Marriage Counseling Therapists in Virginia

Photo of Juan O. Turon - Healing Connections, LLC, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Healing Connections, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Our therapists are licensed through the state of Virginia and also provide supervision services to those seeking to become licensed marriage and family therapists and Licensed Professional Counselors.
Our clients are couples and individuals pursuing healing and understanding through their interactions with their significant others and with the world. For the most part, couples attend our center to understand themselves and their significant others and to creating meaningful changes, resulting in genuine connection with one another.
Our therapists are licensed through the state of Virginia and also provide supervision services to those seeking to become licensed marriage and family therapists and Licensed Professional Counselors.
Our clients are couples and individuals pursuing healing and understanding through their interactions with their significant others and with the world. For the most part, couples attend our center to understand themselves and their significant others and to creating meaningful changes, resulting in genuine connection with one another.
(757) 231-3169 View (757) 231-3169
Photo of Barbara Andrieu, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Barbara Andrieu
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23462  (Online Only)
I've helped people who are going through some of the biggest life challenges such as homelessness, financial hardships, marital problems, separation/divorce, grief/loss, domestic violence, and serious illness.
Hi, I'm Barbara! I'm a warm-hearted and compassionate therapist and been working in the mental health field for over 20 years. Helping you find real, solid, meaningful and/or tangible solutions to life's problems, as quickly as possible, is my commitment to you. It's the foundation upon which my practice rests. Through the process of change, growth and re-examination, you can begin a journey towards healing. Sometimes all it takes is changing your perspective, setting boundaries, letting go of old burdens, weeding out unhealthy behaviors, adopting a new credo, and re-inventing yourself that makes the difference.
I've helped people who are going through some of the biggest life challenges such as homelessness, financial hardships, marital problems, separation/divorce, grief/loss, domestic violence, and serious illness.
Hi, I'm Barbara! I'm a warm-hearted and compassionate therapist and been working in the mental health field for over 20 years. Helping you find real, solid, meaningful and/or tangible solutions to life's problems, as quickly as possible, is my commitment to you. It's the foundation upon which my practice rests. Through the process of change, growth and re-examination, you can begin a journey towards healing. Sometimes all it takes is changing your perspective, setting boundaries, letting go of old burdens, weeding out unhealthy behaviors, adopting a new credo, and re-inventing yourself that makes the difference.
(757) 540-1800 View (757) 540-1800
Photo of E. Tracci Parham - HLF Christian Counseling, MAPC, Pastoral Counselor
HLF Christian Counseling
Pastoral Counselor, MAPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Do you feel defeated, left behind, unable to trust, unlovable or unloved? Do you struggle with past experiences that haunt your present and future causing shame, grief or re experienced trauma in everyday living? If so, know that it is my honor to walk along side you as you journey toward healing. I enjoy assisting individuals, couples and families regain peace, balance and will power with strategies to move forward through crisis moments. My name is Tracci Parham and I am a Pastoral Counselor whos certified in pre- marital/ marriage counseling, and trained in crisis and trauma care, Transformational Prayer Ministry and EMDR.
Do you feel defeated, left behind, unable to trust, unlovable or unloved? Do you struggle with past experiences that haunt your present and future causing shame, grief or re experienced trauma in everyday living? If so, know that it is my honor to walk along side you as you journey toward healing. I enjoy assisting individuals, couples and families regain peace, balance and will power with strategies to move forward through crisis moments. My name is Tracci Parham and I am a Pastoral Counselor whos certified in pre- marital/ marriage counseling, and trained in crisis and trauma care, Transformational Prayer Ministry and EMDR.
(434) 595-3691 View (434) 595-3691
Photo of Sharon Jones, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sharon Jones
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22031
I have worked with issues such as attention deficit, depression, anxiety, abuse, relationships, parenting, grief, Christian counseling, obsessive compulsive behaviors, self-esteem, coping skills, suicidal ideation, personality disorders, pre- marital counseling, and traumatic events such as PTSD, abuse, domestic violence and sexual assault.
Living a life with more joy and fulfillment is truly possible for you. With a full heart, I will walk with you to develop a healthier sense of self, nurture positive behavioral and thought patterns that leads to personal growth and healing. My personal model of therapy integrates your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors while providing a way for you to drive your therapy sessions to a place where you feel acknowledged and empowered. As a licensed professional counselor (LPC-S) in Virginia, my core competencies center around my work with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families.
I have worked with issues such as attention deficit, depression, anxiety, abuse, relationships, parenting, grief, Christian counseling, obsessive compulsive behaviors, self-esteem, coping skills, suicidal ideation, personality disorders, pre- marital counseling, and traumatic events such as PTSD, abuse, domestic violence and sexual assault.
Living a life with more joy and fulfillment is truly possible for you. With a full heart, I will walk with you to develop a healthier sense of self, nurture positive behavioral and thought patterns that leads to personal growth and healing. My personal model of therapy integrates your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors while providing a way for you to drive your therapy sessions to a place where you feel acknowledged and empowered. As a licensed professional counselor (LPC-S) in Virginia, my core competencies center around my work with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families.
(571) 339-5661 View (571) 339-5661
Photo of Elizabeth Robins, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Elizabeth Robins
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Chesapeake, VA 23323
“There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you” Maya Angelou. I believe that each person I encounter has a story to tell and I would love to be that person to listen to yours. I am a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) , and I am also certified in trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy and Gottman level 1 couple's therapy. I have worked with young children, families, and adults for the past 12 years. I have a lot of experience specifically working with children ages birth to 5, parents, and couples.
“There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you” Maya Angelou. I believe that each person I encounter has a story to tell and I would love to be that person to listen to yours. I am a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) , and I am also certified in trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy and Gottman level 1 couple's therapy. I have worked with young children, families, and adults for the past 12 years. I have a lot of experience specifically working with children ages birth to 5, parents, and couples.
(757) 294-8710 View (757) 294-8710
Photo of Tamika Bennett-Walker - Tamika Bennett-Walker, LPC, LSATP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tamika Bennett-Walker
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LSATP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chesapeake, VA 23323
Tamika believes everyone has the ability to achieve their personal best. She believes her approach of being a good listener and motivator inspires others. She is currently accepting clients aged 5 and up with the following needs: ADHD, Relationship issues, Anger Management, Anxiety, Behavioral Issues, Career Counseling, Coping Skills, Dual Diagnosis, Depression, Family Conflict, ​ Marital Problems, Oppositional Defiance, Parenting, Peer Relationships, School Issues, Self Esteem, Trauma and PTSD.
Tamika believes everyone has the ability to achieve their personal best. She believes her approach of being a good listener and motivator inspires others. She is currently accepting clients aged 5 and up with the following needs: ADHD, Relationship issues, Anger Management, Anxiety, Behavioral Issues, Career Counseling, Coping Skills, Dual Diagnosis, Depression, Family Conflict, ​ Marital Problems, Oppositional Defiance, Parenting, Peer Relationships, School Issues, Self Esteem, Trauma and PTSD.
(757) 210-5811 View (757) 210-5811
Photo of James R. Jackson, PhD, MA, QMHP-A, QMHP-C, Pastoral Counselor
James R. Jackson
Pastoral Counselor, PhD, MA, QMHP-A, QMHP-C
Verified Verified
Yorktown, VA 23693
Clients come to me in trying times for help dealing with issues like depression, grief, anger and marriage issues. I don't see myself as the "expert" who is going to provide all the "answers" but I do promise to walk with my clients as they address the issues we identify together that they want to in therapy. I am comfortable working one on one, or with couples and families from age 6 to adults. I'm also a Pastor and a Chaplain so I have been theologically trained and can explore spiritual issues and crises as a pastoral counselor.
Clients come to me in trying times for help dealing with issues like depression, grief, anger and marriage issues. I don't see myself as the "expert" who is going to provide all the "answers" but I do promise to walk with my clients as they address the issues we identify together that they want to in therapy. I am comfortable working one on one, or with couples and families from age 6 to adults. I'm also a Pastor and a Chaplain so I have been theologically trained and can explore spiritual issues and crises as a pastoral counselor.
(757) 210-5952 View (757) 210-5952
Photo of Christina Puterbaugh, MS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Christina Puterbaugh
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS
Verified Verified
Reston, VA 20190
Christina Puterbaugh is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of Virginia who has 7 years of experience with pre-adolescents, adolescents, adults, families, and couples seeking help with depression, anxiety, life transitions, identity development, and relationship issues. Christina completed her Bachelors of Science in Psychology and Human Development and Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy from Virginia Tech.
Christina Puterbaugh is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of Virginia who has 7 years of experience with pre-adolescents, adolescents, adults, families, and couples seeking help with depression, anxiety, life transitions, identity development, and relationship issues. Christina completed her Bachelors of Science in Psychology and Human Development and Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy from Virginia Tech.
(571) 568-7986 View (571) 568-7986
Photo of D. Kristin Weyrick, MEd, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
D. Kristin Weyrick
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dumfries, VA 22025  (Online Only)
I have a degree in community agency counseling as well as marriage and family counseling and feel that I work well with diverse populations.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with almost 20 years of experience working in the helping field. I primarily work with Adults, with a focus on strength based, person centered techniques that emphasize self-esteem, positive thinking, and personal resilience. I enjoy utilizing mindfulness exercises in my counseling combined with CBT. Clients that respond well to an honest and straight-forward positive approach would find my services most helpful. I am currently licensed in the state of Massachusetts as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor as well. I offer virtual counseling at my self-pay rate to those clients.
I have a degree in community agency counseling as well as marriage and family counseling and feel that I work well with diverse populations.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with almost 20 years of experience working in the helping field. I primarily work with Adults, with a focus on strength based, person centered techniques that emphasize self-esteem, positive thinking, and personal resilience. I enjoy utilizing mindfulness exercises in my counseling combined with CBT. Clients that respond well to an honest and straight-forward positive approach would find my services most helpful. I am currently licensed in the state of Massachusetts as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor as well. I offer virtual counseling at my self-pay rate to those clients.
(703) 596-1341 View (703) 596-1341
Photo of Amy Dillingham, LMHP-R, Pre-Licensed Professional
Amy Dillingham
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMHP-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Midlothian, VA 23114
Amy Dillingham has experience working alongside people of all ages. Amy’s goal is to help every person she counsels reach their highest potential using a holistic wellness approach. Amy is passionate about integrating faith into her counseling, while utilizing different therapy techniques, such as play therapy, nutrition, and more. Amy works alongside clients who struggle with anxiety, grief, marriage issues, and more.
Amy Dillingham has experience working alongside people of all ages. Amy’s goal is to help every person she counsels reach their highest potential using a holistic wellness approach. Amy is passionate about integrating faith into her counseling, while utilizing different therapy techniques, such as play therapy, nutrition, and more. Amy works alongside clients who struggle with anxiety, grief, marriage issues, and more.
(804) 258-4320 View (804) 258-4320
Photo of Natashia Nicole Cowan, MA, LPC, LSATP, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Natashia Nicole Cowan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LSATP, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23464  (Online Only)
Natashia Cowan is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Licensed Substance Abuse Treatment Practitioner (LSATP), National Certified Counselor (NCC), and the owner of Essential Healing Services (EHS). EHS is an outpatient mental health practice that serves individuals, families, couples, and groups in coping with everyday stressors and unresolved issues. Other areas of focus include Grief and Loss, Marital Issues, Anger Management, Addiction, ADHD, Anxiety/Panic Disorders, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, and Mood Disorder.
Natashia Cowan is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Licensed Substance Abuse Treatment Practitioner (LSATP), National Certified Counselor (NCC), and the owner of Essential Healing Services (EHS). EHS is an outpatient mental health practice that serves individuals, families, couples, and groups in coping with everyday stressors and unresolved issues. Other areas of focus include Grief and Loss, Marital Issues, Anger Management, Addiction, ADHD, Anxiety/Panic Disorders, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, and Mood Disorder.
(757) 231-3391 View (757) 231-3391
Photo of Sara Groark, LPC, LMFT, CSAC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sara Groark
Marriage & Family Therapist, LPC, LMFT, CSAC
Verified Verified
McLean, VA 22101
As a therapist with over 30 years of clinical experience, I create a safe, empathic environment for you, helping you to weather difficult life circumstances and to understand and cope with overwhelming feelings. My specialities are marital and family therapy, play therapy, addiction and substance abuse assessment and treatment and Interventions. The greatest solace for interpersonal turmoil often lies in having someone to listen carefully, thoughtfully and empathically and to collaborate in working toward positive change. This is my goal with all clients.
As a therapist with over 30 years of clinical experience, I create a safe, empathic environment for you, helping you to weather difficult life circumstances and to understand and cope with overwhelming feelings. My specialities are marital and family therapy, play therapy, addiction and substance abuse assessment and treatment and Interventions. The greatest solace for interpersonal turmoil often lies in having someone to listen carefully, thoughtfully and empathically and to collaborate in working toward positive change. This is my goal with all clients.
(703) 596-3891 View (703) 596-3891
Photo of Lindsay Hill - Lindsay Hill-Woodbridge Therapy Group, Pre-Licensed Professional
Lindsay Hill-Woodbridge Therapy Group
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodbridge, VA 22192
I am a transitioning Clinical Mental Health program resident and a Marriage and Family Therapist. I am pursuing my licensure as a licensed mental health clinician. I am a military spouse who has traveled the world and seen many families and soldiers face the struggles and aftermath of combat and the aftereffects of families being separated. I am a mother of four who has coached my children on navigating through the challenges of life development. I am a cancer survivor. I am relatable. I am dedicated to serving this community for those who are battling mental health concerns.
I am a transitioning Clinical Mental Health program resident and a Marriage and Family Therapist. I am pursuing my licensure as a licensed mental health clinician. I am a military spouse who has traveled the world and seen many families and soldiers face the struggles and aftermath of combat and the aftereffects of families being separated. I am a mother of four who has coached my children on navigating through the challenges of life development. I am a cancer survivor. I am relatable. I am dedicated to serving this community for those who are battling mental health concerns.
(571) 556-3799 View (571) 556-3799
Photo of Virginia Cox Evans, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Virginia Cox Evans
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
For over 30 years I have been treating depression, anxiety & addictions with a specialty in eating disorders. I'm a founding fellow for The Academy of Cognitive Therapy and also integrate other strategies in helping my patients actualize their full potential. I provide individual, marital, family, and group therapy. From adolescence to later life years, I help clients improve their physical, emotional & spiritual well-being. As a seasoned clinician, I've worked inpatient, in community mental health agencies & in private practice for over 30 years. I collaborate with physicians, dietitians & other mental health professionals.
For over 30 years I have been treating depression, anxiety & addictions with a specialty in eating disorders. I'm a founding fellow for The Academy of Cognitive Therapy and also integrate other strategies in helping my patients actualize their full potential. I provide individual, marital, family, and group therapy. From adolescence to later life years, I help clients improve their physical, emotional & spiritual well-being. As a seasoned clinician, I've worked inpatient, in community mental health agencies & in private practice for over 30 years. I collaborate with physicians, dietitians & other mental health professionals.
(502) 237-6957 x103 View (502) 237-6957 x103
Photo of Kathleen Van Allen, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kathleen Van Allen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Forest, VA 24551
I specialize in therapy for college students, young adults and women struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, stress management, motherhood/parenting, relationship issues, and interpersonal life skills. I also specialize in couples/ marital counseling, Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders, and trauma training with Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR). I develop strong relationships with my clients and, together, we work towards finding their roadmaps in life, improving self-worth, identifying goals/objectives, reducing hard feelings and behaviors, and overall feeling better at managing daily life
I specialize in therapy for college students, young adults and women struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, stress management, motherhood/parenting, relationship issues, and interpersonal life skills. I also specialize in couples/ marital counseling, Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders, and trauma training with Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR). I develop strong relationships with my clients and, together, we work towards finding their roadmaps in life, improving self-worth, identifying goals/objectives, reducing hard feelings and behaviors, and overall feeling better at managing daily life
(434) 299-2809 View (434) 299-2809
Photo of Lisa Glantz Prickett, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa Glantz Prickett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Falls Church, VA 22046  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with transitions in your life? Do you have difficulties in your personal and professional relationships? Feeling unheard or under-appreciated? Are your roles in your marriage and family overwhelming you and draining your energy? Healthy communication skills can protect a marriage. Seeking help can be difficult but we all benefit from non-judgmental and safe spaces to explore our thoughts and feelings. Whether you're looking for individual therapy, more effective parenting skills, or help managing a separation and divorce, having a wise & objective therapist can ease the process.
Are you struggling with transitions in your life? Do you have difficulties in your personal and professional relationships? Feeling unheard or under-appreciated? Are your roles in your marriage and family overwhelming you and draining your energy? Healthy communication skills can protect a marriage. Seeking help can be difficult but we all benefit from non-judgmental and safe spaces to explore our thoughts and feelings. Whether you're looking for individual therapy, more effective parenting skills, or help managing a separation and divorce, having a wise & objective therapist can ease the process.
(571) 474-1020 View (571) 474-1020
Photo of Georgia Phillips, ACSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Georgia Phillips
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, ACSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Every human being at times experiences sadness, anxiety, anger, shame, fear, hopelessness, guilt, uncertainty. But for some, their daily lives are significantly impacted. You may be struggling with your marriage, partnership, children, family, friends, employer, co-workers. Depression and anxiety may cause you to avoid doing the things that matter and/or to choose unhealthy ways of coping. Some struggle with anger issues that result in legal, relationship and/or employment problems. Others have experienced traumatic events as children and/or adults. While pain in life is inevitable, it does not have to take over our lives.
Every human being at times experiences sadness, anxiety, anger, shame, fear, hopelessness, guilt, uncertainty. But for some, their daily lives are significantly impacted. You may be struggling with your marriage, partnership, children, family, friends, employer, co-workers. Depression and anxiety may cause you to avoid doing the things that matter and/or to choose unhealthy ways of coping. Some struggle with anger issues that result in legal, relationship and/or employment problems. Others have experienced traumatic events as children and/or adults. While pain in life is inevitable, it does not have to take over our lives.
(757) 210-7458 View (757) 210-7458
Photo of Donna L Hurst, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Donna L Hurst
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Norfolk, VA 23502
Waitlist for new clients
Hurst earned her Master’s in Marriage, Couples, and Family Counseling; and Ph.
Dr. Donna Hurst is a licensed professional counselor and adjunct professor at Regent University in Virginia Beach, Virginia. Dr. Hurst began working with those in crisis in the 1990’s when she co-founded a non-profit for intimate-partner violence and stalking survivors in California. Dr. Hurst provided training, education, and assistance to crime victims, criminal offenders, and justice system professionals. Dr. Hurst found she had a heart for those hurting and left a corporate job to become a licensed professional counselor.
Hurst earned her Master’s in Marriage, Couples, and Family Counseling; and Ph.
Dr. Donna Hurst is a licensed professional counselor and adjunct professor at Regent University in Virginia Beach, Virginia. Dr. Hurst began working with those in crisis in the 1990’s when she co-founded a non-profit for intimate-partner violence and stalking survivors in California. Dr. Hurst provided training, education, and assistance to crime victims, criminal offenders, and justice system professionals. Dr. Hurst found she had a heart for those hurting and left a corporate job to become a licensed professional counselor.
(757) 703-7808 View (757) 703-7808
Photo of Brehonda Lewis-Cuff - First Choice Counseling, LLC, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
First Choice Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
primarily for those seeking marital therapy.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, in private practice, working with clients who have suffered loss, anxiety, depression and trauma. I provide individual therapy to adults ages 18+. My goal is to partner with you while disbanding the stigmas of mental health and normalizing that it’s “OK, to not be OK”. I feel that It is paramount to provide a safe space to be your authentic self while you walk on your journey to transformation and healing. I believe in meeting you where you are, because it is your life, and your story. I am only here to help you make it to your next chapters.
primarily for those seeking marital therapy.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, in private practice, working with clients who have suffered loss, anxiety, depression and trauma. I provide individual therapy to adults ages 18+. My goal is to partner with you while disbanding the stigmas of mental health and normalizing that it’s “OK, to not be OK”. I feel that It is paramount to provide a safe space to be your authentic self while you walk on your journey to transformation and healing. I believe in meeting you where you are, because it is your life, and your story. I am only here to help you make it to your next chapters.
(804) 476-8091 View (804) 476-8091
Photo of Kellie McCall, MA
Kellie McCall
Resident in Counseling, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23236  (Online Only)
Life is an ever-evolving cycle; the difficulties encountered can seem overwhelming. Whether you are facing marital challenges, infidelity, or personal emotional struggles, it’s okay to seek support. Therapy is not just a remedy but a pathway to greater peace, stability, and understanding in life. Emotions like anxiety, frustration, anger, and sadness are natural; I offer a nurturing approach to help you navigate these and strengthen your relationships. I tailor my therapeutic methods to align with your unique needs with a comprehensive, holistic strategy that considers every facet of your life, ensuring the most beneficial support.
Life is an ever-evolving cycle; the difficulties encountered can seem overwhelming. Whether you are facing marital challenges, infidelity, or personal emotional struggles, it’s okay to seek support. Therapy is not just a remedy but a pathway to greater peace, stability, and understanding in life. Emotions like anxiety, frustration, anger, and sadness are natural; I offer a nurturing approach to help you navigate these and strengthen your relationships. I tailor my therapeutic methods to align with your unique needs with a comprehensive, holistic strategy that considers every facet of your life, ensuring the most beneficial support.
(540) 253-1038 View (540) 253-1038
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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.