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More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Courtney Jost, LCSWA, RYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Courtney Jost
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Southport, NC 28461  (Online Only)
I am passionate about supporting women during pregnancy and the postpartum period, as well as guiding new parents and young adults through their unique challenges. I believe in the transformative power of connection and self-exploration. By fostering an open and trusting environment, I encourage clients to delve into their experiences, ultimately guiding them toward clarity and healing. My approach is rooted in empathy and understanding, and I strive to create a space where everyone feels heard and valued.
I am passionate about supporting women during pregnancy and the postpartum period, as well as guiding new parents and young adults through their unique challenges. I believe in the transformative power of connection and self-exploration. By fostering an open and trusting environment, I encourage clients to delve into their experiences, ultimately guiding them toward clarity and healing. My approach is rooted in empathy and understanding, and I strive to create a space where everyone feels heard and valued.
(910) 981-2394 View (910) 981-2394
Photo of Greg Scott, LCSW, LCAS-A, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Greg Scott
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS-A
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Carolina Beach, NC 28428
What I feel I have to offer people is a helpful relationship based on acceptance and safety. My hope is always that together within this supportive relationship you can feel free to explore your thoughts, feelings, strengths, challenges and choices. I've found that understanding and accepting where we are gives us a strong foundation to sustain positive change. In over 30 years of professional experience, I've never worked with a person whose conditions/situations did not make sense, once these experiences have been understood.
What I feel I have to offer people is a helpful relationship based on acceptance and safety. My hope is always that together within this supportive relationship you can feel free to explore your thoughts, feelings, strengths, challenges and choices. I've found that understanding and accepting where we are gives us a strong foundation to sustain positive change. In over 30 years of professional experience, I've never worked with a person whose conditions/situations did not make sense, once these experiences have been understood.
(910) 479-4660 View (910) 479-4660
Photo of Anna Elizabeth Respess, LCSW, LCAS, CCS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anna Elizabeth Respess
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Carolina Beach, NC 28428
I believe in the inherent ability of a person to heal and make changes that will help establish a full and meaningful life experience. It is often the messages we learn subtly and hold onto, about what our experiences mean, about ourselves and the world around us, that inhibit this natural process of self acceptance and positive growth. As part of the therapeutic relationship, my hope is to provide a supportive space, and a sense of unconditional positive regard, for one to explore the conflicts that keep us "stuck" today.
I believe in the inherent ability of a person to heal and make changes that will help establish a full and meaningful life experience. It is often the messages we learn subtly and hold onto, about what our experiences mean, about ourselves and the world around us, that inhibit this natural process of self acceptance and positive growth. As part of the therapeutic relationship, my hope is to provide a supportive space, and a sense of unconditional positive regard, for one to explore the conflicts that keep us "stuck" today.
(910) 687-4538 View (910) 687-4538
Photo of Cathy Hayes Norton - Dr. Cathy Norton Mental Health &Addiction Recovery, LCMHCS, LCAS, CSOTP, CCTP, SAP
Dr. Cathy Norton Mental Health &Addiction Recovery
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHCS, LCAS, CSOTP, CCTP, SAP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Southport, NC 28461
Feeling broken or overwhelmed? I understand. I've done much research on addiction, codependency & adult children from dysfunctional families. It is possible to overcome barriers to intimacy and learn why we repeat the same relationship mistakes over and over again in new relationships or why we choose unhealthy people. We can change and think differently. It takes effort and accountability, but there is help and hope. Learn from your past. Don't continue to be its victim and let the past determine your future. I work with mental health and all kinds of addictions (substances and behavioral). Let's talk. Live life!
Feeling broken or overwhelmed? I understand. I've done much research on addiction, codependency & adult children from dysfunctional families. It is possible to overcome barriers to intimacy and learn why we repeat the same relationship mistakes over and over again in new relationships or why we choose unhealthy people. We can change and think differently. It takes effort and accountability, but there is help and hope. Learn from your past. Don't continue to be its victim and let the past determine your future. I work with mental health and all kinds of addictions (substances and behavioral). Let's talk. Live life!
(910) 408-7991 View (910) 408-7991
Photo of Amy Gayle Miller Psychotherapist, LCAT, CASAC, CADC, Art Therapist
Amy Gayle Miller Psychotherapist
Art Therapist, LCAT, CASAC, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carolina Beach, NC 28428
Embracing new clients at Safe Harbor Counseling! Come journey with me as we embark on a transformative path aimed at awakening your inner potential and igniting the necessary shifts to manifest fresh outcomes in your life. If you find yourself drawn to these words, it's likely because you're at a point where you're eager to seek solutions to the recurring frustrations of repetitive patterns, self-sabotage, and lingering self-doubt. Change, as we know, isn't an overnight phenomenon; it's a gradual process, one in which my role as a compassionate, encouraging, and innovative therapist will guide you toward empowered self-direction.
Embracing new clients at Safe Harbor Counseling! Come journey with me as we embark on a transformative path aimed at awakening your inner potential and igniting the necessary shifts to manifest fresh outcomes in your life. If you find yourself drawn to these words, it's likely because you're at a point where you're eager to seek solutions to the recurring frustrations of repetitive patterns, self-sabotage, and lingering self-doubt. Change, as we know, isn't an overnight phenomenon; it's a gradual process, one in which my role as a compassionate, encouraging, and innovative therapist will guide you toward empowered self-direction.
(585) 552-2364 View (585) 552-2364
Photo of Joseph Rengifo - Wilmington Mental Health, LCMHC, LCAS, LCSW, NPMHNP, FNP, Counselor
Wilmington Mental Health
Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS, LCSW, NPMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carolina Beach, NC 28428
Wilmington Mental Health (WMH) provides evidence-based and person-centered treatment to residents of Southeastern North Carolina. Our mission is to offer accessible universal mental health treatment so that everyone in our community has access to the services they need, when and where they need them. WMH integrates multiple therapeutic techniques to create optimal patient experience. WMH understands that life presents difficulties that can reduce the quality of life and happiness of those in our community. These challenges can be detrimental if left on unresolved. Hence, it is critical that access to mental health care exist when individuals need it most. WMH has developed a platform that provides therapeutic support for teenagers, college students, adults, couples, and families. Our compassionate counselors are ready to meet with you to help you resolve challenges and move forward in your life. Get on the road to recovery with Wilmington Mental Health Today! Book a confidential consultation, call 910-777-5575 or email us at info@wmhwc.com.
Wilmington Mental Health (WMH) provides evidence-based and person-centered treatment to residents of Southeastern North Carolina. Our mission is to offer accessible universal mental health treatment so that everyone in our community has access to the services they need, when and where they need them. WMH integrates multiple therapeutic techniques to create optimal patient experience. WMH understands that life presents difficulties that can reduce the quality of life and happiness of those in our community. These challenges can be detrimental if left on unresolved. Hence, it is critical that access to mental health care exist when individuals need it most. WMH has developed a platform that provides therapeutic support for teenagers, college students, adults, couples, and families. Our compassionate counselors are ready to meet with you to help you resolve challenges and move forward in your life. Get on the road to recovery with Wilmington Mental Health Today! Book a confidential consultation, call 910-777-5575 or email us at info@wmhwc.com.
(910) 909-4408 View (910) 909-4408
Photo of Brittany Patterson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brittany Patterson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Carolina Beach, NC 28428
Waitlist for new clients
"The world breaks everyone, but some are strong at the broken places." -Ernest Hemingway. We all encounter challenges from time to time that seem to break us but with support we can strengthen the broken places to become whole again. If you are facing challenges in life with PTSD, depression, anxiety, relationship challenges or parenting needs I will help come alongside you to find the strength to heal and become whole again. I work with individuals of all ages (0-adult) as well as families. I take a holistic client centered approach to therapy.
"The world breaks everyone, but some are strong at the broken places." -Ernest Hemingway. We all encounter challenges from time to time that seem to break us but with support we can strengthen the broken places to become whole again. If you are facing challenges in life with PTSD, depression, anxiety, relationship challenges or parenting needs I will help come alongside you to find the strength to heal and become whole again. I work with individuals of all ages (0-adult) as well as families. I take a holistic client centered approach to therapy.
(910) 405-8825 View (910) 405-8825
Photo of Jessica Gammell-Bennett, MSW, LCSWA, FLCE, RMT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Gammell-Bennett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA, FLCE, RMT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Carolina Beach, NC 28428  (Online Only)
Are you a parent saying, “I’m going to do better,” then grappling with guilt when the same cycle plays out again? I've been there. Are you an adult child saying to yourself “I’m not putting up with this anymore,” then struggling with shame when you receive the same treatment? I've been there. Are you and your partner finding yourselves in the same dysfunctional patterns of thinking, relating, and reacting? I've been there too. You can find the harmony you seek, the connection you crave, and the skills to respond rather than react. You can be the cycle breaker for you and your loved ones. You can all be free. I'll help you get there.
Are you a parent saying, “I’m going to do better,” then grappling with guilt when the same cycle plays out again? I've been there. Are you an adult child saying to yourself “I’m not putting up with this anymore,” then struggling with shame when you receive the same treatment? I've been there. Are you and your partner finding yourselves in the same dysfunctional patterns of thinking, relating, and reacting? I've been there too. You can find the harmony you seek, the connection you crave, and the skills to respond rather than react. You can be the cycle breaker for you and your loved ones. You can all be free. I'll help you get there.
(910) 537-6038 View (910) 537-6038
Photo of Veronica A Zinkham - Veronica A. Zinkham, LPC, Psychotherapist, MA, NCC, LPC, CPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Veronica A. Zinkham, LPC, Psychotherapist
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC, CPC
Verified Verified
Southport, NC 28461
My goal is to help you feel welcomed, safe, and unjudged. My passion is to assist you in learning to meet, manage, and move beyond difficult life challenges and gain optimal growth and belief in YOU. If you struggle with Relationships, Depression, Grief, Life Transitions, Trauma or Abuse, you have the power to heal. I am humbled by the human spirit. Therapy is a process of collaboration, mutual goal setting, awareness, trust and change. When you are hurting, reach out - help is there for you. I will offer support, guidance and steps to overcome life hurts.
My goal is to help you feel welcomed, safe, and unjudged. My passion is to assist you in learning to meet, manage, and move beyond difficult life challenges and gain optimal growth and belief in YOU. If you struggle with Relationships, Depression, Grief, Life Transitions, Trauma or Abuse, you have the power to heal. I am humbled by the human spirit. Therapy is a process of collaboration, mutual goal setting, awareness, trust and change. When you are hurting, reach out - help is there for you. I will offer support, guidance and steps to overcome life hurts.
(412) 265-2646 View (412) 265-2646
Photo of Dr. Anne Marie Rakip, MS, EdD, LMFT, LCAS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Anne Marie Rakip
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, EdD, LMFT, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Southport, NC 28461
Growth, change and healing are difficult. To heal, we must know ourselves and how we make meaning of events and situations. Ancestral psychotherapy may provide a gateway to find one's fit in the world. Through courage and bravery we may begin to understand our own life story. The journey through life has many mountains and valleys but I will walk with you as you try to make sense of your place in the world. Compassion and conversation will reveal some goals to work towards to help you or your family feel whole. I work with both individuals and families to grow, change and heal.
Growth, change and healing are difficult. To heal, we must know ourselves and how we make meaning of events and situations. Ancestral psychotherapy may provide a gateway to find one's fit in the world. Through courage and bravery we may begin to understand our own life story. The journey through life has many mountains and valleys but I will walk with you as you try to make sense of your place in the world. Compassion and conversation will reveal some goals to work towards to help you or your family feel whole. I work with both individuals and families to grow, change and heal.
(910) 537-5113 View (910) 537-5113
Photo of Heather Locklear Strickland, MA, LCMHCS, LCAS
Heather Locklear Strickland
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHCS, LCAS
Verified Verified
Boiling Springs Lakes, NC 28461
Waitlist for new clients
I am a North Carolina native who has dedicated my life to raising awareness for mental health/substance use issues and reducing the stigma around accessing treatment for both. For the past ten years, I have worked in a variety of community mental health agencies, serving the needs of individuals from all walks of life. My professional counseling experience includes individual and group counseling in a community mental health agency and a local Detention Center as well as crisis intervention in a community setting. I specialize in depressive & anxiety disorders as well as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and stress reactions.
I am a North Carolina native who has dedicated my life to raising awareness for mental health/substance use issues and reducing the stigma around accessing treatment for both. For the past ten years, I have worked in a variety of community mental health agencies, serving the needs of individuals from all walks of life. My professional counseling experience includes individual and group counseling in a community mental health agency and a local Detention Center as well as crisis intervention in a community setting. I specialize in depressive & anxiety disorders as well as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and stress reactions.
(910) 408-5672 View (910) 408-5672
Photo of Cynthia Lewis Gaskins - Roots to Blooms Counseling PLLC , LCMHCS , LCAS, CCS, LPC, Counselor
Roots to Blooms Counseling PLLC
Counselor, LCMHCS , LCAS, CCS, LPC
Verified Verified
Southport, NC 28461  (Online Only)
I HAVE OPENINGS FOR NEW CLIENTS!! Are you feeling stuck? Do you feel trapped by your strong emotional reactions? Are you feeling alone and disconnected in your relationship? Anxious or not good enough? We all have moments in our lives when we need support, and we are not meant to suffer alone. There is no shame in reaching out for help. I help clients work through current struggles & emotional pain by so they can experience calm, self-compassion, freedom and meaning in their lives.
I HAVE OPENINGS FOR NEW CLIENTS!! Are you feeling stuck? Do you feel trapped by your strong emotional reactions? Are you feeling alone and disconnected in your relationship? Anxious or not good enough? We all have moments in our lives when we need support, and we are not meant to suffer alone. There is no shame in reaching out for help. I help clients work through current struggles & emotional pain by so they can experience calm, self-compassion, freedom and meaning in their lives.
(252) 336-9687 View (252) 336-9687
Photo of Jillian N Tabak, LCSW, LCAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jillian N Tabak
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Carolina Beach, NC 28428
Not accepting new clients
Life's challenges can at times feel too heavy to navigate alone. Therapy can be an incredible partnership that assists you in exploring and processing your experiences, realigning with your own values, learning new coping strategies, and cultivating a life that you are able to truly thrive in. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist (LCAS). I'm passionate about assisting individuals in moving out of the trenches of life to find hope and healing.
Life's challenges can at times feel too heavy to navigate alone. Therapy can be an incredible partnership that assists you in exploring and processing your experiences, realigning with your own values, learning new coping strategies, and cultivating a life that you are able to truly thrive in. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist (LCAS). I'm passionate about assisting individuals in moving out of the trenches of life to find hope and healing.
(910) 294-5867 View (910) 294-5867
Photo of Loralie Grigas, MSW, LCSW, LCAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Loralie Grigas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
Carolina Beach, NC 28428
Not accepting new clients
I can help if you desire personal growth and change. Therapy can be very helpful if you are experiencing emotional distress, anxiety and/or panic attacks, excessive worry, depression, difficulty with life transitions, grief and loss, trauma, relationship issues or concerns about addiction in your life or that of someone you love.
I can help if you desire personal growth and change. Therapy can be very helpful if you are experiencing emotional distress, anxiety and/or panic attacks, excessive worry, depression, difficulty with life transitions, grief and loss, trauma, relationship issues or concerns about addiction in your life or that of someone you love.
(910) 208-4917 View (910) 208-4917

Online Therapists

Photo of Michael Lamont Headen - Simplicity Counseling Services, PLLC, LCMHC , LCAS, CCS
Simplicity Counseling Services, PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC , LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
Goldsboro, NC 27534
I am EMDR trained utilizing both CBT and DBT as well to help individuals work through trauma, addictions, or marital difficulties.
**Immediate openings for any and all clients**. Struggling from time to time with anxiety, depressed moods, anger outburst, unsure of self worth, identity issues, marital conflict, communication issues. Personal growth and enhancing self-worth, overcoming doubt of one's abilities. Developing a more healthy outlook in life and striving to be a more fully functioning caring human being. Trying to recover or not relapse back to a previous addiction. Issues with trauma or trauma related issues I can help. Recently completed training in EMDR (Dec 2023) which could help address these concerns.
I am EMDR trained utilizing both CBT and DBT as well to help individuals work through trauma, addictions, or marital difficulties.
**Immediate openings for any and all clients**. Struggling from time to time with anxiety, depressed moods, anger outburst, unsure of self worth, identity issues, marital conflict, communication issues. Personal growth and enhancing self-worth, overcoming doubt of one's abilities. Developing a more healthy outlook in life and striving to be a more fully functioning caring human being. Trying to recover or not relapse back to a previous addiction. Issues with trauma or trauma related issues I can help. Recently completed training in EMDR (Dec 2023) which could help address these concerns.
(919) 351-8222 View (919) 351-8222
Photo of Derek Prescott, PsyD, LCMHC, CAS, CATP
Derek Prescott
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, PsyD, LCMHC, CAS, CATP
Verified Verified
Hubert, NC 28539
National Board Certified Counselor - Certified Marriage and Pre- Marriage counseling, Certified Autism Specialist; Child and Adolescent Trauma Professional, and Anger Management.
For appointments call or text 910-545-2142. We offer a compassionate and positive environment to help you make empowering decisions about life and overcome any struggles or obstacles. Using emphatic, compassionate, empowering skills, our goal is to assist you in applying the skills needed to make healthy changes. We view the therapeutic relationship as an honor and appreciate the courage that it takes to enter a healing relationship. We look forward to sharing your journey and believe that we will learn from one another throughout this healing journey.
National Board Certified Counselor - Certified Marriage and Pre- Marriage counseling, Certified Autism Specialist; Child and Adolescent Trauma Professional, and Anger Management.
For appointments call or text 910-545-2142. We offer a compassionate and positive environment to help you make empowering decisions about life and overcome any struggles or obstacles. Using emphatic, compassionate, empowering skills, our goal is to assist you in applying the skills needed to make healthy changes. We view the therapeutic relationship as an honor and appreciate the courage that it takes to enter a healing relationship. We look forward to sharing your journey and believe that we will learn from one another throughout this healing journey.
(910) 469-0264 View (910) 469-0264
Photo of Kellsie Siebach, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Kellsie Siebach
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fayetteville, NC 28305
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in North Carolina. I have earned my Master of Marriage and Family Therapy degree from the University of Houston. I have about 10 years of mental health experience including residential treatment, outpatient treatment, and private practice. I work with couples and adult individuals with a wide range of struggles including (but not limited to) relationship distress, anxiety, stress, depression, behavioral issues, anger, and trauma.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in North Carolina. I have earned my Master of Marriage and Family Therapy degree from the University of Houston. I have about 10 years of mental health experience including residential treatment, outpatient treatment, and private practice. I work with couples and adult individuals with a wide range of struggles including (but not limited to) relationship distress, anxiety, stress, depression, behavioral issues, anger, and trauma.
(910) 249-4772 View (910) 249-4772
Photo of Kimberly Lynn Childress, MA, LPC, LCMHCS
Kimberly Lynn Childress
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LPC, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
Oak Island, NC 28465  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor in North Carolina. I have worked successfully with individuals, marriage/relationship issues, trauma, depression, anxiety, transgender, and many other issues and concerns.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor in North Carolina. I have worked successfully with individuals, marriage/relationship issues, trauma, depression, anxiety, transgender, and many other issues and concerns.
(704) 610-2297 View (704) 610-2297
Photo of Jarrod Gray - Oceanside Counseling, MA,  LCMHC
Oceanside Counseling
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, NC 28540
Specialties include: - Marriage Counseling, Relationship Issues, Communication Problems, Divorce, Separation, Child Custody, Split Parenting, Infidelity, Narcissism, Sociopathy, Psychopathy, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder/PTSD, Abuse, Military Families, PCS, Deployment, Retirement, Combat Stress, Addiction, Substance Abuse, Porn Addiction, Mood Disorders.
Oceanside Counseling was created to give you hope and to help you feel listened to and supported in your pursuit of health and healing. At Oceanside you are not just another number. Your mental health matters to us and we value and treat you like we would want to be treated ourselves. Recent events have increased stress for people throughout the world and many people are struggling with overwhelming emotions and fears. If you are in need, please reach out to us. We are currently providing virtual services (video/telephone) to anyone living in North Carolina and we are accepting new patients.
Specialties include: - Marriage Counseling, Relationship Issues, Communication Problems, Divorce, Separation, Child Custody, Split Parenting, Infidelity, Narcissism, Sociopathy, Psychopathy, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder/PTSD, Abuse, Military Families, PCS, Deployment, Retirement, Combat Stress, Addiction, Substance Abuse, Porn Addiction, Mood Disorders.
Oceanside Counseling was created to give you hope and to help you feel listened to and supported in your pursuit of health and healing. At Oceanside you are not just another number. Your mental health matters to us and we value and treat you like we would want to be treated ourselves. Recent events have increased stress for people throughout the world and many people are struggling with overwhelming emotions and fears. If you are in need, please reach out to us. We are currently providing virtual services (video/telephone) to anyone living in North Carolina and we are accepting new patients.
(910) 378-0880 View (910) 378-0880
Photo of Candis Braxton, MA, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Candis Braxton
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NC 28314
I have been working with couples since 2014 providing pre- marital counseling and have been counseling young adults, domestically and abroad, for over 10 years.
I work with Young Adults & Professionals pioneering the new terrains of independent life, Pre marital & Seasoned Couples trying to steer their relationship out of the rocks, Mothers desiring to offload some of their unwanted childhood/ life-hood baggage that's meddling with the childhood experience they are trying to curate for their own children, Families going through transitions, desperately trying to hold it all together, and Christian individuals, couples and families seeking to have a Bible-centered therapeutic experience.
I have been working with couples since 2014 providing pre- marital counseling and have been counseling young adults, domestically and abroad, for over 10 years.
I work with Young Adults & Professionals pioneering the new terrains of independent life, Pre marital & Seasoned Couples trying to steer their relationship out of the rocks, Mothers desiring to offload some of their unwanted childhood/ life-hood baggage that's meddling with the childhood experience they are trying to curate for their own children, Families going through transitions, desperately trying to hold it all together, and Christian individuals, couples and families seeking to have a Bible-centered therapeutic experience.
(910) 415-1148 View (910) 415-1148
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.