Photo of Advanced Counseling and Research Services, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kutztown, PA
Advanced Counseling and Research Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC-FL, CCMHC, CCTP, CT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kutztown, PA 19530
Advanced Counseling and Research Services provides a comprehensive array of professional counseling services to the greater Lancaster community. In general terms, these clinical services help clients address problematic issues in their lives that are impacting on their daily lives. Throughout the counseling experience, the counselor and client work collaboratively to address problems presented by the client. The overall purpose of counseling can be summarized in the following objectives: To identify the problematic issues facing each individual client seeking counseling. To identify secondary issues contributing to problem.
Advanced Counseling and Research Services provides a comprehensive array of professional counseling services to the greater Lancaster community. In general terms, these clinical services help clients address problematic issues in their lives that are impacting on their daily lives. Throughout the counseling experience, the counselor and client work collaboratively to address problems presented by the client. The overall purpose of counseling can be summarized in the following objectives: To identify the problematic issues facing each individual client seeking counseling. To identify secondary issues contributing to problem.
(717) 964-8581 View (717) 964-8581

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Richard Joseph Loeb, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kutztown, PA
Richard Joseph Loeb
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
Maxatawny, PA 19538
I provide a safe and ethical practice that embraces individuality. My capacities are teacher, mentor, guardian, cheer leader, back-board, and many others. I present in reality and genuinely so.. Change and grow are possible in most cases. Client / patent focus in a holistic, comprehensive manner.
I provide a safe and ethical practice that embraces individuality. My capacities are teacher, mentor, guardian, cheer leader, back-board, and many others. I present in reality and genuinely so.. Change and grow are possible in most cases. Client / patent focus in a holistic, comprehensive manner.
(610) 624-6627 View (610) 624-6627
Photo of Mind Matters Counseling & Psychological Assocs, Psychologist in Kutztown, PA
Mind Matters Counseling & Psychological Assocs
Psychologist, PsyD, LCSW, NCSP, ABSNP
Verified Verified
Allentown, PA 18106
Our vision at Mind Matters Coaching, Counseling & Psychological Associates, LLC is to help bring growth, healing, and peace of mind to people who struggle with matters of the mind. We have caring, compassionate, experienced, credentialed, and licensed professionals who are both doctoral level psychologists and master's level clinicians. We provide individual, family, and couples counseling, life coaching, child and adolescent therapy, EMDR, educational, psychological, and forensic testing and evaluations, career coaching, and consultation for both individuals and businesses.
Our vision at Mind Matters Coaching, Counseling & Psychological Associates, LLC is to help bring growth, healing, and peace of mind to people who struggle with matters of the mind. We have caring, compassionate, experienced, credentialed, and licensed professionals who are both doctoral level psychologists and master's level clinicians. We provide individual, family, and couples counseling, life coaching, child and adolescent therapy, EMDR, educational, psychological, and forensic testing and evaluations, career coaching, and consultation for both individuals and businesses.
(610) 816-6232 View (610) 816-6232
Photo of Mind Matters , Psychologist in Kutztown, PA
Mind Matters
Psychologist, PsyD, LCSW, NCSP, ABSNP
Verified Verified
Allentown, PA 18106
Our vision at Mind Matters Coaching, Counseling & Psychological Associates, LLC is to help bring growth, healing, and peace of mind to people who struggle with matters of the mind. We have caring, compassionate, experienced, credentialed, and licensed professionals who are both doctoral level psychologists and master's level clinicians. We provide individual, family, and couples counseling, life coaching, child and adolescent therapy, EMDR, educational, psychological, and forensic testing and evaluations, career coaching, and consultation for both individuals and businesses.
Our vision at Mind Matters Coaching, Counseling & Psychological Associates, LLC is to help bring growth, healing, and peace of mind to people who struggle with matters of the mind. We have caring, compassionate, experienced, credentialed, and licensed professionals who are both doctoral level psychologists and master's level clinicians. We provide individual, family, and couples counseling, life coaching, child and adolescent therapy, EMDR, educational, psychological, and forensic testing and evaluations, career coaching, and consultation for both individuals and businesses.
(610) 595-5762 View (610) 595-5762
Christy Yerk-Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Breinigsville, PA 18031
Waitlist for new clients
Skilled in relating to adolescents/ adults. Mental health and adjustment, personal growth/ quality of life issues. Solution-focused, brief approach. Humanistic/ strengths-based approach.
Skilled in relating to adolescents/ adults. Mental health and adjustment, personal growth/ quality of life issues. Solution-focused, brief approach. Humanistic/ strengths-based approach.
(610) 915-8235 View (610) 915-8235

Online Therapists

Photo of Maria Ulmer, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kutztown, PA
Maria Ulmer
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CAADC
Verified Verified
Doylestown, PA 18901
In my ideal client, I envision someone seeking support for improving communication and resolving conflicts within their family, marriage or relationships. They may be navigating issues such as relationship strain, parenting challenges, or coping with life transitions. Their needs include a safe space for open dialogue, empathy, and guidance to enhance interpersonal dynamics. Goals often revolve around fostering healthier relationships, developing coping strategies, and achieving emotional well-being. Ultimately, they desire positive change and connection within their family and relationships.
In my ideal client, I envision someone seeking support for improving communication and resolving conflicts within their family, marriage or relationships. They may be navigating issues such as relationship strain, parenting challenges, or coping with life transitions. Their needs include a safe space for open dialogue, empathy, and guidance to enhance interpersonal dynamics. Goals often revolve around fostering healthier relationships, developing coping strategies, and achieving emotional well-being. Ultimately, they desire positive change and connection within their family and relationships.
(267) 641-8509 View (267) 641-8509
Photo of Debra Lynn Thompson-Knepper, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kutztown, PA
Debra Lynn Thompson-Knepper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC, CCPG
Verified Verified
Pine Grove, PA 17963
Debra Thompson-Knepper has over 20 years experience working with people who have mental illness and addictions. She believes that it is the therapist's responsibility to have as many therapeutic tools as possible to share with clients to help them achieve their goals. Whether it's development of insight to know the self better and live more successfully or targeted therapy to address a specific marital or individual issue, Debbie shares all her knowledge and tools for your success. Good therapy is built on the client's relationship with the therapist and this is the foundation of all growth.
Debra Thompson-Knepper has over 20 years experience working with people who have mental illness and addictions. She believes that it is the therapist's responsibility to have as many therapeutic tools as possible to share with clients to help them achieve their goals. Whether it's development of insight to know the self better and live more successfully or targeted therapy to address a specific marital or individual issue, Debbie shares all her knowledge and tools for your success. Good therapy is built on the client's relationship with the therapist and this is the foundation of all growth.
(570) 234-3476 View (570) 234-3476
Photo of Valerie Palencar, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kutztown, PA
Valerie Palencar, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Pittston, PA 18640
Hello! I work with my clients using a Cognitive Behavioral, Psychoanalytic, Solution Focused Approach. Solution Focused means we try to solve issues and problems as soon as possible. I am also a trauma specialist and have worked with military and domestic violence victims for many years. Trauma is relative to each individual and shouldn't be compared. And there are ways to heal and thrive! I also work with sexual addiction, childhood behavioral issues, depression and anxiety, chronic pain, career coaching, and all female issues. I also offer premarital and marital counseling.
Hello! I work with my clients using a Cognitive Behavioral, Psychoanalytic, Solution Focused Approach. Solution Focused means we try to solve issues and problems as soon as possible. I am also a trauma specialist and have worked with military and domestic violence victims for many years. Trauma is relative to each individual and shouldn't be compared. And there are ways to heal and thrive! I also work with sexual addiction, childhood behavioral issues, depression and anxiety, chronic pain, career coaching, and all female issues. I also offer premarital and marital counseling.
(917) 821-6645 View (917) 821-6645
Photo of Florrie Fisher, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kutztown, PA
Florrie Fisher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW
Verified Verified
Southampton, PA 18966
I provide individual psychotherapy, marriage or couples therapy and grief and bereavement counseling.
Are you feeling tired, overwhelmed, angry, or confused? Is there a change in your appetite? Are you having trouble sleeping? Talking with an experienced therapist will help you sort out and clarify issue(s)for change and a more satisfying life. I have over 25 years of experience helping individuals deal with depression and anxiety related to relationships, transitions in life, health, and loss of a loved one or a pet. I also assist people deal with issues related to aging.
I provide individual psychotherapy, marriage or couples therapy and grief and bereavement counseling.
Are you feeling tired, overwhelmed, angry, or confused? Is there a change in your appetite? Are you having trouble sleeping? Talking with an experienced therapist will help you sort out and clarify issue(s)for change and a more satisfying life. I have over 25 years of experience helping individuals deal with depression and anxiety related to relationships, transitions in life, health, and loss of a loved one or a pet. I also assist people deal with issues related to aging.
(215) 600-4759 View (215) 600-4759
Photo of Dr. David Pulley in Kutztown, PA
Dr. David Pulley
PsyD
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004
Dr. David Pulley "Dr. Dave" earned his bachelor's in psychology from Howard University in DC and obtained both his Master's and Doctorate from Chestnut Hill College in PA. His Doctorate degree is in Clinical Psychology with a concentration in Marriage and Family Therapy and a specialization in the subject of Soul Mates. As a result, he is known as an expert on soul mates and a pioneer of some of the clinically based models and theories on the subject. Dr. Pulley has created a team of clinical consultants (Tender Loving Care Clinical Consultations) who provide psychologically based consultative support for their client base.
Dr. David Pulley "Dr. Dave" earned his bachelor's in psychology from Howard University in DC and obtained both his Master's and Doctorate from Chestnut Hill College in PA. His Doctorate degree is in Clinical Psychology with a concentration in Marriage and Family Therapy and a specialization in the subject of Soul Mates. As a result, he is known as an expert on soul mates and a pioneer of some of the clinically based models and theories on the subject. Dr. Pulley has created a team of clinical consultants (Tender Loving Care Clinical Consultations) who provide psychologically based consultative support for their client base.
(610) 564-9804 View (610) 564-9804
Photo of Bob DeYoung, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kutztown, PA
Bob DeYoung
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, EdS, EdD
Verified Verified
Milford, PA 18337
I am a non-traditional Therapist, in the field of Mental Health, Family Therapy and Addictions since 1978. I was a Licensed Forensic Psychologist for 16 years, as well as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselor,Gambling Counselor, and BCIA-certified Biofeedback Therapist. I continue to maintain a Mental Health License in both New York and Pennsylvania. I am an author, Father and Grandfather who believes in "practicing what I preach," and applying a lot of "Common Sense." Learn more about me at: www.DrBobDeYoung.com , or simply give me a call.
I am a non-traditional Therapist, in the field of Mental Health, Family Therapy and Addictions since 1978. I was a Licensed Forensic Psychologist for 16 years, as well as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselor,Gambling Counselor, and BCIA-certified Biofeedback Therapist. I continue to maintain a Mental Health License in both New York and Pennsylvania. I am an author, Father and Grandfather who believes in "practicing what I preach," and applying a lot of "Common Sense." Learn more about me at: www.DrBobDeYoung.com , or simply give me a call.
(570) 904-2152 View (570) 904-2152
Photo of Laurie E. Berman, Psychologist in Kutztown, PA
Laurie E. Berman
Psychologist, MS
Verified Verified
Lansdale, PA 19446
I conduct individual counseling, as well as family and marital/couples therapy.
I am not accepting new patients at this time. My schedule is full right now. I am a licensed Psychologist who has been in practice for 35 years. My clients feel secure so that they can address their intimate, personal concerns. I am goal directed, helping people identify what they want to accomplish. I am kind, direct and straightforward. Most people allow their past to define their future. I am committed to assisting people in creating a healthy future. I teach my clients how to resolve their past. Then, their future is limitless. Each person is then able to see their world with more hope and optimism.
I conduct individual counseling, as well as family and marital/couples therapy.
I am not accepting new patients at this time. My schedule is full right now. I am a licensed Psychologist who has been in practice for 35 years. My clients feel secure so that they can address their intimate, personal concerns. I am goal directed, helping people identify what they want to accomplish. I am kind, direct and straightforward. Most people allow their past to define their future. I am committed to assisting people in creating a healthy future. I teach my clients how to resolve their past. Then, their future is limitless. Each person is then able to see their world with more hope and optimism.
(215) 515-8027 View (215) 515-8027
Photo of Timothy P Boyle, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kutztown, PA
Timothy P Boyle
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CAADC, CIP
Verified Verified
Paoli, PA 19301
Is alcohol causing problems in your life? Is your substance use causing problems in your life (such as marital, family, relationship, job, legal, relationship) I am here to help you get through them. I will end the insanity. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CAADC), and a Certified Intervention Professional (CIP). I achieved my Master's degree in Addictions Counseling from Villanova University. I have over 39 years in recovery and 35 years experience as a substance use counselor. I help men, women and families who struggle with drugs and alcohol. Call me now!
Is alcohol causing problems in your life? Is your substance use causing problems in your life (such as marital, family, relationship, job, legal, relationship) I am here to help you get through them. I will end the insanity. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CAADC), and a Certified Intervention Professional (CIP). I achieved my Master's degree in Addictions Counseling from Villanova University. I have over 39 years in recovery and 35 years experience as a substance use counselor. I help men, women and families who struggle with drugs and alcohol. Call me now!
(484) 214-2171 View (484) 214-2171
Photo of The Family Wellness Center, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kutztown, PA
The Family Wellness Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MATS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17109  (Online Only)
Deborah Coulston, MA, MATS, CIMHP, LMFT, is an experienced professional psychotherapist, marital and family therapist, expressive arts therapist, and pioneer in the field of nutrition psychology, integrative mental health and alternative health modalities. Ms. Coulston is well known for her work in the treatment field of eating disorders & weight management, and for her expertise in both childhood and adult trauma, as well as the field of behavioral addictions. As the owner of The Family Wellness Center, she brings a diversified background to the practice of expressive arts therapy, clinical counseling, & holistic psychotherapy.
Deborah Coulston, MA, MATS, CIMHP, LMFT, is an experienced professional psychotherapist, marital and family therapist, expressive arts therapist, and pioneer in the field of nutrition psychology, integrative mental health and alternative health modalities. Ms. Coulston is well known for her work in the treatment field of eating disorders & weight management, and for her expertise in both childhood and adult trauma, as well as the field of behavioral addictions. As the owner of The Family Wellness Center, she brings a diversified background to the practice of expressive arts therapy, clinical counseling, & holistic psychotherapy.
(717) 229-0492 x1 View (717) 229-0492 x1
Photo of David P. Wingert, Pre-Licensed Professional in Kutztown, PA
David P. Wingert
Pre-Licensed Professional, MAMFT, JD
Verified Verified
Palmyra, PA 17078
OUR CLIENTS Adults Adolescents Children Couples Families PRACTICE AREAS Abuse Addiction Anxiety Attachment issues Conflict Depression Divorce Family conflict Grief and loss Marital conflict Parenting issues Premarital counseling PTSD Relationship issues Sexual abuse Trauma.
Life is complex, full of roles and relationships with many moving parts. When one of those parts is out of alignment or missing altogether, our well-being—emotional, social, physical, and spiritual—breaks down. We can fall into a rut, one marked by issues like anxiety and depression, stress, unresolved conflict, and rage. I am here to help clients: couples, men, women, with their opportunity to strive to find direction, healing, and their authentic self.
OUR CLIENTS Adults Adolescents Children Couples Families PRACTICE AREAS Abuse Addiction Anxiety Attachment issues Conflict Depression Divorce Family conflict Grief and loss Marital conflict Parenting issues Premarital counseling PTSD Relationship issues Sexual abuse Trauma.
Life is complex, full of roles and relationships with many moving parts. When one of those parts is out of alignment or missing altogether, our well-being—emotional, social, physical, and spiritual—breaks down. We can fall into a rut, one marked by issues like anxiety and depression, stress, unresolved conflict, and rage. I am here to help clients: couples, men, women, with their opportunity to strive to find direction, healing, and their authentic self.
(717) 546-8759 View (717) 546-8759
Photo of Robert J Moore, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kutztown, PA
Robert J Moore
Licensed Professional Counselor, MDiv, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plymouth Meeting, PA 19462
My specialties include marital and pre-marital therapy, parenting, trauma therapies, (EMDR and Brain-Spotting), DBT, enneagram type, and a fusion of spiritual/Christian/Biblical perspectives and traditional therapy that is available to the patient as appropriate.
Having extensive experience, I use empirically supported therapies, and have treated a wide range of ages as well as the most serious disorders. It is my belief that salient therapy treats a client in 3 different directions: top-down (spiritual dimension), inside out (healing of memories), and outside-in (Cognitive-Behavioral and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy). After a thorough assessment, I would identify with my client, determine problems on which to work, set appropriate goals, and determine the correct therapeutic intervention(s) to be used. Meeting those goals would be a therapeutic benchmark throughout the therapy.
My specialties include marital and pre-marital therapy, parenting, trauma therapies, (EMDR and Brain-Spotting), DBT, enneagram type, and a fusion of spiritual/Christian/Biblical perspectives and traditional therapy that is available to the patient as appropriate.
Having extensive experience, I use empirically supported therapies, and have treated a wide range of ages as well as the most serious disorders. It is my belief that salient therapy treats a client in 3 different directions: top-down (spiritual dimension), inside out (healing of memories), and outside-in (Cognitive-Behavioral and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy). After a thorough assessment, I would identify with my client, determine problems on which to work, set appropriate goals, and determine the correct therapeutic intervention(s) to be used. Meeting those goals would be a therapeutic benchmark throughout the therapy.
(215) 642-0949 View (215) 642-0949
Photo of Robin Axelrod Sabag, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kutztown, PA
Robin Axelrod Sabag
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Washington, PA 19034
I am a licensed clinical social worker and received post graduate training in marriage and family therapy at the Council for Relationships.
As a therapist, I value and create a safe, warm, non-judgmental, and empathetic environment for individuals, couples, and families to explore underlying issues. I realize that coming to see a therapist and opening up is an act of trust and not always easy. In your work with me, I hope you will feel accepted and understood and experience our work as an ongoing process that we co-create. If we work together, you can expect to gain a better understanding of yourself and of meaningful people in your life. My areas of expertise include: eating disorders, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, moodiness, trauma, and addiction.
I am a licensed clinical social worker and received post graduate training in marriage and family therapy at the Council for Relationships.
As a therapist, I value and create a safe, warm, non-judgmental, and empathetic environment for individuals, couples, and families to explore underlying issues. I realize that coming to see a therapist and opening up is an act of trust and not always easy. In your work with me, I hope you will feel accepted and understood and experience our work as an ongoing process that we co-create. If we work together, you can expect to gain a better understanding of yourself and of meaningful people in your life. My areas of expertise include: eating disorders, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, moodiness, trauma, and addiction.
(215) 995-1199 View (215) 995-1199
Photo of Soul Transformation LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kutztown, PA
Soul Transformation LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, MDiv, CTCP, CAMS-I
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19144  (Online Only)
There are many reasons you may be seeking therapy — marital and familial conflict, grief & loss, anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, self-esteem, sexual abuse, domestic violence, or relationships are among the most common reasons. Perhaps you have asked yourself questions such as “how long will this pain last?” “when will I be good enough?” “how can I learn to love myself” “Why me?’ "How do I get out?" I want you to know you are not alone! Together we can explore your needs. You want to be happy, let's explore the barriers keeping you from living the best version of you. You need tools to navigate life, let's create a road map.
There are many reasons you may be seeking therapy — marital and familial conflict, grief & loss, anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, self-esteem, sexual abuse, domestic violence, or relationships are among the most common reasons. Perhaps you have asked yourself questions such as “how long will this pain last?” “when will I be good enough?” “how can I learn to love myself” “Why me?’ "How do I get out?" I want you to know you are not alone! Together we can explore your needs. You want to be happy, let's explore the barriers keeping you from living the best version of you. You need tools to navigate life, let's create a road map.
(215) 770-3917 View (215) 770-3917
Photo of Tiffany Griffiths, Psy.D. & Associates, Inc., Psychologist in Kutztown, PA
Tiffany Griffiths, Psy.D. & Associates, Inc.
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Dunmore, PA 18512
Our specialties and interests include: Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), trauma resolution, pain management, testing and assessment, interpersonal issues, GLBTQ issues, women's issues, sexual issues, substance abuse and recovery, marital and family issues, childhood disorders, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and personal growth.
I have worked to create an integrated, evidence-based, and holistic group practice where my vision of the ideal environment for growth can unfold. The associates in the practice have diverse backgrounds, interests, and training. No matter what problem or difficulty with which you present, someone in our group can assist you. We have cultivated an environment of peace, warmth, and acceptance to assure you will be respected, unconditionally.
Our specialties and interests include: Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), trauma resolution, pain management, testing and assessment, interpersonal issues, GLBTQ issues, women's issues, sexual issues, substance abuse and recovery, marital and family issues, childhood disorders, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and personal growth.
I have worked to create an integrated, evidence-based, and holistic group practice where my vision of the ideal environment for growth can unfold. The associates in the practice have diverse backgrounds, interests, and training. No matter what problem or difficulty with which you present, someone in our group can assist you. We have cultivated an environment of peace, warmth, and acceptance to assure you will be respected, unconditionally.
(570) 560-6579 View (570) 560-6579
Photo of Weicker, Pre-Licensed Professional in Kutztown, PA
Weicker
Pre-Licensed Professional, MD*, MBA, CCTP
Verified Verified
Sinking Spring, PA 19608
She is currently a Marital and Family Therapist; she conducts individual therapy, as well as therapy with families and couples using the Gottman Method.
Dr. Weicker was originally trained as a medical doctor " La Sapienza" University of Rome Italy in 1988. After moving to the United States in 1989, she embarked upon a new career in brain and colon cancer research at RI Hospital- Brown University for 4 years and a Thomas Jefferson for 2 years. Dr. Weicker also has been a College Professor in Anatomy and Physiology Pathophysiology, Nutrition and Herbs and Medicine college courses for 20 years, Penn State, Alvernia University, and Lehigh Carbon Community College. She has since earned a Master's Degree in Health Care from Alvernia University in 2004
She is currently a Marital and Family Therapist; she conducts individual therapy, as well as therapy with families and couples using the Gottman Method.
Dr. Weicker was originally trained as a medical doctor " La Sapienza" University of Rome Italy in 1988. After moving to the United States in 1989, she embarked upon a new career in brain and colon cancer research at RI Hospital- Brown University for 4 years and a Thomas Jefferson for 2 years. Dr. Weicker also has been a College Professor in Anatomy and Physiology Pathophysiology, Nutrition and Herbs and Medicine college courses for 20 years, Penn State, Alvernia University, and Lehigh Carbon Community College. She has since earned a Master's Degree in Health Care from Alvernia University in 2004
(610) 670-8800 View (610) 670-8800

See more therapy options for Kutztown

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.