Photo of Thomas Wood, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Milwaukee County, WI
Thomas Wood
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bayside, WI 53217  (Online Only)
My experiences of marriage, parenthood, divorce, and career change give me a first-hand understanding of the challenges of life.
I help people who are navigating life and career transitions, men who are dealing with depression and anxiety, and relatives who are facing the emotional pain of estrangement. I will help you find your inner strength and the power you need to move forward with emotional health and inner peace.
My experiences of marriage, parenthood, divorce, and career change give me a first-hand understanding of the challenges of life.
I help people who are navigating life and career transitions, men who are dealing with depression and anxiety, and relatives who are facing the emotional pain of estrangement. I will help you find your inner strength and the power you need to move forward with emotional health and inner peace.
(262) 205-7237 View (262) 205-7237
Photo of Psychological Associates, Psychologist in Milwaukee County, WI
Psychological Associates
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Wauwatosa, WI 53226
I specialize in objective diagnosis and treatment of ADHD, behavior disorders, mood disorders, trauma therapy through EMDR and marital therapy.
I am dedicated to the preservation of the family and eclectic in my approach to treatment, working to help families and individuals return to normalcy through individual, family and marital therapy. I believe in doing a comprehensive initial evaluation in order to best identify sources of emotional distress as well as psychological issues in play which may be interfering with the individual's optimal functioning.
I specialize in objective diagnosis and treatment of ADHD, behavior disorders, mood disorders, trauma therapy through EMDR and marital therapy.
I am dedicated to the preservation of the family and eclectic in my approach to treatment, working to help families and individuals return to normalcy through individual, family and marital therapy. I believe in doing a comprehensive initial evaluation in order to best identify sources of emotional distress as well as psychological issues in play which may be interfering with the individual's optimal functioning.
(414) 622-1745 x1 View (414) 622-1745 x1
Photo of AMRI Counseling Services, Counselor in Milwaukee County, WI
AMRI Counseling Services
Counselor, PhD, DSW, LPC, CSAC, CTTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53216
Services include Mental Health Counseling, Substance Abuse Counseling, Drug & Alcohol Testing, Marriage & Family Therapy, Anger Management, Medical & Medication Services, Pharmacy Services, Daily Living Skills, Parenting, Offender Reentry Programs and more.
Providing Quality Mental Health Counseling, Alcohol and Drug Counseling, medical/medication services, pharmacy services, and family support services such as housing, daily living skills, educational/ academic services, parenting and nurturing to children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. ***We accept most ALL insurances and private pay*** Call us at 414-455-3879 or email us at clinic@amricounseling.com to schedule an appointment.
Services include Mental Health Counseling, Substance Abuse Counseling, Drug & Alcohol Testing, Marriage & Family Therapy, Anger Management, Medical & Medication Services, Pharmacy Services, Daily Living Skills, Parenting, Offender Reentry Programs and more.
Providing Quality Mental Health Counseling, Alcohol and Drug Counseling, medical/medication services, pharmacy services, and family support services such as housing, daily living skills, educational/ academic services, parenting and nurturing to children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. ***We accept most ALL insurances and private pay*** Call us at 414-455-3879 or email us at clinic@amricounseling.com to schedule an appointment.
(414) 501-7312 x801 View (414) 501-7312 x801
Photo of Paul M Smerz, Psychologist in Milwaukee 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 David Phelps, Psychologist in Milwaukee 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 Dr. Joanne L. Barian Psy.D.HP. (Dr. Jo), Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Milwaukee County, WI
Dr. Joanne L. Barian Psy.D.HP. (Dr. Jo)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PsyDHP, MSW, LCSW, NCCAP, AAMFT
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53227  (Online Only)
I am currently practicing as an MSW, LCSW, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, w/ a specialization in Marriage & Family Therapy, & a sub-specialty in substance abuse issues & addiction.
Surrender to what is, let go of what was, have faith in what will be. Creating profound Peace, Love, Deep Fulfillment, & Spiritual Transformation and tapping into one's natural born potential. It Is Never Too Late To Be What You Were Meant To Become. BE – The best version of your Highest Self DO – The next “right thing” in becoming your “Authentic Self." HAVE – A new found freedom within yourself, to create the peace, love, happiness & fulfillment.
I am currently practicing as an MSW, LCSW, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, w/ a specialization in Marriage & Family Therapy, & a sub-specialty in substance abuse issues & addiction.
Surrender to what is, let go of what was, have faith in what will be. Creating profound Peace, Love, Deep Fulfillment, & Spiritual Transformation and tapping into one's natural born potential. It Is Never Too Late To Be What You Were Meant To Become. BE – The best version of your Highest Self DO – The next “right thing” in becoming your “Authentic Self." HAVE – A new found freedom within yourself, to create the peace, love, happiness & fulfillment.
(414) 501-2759 View (414) 501-2759
Photo of Mehwish Aqueel, Licensed Professional Counselor in Milwaukee County, WI
Mehwish Aqueel
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LPC, MSc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53221
I have indepth experience and training in DBT Dialectical Behavior Therapy for treatment of Depression, Anxiety, Mood Disorder, ADHD, PTSD, Trauma, Grief, Self-esteem, Stress, Anger-Management, Marriage Counseling, Parenting, Interpersonal Skills Development & Addiction.
“A JOURNEY OF A THOUSAND MILES BEGINS WITH A SINGLE STEP” (Tao Te Ching) I am a National Board Certified Counselor specialized in Evidence Based Treatment. My treatment philosophy is to help Adolescents, Adults and families manage stressful life situations, relational stressors, embrace change, acceptance and meet challenging goals.
I have indepth experience and training in DBT Dialectical Behavior Therapy for treatment of Depression, Anxiety, Mood Disorder, ADHD, PTSD, Trauma, Grief, Self-esteem, Stress, Anger-Management, Marriage Counseling, Parenting, Interpersonal Skills Development & Addiction.
“A JOURNEY OF A THOUSAND MILES BEGINS WITH A SINGLE STEP” (Tao Te Ching) I am a National Board Certified Counselor specialized in Evidence Based Treatment. My treatment philosophy is to help Adolescents, Adults and families manage stressful life situations, relational stressors, embrace change, acceptance and meet challenging goals.
(414) 246-5601 View (414) 246-5601
Photo of Kayla Veness, Marriage & Family Therapist in Milwaukee County, WI
Kayla Veness
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53215
Hello! My name is Kayla Veness and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of Wisconsin. My approach is gentle yet direct within session so that my clients can feel validated and reach their personal mental health goals. I find great joy working with a variety of clients and I especially enjoy working with couples or adult women.
Hello! My name is Kayla Veness and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of Wisconsin. My approach is gentle yet direct within session so that my clients can feel validated and reach their personal mental health goals. I find great joy working with a variety of clients and I especially enjoy working with couples or adult women.
(414) 667-6790 View (414) 667-6790
Photo of Cedar Lake Counseling in Milwaukee County, WI
Cedar Lake Counseling
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53217
Additional clinical focus areas include men's and women's issues, co-dependency, anger, panic disorder, marriage and family issues, life transitions, career, addictions (substances, pornography, sex, gambling), personality issues, divorce recovery, grief/loss, ADHD, school and social adjustment and more.
FREE PHONE CONSULTATIONS WITH DR. BLOEMER* will help establish your appointment with a best-fit therapist among our twelve therapists, who possess up to 30 years of experience. Specializations include Advanced Therapies (Brain-based treatment) for complex trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, emotional pain, addictions and more. As symptom relief is achieved as quickly as possible, we assist in helping you improve your significant relationships and support your efforts toward achieving holistic awareness, life balance, and meaningful, personal growth.
Additional clinical focus areas include men's and women's issues, co-dependency, anger, panic disorder, marriage and family issues, life transitions, career, addictions (substances, pornography, sex, gambling), personality issues, divorce recovery, grief/loss, ADHD, school and social adjustment and more.
FREE PHONE CONSULTATIONS WITH DR. BLOEMER* will help establish your appointment with a best-fit therapist among our twelve therapists, who possess up to 30 years of experience. Specializations include Advanced Therapies (Brain-based treatment) for complex trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, emotional pain, addictions and more. As symptom relief is achieved as quickly as possible, we assist in helping you improve your significant relationships and support your efforts toward achieving holistic awareness, life balance, and meaningful, personal growth.
(262) 947-4378 View (262) 947-4378
Photo of Anita Astley, Marriage & Family Therapist in Milwaukee County, WI
Anita Astley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MEd, LMFT
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Anita Astley is the founder and CEO of "Building Healthy Relationships" LLC and published author of “Unfuck Your Life and Relationships" (Simon & Schuster). She is a licensed individual, couples, and family therapist with over 25 years of experience in helping people navigate life's challenges including basic communication issues to depression, anxiety, emotional and physical intimacy issues, separation and divorce, conflict resolution, and infidelity to name a few. Ms.Astley is "solution focused" and believes there is a "solution" to every problem and arriving there successfully is possible through professional guidance & support.
Anita Astley is the founder and CEO of "Building Healthy Relationships" LLC and published author of “Unfuck Your Life and Relationships" (Simon & Schuster). She is a licensed individual, couples, and family therapist with over 25 years of experience in helping people navigate life's challenges including basic communication issues to depression, anxiety, emotional and physical intimacy issues, separation and divorce, conflict resolution, and infidelity to name a few. Ms.Astley is "solution focused" and believes there is a "solution" to every problem and arriving there successfully is possible through professional guidance & support.
(262) 300-7231 View (262) 300-7231
Photo of Juley A Glaman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Milwaukee County, WI
Juley A Glaman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Greenfield, WI 53220
I am dedicated to helping my clients achieve positive changes in their lives. I work with ages 12 and older, individuals and couples. Offering a friendly, positive and humorous outlook,together we will build the skills needed to manage everyday problems to more chronic mental illness. I specialize in empowering my clients to work toward achievable goals. My belief is that there are too many people in the world who will point out when you are "doing things wrong", I am not that person...I will positively reframe the negative and point out the positive.
I am dedicated to helping my clients achieve positive changes in their lives. I work with ages 12 and older, individuals and couples. Offering a friendly, positive and humorous outlook,together we will build the skills needed to manage everyday problems to more chronic mental illness. I specialize in empowering my clients to work toward achievable goals. My belief is that there are too many people in the world who will point out when you are "doing things wrong", I am not that person...I will positively reframe the negative and point out the positive.
(414) 269-6418 View (414) 269-6418
Photo of Alev Ildiz, Psychologist in Milwaukee County, WI
Alev Ildiz
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53217  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Sometimes the way you relate to yourself and others no longer aligns with who you truly are, your values or how you envisioned your life. You may feel disconnected from yourself and others. You may feel anxious or misunderstood, and start to question your worth or love. To cope, you wear a mask to hide parts of yourself, which creates feelings of tension within yourself and with others. What if you lived your life according to your values while accepting and expressing your genuine self? I create a judgement free, safe therapeutic space where you can explore, understand and find your authentic self.
Sometimes the way you relate to yourself and others no longer aligns with who you truly are, your values or how you envisioned your life. You may feel disconnected from yourself and others. You may feel anxious or misunderstood, and start to question your worth or love. To cope, you wear a mask to hide parts of yourself, which creates feelings of tension within yourself and with others. What if you lived your life according to your values while accepting and expressing your genuine self? I create a judgement free, safe therapeutic space where you can explore, understand and find your authentic self.
(262) 537-5458 View (262) 537-5458
Photo of Kallyn Heiges, Counselor in Milwaukee County, WI
Kallyn Heiges
Counselor, MS, LPC-IT
Verified Verified
Greenfield, WI 53221
I received my Bachelor's in Psychology and my graduate degree in Counseling with a Clinical Mental Health concentration from Mount Mary University. I am passionate about helping others with their mental health journey. I come from a background of working in inpatient and residential care with clients ages 11 and up. I have experience in various areas such as: Anxiety, Adolescent Issues, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Family Therapy, Grief & Loss, Self-Esteem, Self-Harm, Social Anxiety, Substance Use, and Suicidal Thoughts.
I received my Bachelor's in Psychology and my graduate degree in Counseling with a Clinical Mental Health concentration from Mount Mary University. I am passionate about helping others with their mental health journey. I come from a background of working in inpatient and residential care with clients ages 11 and up. I have experience in various areas such as: Anxiety, Adolescent Issues, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Family Therapy, Grief & Loss, Self-Esteem, Self-Harm, Social Anxiety, Substance Use, and Suicidal Thoughts.
(414) 310-6653 View (414) 310-6653
Photo of Claire Whetter, Counselor in Milwaukee County, WI
Claire Whetter
Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Currently accepting new clients with no wait! Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed and frustrated? Are you ready to stop engaging in the same unhelpful coping mechanisms? I aim to support my clients in making realistic and sustainable changes in their lives. I am especially drawn to people experiencing mood disorders, life transitions, grief, trauma and prenatal and/or postpartum depression and anxiety. Above all, I aim to meet my clients where they are, so together we can work towards their goals and make a lasting change.
Currently accepting new clients with no wait! Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed and frustrated? Are you ready to stop engaging in the same unhelpful coping mechanisms? I aim to support my clients in making realistic and sustainable changes in their lives. I am especially drawn to people experiencing mood disorders, life transitions, grief, trauma and prenatal and/or postpartum depression and anxiety. Above all, I aim to meet my clients where they are, so together we can work towards their goals and make a lasting change.
(414) 240-1163 View (414) 240-1163
Photo of Kristin Belkofer, Licensed Professional Counselor in Milwaukee County, WI
Kristin Belkofer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wauwatosa, WI 53213
I believe that human connection, compassion, and empathy are key to our wellness and becoming our authentic selves. As a psychotherapist, I use an integrative approach that is client-centered, insight oriented, and rooted in a deep understanding of the impact of stress and trauma on the body, mind, and relationships. Together we will create goals and a holistic plan to foster your strengths and empower you to live your best life possible.
I believe that human connection, compassion, and empathy are key to our wellness and becoming our authentic selves. As a psychotherapist, I use an integrative approach that is client-centered, insight oriented, and rooted in a deep understanding of the impact of stress and trauma on the body, mind, and relationships. Together we will create goals and a holistic plan to foster your strengths and empower you to live your best life possible.
(414) 509-0880 View (414) 509-0880
Photo of Karen Baker, Licensed Professional Counselor in Milwaukee County, WI
Karen Baker
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53222
The process of therapy requires the unmasking of socially condoned violence done to individuals. In therapy, the uncovering process requires digging through layers of neglect and indifference, contempt and ridicule, shame and humiliation, criticism and guilt, exploitation and manipulation. Almost without exception, each breakthrough involves breakage and releases costly feelings of outrage, hatred, and pain. The reparative process calls for understanding, acceptance, and support, along with a ritualistic observance of the symbolic meanings of the events which come to light.
The process of therapy requires the unmasking of socially condoned violence done to individuals. In therapy, the uncovering process requires digging through layers of neglect and indifference, contempt and ridicule, shame and humiliation, criticism and guilt, exploitation and manipulation. Almost without exception, each breakthrough involves breakage and releases costly feelings of outrage, hatred, and pain. The reparative process calls for understanding, acceptance, and support, along with a ritualistic observance of the symbolic meanings of the events which come to light.
(414) 509-0477 View (414) 509-0477
Photo of April D. Smith, Marriage & Family Therapist in Milwaukee County, WI
April D. Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT-IT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenfield, WI 53220
Struggling with your child's depression or anxiety? Does your teen or pre-teen have intense moments of crisis? Are they having thoughts of harming themselves? If you are looking for answers or just feel lost in what to do next, let's do this together. Finding your way back to your child does not have to be done alone.Let me help you navigate your adolescent's world. Together we can rebuild trust and communication with your child.
Struggling with your child's depression or anxiety? Does your teen or pre-teen have intense moments of crisis? Are they having thoughts of harming themselves? If you are looking for answers or just feel lost in what to do next, let's do this together. Finding your way back to your child does not have to be done alone.Let me help you navigate your adolescent's world. Together we can rebuild trust and communication with your child.
(262) 393-4449 View (262) 393-4449
Photo of Joleena Abrams in Milwaukee County, WI
Joleena Abrams
CCTSA, MA, CLC, CMEMI
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53201  (Online Only)
Joleena is Certified in the Treament of Sexual Addiction, is a Certified Betrayal Trauma Coach, a Certified Clinical Trauma and Addiction Specialist, with a Masters of Psychology in Grief Counseling, and a Bachelors of Science in Psychology. Joleena specializes in helping couples working through betrayal and addiction of all kinds. She also works with clients that are struggling with anxiety, addictive behaviors, depression, PTSD, emotional abuse, mental abuse and trauma of various kinds. Her passion is to provide a safe space for her clients and to walk hand-in-hand with them, guiding them through the healing process.
Joleena is Certified in the Treament of Sexual Addiction, is a Certified Betrayal Trauma Coach, a Certified Clinical Trauma and Addiction Specialist, with a Masters of Psychology in Grief Counseling, and a Bachelors of Science in Psychology. Joleena specializes in helping couples working through betrayal and addiction of all kinds. She also works with clients that are struggling with anxiety, addictive behaviors, depression, PTSD, emotional abuse, mental abuse and trauma of various kinds. Her passion is to provide a safe space for her clients and to walk hand-in-hand with them, guiding them through the healing process.
(414) 441-5732 View (414) 441-5732
Photo of Stephanie J Erbes, Licensed Professional Counselor in Milwaukee County, WI
Stephanie J Erbes
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Waitlist for new clients
It can be difficult to ask for help when life gets overwhelming and you believe you should be able to handle everything on your own. Everyone needs support at times. Let's work together to identify and change unhealthy patterns in your life. My goal is to provide a judgement-free space for you to share your unique strengths and challenges. Most clients benefit from simply being heard and validated without judgement. Successful clients are open to trying something different. Keep an open mind and consider new approaches to coping and problem resolution and you'll experience change.
It can be difficult to ask for help when life gets overwhelming and you believe you should be able to handle everything on your own. Everyone needs support at times. Let's work together to identify and change unhealthy patterns in your life. My goal is to provide a judgement-free space for you to share your unique strengths and challenges. Most clients benefit from simply being heard and validated without judgement. Successful clients are open to trying something different. Keep an open mind and consider new approaches to coping and problem resolution and you'll experience change.
(262) 417-7815 View (262) 417-7815
Photo of American Behavioral Clinics in Milwaukee County, WI
American Behavioral Clinics
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53226
American Behavioral Clinics is an outpatient treatment facility that specializes in psychiatric and behavioral health services for children, teens, and adults. As a center of mental health excellence, we continually remove barriers to ensure quick access to the right care for our clients. We empower every individual with the opportunity to receive a full continuum of recovery-oriented and compassionate care that is built around our industry leading experts. Our clinical team delivers specialized treatment for people who suffer from a variety of mental illnesses, developmental disabilities, addiction issues, and more.
American Behavioral Clinics is an outpatient treatment facility that specializes in psychiatric and behavioral health services for children, teens, and adults. As a center of mental health excellence, we continually remove barriers to ensure quick access to the right care for our clients. We empower every individual with the opportunity to receive a full continuum of recovery-oriented and compassionate care that is built around our industry leading experts. Our clinical team delivers specialized treatment for people who suffer from a variety of mental illnesses, developmental disabilities, addiction issues, and more.
(414) 420-1681 View (414) 420-1681

See more therapy options for Milwaukee 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.