Photo of Caroline Gearing, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Caroline Gearing
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98660
As a licensed marriage and family therapist I specialize in sexual addiction work for men and women transitioning from sexual addiction to healthy sexuality, and partners and couples dealing with sexual addiction. Groups provided: sex addiction, partner of sexual addict, couples dealing with sexual addiction, and love addiction. Strong focus on couples counseling, pre marital counseling using Prepare/Enrich assessment tools. Expertise with sexual therapy for couples and individuals. Specialty dealing with narcissistic people and assisting clients with great transitional challenges. I am a highly dedicated counselor and therapist partnering with my clients to successfully move forward in their lives.
As a licensed marriage and family therapist I specialize in sexual addiction work for men and women transitioning from sexual addiction to healthy sexuality, and partners and couples dealing with sexual addiction. Groups provided: sex addiction, partner of sexual addict, couples dealing with sexual addiction, and love addiction. Strong focus on couples counseling, pre marital counseling using Prepare/Enrich assessment tools. Expertise with sexual therapy for couples and individuals. Specialty dealing with narcissistic people and assisting clients with great transitional challenges. I am a highly dedicated counselor and therapist partnering with my clients to successfully move forward in their lives.
(360) 450-4373 View (360) 450-4373
Photo of Margaret Browning - Healthy Thoughts Counseling & Consultation, LLC, MSP, LMHC, MHP, Counselor
Healthy Thoughts Counseling & Consultation, LLC
Counselor, MSP, LMHC, MHP
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98663
Are you LIVING or just EXISTING? Depression, anxiety, fatigue, a sudden inability to manage stress, can erode your quality of life. At Healthy Thoughts Counseling we help guide you toward engaging in LIFE again. In some cases a brain injury can be a precipitating factor to the feelings of emotional disconnection. Brain injuries occur from a blunt trauma to the brain or stroke,residual damage can also occur with the occurrence of frequent severe migraines. Our services are not limited to Brain Injury, we provide marital/relationship counseling. We help you rebuild communication skills necessary to keep the relationship alive.
Are you LIVING or just EXISTING? Depression, anxiety, fatigue, a sudden inability to manage stress, can erode your quality of life. At Healthy Thoughts Counseling we help guide you toward engaging in LIFE again. In some cases a brain injury can be a precipitating factor to the feelings of emotional disconnection. Brain injuries occur from a blunt trauma to the brain or stroke,residual damage can also occur with the occurrence of frequent severe migraines. Our services are not limited to Brain Injury, we provide marital/relationship counseling. We help you rebuild communication skills necessary to keep the relationship alive.
(360) 339-8830 View (360) 339-8830
Photo of Jaye Bahre, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jaye Bahre
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98665  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Oregon residents ONLY at this time! Beginning in February 2025 I will be taking clients interested in psilocybin therapy! Get on the wait list now! Underneath whatever label is put on the "disorder de jour", my clients have one thing in common: they are all in pain & living with uncomfortable emotions. Depression taking their joy, anxiety keeping them up at night... sometimes its marital issues, struggling with the loneliness or recovering from major life transitions. I can help guide you through your pain by helping you learn ways to manage emotions while growing toward YOUR idea of your "best" self.
Oregon residents ONLY at this time! Beginning in February 2025 I will be taking clients interested in psilocybin therapy! Get on the wait list now! Underneath whatever label is put on the "disorder de jour", my clients have one thing in common: they are all in pain & living with uncomfortable emotions. Depression taking their joy, anxiety keeping them up at night... sometimes its marital issues, struggling with the loneliness or recovering from major life transitions. I can help guide you through your pain by helping you learn ways to manage emotions while growing toward YOUR idea of your "best" self.
(503) 400-3968 View (503) 400-3968
Photo of Joey Schweinfurth, MA, Counselor
Joey Schweinfurth
Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98686
My areas of focus includes: anxiety, depression, relationship issues, marriage/couples counseling, divorce/separation support, self-esteem/confidence issues.
I firmly believe that there is power in lending an ear and meeting someone where they are at through providing empathy and support. With that support change is possible, and clients can work towards seeing the growth an healing they desire. I would be honored to provide that ear to listen and support you as we work together to reach your goals and achieve the change you wish to see in your life. I primarily work with individuals 13+ who are dealing with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, divorce/separation support, communication & self-esteem issues and men's issues. Se habla espanol, por favor contactarme para mas detalles.
My areas of focus includes: anxiety, depression, relationship issues, marriage/couples counseling, divorce/separation support, self-esteem/confidence issues.
I firmly believe that there is power in lending an ear and meeting someone where they are at through providing empathy and support. With that support change is possible, and clients can work towards seeing the growth an healing they desire. I would be honored to provide that ear to listen and support you as we work together to reach your goals and achieve the change you wish to see in your life. I primarily work with individuals 13+ who are dealing with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, divorce/separation support, communication & self-esteem issues and men's issues. Se habla espanol, por favor contactarme para mas detalles.
(360) 531-7451 View (360) 531-7451
Photo of Melissa Hyland Wilson, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Melissa Hyland Wilson
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98683  (Online Only)
My passion is helping people achieve personal growth. Life throws at us a series of curveballs. At times we feel stuck and unsure how to make it to the other side of these challenges whether they are due to a life change such as marriage, divorce, new career, trauma, grief and loss or a host of other difficulties. With over 25 years in the counseling field, I have learned that people are individuals who do not fit into one mold. I employee a variety of techniques and approaches to fit your individual needs. Change starts within the therapeutic relationship. Compassion, humor and warmth assist in creating this relationship.
My passion is helping people achieve personal growth. Life throws at us a series of curveballs. At times we feel stuck and unsure how to make it to the other side of these challenges whether they are due to a life change such as marriage, divorce, new career, trauma, grief and loss or a host of other difficulties. With over 25 years in the counseling field, I have learned that people are individuals who do not fit into one mold. I employee a variety of techniques and approaches to fit your individual needs. Change starts within the therapeutic relationship. Compassion, humor and warmth assist in creating this relationship.
(360) 302-4364 View (360) 302-4364
Photo of Mae Marie Soderquist-Bell, MA,  LMHC, LPC, Counselor
Mae Marie Soderquist-Bell
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98662  (Online Only)
Pre/post marital couples therapy is another speciality of mine.
Are you feeling overwhelmed? All of us experience seasons of unbalance, heartache, and emotional distress. My practice is centered on us co-authoring respectful and lasting solutions to the struggles you have experienced in the past or are presently experiencing. It is important to me for sessions to include: hopefulness, compassion, and a sense of humor. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in Washington State. I also have a Professional Counselor License for the State of Oregon (LPC). I have worked at CHARIS Counseling Associates for over a decade. Before my counseling career, I was a high school teacher with PPS.
Pre/post marital couples therapy is another speciality of mine.
Are you feeling overwhelmed? All of us experience seasons of unbalance, heartache, and emotional distress. My practice is centered on us co-authoring respectful and lasting solutions to the struggles you have experienced in the past or are presently experiencing. It is important to me for sessions to include: hopefulness, compassion, and a sense of humor. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in Washington State. I also have a Professional Counselor License for the State of Oregon (LPC). I have worked at CHARIS Counseling Associates for over a decade. Before my counseling career, I was a high school teacher with PPS.
(360) 450-0984 View (360) 450-0984
Photo of Rick D. Boehm - Boehm Counseling & Consulting Services, MS, LMHC, MAC, Counselor
Boehm Counseling & Consulting Services
Counselor, MS, LMHC, MAC
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98685
Emergency appointment times available to both new and existing clients; crisis intervention; crisis marital therapy program available when marriages are severely damaged; hospital visitation.
Client motivation focused;,believing personal change is possible for anyone who desires it. The human spirit is powerful and will persevere if nurtured, empowered & supported. My therapeutic approach: teaching, empower, intervene &support for the therapeutic change process with clients. Combining education + professional & personal experience I provide a safe, non-judgmental therapeutic approach conducive to healthy changes. Perspective of personal strengths vs the medical model of "sickness" clients are empowered with hope and skills for positive change.
Emergency appointment times available to both new and existing clients; crisis intervention; crisis marital therapy program available when marriages are severely damaged; hospital visitation.
Client motivation focused;,believing personal change is possible for anyone who desires it. The human spirit is powerful and will persevere if nurtured, empowered & supported. My therapeutic approach: teaching, empower, intervene &support for the therapeutic change process with clients. Combining education + professional & personal experience I provide a safe, non-judgmental therapeutic approach conducive to healthy changes. Perspective of personal strengths vs the medical model of "sickness" clients are empowered with hope and skills for positive change.
(360) 215-3885 View (360) 215-3885
Photo of Ronda Lois Foyt, MA, MHC, MFT, Counselor
Ronda Lois Foyt
Counselor, MA, MHC, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98660
I am a skilled marriage and family therapist focusing on, but not limited to, marriage and reconciliation, separation and transition, conflict management and trauma recovery.
Life can be difficult and painful for us all. If you're struggling with anxiety or depression, or you're simply feeling run down by the complexities of life, I can help you. My therapeutic approach is very direct. Therapy with me can feel intense but my clients often tell me that they needed the push I gave them. Too often, people go to counselors who are very nice, but who don't have the courage to challenge people in a compassionate but direct way. If you are ready for a wonderful life change, please contact me.
I am a skilled marriage and family therapist focusing on, but not limited to, marriage and reconciliation, separation and transition, conflict management and trauma recovery.
Life can be difficult and painful for us all. If you're struggling with anxiety or depression, or you're simply feeling run down by the complexities of life, I can help you. My therapeutic approach is very direct. Therapy with me can feel intense but my clients often tell me that they needed the push I gave them. Too often, people go to counselors who are very nice, but who don't have the courage to challenge people in a compassionate but direct way. If you are ready for a wonderful life change, please contact me.
(503) 446-1062 View (503) 446-1062
Photo of Wendy L Olsen, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Wendy L Olsen
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98660
At the Gottman Institute in Seattle, I've completed Couples Training (Level 1) as well as being certified as a 7 Principles for Making Marriage Work educator.
Accepting New Clients: In my work with clients, the major areas of focus include: issues with relationship conflict, sexual compatibility, infidelity and intimacy. Whether as a couple or as an individual, I work with people to resolve on-going concerns. In my practice, all couples/individuals are welcome regardless of race, religion or sexual orientation. It is my belief that compassion and humor are agents of change and healing. I offer a safe and comfortable place for my clients to explore new ways of working on current or on-going problems.
At the Gottman Institute in Seattle, I've completed Couples Training (Level 1) as well as being certified as a 7 Principles for Making Marriage Work educator.
Accepting New Clients: In my work with clients, the major areas of focus include: issues with relationship conflict, sexual compatibility, infidelity and intimacy. Whether as a couple or as an individual, I work with people to resolve on-going concerns. In my practice, all couples/individuals are welcome regardless of race, religion or sexual orientation. It is my belief that compassion and humor are agents of change and healing. I offer a safe and comfortable place for my clients to explore new ways of working on current or on-going problems.
(206) 557-3850 View (206) 557-3850
Photo of Jake Jacob Hawbaker, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Jake Jacob Hawbaker
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98684
Family dynamics can be difficult and so can marriages.
I believe we were created for relationships. Relationships can bring healing, wholeness and happiness. However, despite their powerful role in our life, they can be extremely difficult to manage and can cause us a lot of pain and stress. This is where I hope to be able to help you. I love working with individuals, couples and families to help them on the their road to finding peace and joy in their relationships. At Charis Counseling Associates you will find an accepting and understanding atmosphere where you can be open about the real struggles of life.
Family dynamics can be difficult and so can marriages.
I believe we were created for relationships. Relationships can bring healing, wholeness and happiness. However, despite their powerful role in our life, they can be extremely difficult to manage and can cause us a lot of pain and stress. This is where I hope to be able to help you. I love working with individuals, couples and families to help them on the their road to finding peace and joy in their relationships. At Charis Counseling Associates you will find an accepting and understanding atmosphere where you can be open about the real struggles of life.
(360) 329-9033 View (360) 329-9033
Photo of Tom Dooley, PsyD, MDiv, Psychologist
Tom Dooley
Psychologist, PsyD, MDiv
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98684
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 Halsey, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Heidi Halsey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98660  (Online Only)
Experience includes- individuals, teens, adults, couples & families in areas such as marriage, divorce, blending families, substance abuse, affairs, grief, depression, anxiety, communication, issues arising from various family stage transitions, childhood issues, abuse, suicidality, work and extended family issues, PTSD, ADHD & Deafness.
ONLY TELE THERAPY - sessions open this week. Teletherapy sessions for people 25 and older - in Washington State. Register & schedule, 24 hours a day at www.heidihalsey.com. Appointments Tuesday - Thursday & Saturday this week and Monday & Friday after the first appointment. I am not a therapist who says "uh huh", "uh-huh" and "I'll see you next week". I will ask questions to find the root of what you want to change or understand. I make suggestions & teach skills as a respectful professional while maintaining your confidentiality. My website www.heidihalsey.com has a lot of information about how I work and what insurances I accept.
Experience includes- individuals, teens, adults, couples & families in areas such as marriage, divorce, blending families, substance abuse, affairs, grief, depression, anxiety, communication, issues arising from various family stage transitions, childhood issues, abuse, suicidality, work and extended family issues, PTSD, ADHD & Deafness.
ONLY TELE THERAPY - sessions open this week. Teletherapy sessions for people 25 and older - in Washington State. Register & schedule, 24 hours a day at www.heidihalsey.com. Appointments Tuesday - Thursday & Saturday this week and Monday & Friday after the first appointment. I am not a therapist who says "uh huh", "uh-huh" and "I'll see you next week". I will ask questions to find the root of what you want to change or understand. I make suggestions & teach skills as a respectful professional while maintaining your confidentiality. My website www.heidihalsey.com has a lot of information about how I work and what insurances I accept.
(253) 214-9934 View (253) 214-9934
Photo of Michael Makinster, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michael Makinster
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98665
I have worked as a counselor for over 25 years and have a wide range of experience with marriage, depression and anxiety issues. I have also developed a sub-specialty in pornography addiction. I take time to integrate Biblical faith with practical guidance for all of my clients desiring to practice their faith in a manner consistent with their actions. I love to work with people who are ready to get to work and discover what emotions, behaviors and thinking keeps them from living the life they desire to live.
I have worked as a counselor for over 25 years and have a wide range of experience with marriage, depression and anxiety issues. I have also developed a sub-specialty in pornography addiction. I take time to integrate Biblical faith with practical guidance for all of my clients desiring to practice their faith in a manner consistent with their actions. I love to work with people who are ready to get to work and discover what emotions, behaviors and thinking keeps them from living the life they desire to live.
(800) 337-9622 View (800) 337-9622
Photo of Trinity Saldana, MS, CMHS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Trinity Saldana
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, CMHS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98660  (Online Only)
I provide marital therapy, child therapy, and help for families in need.
I enjoy working with individuals who have experienced scary or stressful childhood experiences and would like a safe space to process those experiences. Sometimes those experiences turn into mood disorders, PTSD, anxiety, or failure to thrive in relationships. I am interested in helping guide you to working through these struggles and finding peace in your life. I also enjoy working with couples who feel disconnected in their relationships and would like a new direction with their partner.
I provide marital therapy, child therapy, and help for families in need.
I enjoy working with individuals who have experienced scary or stressful childhood experiences and would like a safe space to process those experiences. Sometimes those experiences turn into mood disorders, PTSD, anxiety, or failure to thrive in relationships. I am interested in helping guide you to working through these struggles and finding peace in your life. I also enjoy working with couples who feel disconnected in their relationships and would like a new direction with their partner.
(360) 524-0189 View (360) 524-0189
Photo of Dr. David Simonsen Ph.d. Lmft, LMFT, PhD, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. David Simonsen Ph.d. Lmft
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PhD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98684
Pulling on my 25 years of experience in practice along with the hard-won wisdom of a solid marriage of 30 years and raising 7 kids, I can help you have a more positive outlook and a plan of action to bring your family closer together.
When your brooding, moody teen just won't listen and your partner isn't much help either, what's a stressed out, overwhelmed parent like you to do? Pick up the phone and give me a call. Why? Because even though arguments and communication conflicts can make it feel like your family members are from an entirely different planet, there really are some secrets to bring peace, calm, and order to the chaos. I help people with depression who want to feel better in life. I help parents needing parenting skills. I help couples needing to find better ways of communication. I work with military, first responders and veterans to cope with life
Pulling on my 25 years of experience in practice along with the hard-won wisdom of a solid marriage of 30 years and raising 7 kids, I can help you have a more positive outlook and a plan of action to bring your family closer together.
When your brooding, moody teen just won't listen and your partner isn't much help either, what's a stressed out, overwhelmed parent like you to do? Pick up the phone and give me a call. Why? Because even though arguments and communication conflicts can make it feel like your family members are from an entirely different planet, there really are some secrets to bring peace, calm, and order to the chaos. I help people with depression who want to feel better in life. I help parents needing parenting skills. I help couples needing to find better ways of communication. I work with military, first responders and veterans to cope with life
(360) 972-3718 View (360) 972-3718
Photo of Julie Ann Archibald - Collaborative Counseling, NBCC, LMHC, Counselor
Collaborative Counseling
Counselor, NBCC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98664  (Online Only)
For many years I struggled with shame and doubt about who I was, often feeling lost and hopeless. I would exercise my feelings through control or passivity in relations with others. It wasn't until I received help from a counselor that I started my journey of healing that lead to my discovery of an authentic self who could practice healthy relationships, acceptance, love, and feel worthy from the inside out. At that point I chose to become a Counselor so as to assist others in their journeys of self discovery.
For many years I struggled with shame and doubt about who I was, often feeling lost and hopeless. I would exercise my feelings through control or passivity in relations with others. It wasn't until I received help from a counselor that I started my journey of healing that lead to my discovery of an authentic self who could practice healthy relationships, acceptance, love, and feel worthy from the inside out. At that point I chose to become a Counselor so as to assist others in their journeys of self discovery.
(360) 502-2866 View (360) 502-2866
Photo of Rachel J Guadamuz, MA, LMHCA, LPCA, Counselor
Rachel J Guadamuz
Counselor, MA, LMHCA, LPCA
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98661  (Online Only)
Life's challenges can leave you feeling overwhelmed, isolated, and searching for hope. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or any other emotional burdens, my heart is to support you.
Life's challenges can leave you feeling overwhelmed, isolated, and searching for hope. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or any other emotional burdens, my heart is to support you.
(360) 339-8647 View (360) 339-8647
Photo of Rachel Richards, LMHC, Counselor
Rachel Richards
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98662  (Online Only)
At Four Winds Therapy we believe that humans have the ability to awaken their highest potential and that authentic individualized therapy and collaborative support can help one to recognize their true inner goodness. Therapy with Four Winds is client centered and we believe that therapy's focus can be whatever you'd like it to be. We are here to address your mental health needs with compassion and respect. We are trauma informed and culturally aware as well as respectful to people of all backgrounds and beliefs and we operate within counseling's strict ethical guidelines.
At Four Winds Therapy we believe that humans have the ability to awaken their highest potential and that authentic individualized therapy and collaborative support can help one to recognize their true inner goodness. Therapy with Four Winds is client centered and we believe that therapy's focus can be whatever you'd like it to be. We are here to address your mental health needs with compassion and respect. We are trauma informed and culturally aware as well as respectful to people of all backgrounds and beliefs and we operate within counseling's strict ethical guidelines.
(503) 836-8894 View (503) 836-8894
Photo of Dr. David Ross, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. David Ross
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98662
Hello, I am a Clinical Psychologist specializing in anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship issues. I also support clients with a variety of health related issues including pain, anxiety, and depression. Clients often express the invaluable support they have received from having a knowledgeable professional walk with them through their life and/or medical journey. I use psychodynamic and cognitive behavioral therapies to help you overcome the anxiety, depression, and anger that negatively impact your life, work, and relationships. I would be honored to join you in working to develop the life you desire to be living right now.
Hello, I am a Clinical Psychologist specializing in anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship issues. I also support clients with a variety of health related issues including pain, anxiety, and depression. Clients often express the invaluable support they have received from having a knowledgeable professional walk with them through their life and/or medical journey. I use psychodynamic and cognitive behavioral therapies to help you overcome the anxiety, depression, and anger that negatively impact your life, work, and relationships. I would be honored to join you in working to develop the life you desire to be living right now.
(360) 226-8227 View (360) 226-8227
Photo of Sarah M. Parks - Accepting Always PLLC, MA, LMHCA, SUDPT, Counselor
Accepting Always PLLC
Counselor, MA, LMHCA, SUDPT
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98682  (Online Only)
We are not individuals who are broken that need to be fixed, we are humans having a human experience and we are constantly in a state of change and transitions that have sometimes served us and sometimes not. People who seem to work well with me are ones that are motivated to make changes and comfortable with awareness of self. I work from a developmental trauma, attachment theory and shame basis of therapy including meeting and nurturing your inner child. It is easiest to reach me by email or visit my website linked on this page.
We are not individuals who are broken that need to be fixed, we are humans having a human experience and we are constantly in a state of change and transitions that have sometimes served us and sometimes not. People who seem to work well with me are ones that are motivated to make changes and comfortable with awareness of self. I work from a developmental trauma, attachment theory and shame basis of therapy including meeting and nurturing your inner child. It is easiest to reach me by email or visit my website linked on this page.
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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.