Photo of Charlotte M Taber, MS, LPC, LMFT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Charlotte M Taber
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pleasanton, TX 78064
People who seek therapy are the sanest of us all. They look around at their lives and they realize that they want something better and they have the courage to go out and get it.
People who seek therapy are the sanest of us all. They look around at their lives and they realize that they want something better and they have the courage to go out and get it.
(830) 357-7463 View (830) 357-7463

Online Therapists

Photo of Kathleen Morton, MA, MFT, LPC-S, EMDR, ATR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kathleen Morton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MFT, LPC-S, EMDR, ATR
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78748
I am a holistic-focused, neuro-biologically informed, LPC, Marriage & Family Therapist, and Registered Art Therapist.
Being curious about what makes us feel and act the way we do brings authenticity, creativity, and choices into our lives. Our self-concept and beliefs about the world are often formed in childhood and learned in our primary relationships. Unconsciously, these early experiences guide many of the decisions in our lives. I am passionate about exploring with you, the patterns that may leave you feeling confused, frustrated, or unable to move forward. Together, we will create space to cultivate conscious and caring responses to the inevitable challenging events of life.
I am a holistic-focused, neuro-biologically informed, LPC, Marriage & Family Therapist, and Registered Art Therapist.
Being curious about what makes us feel and act the way we do brings authenticity, creativity, and choices into our lives. Our self-concept and beliefs about the world are often formed in childhood and learned in our primary relationships. Unconsciously, these early experiences guide many of the decisions in our lives. I am passionate about exploring with you, the patterns that may leave you feeling confused, frustrated, or unable to move forward. Together, we will create space to cultivate conscious and caring responses to the inevitable challenging events of life.
(512) 337-4589 View (512) 337-4589
Photo of Jeffrey N. McDaniel, MS, LPC, CRC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jeffrey N. McDaniel
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CRC
Verified Verified
Rio Frio, TX 78879
For people experiencing marital problems, child behavior issues, stress from work, blended families, financial, grief, divorce and custody conflicts, anger, substance abuse, depression and anxiety issues, I specialize in brief, solution focused therapeutic approaches.
As a therapist working for over twenty-five years with Family Counseling Service, Charlie's Place Recovery Center, multiple Employee Assistance Programs, and in private practice, I have assisted many employees of the City of Corpus Christi, CCISD, the RTA, Christus Spohn Health Care Systems, and many national EAP Programs. I worked for over 15 years in the Nueces County Juvenile Justice Center, am a Designated Mental Health Provider for multiple State Licensing Boards, and as a Critical Incident Stress De-Briefer. My experience has taught me that there are life situations that people go through which can benefit from counseling.
For people experiencing marital problems, child behavior issues, stress from work, blended families, financial, grief, divorce and custody conflicts, anger, substance abuse, depression and anxiety issues, I specialize in brief, solution focused therapeutic approaches.
As a therapist working for over twenty-five years with Family Counseling Service, Charlie's Place Recovery Center, multiple Employee Assistance Programs, and in private practice, I have assisted many employees of the City of Corpus Christi, CCISD, the RTA, Christus Spohn Health Care Systems, and many national EAP Programs. I worked for over 15 years in the Nueces County Juvenile Justice Center, am a Designated Mental Health Provider for multiple State Licensing Boards, and as a Critical Incident Stress De-Briefer. My experience has taught me that there are life situations that people go through which can benefit from counseling.
(361) 867-3039 View (361) 867-3039
Photo of Heather M McPherson - Respark Therapy & Associates, MA, LPC-S, LMFT-S, CST, AASECT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Respark Therapy & Associates
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LPC-S, LMFT-S, CST, AASECT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78746
Clients have issues related to communication, desire discrepancy, infidelity, sexless marriage, relationship conflict, sexual dysfunction or dissatisfaction, problematic sexual behaviors, swingers, open or polyamorous relationships, painful sex, LGBTQQIA, sex or porn addiction," trauma or PTSD, body image, spirituality, kink or non-traditional relationships.
Need an expert? Struggling with your relationships or sexuality? I'm an AASECT Certified Sex Therapist and Relationship Specialist. Maybe you have difficulties communicating about relationships or sex. Lacking desire or skills in your relationship can be frustrating but there is hope. Respark Therapy has 8 therapists with flexible schedules and fees. All therapists are highly trained, confident professionals. Discussing intimacy is sometimes scary, especially if don't have the language to talk about it. Together we can work toward gaining confidence, rebuilding trust, and learning new techniques to light the fire.
Clients have issues related to communication, desire discrepancy, infidelity, sexless marriage, relationship conflict, sexual dysfunction or dissatisfaction, problematic sexual behaviors, swingers, open or polyamorous relationships, painful sex, LGBTQQIA, sex or porn addiction," trauma or PTSD, body image, spirituality, kink or non-traditional relationships.
Need an expert? Struggling with your relationships or sexuality? I'm an AASECT Certified Sex Therapist and Relationship Specialist. Maybe you have difficulties communicating about relationships or sex. Lacking desire or skills in your relationship can be frustrating but there is hope. Respark Therapy has 8 therapists with flexible schedules and fees. All therapists are highly trained, confident professionals. Discussing intimacy is sometimes scary, especially if don't have the language to talk about it. Together we can work toward gaining confidence, rebuilding trust, and learning new techniques to light the fire.
(512) 960-1682 View (512) 960-1682
Photo of Poonam Sharma, PhD, Psychologist
Poonam Sharma
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78230
Also, if you are interested in learning how you can strengthen your marriage, while staying true to yourself, I have a book on Amazon called Strong Women, Strong Love: The Missing Manual for the Missing Marriage (http://tinyurl.
The hardest times in our lives can be huge turning points if managed well. If you are struggling, please consider psychotherapy. There are many wonderful psychological tools that can help you become healthier so you can live your life with more clarity, confidence, and purpose. Contrary to the stereotype, most people seeking counseling are "normal," just happen to be stuck, and realize they need help to move forward. Whether it's a health problem, infertility, a loss, work-life imbalance, or just plain stress that has you down, let's work together to help you take charge of your life.
Also, if you are interested in learning how you can strengthen your marriage, while staying true to yourself, I have a book on Amazon called Strong Women, Strong Love: The Missing Manual for the Missing Marriage (http://tinyurl.
The hardest times in our lives can be huge turning points if managed well. If you are struggling, please consider psychotherapy. There are many wonderful psychological tools that can help you become healthier so you can live your life with more clarity, confidence, and purpose. Contrary to the stereotype, most people seeking counseling are "normal," just happen to be stuck, and realize they need help to move forward. Whether it's a health problem, infertility, a loss, work-life imbalance, or just plain stress that has you down, let's work together to help you take charge of your life.
(726) 224-4379 View (726) 224-4379
Photo of Richard John Rathbun, PhD, LPC, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Richard John Rathbun
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78248  (Online Only)
I would describe my practice as helping people work through life issues in ways that promote relational, emotional and spiritual growth. My clinical areas of interest include spirituality, depression, anxiety, and relationship problems. I also specialize in working with men's issues. I apply a Christian/faith-based approach to counseling and am trained in both theology and professional counseling. I am an ordained minister and pastoral counselor. I don't impose my beliefs on clients, and respect all faith/spiritual traditions as valuable resources for healing. Areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, childhood abuse, personality disorders, faith crisis, marriage, family, adolescent, and relationship issues.
I would describe my practice as helping people work through life issues in ways that promote relational, emotional and spiritual growth. My clinical areas of interest include spirituality, depression, anxiety, and relationship problems. I also specialize in working with men's issues. I apply a Christian/faith-based approach to counseling and am trained in both theology and professional counseling. I am an ordained minister and pastoral counselor. I don't impose my beliefs on clients, and respect all faith/spiritual traditions as valuable resources for healing. Areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, childhood abuse, personality disorders, faith crisis, marriage, family, adolescent, and relationship issues.
(512) 430-4529 View (512) 430-4529
Photo of Caroline Kay Gonzales - Stillwater Counseling & Coaching Services, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stillwater Counseling & Coaching Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78238
We also offer couples counseling, pre-marital counseling, marriage counseling, family counseling and group sessions.
Are you searching for ways to reduce anxiety, depression or trauma-related symptoms? Are you searching for counselors who are kind, positive and open to your experiences? Our office offers an ethnically diverse and multi-dimensional team that can work together to meet your needs for therapy. We have a mix of military veterans, former educators, former school counselors, licensed social workers, life coaches and licensed chemical/dependency counselors with a wide range of experience and specialties. We can work with your therapeutic needs and match you up the counselor that can help you gain a better sense of well-being.
We also offer couples counseling, pre-marital counseling, marriage counseling, family counseling and group sessions.
Are you searching for ways to reduce anxiety, depression or trauma-related symptoms? Are you searching for counselors who are kind, positive and open to your experiences? Our office offers an ethnically diverse and multi-dimensional team that can work together to meet your needs for therapy. We have a mix of military veterans, former educators, former school counselors, licensed social workers, life coaches and licensed chemical/dependency counselors with a wide range of experience and specialties. We can work with your therapeutic needs and match you up the counselor that can help you gain a better sense of well-being.
(210) 851-9813 View (210) 851-9813
Photo of Roxanna Ramirez, EdD, LMFT-S, LPC-S, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist
Roxanna Ramirez
Marriage & Family Therapist, EdD, LMFT-S, LPC-S, EMDR
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78256
I have 20 years of clinical experience helping children and teens with a variety of issues including Autism Spectrum Disorder(All ages), ODD, learning disabilities, anxiety, depression, behavior problems, parenting challenges, communication skills and helping the families cope with these issues. Additionally I have 15 years experience specializing in working with special education eligible students and their families as well as all at risk students and other school challenges. I believe in focusing on the family and helping parents learn skills to manage behaviors and improve communitcation at home. Additionally, I work with GBLT, trauma, men's/woman's issues, marital issues, individual & family conflict.
I have 20 years of clinical experience helping children and teens with a variety of issues including Autism Spectrum Disorder(All ages), ODD, learning disabilities, anxiety, depression, behavior problems, parenting challenges, communication skills and helping the families cope with these issues. Additionally I have 15 years experience specializing in working with special education eligible students and their families as well as all at risk students and other school challenges. I believe in focusing on the family and helping parents learn skills to manage behaviors and improve communitcation at home. Additionally, I work with GBLT, trauma, men's/woman's issues, marital issues, individual & family conflict.
(210) 807-8214 View (210) 807-8214
Photo of Duane A Snape - Duane Snape, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Duane Snape
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78209
Relationship difficulties, anxiety, depression, stress, PTSD, children &teen behavioral problems, marital, parenting, and military & veteran issues are some areas which I can help.
The most important choice you will ever make is not one you made yesterday, but the one you make today. Tomorrow is in the future, today is now, choose today. The time is now. I empower people to achieve personal, professional, and spiritual growth in their lives. Committed to helping others change their lives by exploring personal strengths. I am a Licensed therapist with over 25 years of mental health experience. Much of this experience was gained during my service in the United States Army serving veterans and their families faced with a wide variety of mental health challenges.
Relationship difficulties, anxiety, depression, stress, PTSD, children &teen behavioral problems, marital, parenting, and military & veteran issues are some areas which I can help.
The most important choice you will ever make is not one you made yesterday, but the one you make today. Tomorrow is in the future, today is now, choose today. The time is now. I empower people to achieve personal, professional, and spiritual growth in their lives. Committed to helping others change their lives by exploring personal strengths. I am a Licensed therapist with over 25 years of mental health experience. Much of this experience was gained during my service in the United States Army serving veterans and their families faced with a wide variety of mental health challenges.
(210) 361-6324 View (210) 361-6324
Photo of Dr. Claudia Ma - Modern Life Psychology, PhD, HSP, Psychologist
Modern Life Psychology
Psychologist, PhD, HSP
Verified Verified
Bee Cave, TX 78738  (Online Only)
I am one of the few psychologists in the country that holds a license in NY, TX, and PSYPACT that enables me to provide telehealth services across 40 states in the USA. Specializing in issues pertinent to adults and couples, I offer expertise in: Supporting high-achievers; Stress management; Relationship dynamics; Navigating life transitions; Parenting challenges; Addressing marital or family conflicts; Trauma resolution; Managing anxiety and depression. Witnessing my clients grow more self-regulated, fostering healthier relationships, and mastering coping mechanisms to tackle life's stressors is deeply gratifying.
I am one of the few psychologists in the country that holds a license in NY, TX, and PSYPACT that enables me to provide telehealth services across 40 states in the USA. Specializing in issues pertinent to adults and couples, I offer expertise in: Supporting high-achievers; Stress management; Relationship dynamics; Navigating life transitions; Parenting challenges; Addressing marital or family conflicts; Trauma resolution; Managing anxiety and depression. Witnessing my clients grow more self-regulated, fostering healthier relationships, and mastering coping mechanisms to tackle life's stressors is deeply gratifying.
(512) 843-7069 View (512) 843-7069
Photo of Clifton Fuller, LCSW-S, LPC-S, LMFT-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Clifton Fuller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, LPC-S, LMFT-S
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78230  (Online Only)
I provide counseling and coaching for those seeking personal growth, finding life direction, reaching goals, resolving issues, and moving forward in life. I work closely with those evaluating life, relationships, education, or career changes. I am a Certified Life Coach and hold multiple licenses: Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, Licensed Professional Counselor, Approved Supervisor for LPC, LMFT, & LCSW's. Authored: "Marriage Vampire-Living with a Narcissist" (on Amazon), "The Narcissist: When Dreams Become Nightmares" plus other Amazon publications at FullerLifePublishing.
I provide counseling and coaching for those seeking personal growth, finding life direction, reaching goals, resolving issues, and moving forward in life. I work closely with those evaluating life, relationships, education, or career changes. I am a Certified Life Coach and hold multiple licenses: Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, Licensed Professional Counselor, Approved Supervisor for LPC, LMFT, & LCSW's. Authored: "Marriage Vampire-Living with a Narcissist" (on Amazon), "The Narcissist: When Dreams Become Nightmares" plus other Amazon publications at FullerLifePublishing.
(210) 598-5053 View (210) 598-5053
Photo of Dr. Victor Rico - Insight Behavioral and Mental Health PLLC , PhD , Psychologist
Insight Behavioral and Mental Health PLLC
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78213  (Online Only)
I am a clinical psychologist who has a wide range of experience working in a variety of professional settings and with diverse populations. I particularly enjoy working with teens, young adults and adults who are facing challenges and setbacks that are impeding their functioning and preventing them from their full potential. I also work with a variety of couples who are considering the next step (i.e., moving in together, open relationship, marriage) or having issues in their relationship and want to improve their relationship or considering breaking up/separation/divorce.
I am a clinical psychologist who has a wide range of experience working in a variety of professional settings and with diverse populations. I particularly enjoy working with teens, young adults and adults who are facing challenges and setbacks that are impeding their functioning and preventing them from their full potential. I also work with a variety of couples who are considering the next step (i.e., moving in together, open relationship, marriage) or having issues in their relationship and want to improve their relationship or considering breaking up/separation/divorce.
(210) 796-8456 View (210) 796-8456
Photo of Mee-Gaik Lim Ph.d, PhD, LPC-S, LMFT-S, AAMFT-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mee-Gaik Lim Ph.d
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, LMFT-S, AAMFT-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
New Braunfels, TX 78132
The counseling relationship is based on creating an accepting, respectful, warm, collaborative working environment to guide you to create and re-write healthy scripts in your personal journey. The key is to construct opportunities for you to gain insights into personal patterns and simultaneously strengthen connections in relationships. Efforts will focus on helping you explore your strengths and successes and explore effective ways to enhance personal growth and relationship satisfaction.
The counseling relationship is based on creating an accepting, respectful, warm, collaborative working environment to guide you to create and re-write healthy scripts in your personal journey. The key is to construct opportunities for you to gain insights into personal patterns and simultaneously strengthen connections in relationships. Efforts will focus on helping you explore your strengths and successes and explore effective ways to enhance personal growth and relationship satisfaction.
(830) 708-6762 View (830) 708-6762
Photo of Jacqueline P Parsons, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jacqueline P Parsons
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78230
Dealing with life’s challenges? We all are, but not everyone needs a diagnosis when going through a solvable situation. You can beat the fear! Working with me, we can identify your strengths, what's frightening you and how to overcome it. Sometimes you just need to sit down with a counselor that respects and wants to work with you based on your strengths. I know how to work with people negotiating complicated times successfully,
Dealing with life’s challenges? We all are, but not everyone needs a diagnosis when going through a solvable situation. You can beat the fear! Working with me, we can identify your strengths, what's frightening you and how to overcome it. Sometimes you just need to sit down with a counselor that respects and wants to work with you based on your strengths. I know how to work with people negotiating complicated times successfully,
(210) 881-7907 View (210) 881-7907
Photo of Eric Dreyer Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor
Eric Dreyer Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78233
I enjoy helping sensitive people who are struggling with anxiety. If you need help with relationships, daily functioning, or stress I'd like to help.
I enjoy helping sensitive people who are struggling with anxiety. If you need help with relationships, daily functioning, or stress I'd like to help.
(210) 942-5248 View (210) 942-5248
Photo of Darla Dawn Absher, PsyD, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Darla Dawn Absher
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC-S
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78746
Dr. Darla Absher is a a Licensed Professional Counselor, Supervisor LPC-S #62089, located in Austin and Bastrop, Texas. Dr. Absher treats the full spectrum of disorders and life adjustments. I received my Master of Arts in Counseling from St. Edward's University, in Austin, Texas in August 2005. In 2003, I received my Master of Arts in Human Services from St. Edward's. In 2001 I graduated from St. Edward's University with a Bachelor of Arts with a concentration in Psychology. In December 2011, I graduated from Argosy University in Dallas, Texas with a Doctor of Clinical Psychology.
Dr. Darla Absher is a a Licensed Professional Counselor, Supervisor LPC-S #62089, located in Austin and Bastrop, Texas. Dr. Absher treats the full spectrum of disorders and life adjustments. I received my Master of Arts in Counseling from St. Edward's University, in Austin, Texas in August 2005. In 2003, I received my Master of Arts in Human Services from St. Edward's. In 2001 I graduated from St. Edward's University with a Bachelor of Arts with a concentration in Psychology. In December 2011, I graduated from Argosy University in Dallas, Texas with a Doctor of Clinical Psychology.
(512) 900-2584 View (512) 900-2584
Photo of Leo Royzman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leo Royzman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78230
Symptoms such as anxiety, anger, sadness, overthinking, self-criticism, despair, escapism, and self-injury freeze your ability to be fully you. They affect you at work or school, how you relate to others and how you view yourself. Psychotherapy with it's various modalities is the best approach to reduce symptoms, find better behaviors, and self-heal.
Symptoms such as anxiety, anger, sadness, overthinking, self-criticism, despair, escapism, and self-injury freeze your ability to be fully you. They affect you at work or school, how you relate to others and how you view yourself. Psychotherapy with it's various modalities is the best approach to reduce symptoms, find better behaviors, and self-heal.
(726) 600-8862 View (726) 600-8862
Photo of Erik Alejandro Halgunseth, MA, LPC, LCDC-I, Licensed Professional Counselor
Erik Alejandro Halgunseth
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCDC-I
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78258
Are you feeling that you are not living up to your true potential? Within you lies the substance to effectively deal with life's challenges, but you may need assistance in developing this power. Therapy can be that key that leads to a more fulfilled life. I believe that skilled treatment can assist individuals with a variety of challenges. In order to succeed the Counselor and the Client must work together, following a well organized plan to achieve the goals that the Client has chosen.
Are you feeling that you are not living up to your true potential? Within you lies the substance to effectively deal with life's challenges, but you may need assistance in developing this power. Therapy can be that key that leads to a more fulfilled life. I believe that skilled treatment can assist individuals with a variety of challenges. In order to succeed the Counselor and the Client must work together, following a well organized plan to achieve the goals that the Client has chosen.
(210) 934-0162 View (210) 934-0162
Photo of Felise De Novo, MA, LPC-S, PC, Counselor
Felise De Novo
Counselor, MA, LPC-S, PC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78212  (Online Only)
If you are committed to improving your situation, I will commit to working with you. I have been working with families and children with a variety of issues as a Licensed Professional Counselor since 2000. I offer professional therapeutic services to individuals, couples, families, adolescents, and children.
If you are committed to improving your situation, I will commit to working with you. I have been working with families and children with a variety of issues as a Licensed Professional Counselor since 2000. I offer professional therapeutic services to individuals, couples, families, adolescents, and children.
(210) 714-1442 View (210) 714-1442
Photo of Elise Keoghan, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Elise Keoghan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78705
Athletic culture often praises the ability to do it all, however, we all experience issues that cannot be masked or pushed aside. I provide athletes a place of understanding support to work through issues such as eating concerns, body image, anxiety, depression, injury, post-sports career, relationships, substance use, or traumatic events. Athletes devote tremendous time and energy to physical training, and I believe intentionality with mental health is just as important for improving quality of life, and for improved sports performance.
Athletic culture often praises the ability to do it all, however, we all experience issues that cannot be masked or pushed aside. I provide athletes a place of understanding support to work through issues such as eating concerns, body image, anxiety, depression, injury, post-sports career, relationships, substance use, or traumatic events. Athletes devote tremendous time and energy to physical training, and I believe intentionality with mental health is just as important for improving quality of life, and for improved sports performance.
(512) 337-1254 View (512) 337-1254

See more therapy options for Pleasanton

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.