Marriage Counseling Therapists in Gastonia, NC

Photo of Edward Blevins, LMFT , LCAS , CCS, Marriage & Family Therapist
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
(704) 800-0856 View (704) 800-0856
Photo of Chad Mcghee, LMFTA, MACC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Chad Mcghee
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFTA, MACC
Verified Verified
Gastonia, NC 28056
Not accepting new clients
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.
(704) 440-4695 View (704) 440-4695
Photo of Gerald Evariste, MA, LCMHCA, Counselor
Gerald Evariste
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gastonia, NC 28054
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.
(704) 703-9409 View (704) 703-9409
Photo of Michelle M Watkins, LMFT, LCAS, Marriage & Family Therapist
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.
(980) 223-3204 View (980) 223-3204
Photo of Kerri B Morris, MAEdS, LCMHC, Counselor
Kerri B Morris
Counselor, MAEdS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Gastonia, NC 28052
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.
(704) 826-7348 View (704) 826-7348
Photo of Quincy Johnson, MS, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
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.
(910) 557-9546 View (910) 557-9546
Photo of Via-Tonda Byers, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Via-Tonda Byers
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Gastonia, NC 28054  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist trained in the practice of individual, couple, family, and group therapy. I enjoy working with individuals (ages 13 and up), couples, and families. I take a person centered approach to therapy. I believe that everyone is unique and a "cookie cutter" approach is not effective. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, self-esteem issues, adjusting to life transitions, relational concerns, and familial concerns.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist trained in the practice of individual, couple, family, and group therapy. I enjoy working with individuals (ages 13 and up), couples, and families. I take a person centered approach to therapy. I believe that everyone is unique and a "cookie cutter" approach is not effective. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, self-esteem issues, adjusting to life transitions, relational concerns, and familial concerns.
(704) 629-8210 View (704) 629-8210
Photo of Jerry Wayne Guy, MA, LCMHC, LCAS
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.
(980) 434-0019 View (980) 434-0019
Photo of Dr. Scott Hammontree, LCMHCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Scott Hammontree
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
Gastonia, NC 28054
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!
(704) 538-4963 View (704) 538-4963
Photo of Alysia Leak, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
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.
(980) 276-2516 View (980) 276-2516
Photo of Jerry Jeffrey Watts - The Groves Counseling Center, MA, MDiv, LPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
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.
(980) 277-3512 View (980) 277-3512
Photo of Jessica Barnes, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Barnes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Gastonia, NC 28056
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.
(980) 577-2035 View (980) 577-2035
Photo of Shelton D Davis, MA, MDiv, LCMHC, NCC
Shelton D Davis
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, MDiv, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Gastonia, NC 28052
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.
(704) 800-3753 View (704) 800-3753
Photo of Dr. Susan Wilkie McHale, PhD, LMFT, LCMHC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Susan Wilkie McHale
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gastonia, NC 28056
Dr. Susan B. Wilkie (PhD, LCMHC, LMFT) is an experienced, licensed clinical mental health counselor (LCMHC) and licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) in private practice. Dr. Wilkie earned her doctoral degree in Mental Health Counseling at the University of New Orleans in 1994. Her post doctoral work was committed to Couple and Family Therapy for (16) years where she recently served as the Founding Director of the Marriage and Family Therapy Program at Pfeiffer University's Graduate School in Charlotte. She is now committed to her private practice full-time in the Belmont/Cramerton/Gastonia area.
Dr. Susan B. Wilkie (PhD, LCMHC, LMFT) is an experienced, licensed clinical mental health counselor (LCMHC) and licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) in private practice. Dr. Wilkie earned her doctoral degree in Mental Health Counseling at the University of New Orleans in 1994. Her post doctoral work was committed to Couple and Family Therapy for (16) years where she recently served as the Founding Director of the Marriage and Family Therapy Program at Pfeiffer University's Graduate School in Charlotte. She is now committed to her private practice full-time in the Belmont/Cramerton/Gastonia area.
(704) 327-6674 View (704) 327-6674
Photo of Gary W. McFarland, DMin, LMFT, LPCS, CFBPPC, Pastoral Counselor
Gary W. McFarland
Pastoral Counselor, DMin, LMFT, LPCS, CFBPPC
Verified Verified
Gastonia, NC 28052
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.
(704) 585-8835 View (704) 585-8835
Photo of Latasha S McIlwaine - Insightful Options, PLLC, EdD, LCMHCS, LPCS, LCAS, CCS, Counselor
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 that includes group sessions. We also provide TeleHealth Sessions for SC, NC, and GA 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 that includes group sessions. We also provide TeleHealth Sessions for SC, NC, and GA clients for additional privacy and convenience. We have a nonprofit organization for additional assistance in different service areas...www.greenemcilwainefoundation.org
(704) 245-6353 View (704) 245-6353
Photo of Jaymie Rowe, LMFT, LCAS, CCS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jaymie Rowe
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
4 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.
(828) 471-4478 View (828) 471-4478
Photo of John L Adriatico, MBA, MA, MFT, LCMHC, LCAS, Licensed Professional Counselor
John L Adriatico
Licensed Professional Counselor, MBA, MA, MFT, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gastonia, NC 28052  (Online Only)
Life is a journey and sometimes we struggle with its trials. I offer a holistic approach to counseling and help adults, children, teens, families, and couples. If you or a love one is struggling with depression, ADHD, anxiety, marriage difficulties, addictions, Domestic Violence (verbal, physical, financial, and emotional abuse), family or friends that are abusive, grief and loss, self-esteem problems, divorce, spirituality, and parenting difficulties there is hope at: Counsel For Hope.
Life is a journey and sometimes we struggle with its trials. I offer a holistic approach to counseling and help adults, children, teens, families, and couples. If you or a love one is struggling with depression, ADHD, anxiety, marriage difficulties, addictions, Domestic Violence (verbal, physical, financial, and emotional abuse), family or friends that are abusive, grief and loss, self-esteem problems, divorce, spirituality, and parenting difficulties there is hope at: Counsel For Hope.
(704) 981-4378 View (704) 981-4378
Photo of Joshua N King Sr., BA, MDiv, Pastoral Counselor
Joshua N King Sr.
Pastoral Counselor, BA, MDiv
Verified Verified
Gastonia, NC 28052
Specialties are Faith-based/Christian Counseling (only if chosen to approach their issues from that perspective); Marital Counseling, Life after divorce.
If you are reading this, you have taken the first step. Counseling can often be overwhelming, but the benefits often exceed expectations, leaving a person feeling with a sense of control and the ability to move forward. The most put together people can find themselves feeling anxious, stressed and overwhelmed due to life’s challenges. I aim to provide a professional, safe and judgment-free environment that allows people to find ways to the manage internal and external pressures they may be experiencing. Let me guide you to understanding on how to move past those feelings that hinder you from growing, healing and moving forward.
Specialties are Faith-based/Christian Counseling (only if chosen to approach their issues from that perspective); Marital Counseling, Life after divorce.
If you are reading this, you have taken the first step. Counseling can often be overwhelming, but the benefits often exceed expectations, leaving a person feeling with a sense of control and the ability to move forward. The most put together people can find themselves feeling anxious, stressed and overwhelmed due to life’s challenges. I aim to provide a professional, safe and judgment-free environment that allows people to find ways to the manage internal and external pressures they may be experiencing. Let me guide you to understanding on how to move past those feelings that hinder you from growing, healing and moving forward.
(757) 384-1690 View (757) 384-1690
Photo of Samantha Atkinson-Lorenz, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Samantha Atkinson-Lorenz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gastonia, NC 28052
I work with adults who want help addressing anxiety, depression, parenting, relationship and marital issues, premarital counseling, life transitions, stress, and more.
“Healing doesn’t mean the hurt never existed. It means the damage no longer controls our lives.” Hello and welcome! I’m Samantha. I enjoy working with people of all ages and I see children, teens and adults. I also have specific experience working in maternal mental health and specifically with clients who are experiencing perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. Additionally, I have experience working with parents who are learning to juggle this role, but who also want to stay true to who they are as an individual.
I work with adults who want help addressing anxiety, depression, parenting, relationship and marital issues, premarital counseling, life transitions, stress, and more.
“Healing doesn’t mean the hurt never existed. It means the damage no longer controls our lives.” Hello and welcome! I’m Samantha. I enjoy working with people of all ages and I see children, teens and adults. I also have specific experience working in maternal mental health and specifically with clients who are experiencing perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. Additionally, I have experience working with parents who are learning to juggle this role, but who also want to stay true to who they are as an individual.
(704) 666-4809 View (704) 666-4809
1
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.