Marriage Counseling Therapists in Washington

Photo of Jenelle Larson, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jenelle Larson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Waitlist for new clients
I have had the privilege of working within the Marriage and Family Therapy field for the past 17 years. I primarily work with couples and adults, but have extensive background in working children, teens, and families. I have experience in helping families and individuals with a variety of concerns, including relationship difficulties, depression, anxiety, ADHD, parenting skills, discipline techniques, attachment, school-related concerns, anger management and other disruptive behavioral issues.
I have had the privilege of working within the Marriage and Family Therapy field for the past 17 years. I primarily work with couples and adults, but have extensive background in working children, teens, and families. I have experience in helping families and individuals with a variety of concerns, including relationship difficulties, depression, anxiety, ADHD, parenting skills, discipline techniques, attachment, school-related concerns, anger management and other disruptive behavioral issues.
(253) 523-2566 View (253) 523-2566
Photo of Dominique Walmsley, PhD, LMHC, Counselor
Dominique Walmsley
Counselor, PhD, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Although I aim to support marriage, I am trained in Collaborative Law as a coach.
I use a person-centered approach, in which the client's unique set of values and interests guides me in shaping the path for growth and change. To support this collaboration, I provide knowledge of relaxation techniques, behavioral modification, exploration of childhood experiences, and philosophical or spiritual frameworks that give structure to enduring change. I specialize in couples therapy, guiding them toward reliance on one another, and fulfillment of personal goals. With individuals, I look for their motivational direction, and help them form a satisfying life around their own interests. I aim to be clear and connective, as well as efficient.
Although I aim to support marriage, I am trained in Collaborative Law as a coach.
I use a person-centered approach, in which the client's unique set of values and interests guides me in shaping the path for growth and change. To support this collaboration, I provide knowledge of relaxation techniques, behavioral modification, exploration of childhood experiences, and philosophical or spiritual frameworks that give structure to enduring change. I specialize in couples therapy, guiding them toward reliance on one another, and fulfillment of personal goals. With individuals, I look for their motivational direction, and help them form a satisfying life around their own interests. I aim to be clear and connective, as well as efficient.
(206) 627-4710 View (206) 627-4710
Photo of Megan Hoback, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Megan Hoback
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Federal Way, WA 98023
I have a passion for serving and helping others through different aspects of life and my goal is to help you grow and create meaningful and impactful change in positive ways for your own life. I am an associate marriage and family therapist who works with individuals, couples, and parent-child relationships. When it comes to individuals, I often work with those who may be dealing with anxiety, low self-esteem, or big life changes. When it comes to couples, I often work with those who are looking to re-build their intimacy and connection, strengthen communication, or are dealing with conflicts and past resentment.
I have a passion for serving and helping others through different aspects of life and my goal is to help you grow and create meaningful and impactful change in positive ways for your own life. I am an associate marriage and family therapist who works with individuals, couples, and parent-child relationships. When it comes to individuals, I often work with those who may be dealing with anxiety, low self-esteem, or big life changes. When it comes to couples, I often work with those who are looking to re-build their intimacy and connection, strengthen communication, or are dealing with conflicts and past resentment.
(253) 544-6053 View (253) 544-6053
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 Erin Manning, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Erin Manning
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Tacoma, WA 98406
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I strive to create a space for individuals and families to feel safe and open as we work through some of life's hardest challenges. It can feel overwhelming considering where to start and what to tackle first. Seeking guidance takes a lot of strength and courage.
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I strive to create a space for individuals and families to feel safe and open as we work through some of life's hardest challenges. It can feel overwhelming considering where to start and what to tackle first. Seeking guidance takes a lot of strength and courage.
(253) 793-0858 View (253) 793-0858
Photo of Dr. Ami Owen, PhD, LMFT, CCTP, CCTS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Ami Owen
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, CCTP, CCTS
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99217
Dr. Ami Owen received her undergraduate degree in Social Science and a minor in Psychology. She received her Master’s in General Family Therapy with an advanced emphasis on families and trauma. Dr. Owen also received a Doctorate in Counseling and is a Clinically Certified Trauma Professional. She is Licensed in TX, ID, WA, AZ, FL, CA, UT and a nationally approved supervisor through the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapists (AAMFT). She takes delight in mentoring therapists on the complexities of family systems and consults with providers across the country to improve systems approaches.
Dr. Ami Owen received her undergraduate degree in Social Science and a minor in Psychology. She received her Master’s in General Family Therapy with an advanced emphasis on families and trauma. Dr. Owen also received a Doctorate in Counseling and is a Clinically Certified Trauma Professional. She is Licensed in TX, ID, WA, AZ, FL, CA, UT and a nationally approved supervisor through the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapists (AAMFT). She takes delight in mentoring therapists on the complexities of family systems and consults with providers across the country to improve systems approaches.
(509) 517-7166 View (509) 517-7166
Photo of Jessica L Flores, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Jessica L Flores
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98371
I'm a licensed marriage and family therapy associate specializing in providing mental health support to individuals and families. I cater my approach with each client I encounter to create an empathetic, non-judgmental, and collaborative therapeutic relationship. I take a holistic approach to therapy with the understanding that therapy is not one-size-fits all; utilizing an array of therapeutic approaches and models, I work with my clients to find the personal growth and healing they are looking for with the belief that those who seek change, will find it.
I'm a licensed marriage and family therapy associate specializing in providing mental health support to individuals and families. I cater my approach with each client I encounter to create an empathetic, non-judgmental, and collaborative therapeutic relationship. I take a holistic approach to therapy with the understanding that therapy is not one-size-fits all; utilizing an array of therapeutic approaches and models, I work with my clients to find the personal growth and healing they are looking for with the belief that those who seek change, will find it.
(253) 649-6029 View (253) 649-6029
Photo of Dr. LauraMaery Gold - Allied Family Therapy, PhD, LMFT, MA-MFT, CC(Cert, Couns), Marriage & Family Therapist
Allied Family Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, MA-MFT, CC(Cert, Couns)
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Renton, WA 98055
Currently accepting new clients. Arguing over money? Communication? Unmotivated teenager? Infidelity? We've got your back. We help you communicate and resolve conflict in kind, loving ways that build your relationship. We help couples find their love again, and teach teenagers adult life skills, with humor and sensitivity. Dr. LauraMaery Gold is a marriage and family therapist, certified counselor, and best-selling author with degrees in law, finance, and family counseling. She provides proven communication and financial planning tools, and helps couples focus on the big picture.
Currently accepting new clients. Arguing over money? Communication? Unmotivated teenager? Infidelity? We've got your back. We help you communicate and resolve conflict in kind, loving ways that build your relationship. We help couples find their love again, and teach teenagers adult life skills, with humor and sensitivity. Dr. LauraMaery Gold is a marriage and family therapist, certified counselor, and best-selling author with degrees in law, finance, and family counseling. She provides proven communication and financial planning tools, and helps couples focus on the big picture.
(253) 259-3104 View (253) 259-3104
Photo of Celeste McClannahan, LMFTA, CFRA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Celeste McClannahan
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA, CFRA
Verified Verified
Stanwood, WA 98292
Are you feeling stuck in your relationship and not sure how to break the negative patterns? Are your attempts at getting closer to your partner only pushing them farther away? Let us work together to break negative patterns and find new ways to communicate that bring you closer together and reconnect in a healthy way with each other. You may be stuck now but you do not have to stay there forever. It is possible to get out of this place and we will work together so you do not feel alone in this struggle anymore. I can help couples and individuals work on marriage counseling, sex therapy, parenting concerns, and anxiety & depression.
Are you feeling stuck in your relationship and not sure how to break the negative patterns? Are your attempts at getting closer to your partner only pushing them farther away? Let us work together to break negative patterns and find new ways to communicate that bring you closer together and reconnect in a healthy way with each other. You may be stuck now but you do not have to stay there forever. It is possible to get out of this place and we will work together so you do not feel alone in this struggle anymore. I can help couples and individuals work on marriage counseling, sex therapy, parenting concerns, and anxiety & depression.
(360) 800-4982 View (360) 800-4982
Photo of Dawn Tec Yah, LMHCA, Counselor
Dawn Tec Yah
Counselor, LMHCA
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98686  (Online Only)
As a seasoned therapist specializing in Couple, Marriage, and Family Therapy with a focus on Addiction Studies, I offer tailored interventions to strengthen relationships, improve communication, and promote recovery.
I am currently welcoming couples and families who are committed to nurturing their relationships. They may be navigating communication barriers, emotional disconnects, or transitional life stages. These clients seek a collaborative space to fortify their bonds, develop understanding, and foster a healthy family dynamic. Their objective is to achieve harmony and a deeper connection, ultimately enhancing their collective well-being.
As a seasoned therapist specializing in Couple, Marriage, and Family Therapy with a focus on Addiction Studies, I offer tailored interventions to strengthen relationships, improve communication, and promote recovery.
I am currently welcoming couples and families who are committed to nurturing their relationships. They may be navigating communication barriers, emotional disconnects, or transitional life stages. These clients seek a collaborative space to fortify their bonds, develop understanding, and foster a healthy family dynamic. Their objective is to achieve harmony and a deeper connection, ultimately enhancing their collective well-being.
(360) 996-6071 View (360) 996-6071
Photo of Dawn Phillips Shepherd, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dawn Phillips Shepherd
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Kennewick, WA 99336
I believe that we all have things in life that we need help dealing with or working through. As a counselor I provide a safe, confidential, and nonjudgmental place for people to get the help they are seeking. I use several therapeutic modalities including cognitive behavioral, EMDR, Internal Family Systems, somatic experiencing and emotional focused therapy to name a few. When working with couples I use the Gottman marriage approach as well as the therapies listed above. I may explore with the client their past and present in order to promote self-discovery/awareness that will assist them with the outcome they desire.
I believe that we all have things in life that we need help dealing with or working through. As a counselor I provide a safe, confidential, and nonjudgmental place for people to get the help they are seeking. I use several therapeutic modalities including cognitive behavioral, EMDR, Internal Family Systems, somatic experiencing and emotional focused therapy to name a few. When working with couples I use the Gottman marriage approach as well as the therapies listed above. I may explore with the client their past and present in order to promote self-discovery/awareness that will assist them with the outcome they desire.
(509) 571-2857 View (509) 571-2857
Photo of Sonja Merz, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sonja Merz
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98008  (Online Only)
Our work will improve your relationships, communication, self esteem, and sense of overall well being. I believe in the inherent wisdom of clients in the healing process. I respect the lifestyles each person has chosen, and believe in the importance of confidentiality. I offer a safe place to explore concerns about relationships, parenting, marriage, transition, occupation, separation, depression, stress, and anxiety. I have treated individuals, couples, and families since 1995 specializing in internal families systems, human developments, and treating trauma.
Our work will improve your relationships, communication, self esteem, and sense of overall well being. I believe in the inherent wisdom of clients in the healing process. I respect the lifestyles each person has chosen, and believe in the importance of confidentiality. I offer a safe place to explore concerns about relationships, parenting, marriage, transition, occupation, separation, depression, stress, and anxiety. I have treated individuals, couples, and families since 1995 specializing in internal families systems, human developments, and treating trauma.
(206) 222-1571 View (206) 222-1571
Photo of Patrick James Hart, PsyD, LMHC, MHP, Counselor
Patrick James Hart
Counselor, PsyD, LMHC, MHP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103
Counseling helps you learn lasting coping skills and personal competence to resolve mood problems, manage anger & change unwanted life defeating habits, marriage, and relationship problems.
Mental Health Counseling in Seattle | Psychotherapy Private Practice: Psychotherapist and counselor for problems of depression and anxiety. Therapy for panic disorder, generalized anxiety, post traumatic stress, simple phobia, anger management, stress reduction, social anxiety, phobias and avoidance. I help people by providing skills based therapy to assure you effectively manage your moods, emotions and behavior. I'll help you learn the competencies to resolve unwanted life defeating habits. Cognitive Behavior Therapy: Learn effective personal solutions from anxiety and panic to sex & pornography addiction - lasting behavior change. Thanks for your interest in my practice! I'm just a phone call away!
Counseling helps you learn lasting coping skills and personal competence to resolve mood problems, manage anger & change unwanted life defeating habits, marriage, and relationship problems.
Mental Health Counseling in Seattle | Psychotherapy Private Practice: Psychotherapist and counselor for problems of depression and anxiety. Therapy for panic disorder, generalized anxiety, post traumatic stress, simple phobia, anger management, stress reduction, social anxiety, phobias and avoidance. I help people by providing skills based therapy to assure you effectively manage your moods, emotions and behavior. I'll help you learn the competencies to resolve unwanted life defeating habits. Cognitive Behavior Therapy: Learn effective personal solutions from anxiety and panic to sex & pornography addiction - lasting behavior change. Thanks for your interest in my practice! I'm just a phone call away!
(253) 642-7941 View (253) 642-7941
Photo of Cassandra Wilson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cassandra Wilson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Marysville, WA 98270
My areas of focus include: Couples counseling, marital and premarital therapy Relational, therapy for navigating poly and non-monogamous relationships, Relational therapy for BDSM, kink, and power exchange relationships, Sex Therapy.
Revive and Thrive Relational Therapy is a private practice specializing in relationships providing therapy services to anyone located in the state of Washington, Florida or Vermont. As a trained marriage and family therapist, I work to improve each relationship dynamic that comes in. I am sex and kink positive, LGBTQIA+ inclusive and relationship focused (including poly and non-monogamy). Relational therapy can be difficult, but as we work together, your lives will become more harmonious.
My areas of focus include: Couples counseling, marital and premarital therapy Relational, therapy for navigating poly and non-monogamous relationships, Relational therapy for BDSM, kink, and power exchange relationships, Sex Therapy.
Revive and Thrive Relational Therapy is a private practice specializing in relationships providing therapy services to anyone located in the state of Washington, Florida or Vermont. As a trained marriage and family therapist, I work to improve each relationship dynamic that comes in. I am sex and kink positive, LGBTQIA+ inclusive and relationship focused (including poly and non-monogamy). Relational therapy can be difficult, but as we work together, your lives will become more harmonious.
(360) 226-7217 View (360) 226-7217
Photo of Holly Davis Borrero, MS, LMFT , LMHC, Counselor
Holly Davis Borrero
Counselor, MS, LMFT , LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98102
I am an Individual, Marriage/Couple, and Family therapist offering evidence-based tele-health "Zoom" counseling sessions for Washingtonians. My focus on resilience invites clients to utilize and develop their own internal strengths. As they begin to build skills, resolve conflict, improve communication, address challenges in their relationships, and reduce symptoms like anxiety and depression, many of my clients heal emotional trauma, relieve angst, find hope, and ultimately flourish.
I am an Individual, Marriage/Couple, and Family therapist offering evidence-based tele-health "Zoom" counseling sessions for Washingtonians. My focus on resilience invites clients to utilize and develop their own internal strengths. As they begin to build skills, resolve conflict, improve communication, address challenges in their relationships, and reduce symptoms like anxiety and depression, many of my clients heal emotional trauma, relieve angst, find hope, and ultimately flourish.
(206) 944-6548 View (206) 944-6548
Photo of Elizabeth Witt Shoop - Witt Wellness & Counseling, PLLC, MS, LMHC, MHP , CGT, Counselor
Witt Wellness & Counseling, PLLC
Counselor, MS, LMHC, MHP , CGT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Spokane, WA 99204
I am happy to announce an upcoming couples workshop in October based on Gottman's "Seven Principles of Making Marriage Work.
I work with couples and individuals, specializing in improving communication and emotional connection in relationships. Unhappiness in your relationships can have a big impact on your own mental health, leaving you dissatisfied in your life. I also enjoy working with clients going through life transitions. Did you get a new job, start college, or recently graduate? These transitions in life can be emotionally draining. You may notice that you distance yourself from others, feel frustrated, experience worry about the future, and even hopelessness. I also offer supervision and consultation services. I am an approved supervisor for WA.
I am happy to announce an upcoming couples workshop in October based on Gottman's "Seven Principles of Making Marriage Work.
I work with couples and individuals, specializing in improving communication and emotional connection in relationships. Unhappiness in your relationships can have a big impact on your own mental health, leaving you dissatisfied in your life. I also enjoy working with clients going through life transitions. Did you get a new job, start college, or recently graduate? These transitions in life can be emotionally draining. You may notice that you distance yourself from others, feel frustrated, experience worry about the future, and even hopelessness. I also offer supervision and consultation services. I am an approved supervisor for WA.
(509) 410-4504 View (509) 410-4504
Photo of Jeanne Purdum - Integrated Therapy Services NW, PLLC, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Integrated Therapy Services NW, PLLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Integrated Therapy Services (ITS) is dedicated to serving our community by supporting individuals, couples, and families through their lifelong journey of emotional growth and personal development. Our providers come together from the fields of Marriage and Family Therapy, Social Work, and Mental Health Counseling to provide the highest quality mental health services based in the most advance research in a warm and inviting environment. We deliver innovative and personalized treatment with compassion and care. Telehealth or in-person available.
Integrated Therapy Services (ITS) is dedicated to serving our community by supporting individuals, couples, and families through their lifelong journey of emotional growth and personal development. Our providers come together from the fields of Marriage and Family Therapy, Social Work, and Mental Health Counseling to provide the highest quality mental health services based in the most advance research in a warm and inviting environment. We deliver innovative and personalized treatment with compassion and care. Telehealth or in-person available.
(253) 214-9742 View (253) 214-9742
Photo of Jessica Infante-Castro - Columbia Basin Family Therapy, LLC, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Columbia Basin Family Therapy, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pasco, WA 99301
You may get the opportunity to work with one of our Marriage and Family Therapy interns.
We are here to support you and your family. We welcome your questions and voice into this therapeutic journey. As systemic therapists, we work to explore all that is impacting your life at this difficult time. We will tap into your strengths and will work to heal wounds. Jessica Infante-Castro, our clinical supervisor and therapist, has over 10 years of experience working with families and adolescents. Her previous role was supporting youth in schools. Jessica also has experience treating sexual disorders, sexual concerns, and sex therapy related issues.
You may get the opportunity to work with one of our Marriage and Family Therapy interns.
We are here to support you and your family. We welcome your questions and voice into this therapeutic journey. As systemic therapists, we work to explore all that is impacting your life at this difficult time. We will tap into your strengths and will work to heal wounds. Jessica Infante-Castro, our clinical supervisor and therapist, has over 10 years of experience working with families and adolescents. Her previous role was supporting youth in schools. Jessica also has experience treating sexual disorders, sexual concerns, and sex therapy related issues.
(509) 646-2341 View (509) 646-2341
Photo of Kristi Gavigan, LMHCA, SUDPT, Counselor
Kristi Gavigan
Counselor, LMHCA, SUDPT
Verified Verified
Bainbridge Island, WA 98110  (Online Only)
I see every person's life story as unique and special. Approaching my clients with warmth, humor, and authenticity allows me to provide a compassionate approach to their specific challenges. I specialize in non-traditional relationship styles, blended families, and co-parenting. I draw from my experience as a Guardian ad Litem & domestic violence evaluator to support my clients during life changes such as traumatic divorce, criminal/legal, parenting, stepparenting, heartbreak, partnering, and marriage. My practice is gender and disability affirming, social justice oriented, and trauma-informed. LGBTQIA+ and polyamorous friendly.
I see every person's life story as unique and special. Approaching my clients with warmth, humor, and authenticity allows me to provide a compassionate approach to their specific challenges. I specialize in non-traditional relationship styles, blended families, and co-parenting. I draw from my experience as a Guardian ad Litem & domestic violence evaluator to support my clients during life changes such as traumatic divorce, criminal/legal, parenting, stepparenting, heartbreak, partnering, and marriage. My practice is gender and disability affirming, social justice oriented, and trauma-informed. LGBTQIA+ and polyamorous friendly.
(206) 678-0212 View (206) 678-0212
Photo of Maegan McClanahan, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Maegan McClanahan
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Spokane, WA 99203  (Online Only)
We all seek help for different reasons. I see my job as a therapist to help guide you towards the life you wish to live. To do this, together we will develop a personalized treatment plan to help you realign with your values and progress towards your goals, whether this is in the context of relationships, new transitions, or difficult periods of time. I work with a wide variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, PTSD, attachment issues, marital conflict, and many more.
We all seek help for different reasons. I see my job as a therapist to help guide you towards the life you wish to live. To do this, together we will develop a personalized treatment plan to help you realign with your values and progress towards your goals, whether this is in the context of relationships, new transitions, or difficult periods of time. I work with a wide variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, PTSD, attachment issues, marital conflict, and many more.
(509) 265-6016 View (509) 265-6016
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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.