuse to trauma focused cognitive-behavioral therapy to marriage and family.
Are you feeling lost? Struggling to make changes in your life? Do you need encouragement and help? In 2014 I began Solid Foundations Counseling Center to bring hope and change to the lives of individuals, families and communities. I believe in treating people with dignity and respect regardless of background or struggle. You matter. I provide individual, couple, family and group counseling to children and adults. Areas I specialize in include mood disorders, ADHD, parenting skills, defiant behaviors, domestic violence, trauma, physical and sexual abuse and relationships.
![Photo of Latasha S McIlwaine - Insightful Options, PLLC, EdD, LCMHCS, LPCS, LCAS, CCS, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/21bf7ba7-c3de-4edc-b8d0-28b5ae9416d2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Insightful Options, PLLC
Counselor, EdD, LCMHCS, LPCS, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gastonia, NC 28052
Our specialty areas are SUD, addiction, DWI, domestic violence, parenting children with special needs, teenage issues, anger management, family conflicts/resolution, couples/marital issues, career counseling supervision, and professional private practice development.
We explore Insightful Options to help you change your life, face your fears and overcome difficult obstacles. We have years of experience working with individuals and families dealing with a wide range of issues. We provide flexible services weekly. In addition, we provide SUD,DWI,DOT-SAP services, includes group sessions. We also provide TeleHealth Sessions for SC, NC, GA & NH clients for additional privacy and convenience. We have a nonprofit organization for additional assistance in different service areas...www.greenemcilwainefoundation.org
Our specialty areas are SUD, addiction, DWI, domestic violence, parenting children with special needs, teenage issues, anger management, family conflicts/resolution, couples/marital issues, career counseling supervision, and professional private practice development.
We explore Insightful Options to help you change your life, face your fears and overcome difficult obstacles. We have years of experience working with individuals and families dealing with a wide range of issues. We provide flexible services weekly. In addition, we provide SUD,DWI,DOT-SAP services, includes group sessions. We also provide TeleHealth Sessions for SC, NC, GA & NH clients for additional privacy and convenience. We have a nonprofit organization for additional assistance in different service areas...www.greenemcilwainefoundation.org
![Photo of Jaymie Rowe, LMFT, LCAS, CCS, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a17e8fb-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jaymie Rowe
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Gastonia, NC 28052
As an expert in the field for marriage and family issues as well as addiction, I have specialized training in treating an array of mental health and substance abuse issues.
Therapy is a growth experience that can influence the way you view the world and yourself. As humans, we all experience times of discomfort and life transitions. Therapy is not only for those suffering from addiction or mental illness. It is also a way to gain skills, enhance your performance, and learn more about yourself. Barriers to becoming who you want to be can be explored in therapy and work to re-building life, relationships, and even your career.
As an expert in the field for marriage and family issues as well as addiction, I have specialized training in treating an array of mental health and substance abuse issues.
Therapy is a growth experience that can influence the way you view the world and yourself. As humans, we all experience times of discomfort and life transitions. Therapy is not only for those suffering from addiction or mental illness. It is also a way to gain skills, enhance your performance, and learn more about yourself. Barriers to becoming who you want to be can be explored in therapy and work to re-building life, relationships, and even your career.
See more therapy options for Gaston County
Marriage Counseling Therapists
How does marriage counseling work?
Marriage counseling works by teaching couples concrete skills to communicate with one another and solve disagreements in healthy ways. A trained mental health professional works with both members of a couple to explore difficulties the couple may be having and helps them develop skills to address these matters. Couples who don’t have any difficulties but want to prepare for marriage may develop skills for the future.
How long does marriage counseling typically last?
Marriage counseling is a short-term form of therapy; the process may last between four and eight sessions. Other forms of relationship guidance from mental health professionals, such as couples therapy, are longer lasting, may focus on the past rather than just the present, and are tailored to the individual couple and their emotions, history, and patterns in the relationship. Couples therapy often lasts for 12 weeks or longer.
Is marriage counseling effective?
Marriage counseling helps many couples develop relationship skills that may not have been acquired or tested in a relationship; partners may be better able to communicate and address conflict following counseling. However, there are many different forms of marriage counseling, and this form of counseling does not have as strong an evidence base as other modalities such as couples therapy.
Is marriage counseling effective if only one partner wants to go?
Yes, marriage counseling can still be effective if one partner convinces the other to engage in the process. Of course, whether counseling is effective depends on the couple’s commitment to work on their relationship; however, the short-term, skills-based nature of marriage counseling makes it a relatively easy “ask” of a partner, and the hesitant individual may see its value once counseling begins.