Marriage Counseling Therapists in Multnomah County, OR

Photo of Karen Maloney, LPC, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Karen Maloney
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
I also specialize in couple and marital counseling using the Gottman method.
I believe you will find counseling it to be an integral and valuable part of your life journey in seeking out the changes and goals you desire. In sessions, I provide a safe and trusting environment, will empower you to discover unused resources and strengths and will sift through what areas are ineffective and need changing.
I also specialize in couple and marital counseling using the Gottman method.
I believe you will find counseling it to be an integral and valuable part of your life journey in seeking out the changes and goals you desire. In sessions, I provide a safe and trusting environment, will empower you to discover unused resources and strengths and will sift through what areas are ineffective and need changing.
(503) 822-6195 View (503) 822-6195
Photo of Nahomie Guillaume, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nahomie Guillaume
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
I work with couples in the early stages, and those in interracial marriage and intercultural/interfaith relationships.
Are you overwhelmed? Stressed? Are you struggling with thoughts that you find disturbing? Are you in need of hope, healing, and support? If so, I can help. I will help you identify your life's purpose/meaning, develop healthy coping skills as you grow in your relationships. Beside my professional background, I know firsthand the joy and challenges of raising a family, juggling multiple demands; and have experienced the loss of a child through both miscarriage and stillbirth. If you are looking for someone whom you can connect with on an experiential level, I am that therapist. I look forward to assisting you in your life's journey.
I work with couples in the early stages, and those in interracial marriage and intercultural/interfaith relationships.
Are you overwhelmed? Stressed? Are you struggling with thoughts that you find disturbing? Are you in need of hope, healing, and support? If so, I can help. I will help you identify your life's purpose/meaning, develop healthy coping skills as you grow in your relationships. Beside my professional background, I know firsthand the joy and challenges of raising a family, juggling multiple demands; and have experienced the loss of a child through both miscarriage and stillbirth. If you are looking for someone whom you can connect with on an experiential level, I am that therapist. I look forward to assisting you in your life's journey.
(971) 292-3947 View (971) 292-3947
Photo of Wendy Haynes, MA, PhD, LMFT
Wendy Haynes
MA, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232  (Online Only)
I hold PhD in Clinical Psychology and a Master's Degree in Psychology. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I support my clients in achieving greater well being by honing what is genuinely unique and important to them. I teach practices that boost resiliency to stress and inspire self-esteem and self-compassion to bloom. I support my clients in breaking through blocks and in unleashing authentic and dynamic self-expression, so that their values are congruent with their behavior and their intentions and desires become experiences that are truly lived.
I hold PhD in Clinical Psychology and a Master's Degree in Psychology. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I support my clients in achieving greater well being by honing what is genuinely unique and important to them. I teach practices that boost resiliency to stress and inspire self-esteem and self-compassion to bloom. I support my clients in breaking through blocks and in unleashing authentic and dynamic self-expression, so that their values are congruent with their behavior and their intentions and desires become experiences that are truly lived.
(503) 342-2158 View (503) 342-2158
Photo of Steven M Cohn - Marriage and Relationship Counseling, PhD, LMFT, MA, MBA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Marriage and Relationship Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, MA, MBA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232
I am a Relationship Specialist, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and the founder of The Portland Couples Counseling Center.
Hello, my name is Steven Cohn. Since the onset of Covid 19 I am currently conducting all of my couples sessions via teleconferencing. I meet with couples who live anywhere in Oregon, including Bend, Eugene, and Ashland. My clients are reporting that our online sessions feel just as meaningful and productive as our in-office sessions. If love, intimacy, and passion has faded from your relationship, then I'm here to help. Poor communications, financial problems, low sexual desire, blending a family, child rearing, an affair, in-laws, and/or health concerns can slowly erode relationship vitality in even the most loving unions.
I am a Relationship Specialist, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and the founder of The Portland Couples Counseling Center.
Hello, my name is Steven Cohn. Since the onset of Covid 19 I am currently conducting all of my couples sessions via teleconferencing. I meet with couples who live anywhere in Oregon, including Bend, Eugene, and Ashland. My clients are reporting that our online sessions feel just as meaningful and productive as our in-office sessions. If love, intimacy, and passion has faded from your relationship, then I'm here to help. Poor communications, financial problems, low sexual desire, blending a family, child rearing, an affair, in-laws, and/or health concerns can slowly erode relationship vitality in even the most loving unions.
(503) 610-5372 View (503) 610-5372
Photo of Paula Fitzgerald, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Paula Fitzgerald
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232
When I first became a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist 19 years ago, our understanding of how past traumas and attachment wounds affected us in the present, and how to effectively treat trauma and attachment wounds was very minimal. Since that time, extensive research, studies, theories and practices have broadened our knowledge of trauma's impact on the mind and body and expanded the variety of tools and resources available to support therapists. I can honestly say I have never loved my work as a trauma/attachment-focused therapist more than I do right now.
When I first became a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist 19 years ago, our understanding of how past traumas and attachment wounds affected us in the present, and how to effectively treat trauma and attachment wounds was very minimal. Since that time, extensive research, studies, theories and practices have broadened our knowledge of trauma's impact on the mind and body and expanded the variety of tools and resources available to support therapists. I can honestly say I have never loved my work as a trauma/attachment-focused therapist more than I do right now.
(503) 476-9900 View (503) 476-9900
Photo of Sophia Kukladyer, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sophia Kukladyer
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97210
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, specializing in couples and relationships.
I love relationships, connection, and the feeling you get when you are able to truly connect with others. This passion has driven me to found a practice where I specialize in working with individuals, couples, and families on relationship issues. If you are struggling in your marriage, wanting more emotional connection, or finding yourself constantly arguing with loved ones, I can help.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, specializing in couples and relationships.
I love relationships, connection, and the feeling you get when you are able to truly connect with others. This passion has driven me to found a practice where I specialize in working with individuals, couples, and families on relationship issues. If you are struggling in your marriage, wanting more emotional connection, or finding yourself constantly arguing with loved ones, I can help.
(971) 339-0581 View (971) 339-0581
Photo of Joey Ellen Kramer O'Connell, LPC, MFT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Joey Ellen Kramer O'Connell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97205
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist with over 13 years of experience working with individuals and families in home, school, and community settings.
All families experience transitions, and even positive change can cause stress. I employ an eclectic approach with a strong emphasis on attachment, structural, and solution-focused family therapies. I work with young children and their caregivers to form secure attachments early on. This leads to more effective communication and problem solving patterns and a higher level of resilience down the road. My work tends to be short term and builds on the existing strengths of your family. My work with couples is attachment informed as we look at past and current relationships to elucidate our most fulfilling ways of connecting.
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist with over 13 years of experience working with individuals and families in home, school, and community settings.
All families experience transitions, and even positive change can cause stress. I employ an eclectic approach with a strong emphasis on attachment, structural, and solution-focused family therapies. I work with young children and their caregivers to form secure attachments early on. This leads to more effective communication and problem solving patterns and a higher level of resilience down the road. My work tends to be short term and builds on the existing strengths of your family. My work with couples is attachment informed as we look at past and current relationships to elucidate our most fulfilling ways of connecting.
(503) 766-5894 View (503) 766-5894
Photo of Maryann Hanlon, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maryann Hanlon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97212  (Online Only)
I am a very interactive therapist and consider the client/therapist relationship to be critical to our work together. Each person’s need for self is critical in my work. I work with individuals re mood disorders as well as interpersonal issues. Work related problems are also common issues for those in the workplace. I work with couples struggling with issues such as infidelity, anger, anxiety, midlife crises, child management, communication. etc… I am a thirty year experiençed individual / marriage/ couples counselor. I work with couples and individuals of all genders/ identity preference. I have worked with LGBTQ as well .
I am a very interactive therapist and consider the client/therapist relationship to be critical to our work together. Each person’s need for self is critical in my work. I work with individuals re mood disorders as well as interpersonal issues. Work related problems are also common issues for those in the workplace. I work with couples struggling with issues such as infidelity, anger, anxiety, midlife crises, child management, communication. etc… I am a thirty year experiençed individual / marriage/ couples counselor. I work with couples and individuals of all genders/ identity preference. I have worked with LGBTQ as well .
(971) 251-1983 View (971) 251-1983
Photo of Alexandra Saperstein, LPC, LMFT, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alexandra Saperstein
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMFT, LLC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97205
I work with couples in crisis and individuals facing depression, life transitions, and/or other life challenges. I understand that finding a therapist can feel daunting so I offer an initial, free twenty minute phone consultation. This can help you decide if I may be a good fit for you at this time. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, Marriage and Family Therapist, Certified Relational Life Method Therapist, and an Advanced Trained Gottman Counselor, we'll work side by side to move from gridlock or pain towards more genuine connection and joy. I have helped hundreds of clients in the past decade. I look forward to connecting!
I work with couples in crisis and individuals facing depression, life transitions, and/or other life challenges. I understand that finding a therapist can feel daunting so I offer an initial, free twenty minute phone consultation. This can help you decide if I may be a good fit for you at this time. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, Marriage and Family Therapist, Certified Relational Life Method Therapist, and an Advanced Trained Gottman Counselor, we'll work side by side to move from gridlock or pain towards more genuine connection and joy. I have helped hundreds of clients in the past decade. I look forward to connecting!
(503) 406-3068 View (503) 406-3068
Photo of John Lenkin, SEP, LPC Intern
John Lenkin
LPC Intern, SEP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202
I have trained in both clinical mental health counseling and marriage family therapy.
Hi I'm Lincoln. I appreciate that you reading this is a reflection of your own curiosity and showing up for yourself! Therapy is a safe, collaborative, and respectful space to work with you towards lessening your struggles and achieving your goals. Our work together is an opportunity to shift from scripts, wounding and habit patterns of your past and more fully enter the present moment with clarity, belief in yourself, and strength to act. Ultimately, our work together can decrease your stress, cultivate a more comfortable relationship with yourself and others, and overall lead to more possibilities and self-empowerment.
I have trained in both clinical mental health counseling and marriage family therapy.
Hi I'm Lincoln. I appreciate that you reading this is a reflection of your own curiosity and showing up for yourself! Therapy is a safe, collaborative, and respectful space to work with you towards lessening your struggles and achieving your goals. Our work together is an opportunity to shift from scripts, wounding and habit patterns of your past and more fully enter the present moment with clarity, belief in yourself, and strength to act. Ultimately, our work together can decrease your stress, cultivate a more comfortable relationship with yourself and others, and overall lead to more possibilities and self-empowerment.
(971) 224-7397 View (971) 224-7397
Photo of Debbie Bensching, LCSW, ACSW, MSWAC, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Debbie Bensching
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW, MSWAC, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97205
I guide the process of working through problems to enhance performance in activities of daily living in work, relationships, recreation & professional settings. Problem areas include difficulties with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, anger, grief & loss, women's issues, habit disorders, addictions recovery: drugs, alcohol, food; ACOA, family members affected by addiction, trauma: post-traumatic stress, rape, abuse (physical, emotional, sexual), dissociative disorders, relationships: marriage / domestic partner, parent-child, divorce/ separation, parenting. Also work with difficulties with sleep, relaxation, or underperforming.
I guide the process of working through problems to enhance performance in activities of daily living in work, relationships, recreation & professional settings. Problem areas include difficulties with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, anger, grief & loss, women's issues, habit disorders, addictions recovery: drugs, alcohol, food; ACOA, family members affected by addiction, trauma: post-traumatic stress, rape, abuse (physical, emotional, sexual), dissociative disorders, relationships: marriage / domestic partner, parent-child, divorce/ separation, parenting. Also work with difficulties with sleep, relaxation, or underperforming.
(503) 406-3624 View (503) 406-3624
Photo of Daniel Menely, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Daniel Menely
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97210
For couples, I utilize The Gottman Method, assisting premarital and marital couples who are at decision points, dealing with repetitive conflict, and wanting to connect better.
As your therapist, I provide a warm and supportive space where you can talk freely without being judged. I won't just sit there – instead, I'll ask questions, offer suggestions, and reflect on what you share. Together, we'll work on dealing with the things that are bothering you in your everyday life, be it challenges with relationships, work, or family. Whether our work is one-on-one, with you two as a couple, my clients gain valuable insights and practical tools to get unstuck and move forward. Imagine leaving each session feeling understood, empowered, and equipped to navigate life with confidence.
For couples, I utilize The Gottman Method, assisting premarital and marital couples who are at decision points, dealing with repetitive conflict, and wanting to connect better.
As your therapist, I provide a warm and supportive space where you can talk freely without being judged. I won't just sit there – instead, I'll ask questions, offer suggestions, and reflect on what you share. Together, we'll work on dealing with the things that are bothering you in your everyday life, be it challenges with relationships, work, or family. Whether our work is one-on-one, with you two as a couple, my clients gain valuable insights and practical tools to get unstuck and move forward. Imagine leaving each session feeling understood, empowered, and equipped to navigate life with confidence.
(503) 379-0306 View (503) 379-0306
Photo of Zanita B Zody, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Zanita B Zody
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97206  (Online Only)
I hold an MS & PhD in child, adolescent & family development with a specialty in marriage and family therapy and have devoted the past 20+ years to my work in the eating disorder community.
My work focuses on creating body trust and respect, healing from disordered eating behaviors and thoughts, and recovering from diagnosable eating disorders. I have worked across the continuum of all levels of care, age groups, genders, sexual orientations, races, and religions. My work combines honoring your individual story and path toward recovery with evidenced-based interventions to provide you with the tools and information you need for that journey. For my younger clients, this often also includes working with parents so they can effectively support their loved one's recovery.
I hold an MS & PhD in child, adolescent & family development with a specialty in marriage and family therapy and have devoted the past 20+ years to my work in the eating disorder community.
My work focuses on creating body trust and respect, healing from disordered eating behaviors and thoughts, and recovering from diagnosable eating disorders. I have worked across the continuum of all levels of care, age groups, genders, sexual orientations, races, and religions. My work combines honoring your individual story and path toward recovery with evidenced-based interventions to provide you with the tools and information you need for that journey. For my younger clients, this often also includes working with parents so they can effectively support their loved one's recovery.
(971) 351-2835 View (971) 351-2835
Photo of Rebecca Francesconi, MEd, LPC, LMFT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rebecca Francesconi
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97212  (Online Only)
I have a specific focus working with individuals (including children and adolescents/teens), couples and families on issues ranging from eating disorder/body image concerns, depression, anxiety, parenting struggles, couples/pre-marital and marriage counseling and family conflict as it relates to parent/child dynamics.
I believe that every person, no matter the age, has a story to tell about their lives and it takes a tremendous amount of courage to begin to share this story. As your therapist, my hope is to help you find your voice, speak your truth, begin the healing process and ultimately feel a sense of personal accomplishment along the way. I seek to provide you with clarity of thought and peace of mind and heart.
I have a specific focus working with individuals (including children and adolescents/teens), couples and families on issues ranging from eating disorder/body image concerns, depression, anxiety, parenting struggles, couples/pre-marital and marriage counseling and family conflict as it relates to parent/child dynamics.
I believe that every person, no matter the age, has a story to tell about their lives and it takes a tremendous amount of courage to begin to share this story. As your therapist, my hope is to help you find your voice, speak your truth, begin the healing process and ultimately feel a sense of personal accomplishment along the way. I seek to provide you with clarity of thought and peace of mind and heart.
(503) 379-9529 View (503) 379-9529
Photo of Lori Henry, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lori Henry
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97220
Specifically, I work with LGBTQ+ individuals, couples (of any definition), and parents; adults and children around parenting issues; and with couples pre and post marital.
**Currently Waitlist Only** I believe that equity and trust are essential to working together toward finding solutions and gaining awareness. While I am informed on a wide range of therapeutic approaches, I use what is best for each client. I tend to lean towards using Solution-Focused, Structural, and Narrative therapy styles. I like for our work together to be interactive and empowering. In my free time you can find me interacting with water in any way I can - be it a river, the ocean or a pool.
Specifically, I work with LGBTQ+ individuals, couples (of any definition), and parents; adults and children around parenting issues; and with couples pre and post marital.
**Currently Waitlist Only** I believe that equity and trust are essential to working together toward finding solutions and gaining awareness. While I am informed on a wide range of therapeutic approaches, I use what is best for each client. I tend to lean towards using Solution-Focused, Structural, and Narrative therapy styles. I like for our work together to be interactive and empowering. In my free time you can find me interacting with water in any way I can - be it a river, the ocean or a pool.
(971) 407-1245 View (971) 407-1245
Photo of Mackenzie Phelps, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Mackenzie Phelps
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97219
I am passionate about supporting individuals across the lifespan, including adolescents, teens, young adults, pre-marital couples, families, and LGBTQIA+ clients. I do not work with couples navigating separation or divorce at this time. My areas of practice include life transitions, stress and anxiety management, communication, self-esteem, empowerment, and the intersection of faith/spirituality with mental health.
I am passionate about supporting individuals across the lifespan, including adolescents, teens, young adults, pre-marital couples, families, and LGBTQIA+ clients. I do not work with couples navigating separation or divorce at this time. My areas of practice include life transitions, stress and anxiety management, communication, self-esteem, empowerment, and the intersection of faith/spirituality with mental health.
(971) 999-2763 View (971) 999-2763
Photo of Shannon Batts - Relationship Gardening, MS, LMFT, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Relationship Gardening
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97209
Couples (any age, race, gender identity) find relief from gridlock arguments, lost connection, or painful broken trust. Walk & Talk or Zoom (CA or OR) w/Shannon Batts, marriage specialist. You want practical how-tos for deeper understanding & validation from your mate, keeping disagreements from getting all wonky, or finding your way through coming out trans? Workshops, retreats, support groups outside. Visit Relationship Gardening website for marriage help gift. Many clients also are health professionals. Black American couples' Resource Redirection available. Need fees reduced? Call or email today!
Couples (any age, race, gender identity) find relief from gridlock arguments, lost connection, or painful broken trust. Walk & Talk or Zoom (CA or OR) w/Shannon Batts, marriage specialist. You want practical how-tos for deeper understanding & validation from your mate, keeping disagreements from getting all wonky, or finding your way through coming out trans? Workshops, retreats, support groups outside. Visit Relationship Gardening website for marriage help gift. Many clients also are health professionals. Black American couples' Resource Redirection available. Need fees reduced? Call or email today!
(503) 822-6665 View (503) 822-6665
Photo of Tom Dooley, PsyD, MDiv, Psychologist
Tom Dooley
Psychologist, PsyD, MDiv
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97213
Areas of Specialty: trauma, anxiety, depression, marital issues, domestic violence, anger control, communication, parenting, and spiritual issues.
Feeling stuck in life's circumstances? Don't just "Do it" as Nike says, but "Do something healthy"! With memberships in ADAA (anxiety) and the OCD Institute, trained in trauma treatment, and a certified domestic violence provider, I work with a variety of issues in marital, individual, and family counseling. I seek to be collaborative, practical, and respectful. My doctorate is from George Fox University, and I have been in the field since 1986. Offices are in Vancouver WA and Portland OR. Thank you for considering me.
Areas of Specialty: trauma, anxiety, depression, marital issues, domestic violence, anger control, communication, parenting, and spiritual issues.
Feeling stuck in life's circumstances? Don't just "Do it" as Nike says, but "Do something healthy"! With memberships in ADAA (anxiety) and the OCD Institute, trained in trauma treatment, and a certified domestic violence provider, I work with a variety of issues in marital, individual, and family counseling. I seek to be collaborative, practical, and respectful. My doctorate is from George Fox University, and I have been in the field since 1986. Offices are in Vancouver WA and Portland OR. Thank you for considering me.
(360) 513-7398 View (360) 513-7398
Photo of Heidi Swartzmiller, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Heidi Swartzmiller
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214
I have a Master’s Degree in Marriage, Couples, and Family Therapy from Lewis and Clark with a focus on International Families and Sex Therapy.
Welcome! I enjoy working with individuals and couples, and walking alongside them in their healing. I believe therapy is a collaborative experience between the family and therapist, that each client has the resiliency and resources they need already within, and that it is our job to uncover them. My work with clients considers biological, psychological, social, and spiritual factors. I specialize in working with clients who are experiencing relational distress, sex concerns, infertility/pregnancy issues, transracial/transnational family dynamics, processing trauma, religion and spirituality, body-image concerns, or low self esteem.
I have a Master’s Degree in Marriage, Couples, and Family Therapy from Lewis and Clark with a focus on International Families and Sex Therapy.
Welcome! I enjoy working with individuals and couples, and walking alongside them in their healing. I believe therapy is a collaborative experience between the family and therapist, that each client has the resiliency and resources they need already within, and that it is our job to uncover them. My work with clients considers biological, psychological, social, and spiritual factors. I specialize in working with clients who are experiencing relational distress, sex concerns, infertility/pregnancy issues, transracial/transnational family dynamics, processing trauma, religion and spirituality, body-image concerns, or low self esteem.
(503) 966-8786 View (503) 966-8786
Photo of Jacqueline R Shannon, LMFT, CADCIII, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jacqueline R Shannon
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CADCIII
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97213
Jackie Shannon is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor. Jackie makes use of a humanistic and existential approach through a variety of experiential modalities. By creating a safe space for individuals to experience the discomfort of life’s challenges, Jackie supports individuals in developing relationship through trust, empathy, direct and candid inquiry, and down to earth humor. Jackie encourages intuitive exploration through integrating talk therapy with present moment awareness using sound, music, role play and energy work.
Jackie Shannon is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor. Jackie makes use of a humanistic and existential approach through a variety of experiential modalities. By creating a safe space for individuals to experience the discomfort of life’s challenges, Jackie supports individuals in developing relationship through trust, empathy, direct and candid inquiry, and down to earth humor. Jackie encourages intuitive exploration through integrating talk therapy with present moment awareness using sound, music, role play and energy work.
(503) 751-8716 View (503) 751-8716
1
...

See more therapy options for Multnomah 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.