Marriage Counseling Therapists in Waco, TX
![Photo of Jacqueline Orler - Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Waco, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c5147f97-538b-4d60-bdcd-58d2152a835a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Waco
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Waco, TX 76712
We offer individual counseling, psychiatry/medication management (virtual only), family counseling, couples therapy/marriage counseling, and child & teen therapy.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
We offer individual counseling, psychiatry/medication management (virtual only), family counseling, couples therapy/marriage counseling, and child & teen therapy.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
![Photo of Tabitha Jones - Get Out Of Your Head Therapy Texas, MSW, LCSW, LCDC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dafe3def-9796-44d1-a1e7-bd3318c10ff3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Get Out Of Your Head Therapy Texas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCDC
Verified Verified
Waco, TX 76712 (Online Only)
Tabitha decided to go into social work and counseling because she wanted to help people learn how to become the best versions of themselves. Tabitha has experience and passion working with individuals who are adjusting to major life changes such as birth of a child, becoming an empty nester, job changes, changes in marital status, etc. She has experience with helping clients learn to cope and thrive with mood disorders including anxiety, depression, and bi-polar diagnoses. Tabitha also works with patients experiencing disordered eating as well as adults and teens with ADHD and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Tabitha decided to go into social work and counseling because she wanted to help people learn how to become the best versions of themselves. Tabitha has experience and passion working with individuals who are adjusting to major life changes such as birth of a child, becoming an empty nester, job changes, changes in marital status, etc. She has experience with helping clients learn to cope and thrive with mood disorders including anxiety, depression, and bi-polar diagnoses. Tabitha also works with patients experiencing disordered eating as well as adults and teens with ADHD and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
![Photo of Elizabeth A Crowder, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/146c35b7-1c57-4f33-a0ec-130a59aee08e/1/320x400.png)
In addition to a MA in Marriage, Family and Child Counseling, I have training in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Sexual Assault Advocacy, Trust Based Relational Intervention, Telehealth, Prepare Enrich and a Microcertification in Applied Positive Psychology.
I view therapy as a collaborative and holistic approach to the navigation of the human condition and as a safe space to explore everything life throws our way. As an existentialist and a relational therapist, my goal is to emphasize identity development, emotional insight and regulation, freedom and responsibility, effective communication, relational interdependence, and the creation of meaning. We are all walking through this world together and experiencing growth, hardship, change, love, and loss. Because we are human, I believe that every person can benefit from having a place to process emotions and an ear to listen with empathy
In addition to a MA in Marriage, Family and Child Counseling, I have training in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Sexual Assault Advocacy, Trust Based Relational Intervention, Telehealth, Prepare Enrich and a Microcertification in Applied Positive Psychology.
I view therapy as a collaborative and holistic approach to the navigation of the human condition and as a safe space to explore everything life throws our way. As an existentialist and a relational therapist, my goal is to emphasize identity development, emotional insight and regulation, freedom and responsibility, effective communication, relational interdependence, and the creation of meaning. We are all walking through this world together and experiencing growth, hardship, change, love, and loss. Because we are human, I believe that every person can benefit from having a place to process emotions and an ear to listen with empathy
![Photo of Melissa L Schniers - Unique Butterfly Counseling, LLC, PhD, LPC-S, NCC, BC-TMH, CCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9ef13aed-fda4-41ef-acf3-13347ca8a0ed/1/320x400.jpeg)
Unique Butterfly Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, NCC, BC-TMH, CCMHC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Waco, TX 76710
My goal is to help you "get your life back" from mental illness, depression, anxiety, self-improvement, marriage conflict, PTSD, or difficult children. While I can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life.
My goal is to help you "get your life back" from mental illness, depression, anxiety, self-improvement, marriage conflict, PTSD, or difficult children. While I can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life.
![Photo of Margaret Baier, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f002597-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
My journey into professional life as a marriage and family therapist began after my divorce in 1991 because I wanted to help others who experienced loss and were looking for a path to happiness.
I am skilled in working with individuals, couples and families who are facing changes in their lives. My job is to help them through life transitions that may cause difficulty. Some of those transitions are happy ones such as premarital counseling or preparation for parenthood. Some of those transitions are not so happy, such as readjustment following an affair or divorce or the death of a loved one.
My journey into professional life as a marriage and family therapist began after my divorce in 1991 because I wanted to help others who experienced loss and were looking for a path to happiness.
I am skilled in working with individuals, couples and families who are facing changes in their lives. My job is to help them through life transitions that may cause difficulty. Some of those transitions are happy ones such as premarital counseling or preparation for parenthood. Some of those transitions are not so happy, such as readjustment following an affair or divorce or the death of a loved one.
![Photo of Dr. Brooke Hill-Allen, PhD, LMFT, LPC-S, NCC, BC-TMH, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f928794-e6c1-4411-93e3-5c1d3d9504d7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Brooke Hill-Allen
Counselor, PhD, LMFT, LPC-S, NCC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Waco, TX 76710
I specialize in working with individuals, couples, & families with a variety of presenting concerns including (but not limited to): marital/relationship counseling, eating disorders, depression, & anxiety.
The most important aspect of therapy is that you, the client, feel both comfortable & safe. I pride myself on providing an environment that fosters both safety & growth. I believe that the therapeutic process is a journey & it is one that I will willingly take with you. I believe that this process should be a collaborative effort between you & me. My therapeutic style is uniquely tailored to the needs of each client to help them achieve their goals. Although the therapeutic process varies for each client, my role remains the same and that is to guide, encourage, & support you while you are on your journey.
I specialize in working with individuals, couples, & families with a variety of presenting concerns including (but not limited to): marital/relationship counseling, eating disorders, depression, & anxiety.
The most important aspect of therapy is that you, the client, feel both comfortable & safe. I pride myself on providing an environment that fosters both safety & growth. I believe that the therapeutic process is a journey & it is one that I will willingly take with you. I believe that this process should be a collaborative effort between you & me. My therapeutic style is uniquely tailored to the needs of each client to help them achieve their goals. Although the therapeutic process varies for each client, my role remains the same and that is to guide, encourage, & support you while you are on your journey.
![Photo of Susan C Mathis, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1b9b5b9f-b8ef-4e8a-a3b4-9af9bcb17aad/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ideal client would be looking for ways to improve communication and conflict resolution within their marriage. 35+ years experience with marriage and individuals. Christian foundation. Clients are ready to learn new ways of coping with the Stress in their life or challenges they are facing. Individuals may have experienced loss or have anxiety or OCD, Depression, Grief, or mood disorders that they need help managing. They may have need of spiritual counsel, and moral decision making. My degree is from seminary, I know the important role your spiritual beliefs can have on healing.
Ideal client would be looking for ways to improve communication and conflict resolution within their marriage. 35+ years experience with marriage and individuals. Christian foundation. Clients are ready to learn new ways of coping with the Stress in their life or challenges they are facing. Individuals may have experienced loss or have anxiety or OCD, Depression, Grief, or mood disorders that they need help managing. They may have need of spiritual counsel, and moral decision making. My degree is from seminary, I know the important role your spiritual beliefs can have on healing.
![Photo of Marlissa Morrow - Marlissa Morrow - The Relationship Clinic, MFT, Intern, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2f7c1ca8-5283-4d27-9537-1e7d9e4559c4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Marlissa Morrow - The Relationship Clinic
Pre-Licensed Professional, MFT, Intern
Verified Verified
Waco, TX 76701
I am pursuing my master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy.
I like to think of myself as a very empathetic, reasonable and humanistic person. My goals are to help people become more aware of their flaws and see them as building blocks of character that help us accept who we are. No one is perfect and we are all humans. God made us all different and unique. Everyone needs compassion and understanding; without them, many unhealthy relationships emerge in our society today. I process events in life very systemically and believe that a lot of aspects of our unhealthy relationships are generational and systemically thrived.
I am pursuing my master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy.
I like to think of myself as a very empathetic, reasonable and humanistic person. My goals are to help people become more aware of their flaws and see them as building blocks of character that help us accept who we are. No one is perfect and we are all humans. God made us all different and unique. Everyone needs compassion and understanding; without them, many unhealthy relationships emerge in our society today. I process events in life very systemically and believe that a lot of aspects of our unhealthy relationships are generational and systemically thrived.
![Photo of Robyn Hicks, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/408bdd9a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Services available include individual, family, and marriage counseling.
Let me help you find your way through life's problems. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 20 years of counseling experience, I provide comprehensive assessments and counseling services for older youth and adults facing problems at school, at work, or in their personal lives. I have extensive experience treating a broad array of wellness issues, with particular specialties in the areas of Anxiety, Relationship Issues, Self-Esteem, Marital Conflict, Sexuality, Depression, and Anxiety. Visit my website to submit a new client request form.
Services available include individual, family, and marriage counseling.
Let me help you find your way through life's problems. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 20 years of counseling experience, I provide comprehensive assessments and counseling services for older youth and adults facing problems at school, at work, or in their personal lives. I have extensive experience treating a broad array of wellness issues, with particular specialties in the areas of Anxiety, Relationship Issues, Self-Esteem, Marital Conflict, Sexuality, Depression, and Anxiety. Visit my website to submit a new client request form.
![Photo of Ana Maria Matei - Matei Counseling, MA, LPC, LSOTP, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ffe92eec-d5a9-4bd9-9103-332edae8c651/2/320x400.jpeg)
As Soren Kierkegaard says, “Life is not a problem to be solved but a reality to be experienced.” I have years of training in forensic psychology and counseling techniques dealing with adolescents, adults, individuals, couples, and marriage and family counseling. My specialization includes group therapy in areas of intimacy and addiction. I am specialized in dealing with moderate and more serious mental health issues especially anxiety, impulsivity, and depression.
As Soren Kierkegaard says, “Life is not a problem to be solved but a reality to be experienced.” I have years of training in forensic psychology and counseling techniques dealing with adolescents, adults, individuals, couples, and marriage and family counseling. My specialization includes group therapy in areas of intimacy and addiction. I am specialized in dealing with moderate and more serious mental health issues especially anxiety, impulsivity, and depression.
![Photo of Gary P Wardlaw - The Relationship Clinic - Gary Wardlaw, LMFT, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f5b6e1a2-73ef-44a6-98ce-a8a211fd8a93/2/320x400.jpeg)
The Relationship Clinic - Gary Wardlaw
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMFT, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Waco, TX 76708
Marriage is on the rocks? Single and wanting to explore dating? It is never too late to learn about attachment styles – both yours and your partners! And though my love for couples runs deep, I'm equally as passionate to work with individuals who want to explore and strengthen important relationships – whether it be with a parent, boss, friend or God.
Have you ever thought – what distinguishes healthy relationships that are able to thrive from unhealthy ones that tend to be full of stress? Is it self-will? Determination? As a couples and family therapist, I believe the one distinguishing factor is "attachment". Attachment is the ability to connect with others. Depending on our ability (or inability) to attach interpersonally, determines the overall satisfaction we experience within our intimate relationships. Also, having been a victim of racism, I opened this practice as a place that people of color can heal from the impact of both blatant and systemic oppression.
Marriage is on the rocks? Single and wanting to explore dating? It is never too late to learn about attachment styles – both yours and your partners! And though my love for couples runs deep, I'm equally as passionate to work with individuals who want to explore and strengthen important relationships – whether it be with a parent, boss, friend or God.
Have you ever thought – what distinguishes healthy relationships that are able to thrive from unhealthy ones that tend to be full of stress? Is it self-will? Determination? As a couples and family therapist, I believe the one distinguishing factor is "attachment". Attachment is the ability to connect with others. Depending on our ability (or inability) to attach interpersonally, determines the overall satisfaction we experience within our intimate relationships. Also, having been a victim of racism, I opened this practice as a place that people of color can heal from the impact of both blatant and systemic oppression.
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![Photo of Tammy J Holland, MS, LPC, NCC, CTHP, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42b90685-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Tammy J Holland
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, CTHP
Verified Verified
Waco, TX 76702 (Online Only)
My education specialized in marriage and family and the majority of my training was working with abusive situations.
Hello and Welcome. The first step to healing is looking for a therapist and making an appointment for help. Are you in the middle of a transition? Transitions can be changing jobs, dissolving a relationship, entering into a new relationship or just accepting change in yourself. These changes can be challenging, exhilarating and frightening all at the same time. It is difficult to remain healthy mentally and physically at these times without some help from professionals.
My education specialized in marriage and family and the majority of my training was working with abusive situations.
Hello and Welcome. The first step to healing is looking for a therapist and making an appointment for help. Are you in the middle of a transition? Transitions can be changing jobs, dissolving a relationship, entering into a new relationship or just accepting change in yourself. These changes can be challenging, exhilarating and frightening all at the same time. It is difficult to remain healthy mentally and physically at these times without some help from professionals.
![Photo of Colby Walters, PhD, LPC, EMDRIA, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/92e4a750-296f-48d1-bfb9-c0914c8165a0/3/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Dr. Colby Walters. I received a BA from Baylor University in psychology, with a minor in sociology, and a MS with a specialization in Marital, Couple, and Family Therapy. Along with this degree, I also obtained post-baccalaureate certificates in Contemporary Theory in Mental Health Service and Contemporary Theory in Couple and Family Systems. In 2017, I completed my PhD in Advanced Studies of Human Behavior. I am an active member of the counseling honor society, Chi Sigma Iota, Chi Upsilon Chapter as well as a member of the Capella University Marriage and Family Therapy Advisory Board.
My name is Dr. Colby Walters. I received a BA from Baylor University in psychology, with a minor in sociology, and a MS with a specialization in Marital, Couple, and Family Therapy. Along with this degree, I also obtained post-baccalaureate certificates in Contemporary Theory in Mental Health Service and Contemporary Theory in Couple and Family Systems. In 2017, I completed my PhD in Advanced Studies of Human Behavior. I am an active member of the counseling honor society, Chi Sigma Iota, Chi Upsilon Chapter as well as a member of the Capella University Marriage and Family Therapy Advisory Board.
![Photo of Victor Brown, MS, LPC-, Assoc](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d91bb2f5-b82e-4f8e-80b2-59d7628f6694/1/320x400.jpeg)
Victor Brown
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MS, LPC-, Assoc
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Waco, TX 76708
Clinical Focus: All ages who are experiencing post traumatic stress symptoms, anxiety, depression, life transitions, identity, parenting, marital/couples/family counseling, stress, and mood and personality disorders.
Clinical Focus: All ages who are experiencing post traumatic stress symptoms, anxiety, depression, life transitions, identity, parenting, marital/couples/family counseling, stress, and mood and personality disorders.
![Photo of Tamra White Truman, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/699b7484-687a-44ee-83c0-491b2ea94b7c/1/320x400.png)
Tamra White Truman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Waco, TX 76707 (Online Only)
Tamra White, Licensed Professional Counselor and Supervisor. I have been in individual practice for 18 years. I specialize in several areas of human behavior, including depression, anxiety, marriage/family, as well as LGBTQ + issues. My client focus encompasses family issues, anxiety, depression, adolescent concerns, as well as the LGBTQ + community.
Tamra White, Licensed Professional Counselor and Supervisor. I have been in individual practice for 18 years. I specialize in several areas of human behavior, including depression, anxiety, marriage/family, as well as LGBTQ + issues. My client focus encompasses family issues, anxiety, depression, adolescent concerns, as well as the LGBTQ + community.
![Photo of Stephanie Renae Classen, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a0f2eb15-0711-485b-a9f7-1c38d27f5b47/2/320x400.jpeg)
Marriage and family therapy has been the focus of my training in my schooling and professional career. I use this approach (systems approach) to assist my individual, couple, and family clients. During my career I have had the opportunity to work at a hospital, school, and the court system, which all helped prepare me for private practice. I look forward to helping your family reach their goals in a holistic way.
Marriage and family therapy has been the focus of my training in my schooling and professional career. I use this approach (systems approach) to assist my individual, couple, and family clients. During my career I have had the opportunity to work at a hospital, school, and the court system, which all helped prepare me for private practice. I look forward to helping your family reach their goals in a holistic way.
![Photo of Christina Watts-Figueroa - Yellow Ribbon Counseling PLLC, MA, LMFTS, LPCS, RPTS, EMDR AC, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c1898e0d-dca1-4619-aaad-3cfa3229c55f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Yellow Ribbon Counseling PLLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFTS, LPCS, RPTS, EMDR AC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waco, TX 76712
Yellow Ribbon Counseling specializes in play therapy, family therapy, and trauma informed therapies (EMDR, TF-CBT and CPT). Our clinical team is made up of Registered Play Therapist, EMDR Certified/trained and Gottman trained clinicians. We provide treatment in a variety of areas to include: attachment ruptures, grief & loss issues, parent-child relationships, child and sexual abuse, blended family issues, domestic violence, military related transitional stress, reintegration, ADHD, PTSD, couples/marital issues, perinatal issues and inter-generational family trauma.
Yellow Ribbon Counseling specializes in play therapy, family therapy, and trauma informed therapies (EMDR, TF-CBT and CPT). Our clinical team is made up of Registered Play Therapist, EMDR Certified/trained and Gottman trained clinicians. We provide treatment in a variety of areas to include: attachment ruptures, grief & loss issues, parent-child relationships, child and sexual abuse, blended family issues, domestic violence, military related transitional stress, reintegration, ADHD, PTSD, couples/marital issues, perinatal issues and inter-generational family trauma.
![Photo of Steven Richardson, LCSW, LCDC, CCTSI, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/98eff3e4-4ed7-4e7b-9d72-79adbd72cff1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Steven Richardson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCDC, CCTSI
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Waco, TX 76701 (Online Only)
I'm a licensed clinical social worker specializing in addiction, trauma (PTSD), depression, anxiety, LBGTQIA+ issues, and marriage and relationship challenges. I have advanced training, clinical expertise, and 50+ years of life experience, I have an "organic" approach to therapy which means I use more than what I learned in any classroom or textbook.
I'm a licensed clinical social worker specializing in addiction, trauma (PTSD), depression, anxiety, LBGTQIA+ issues, and marriage and relationship challenges. I have advanced training, clinical expertise, and 50+ years of life experience, I have an "organic" approach to therapy which means I use more than what I learned in any classroom or textbook.
![Photo of Cynthia B Eddings Supervised By Misti Sparks Phd Lmft-S Lpc, MS, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/80c7756f-a8fc-411f-8add-9a62db03cf55/2/320x400.jpeg)
Cynthia B Eddings Supervised By Misti Sparks Phd Lmft-S Lpc
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, LMFTA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Waco, TX 76704
In life we have some setbacks that seem to stagnate our growth and we need a little extra assistance to get through. Maybe it is premarital counseling, marital dissatisfaction, infidelity, grief, loss, life transitions, etc. You may desire to connect to set and achieve specific goals, get assistance setting and imposing boundaries, or even check in to sustain your mental, physical, social, and spiritual stability. Remember, your life does not have to be falling apart to seek therapy. Come and experience your safe place to learn and grow.
In life we have some setbacks that seem to stagnate our growth and we need a little extra assistance to get through. Maybe it is premarital counseling, marital dissatisfaction, infidelity, grief, loss, life transitions, etc. You may desire to connect to set and achieve specific goals, get assistance setting and imposing boundaries, or even check in to sustain your mental, physical, social, and spiritual stability. Remember, your life does not have to be falling apart to seek therapy. Come and experience your safe place to learn and grow.
![Photo of Melody LeVane, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d3623d51-b41e-4fd4-b4c8-1b41c2c8f5f0/2/320x400.jpeg)
I’m an experienced Licensed Professional Counselor dedicated to helping adults learn how to work through trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, and ADHD. My work focuses on emotions, values, and meaning to target unhelpful behaviors, habits, and beliefs. I believe humor and self-compassion are key to creating a supportive environment for clients, and I use a collaborative approach to help clients reach their goals. Open and affirming to all gender identities, sexual orientations, religious affiliations, and those with no faith path.
I’m an experienced Licensed Professional Counselor dedicated to helping adults learn how to work through trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, and ADHD. My work focuses on emotions, values, and meaning to target unhelpful behaviors, habits, and beliefs. I believe humor and self-compassion are key to creating a supportive environment for clients, and I use a collaborative approach to help clients reach their goals. Open and affirming to all gender identities, sexual orientations, religious affiliations, and those with no faith path.
See more therapy options for Waco
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.