Photo of Advance Clinical Services, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kenosha County, WI
Advance Clinical Services, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MDiv, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Kenosha, WI 53142
I focus on marriage and family issues, anxiety, depression, relationship problems, grief, LGBTQ, foster and adoption, religious and spiritual trauma, spirituality, behavioral problems, and other systemic issues.
I’ve been in the behavioral health field for 14 years. Many of my clients are dealing with common, everyday life struggles,and I am able to quickly get to the root issue and guide them in their search for the best solution for themselves. I provide a peaceful, safe, collaborative environment that promotes hope, laughter, and healing to individuals, couples, and families looking to find solace and understanding in their lives.
I focus on marriage and family issues, anxiety, depression, relationship problems, grief, LGBTQ, foster and adoption, religious and spiritual trauma, spirituality, behavioral problems, and other systemic issues.
I’ve been in the behavioral health field for 14 years. Many of my clients are dealing with common, everyday life struggles,and I am able to quickly get to the root issue and guide them in their search for the best solution for themselves. I provide a peaceful, safe, collaborative environment that promotes hope, laughter, and healing to individuals, couples, and families looking to find solace and understanding in their lives.
(262) 233-9314 View (262) 233-9314
Photo of Wayne Riendeau, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Kenosha County, WI
Wayne Riendeau
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Kenosha, WI 53140
If you have deep concerns about your marriage, engagement, or dating relationship; are concerned about your family's relational issues; in the middle of facing a major life transition; on a faith journey and seeking a deeper relationship with God; or have a career that is no longer a fit with who you are -- then I am the counselor you've been looking for.
I have a passion for couples seeking to improve their relationship with their spouse or significant other and who yearn for deeper levels of emotional, relational and physical intimacy. I also come alongside parents and their children to develop better ways of communicating by giving them tools as to how to relate to each other in ways that create a calmer, more peaceful home, where defiant attitudes give way to mutual cooperation and higher levels of trust and respect between all family members.
If you have deep concerns about your marriage, engagement, or dating relationship; are concerned about your family's relational issues; in the middle of facing a major life transition; on a faith journey and seeking a deeper relationship with God; or have a career that is no longer a fit with who you are -- then I am the counselor you've been looking for.
I have a passion for couples seeking to improve their relationship with their spouse or significant other and who yearn for deeper levels of emotional, relational and physical intimacy. I also come alongside parents and their children to develop better ways of communicating by giving them tools as to how to relate to each other in ways that create a calmer, more peaceful home, where defiant attitudes give way to mutual cooperation and higher levels of trust and respect between all family members.
(224) 434-3155 View (224) 434-3155
Photo of Mark J Derbas, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kenosha County, WI
Mark J Derbas
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CSAC
Verified Verified
Kenosha, WI 53142
I find it a privilege to work with clients as they share their stories and seek out resolutions to their problems. Providing a safe haven for clients to express their feelings, explore their options, and find healing is essential to therapy and the foundation to how I practice counseling. Helping clients explore past wounds that are affecting the present is all part of the therapeutic journey.
I find it a privilege to work with clients as they share their stories and seek out resolutions to their problems. Providing a safe haven for clients to express their feelings, explore their options, and find healing is essential to therapy and the foundation to how I practice counseling. Helping clients explore past wounds that are affecting the present is all part of the therapeutic journey.
(262) 477-4319 View (262) 477-4319
Photo of Sacred Art Counseling, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kenosha County, WI
Sacred Art Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Kenosha, WI 53142
We believe in a person-centered approach that combines traditional, evidence-based psychotherapeutic models with a holistic method. We incorporate information from the field of neuro-biology to provide a tailored and individualized path. We meet each person who walks through our door where they are, maximizing every individual's growth. As a result, when our work together is done you will be better equipped to actualize your life's direction.
We believe in a person-centered approach that combines traditional, evidence-based psychotherapeutic models with a holistic method. We incorporate information from the field of neuro-biology to provide a tailored and individualized path. We meet each person who walks through our door where they are, maximizing every individual's growth. As a result, when our work together is done you will be better equipped to actualize your life's direction.
(262) 239-7616 View (262) 239-7616
Photo of John C Hawley, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kenosha County, WI
John C Hawley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kenosha, WI 53143
I have found through 21 years of counseling in a variety of settings that individual therapy is my niche. I'm particularly well-suited for working with adults individually, with a host of presenting issues including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, panic attacks, grief, PTSD, work stress, and adjustment to various life stressors.
I have found through 21 years of counseling in a variety of settings that individual therapy is my niche. I'm particularly well-suited for working with adults individually, with a host of presenting issues including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, panic attacks, grief, PTSD, work stress, and adjustment to various life stressors.
(262) 384-3590 View (262) 384-3590
Photo of Innovative Counseling Partners PLLC, Counselor in Kenosha County, WI
Innovative Counseling Partners PLLC
Counselor, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers, finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward an Integrative approach and help our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers, finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward an Integrative approach and help our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.
(773) 312-3612 View (773) 312-3612
Photo of Daniel Caminiti, Counselor in Kenosha County, WI
Daniel Caminiti
Counselor, LPC-it
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hello, I'm Dan, a caring and devoted therapist dedicated to supporting individuals on their journey towards healing and overcoming life's obstacles. I bring a unique combination of clinical expertise, spiritual insight, and practical wisdom to my practice, cultivated through diverse experiences in various mental health settings as well my own life. My therapeutic focus encompasses a broad spectrum of issues, with specialized expertise in addressing depression, anxiety, relational issues, ADHD, trauma, and adjustment disorders.
Hello, I'm Dan, a caring and devoted therapist dedicated to supporting individuals on their journey towards healing and overcoming life's obstacles. I bring a unique combination of clinical expertise, spiritual insight, and practical wisdom to my practice, cultivated through diverse experiences in various mental health settings as well my own life. My therapeutic focus encompasses a broad spectrum of issues, with specialized expertise in addressing depression, anxiety, relational issues, ADHD, trauma, and adjustment disorders.
(262) 729-3143 View (262) 729-3143

Online Therapists

Photo of Daniel W Bishop, Psychologist in Kenosha County, WI
Daniel W Bishop
Psychologist, PsyD, LPC, LCSAC
Verified Verified
Lake Geneva, WI 53147
One of my specialty areas includes relationship counseling including premarital, cohabitation, marital, parent-child, parent-parent, co-parenting.
Having extensive experience and clinical supervision with adolescent and adults in various health settings, I have come to appreciate the uniqueness of each person and the journey they are on to wellness. I am non-judgmental and don't feel it is necessary to shame or parent those I work with. In addition to being a psychologist, I am also a college professor, working with students pursuing master and doctorate degrees and a clinical supervisor. These unique perspective allows me to stay on the cutting edge of research and therapeutic approaches to a variety of issues. I am not a corporate or large for profit practice.
One of my specialty areas includes relationship counseling including premarital, cohabitation, marital, parent-child, parent-parent, co-parenting.
Having extensive experience and clinical supervision with adolescent and adults in various health settings, I have come to appreciate the uniqueness of each person and the journey they are on to wellness. I am non-judgmental and don't feel it is necessary to shame or parent those I work with. In addition to being a psychologist, I am also a college professor, working with students pursuing master and doctorate degrees and a clinical supervisor. These unique perspective allows me to stay on the cutting edge of research and therapeutic approaches to a variety of issues. I am not a corporate or large for profit practice.
(262) 214-6568 View (262) 214-6568
Photo of Lawrence Charles Aronow, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kenosha County, WI
Lawrence Charles Aronow
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Middleton, WI 53562  (Online Only)
You are not broken and in need of “fixing.” Rather, your early life, sense of belonging and experiences have influenced patterns and behaviors that brought you here. Change is within your reach. Whether you’re struggling with addiction or unresolved trauma; healing from domestic violence; enduring a relationship breakup; or concerned by your child’s mental health and behavioral issues, let’s work together on a positive path forward. I am a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in addiction and substance abuse and certified in trauma and domestic violence therapy and as divorce and family mediator.
You are not broken and in need of “fixing.” Rather, your early life, sense of belonging and experiences have influenced patterns and behaviors that brought you here. Change is within your reach. Whether you’re struggling with addiction or unresolved trauma; healing from domestic violence; enduring a relationship breakup; or concerned by your child’s mental health and behavioral issues, let’s work together on a positive path forward. I am a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in addiction and substance abuse and certified in trauma and domestic violence therapy and as divorce and family mediator.
(608) 557-4221 View (608) 557-4221
Photo of Joe Leonard, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kenosha County, WI
Joe Leonard
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CFNC, CIMHP
Verified Verified
Fitchburg, WI 53711
My ideal client is someone coping with mental health challenges, such as anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and/or substance abuse. I specialize in Behavioral Activation - an evidenced based intervention for treating mood disorders and moving clients toward their goals. I also enjoy working with couples and families to help them communicate better and resolve interpersonal conflicts in a healthy way. I have been passionate about systemic couple and family therapy since becoming a therapist in 2019. I'm a certified Prepare-Enrich marital/premarital counselor and trained in the Gottman Method of couples therapy, with good outcomes.
My ideal client is someone coping with mental health challenges, such as anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and/or substance abuse. I specialize in Behavioral Activation - an evidenced based intervention for treating mood disorders and moving clients toward their goals. I also enjoy working with couples and families to help them communicate better and resolve interpersonal conflicts in a healthy way. I have been passionate about systemic couple and family therapy since becoming a therapist in 2019. I'm a certified Prepare-Enrich marital/premarital counselor and trained in the Gottman Method of couples therapy, with good outcomes.
(608) 336-3974 View (608) 336-3974
Photo of Mike Hebl, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kenosha County, WI
Mike Hebl
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Monona, WI 53713  (Online Only)
Life can be messy and often times we find the tools we possess are not up for the challenge. This is normal, although distressing nonetheless. It's my objective to create a welcoming space that fosters trust and respect. I have worked with individuals, families, and couples for over twenty years in a variety of settings. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with an addiction specialty, although I consider myself a generalist. I enjoy connecting with others, validating their experience, while also building skills and courage toward change.
Life can be messy and often times we find the tools we possess are not up for the challenge. This is normal, although distressing nonetheless. It's my objective to create a welcoming space that fosters trust and respect. I have worked with individuals, families, and couples for over twenty years in a variety of settings. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with an addiction specialty, although I consider myself a generalist. I enjoy connecting with others, validating their experience, while also building skills and courage toward change.
(608) 650-5090 View (608) 650-5090
Photo of Tyler Loomis, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kenosha County, WI
Tyler Loomis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Brookfield, WI 53005
Marriage therapy; Parenting concerns; Counseling for pastors; Fertility and adoption issues; Spiritual concerns, doubts and questions; Men's issues around communication, emotional health/intelligence, pornography and other addictive or problematic sexual issues; Grief and loss; anxiety; depression; addiction issues.
It's hard for most people to ask for help. I get that. But I am of the belief that there are two categories of people: those who could be helped by therapy and those who actually go out and try it. So, if you are stepping out, asking for help, and giving therapy a try - good for you for taking a risk. My goal right off the bat is to build trust with my clients. Regardless of the issue at hand, I believe the most important and powerful tool is to have a trusted relationship in your corner.
Marriage therapy; Parenting concerns; Counseling for pastors; Fertility and adoption issues; Spiritual concerns, doubts and questions; Men's issues around communication, emotional health/intelligence, pornography and other addictive or problematic sexual issues; Grief and loss; anxiety; depression; addiction issues.
It's hard for most people to ask for help. I get that. But I am of the belief that there are two categories of people: those who could be helped by therapy and those who actually go out and try it. So, if you are stepping out, asking for help, and giving therapy a try - good for you for taking a risk. My goal right off the bat is to build trust with my clients. Regardless of the issue at hand, I believe the most important and powerful tool is to have a trusted relationship in your corner.
(414) 422-8217 View (414) 422-8217
Photo of Dr. Jeff J. Rocker, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kenosha County, WI
Dr. Jeff J. Rocker
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, NCC, LPC, LMHC, LCPC
Verified Verified
in Marriage and Family therapy from Nova Southeastern University.
With 12 years of experience working with clients going through individual, relationship, and family issues, Celebrity Therapist Dr. Jeff Rocker has provided therapeutic services to clients nationwide. He is Licensed in 22 states and has served clients from all age groups. Over the years, Dr. Jeff has organized lectures and various events in the community, including excursions and retreats for couples to improve their communication and better understand each other. He has experience working with athletes in the NFL, NBA, and MLB. In addition, Dr. Jeff has also worked with clients in the Movie, Music, and Entertainment Industries.
in Marriage and Family therapy from Nova Southeastern University.
With 12 years of experience working with clients going through individual, relationship, and family issues, Celebrity Therapist Dr. Jeff Rocker has provided therapeutic services to clients nationwide. He is Licensed in 22 states and has served clients from all age groups. Over the years, Dr. Jeff has organized lectures and various events in the community, including excursions and retreats for couples to improve their communication and better understand each other. He has experience working with athletes in the NFL, NBA, and MLB. In addition, Dr. Jeff has also worked with clients in the Movie, Music, and Entertainment Industries.
(262) 384-6163 View (262) 384-6163
Photo of Phillip N Woods, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kenosha County, WI
Phillip N Woods
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53224
I understand the pain and heartache you may be dealing with whether it's trying to salvage a marriage or your own mental/emotional health.
Has your "I do" turned into "I'm not sure"? Or perhaps you've discovered the love you have for your spouse doesn't seem to be enough? Maybe feelings of emptiness are overpowering every area of your life? You want relief from those feelings of loneliness and emptiness, but it seems you can't seem to find it.
I understand the pain and heartache you may be dealing with whether it's trying to salvage a marriage or your own mental/emotional health.
Has your "I do" turned into "I'm not sure"? Or perhaps you've discovered the love you have for your spouse doesn't seem to be enough? Maybe feelings of emptiness are overpowering every area of your life? You want relief from those feelings of loneliness and emptiness, but it seems you can't seem to find it.
(414) 420-0194 View (414) 420-0194
Photo of Robert C. Hugl, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kenosha County, WI
Robert C. Hugl
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Greenfield, WI 53220
I have been practicing child, marriage and family therapy for the last 25+ years.
Is anger that goes out of control ruining your life? Is depression driving you into the ground? Is your family life not going right? I can help you find solutions for above by working together with you. Life can be very stressful given the speed and options of society today. Sometimes you can get lost in this and it causes a disruption in your mental health. It helps to get and objective resource to help you find your way back to feeling more emotionally sound and in better control of your life.
I have been practicing child, marriage and family therapy for the last 25+ years.
Is anger that goes out of control ruining your life? Is depression driving you into the ground? Is your family life not going right? I can help you find solutions for above by working together with you. Life can be very stressful given the speed and options of society today. Sometimes you can get lost in this and it causes a disruption in your mental health. It helps to get and objective resource to help you find your way back to feeling more emotionally sound and in better control of your life.
(414) 982-1171 View (414) 982-1171
Photo of Paul M Smerz, Psychologist in Kenosha County, WI
Paul M Smerz
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53217
I also specialize in marital/couples therapy to help manage conflicts more effectively and develop a more transformational relationship with your partner.
As a clinical psychologist I strive to provide a transformative experience that not only resolves the symptoms and issues that brought you to treatment, but also develops deeper insight and awareness that promotes lasting change. I work to collaborate with you to develop a plan for continued growth that reflects your life-long plans, goals, and unmet needs. To that end, I strive to facilitate an experience for you of change in those aspects of your life that are most meaningful to you, including your inner world, relationships, spiritual beliefs, work life and world views.
I also specialize in marital/couples therapy to help manage conflicts more effectively and develop a more transformational relationship with your partner.
As a clinical psychologist I strive to provide a transformative experience that not only resolves the symptoms and issues that brought you to treatment, but also develops deeper insight and awareness that promotes lasting change. I work to collaborate with you to develop a plan for continued growth that reflects your life-long plans, goals, and unmet needs. To that end, I strive to facilitate an experience for you of change in those aspects of your life that are most meaningful to you, including your inner world, relationships, spiritual beliefs, work life and world views.
(414) 905-3081 x470 View (414) 905-3081 x470
Photo of Kurt Buehring - Marriage Counselor, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kenosha County, WI
Kurt Buehring - Marriage Counselor
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53713
I specialize in marital and relationship counseling and have helped countless couples to resolve old wounds and communicate in new ways that foster safety, connection, and intimacy.
Relationships aren't always easy... At times they may be our greatest source of ease and joy, but every couple knows that they can also be our greatest source of frustration and struggle. You may be asking yourself, "How did we get here?" or "How are we ever going to make this better?" Reaching out for help may not be easy either, but it's an acknowledgment that your happiness and your relationship are worth fighting for, and that's a good place to start. I'll help you to 1) Look with clarity at what has come between you, and 2) Do the vital work to rebuild trust, understanding, love, and intimacy in your relationship.
I specialize in marital and relationship counseling and have helped countless couples to resolve old wounds and communicate in new ways that foster safety, connection, and intimacy.
Relationships aren't always easy... At times they may be our greatest source of ease and joy, but every couple knows that they can also be our greatest source of frustration and struggle. You may be asking yourself, "How did we get here?" or "How are we ever going to make this better?" Reaching out for help may not be easy either, but it's an acknowledgment that your happiness and your relationship are worth fighting for, and that's a good place to start. I'll help you to 1) Look with clarity at what has come between you, and 2) Do the vital work to rebuild trust, understanding, love, and intimacy in your relationship.
(608) 719-4229 View (608) 719-4229
Photo of David Robert Ordan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kenosha County, WI
David Robert Ordan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, Psi Chi
Verified Verified
Mequon, WI 53097
What was their home like? How did it affect the way you relate to love and marriage? Do either of you carry scars from past traumas? • How do your personalities match – or not match - because of your past? • What do you and your partner need to be happy?.
Life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness! We all want this. We all deserve this. Especially in our romantic relationships. So why do things go wrong? Lack of communication. The good news is, loving communication is a skill that can be learned. Even after years of feeling stuck. When couples learn to talk about issues in a loving way, their whole relationship improves. (Yes, even in the bedroom!) Here's what we'll cover in counseling: • How to bring up a problem that’s bothering you. • How to listen with an open heart. • How to make sure your partner feels heard. • How to come together to create solutions.
What was their home like? How did it affect the way you relate to love and marriage? Do either of you carry scars from past traumas? • How do your personalities match – or not match - because of your past? • What do you and your partner need to be happy?.
Life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness! We all want this. We all deserve this. Especially in our romantic relationships. So why do things go wrong? Lack of communication. The good news is, loving communication is a skill that can be learned. Even after years of feeling stuck. When couples learn to talk about issues in a loving way, their whole relationship improves. (Yes, even in the bedroom!) Here's what we'll cover in counseling: • How to bring up a problem that’s bothering you. • How to listen with an open heart. • How to make sure your partner feels heard. • How to come together to create solutions.
(262) 228-2588 View (262) 228-2588
Photo of David Phelps, Psychologist in Kenosha County, WI
David Phelps
Psychologist, PhD, LP, MSHR
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53202
I also work with same- and opposite-sex couples seeking to address a variety of problems and goals, including: relationship difficulties; conflict; lack of intimacy/feeling disconnected; infidelity, separation, divorce; disagreements about values, important life decisions, parenting style; improving communication; building a strong, loving relationship; adjusting to life events (marriage, cohabitation, child birth, etc.
My approach to psychotherapy is focused on building a strong and collaborative relationship with you, the client, working with you to provide immediate symptom relief and make sustainable change. My style is warm, curious, and engaged. I provide a safe and confidential space for you to share your story. I am influenced by the psychodynamic tradition, focusing on how you relate to yourself and others. As you begin to feel understood, accepted, and more deeply known in therapy, a trusting therapeutic relationship develops. This results in greater self-understanding and leads to change, including immediate symptom relief and longer-term transformation.
I also work with same- and opposite-sex couples seeking to address a variety of problems and goals, including: relationship difficulties; conflict; lack of intimacy/feeling disconnected; infidelity, separation, divorce; disagreements about values, important life decisions, parenting style; improving communication; building a strong, loving relationship; adjusting to life events (marriage, cohabitation, child birth, etc.
My approach to psychotherapy is focused on building a strong and collaborative relationship with you, the client, working with you to provide immediate symptom relief and make sustainable change. My style is warm, curious, and engaged. I provide a safe and confidential space for you to share your story. I am influenced by the psychodynamic tradition, focusing on how you relate to yourself and others. As you begin to feel understood, accepted, and more deeply known in therapy, a trusting therapeutic relationship develops. This results in greater self-understanding and leads to change, including immediate symptom relief and longer-term transformation.
(414) 877-6608 View (414) 877-6608
Photo of David C Low, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kenosha County, WI
David C Low
Marriage & Family Therapist, MSE, MA, LPC, LMFT-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53217
I am Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) specifically trained to provide couples counseling, family therapy and mediation.
Are you concerned that your relationship is drifting apart and you can't seem to get back that romantic love, friendship, closeness, emotional connection, comfort, support, and intimacy? Do you feel stuck again and again in similar misunderstanding and hurtful arguments, not being able to resolve your differences? Have your efforts to solve your relationship problems left you feeling so resentful, checked out, disheartened, disappointed and worn down and you are realizing that you are tired of feeling so alone and don't want to keep living like this? If you answered, “yes” to any of the above, I would like to help.
I am Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) specifically trained to provide couples counseling, family therapy and mediation.
Are you concerned that your relationship is drifting apart and you can't seem to get back that romantic love, friendship, closeness, emotional connection, comfort, support, and intimacy? Do you feel stuck again and again in similar misunderstanding and hurtful arguments, not being able to resolve your differences? Have your efforts to solve your relationship problems left you feeling so resentful, checked out, disheartened, disappointed and worn down and you are realizing that you are tired of feeling so alone and don't want to keep living like this? If you answered, “yes” to any of the above, I would like to help.
(414) 939-9645 View (414) 939-9645

See more therapy options for Kenosha County

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.