Photo of Healing Rock Counseling, Psychologist in Denver, CO
Healing Rock Counseling
Psychologist, PsyD, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80206
Couples & marriage counseling is often a great place to deepen your understanding of one another, get better at communication and conflict resolution, and strengthen your bond.
Life is demanding. Sometimes it helps to have a place where you can slow down and think, feel, and talk at your own pace. If you’re feeling stuck or dealing with stress, therapy can help. We can explore whatever feels meaningful to you.
Couples & marriage counseling is often a great place to deepen your understanding of one another, get better at communication and conflict resolution, and strengthen your bond.
Life is demanding. Sometimes it helps to have a place where you can slow down and think, feel, and talk at your own pace. If you’re feeling stuck or dealing with stress, therapy can help. We can explore whatever feels meaningful to you.
(720) 645-8827 View (720) 645-8827
Photo of Donald R Maestas, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Donald R Maestas
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MBA, LPC, LAC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80212
I have successfully worked with others to address: Anxiety, Panic Attacks, Stress Management, Anger Management, and Couples/Marriage Challenges.
It can be very overwhelming trying to find someone that can understand and support you. I work hard to provide really effective support. Here is an example of some of the feedback from a recent client struggling with anxiety, depression, relationships issues, & self esteem: "Having worked with many therapists over the years I still felt at a loss and unheard...The skills Don is helping me build and recognize have had an insightful impact providing glimpses of hope within myself. Thank you for working and believing in me Don." In 2020 my clients reported 91% satisfaction with their therapy and would recommend this service to others.
I have successfully worked with others to address: Anxiety, Panic Attacks, Stress Management, Anger Management, and Couples/Marriage Challenges.
It can be very overwhelming trying to find someone that can understand and support you. I work hard to provide really effective support. Here is an example of some of the feedback from a recent client struggling with anxiety, depression, relationships issues, & self esteem: "Having worked with many therapists over the years I still felt at a loss and unheard...The skills Don is helping me build and recognize have had an insightful impact providing glimpses of hope within myself. Thank you for working and believing in me Don." In 2020 my clients reported 91% satisfaction with their therapy and would recommend this service to others.
(720) 575-0663 View (720) 575-0663
Photo of Higher Sights - Therapy, EMDR & Med Management, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denver, CO
Higher Sights - Therapy, EMDR & Med Management
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LPC, LAC, PMHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80211
Our counselors specialize in marital counseling, anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, family and other relationship issues, ADD/ADHD, and addiction/substance abuse.
Accepting New Clients! Immediate openings, book instantly through our website! At We understand that being stuck and feeling like everything you have tried has left you hopeless is one of the most painful experiences. We help our clients feel empowered by helping them to see their own strengths and by teaching them new research-based tools to help focus and guide them for lasting change. We believe that therapy is a starting point to healing and changing patterns that have not been working. We work to help each unique client develop a new way to feel confident in approaching life matter what comes their way.
Our counselors specialize in marital counseling, anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, family and other relationship issues, ADD/ADHD, and addiction/substance abuse.
Accepting New Clients! Immediate openings, book instantly through our website! At We understand that being stuck and feeling like everything you have tried has left you hopeless is one of the most painful experiences. We help our clients feel empowered by helping them to see their own strengths and by teaching them new research-based tools to help focus and guide them for lasting change. We believe that therapy is a starting point to healing and changing patterns that have not been working. We work to help each unique client develop a new way to feel confident in approaching life matter what comes their way.
(720) 650-2525 View (720) 650-2525
Photo of Higher Sights - Therapy, EMDR, & Med Managment, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denver, CO
Higher Sights - Therapy, EMDR, & Med Managment
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LPC, LAC, MFTC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80211
Our counselors specialize in marital counseling, anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, family and other relationship issues, ADD/ADHD, and addiction/substance abuse.
Accepting New Clients! Immediate openings > book instantly through our website! At We understand that being stuck and feeling like everything you have tried has left you hopeless is one of the most painful experiences. We help our clients feel empowered by helping them to see their own strengths and by teaching them new research-based tools to help focus and guide them for lasting change. We believe that therapy is a starting point to healing and changing patterns that have not been working. We work to help each unique client develop a new way to feel confident in approaching life matter what comes their way.
Our counselors specialize in marital counseling, anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, family and other relationship issues, ADD/ADHD, and addiction/substance abuse.
Accepting New Clients! Immediate openings > book instantly through our website! At We understand that being stuck and feeling like everything you have tried has left you hopeless is one of the most painful experiences. We help our clients feel empowered by helping them to see their own strengths and by teaching them new research-based tools to help focus and guide them for lasting change. We believe that therapy is a starting point to healing and changing patterns that have not been working. We work to help each unique client develop a new way to feel confident in approaching life matter what comes their way.
(720) 730-7261 View (720) 730-7261
Photo of Higher Sights - Therapy, EMDR, & Med Management, Counselor in Denver, CO
Higher Sights - Therapy, EMDR, & Med Management
Counselor, MSW, MA, LCSW, LPC, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80211
Our counselors specialize in marital counseling, anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, family and other relationship issues, ADD/ADHD, and addiction/substance abuse.
Accepting New Clients! Immediate openings, book instantly through our website link in bio! At We understand that being stuck and feeling like everything you have tried has left you hopeless is one of the most painful experiences. We help our clients feel empowered by helping them to see their own strengths and by teaching them new research-based tools to help focus and guide them for lasting change. We believe that therapy is a starting point to healing and changing patterns that have not been working. We work to help each unique client develop a new way to feel confident in approaching life matter what comes their way.
Our counselors specialize in marital counseling, anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, family and other relationship issues, ADD/ADHD, and addiction/substance abuse.
Accepting New Clients! Immediate openings, book instantly through our website link in bio! At We understand that being stuck and feeling like everything you have tried has left you hopeless is one of the most painful experiences. We help our clients feel empowered by helping them to see their own strengths and by teaching them new research-based tools to help focus and guide them for lasting change. We believe that therapy is a starting point to healing and changing patterns that have not been working. We work to help each unique client develop a new way to feel confident in approaching life matter what comes their way.
(720) 796-4704 View (720) 796-4704
Photo of Jenny Bridges, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denver, CO
Jenny Bridges
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80204
I specialize in treating recent traumatic events, past traumatic and difficult events, anxiety, depression, marital/couples issues, issues related to addictions, and job performance concerns.
Overcome stress, improve relationships, and achieve your goals! Together we will build on your strengths and identify new, more effective strategies so that you can move past recent and/or past negative experiences and difficulties. In addition to more traditional Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, I offer cutting edge therapies such as EMDR, Brainspotting, and Energy Therapies, which can provide rapid relief from distress and can result in lasting change. Contact me if you would like to improve your life and get past struggles that are limiting you.
I specialize in treating recent traumatic events, past traumatic and difficult events, anxiety, depression, marital/couples issues, issues related to addictions, and job performance concerns.
Overcome stress, improve relationships, and achieve your goals! Together we will build on your strengths and identify new, more effective strategies so that you can move past recent and/or past negative experiences and difficulties. In addition to more traditional Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, I offer cutting edge therapies such as EMDR, Brainspotting, and Energy Therapies, which can provide rapid relief from distress and can result in lasting change. Contact me if you would like to improve your life and get past struggles that are limiting you.
(720) 288-0936 View (720) 288-0936
Photo of Camille L. Reich, Marriage & Family Therapist in Denver, CO
Camille L. Reich
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80237
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT).
COUPLES, FAMILY, CHILD and INDIVIDUAL THERAPY. True Happiness and Stability Stems from the Quality of our Significant Relationships! I work from a strength-based, solution-focused, and systemic or relational orientation, all are evidence-based approaches. I focus on people's strengths and possibilities while addressing their real life difficulties. I also practice child-centered play therapy and provide personality, relationship (couple) and career assessments. I believe in a holistic approach to the therapeutic process that incorporates biological, psychological, social, and spiritual dimensions empowering a person or family towards mastering life to its fullest. I look forward to consulting with you!
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT).
COUPLES, FAMILY, CHILD and INDIVIDUAL THERAPY. True Happiness and Stability Stems from the Quality of our Significant Relationships! I work from a strength-based, solution-focused, and systemic or relational orientation, all are evidence-based approaches. I focus on people's strengths and possibilities while addressing their real life difficulties. I also practice child-centered play therapy and provide personality, relationship (couple) and career assessments. I believe in a holistic approach to the therapeutic process that incorporates biological, psychological, social, and spiritual dimensions empowering a person or family towards mastering life to its fullest. I look forward to consulting with you!
(303) 900-5913 View (303) 900-5913
Photo of A Better Marriage And Family Clinic, Psychologist in Denver, CO
A Better Marriage And Family Clinic
Psychologist, EdD
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80206
I'm a Relationship Enrichment Specialist. 45+ years of experience will assist you with couplehood, mood, confidence, friendships and work interactions. Enhance your current romance or clarify if it's the right one. Improve your selection of intimate candidates and rapidly build the best ways to deal with each. I customize evidence based therapies for each client's goals and personality. I've creatively honed my numerous tactics in couples, individual, 2 ongoing personalized therapy groups plus my creation of the Structured Marital Therapy SMT approach. This highly effective system merges the work of Hendrix, Gottman and Real.
I'm a Relationship Enrichment Specialist. 45+ years of experience will assist you with couplehood, mood, confidence, friendships and work interactions. Enhance your current romance or clarify if it's the right one. Improve your selection of intimate candidates and rapidly build the best ways to deal with each. I customize evidence based therapies for each client's goals and personality. I've creatively honed my numerous tactics in couples, individual, 2 ongoing personalized therapy groups plus my creation of the Structured Marital Therapy SMT approach. This highly effective system merges the work of Hendrix, Gottman and Real.
(303) 320-5621 View (303) 320-5621
Photo of Higher Sights - Therapy, EMDR & Med Management in Denver, CO
Higher Sights - Therapy, EMDR & Med Management
LCSW, LPC, LAC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80215
Our counselors specialize in marital counseling, anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, family and other relationship issues, ADD/ADHD, and addiction/substance abuse.
Accepting New Clients! Immediate openings, book instantly through our website in bio! We understand that being stuck and feeling like everything you have tried has left you hopeless is one of the most painful experiences. We help our clients feel empowered by helping them to see their own strengths and by teaching them new research-based tools to help focus and guide them for lasting change. We believe that therapy is a starting point to healing and changing patterns that have not been working. We work to help each unique client develop a new way to feel confident in approaching life matter what comes their way.
Our counselors specialize in marital counseling, anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, family and other relationship issues, ADD/ADHD, and addiction/substance abuse.
Accepting New Clients! Immediate openings, book instantly through our website in bio! We understand that being stuck and feeling like everything you have tried has left you hopeless is one of the most painful experiences. We help our clients feel empowered by helping them to see their own strengths and by teaching them new research-based tools to help focus and guide them for lasting change. We believe that therapy is a starting point to healing and changing patterns that have not been working. We work to help each unique client develop a new way to feel confident in approaching life matter what comes their way.
(720) 465-7959 View (720) 465-7959
Photo of Catherine Ocasio Clinical Supervisor, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denver, CO
Catherine Ocasio Clinical Supervisor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LAC, ACS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80022
I provide clinical supervision in person or virtual for LCSW, LPC, LAC, and LMFT candidates in Colorado as well as consultation services for those fully licensed. I am DORA approved to supervise Marriage and Family Candidates in Colorado. Additionally, I am an LICSW in Massachusetts and provide virtual supervision. Furthermore, I provide individual counseling, mediation and evaluations-to include but not limited to (addictions, trauma, and domestic violence). For anyone who is motivated in supervision or therapy and who values a direct approach then I am the right fit for you.
I provide clinical supervision in person or virtual for LCSW, LPC, LAC, and LMFT candidates in Colorado as well as consultation services for those fully licensed. I am DORA approved to supervise Marriage and Family Candidates in Colorado. Additionally, I am an LICSW in Massachusetts and provide virtual supervision. Furthermore, I provide individual counseling, mediation and evaluations-to include but not limited to (addictions, trauma, and domestic violence). For anyone who is motivated in supervision or therapy and who values a direct approach then I am the right fit for you.
(719) 937-4429 View (719) 937-4429
Photo of Thiago Leão, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Thiago Leão
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80206
My clients deal with so much speed and stress. They are navigating a life that feels increasingly unfulfilled, or feel stuck. They often seek solace in external solutions like too much work, toxic relationships, or substances, and find all these lacking. They face the challenge of pausing to understand and meet their internal needs, which feels paradoxical. How to slow down when there's all this to do? This leads to more stress, anxiety, and a pervasive sense of dissatisfaction with life. There is a way through all this.
My clients deal with so much speed and stress. They are navigating a life that feels increasingly unfulfilled, or feel stuck. They often seek solace in external solutions like too much work, toxic relationships, or substances, and find all these lacking. They face the challenge of pausing to understand and meet their internal needs, which feels paradoxical. How to slow down when there's all this to do? This leads to more stress, anxiety, and a pervasive sense of dissatisfaction with life. There is a way through all this.
(720) 893-8601 View (720) 893-8601
Photo of Jesse Bean, Counselor in Denver, CO
Jesse Bean
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80211
Just a few years ago I was caught up in a cycle of self-doubt, shame, and failure. I was early on in adulthood and already I felt completely worn out; convinced my life would end in ruins. Eventually I was able to seek counseling, and this became a major factor in helping me find a new sense of hope and freedom. I became a counselor out of a desire to share this gift with others. I seek to create a safe space where my clients can find new hope in their journey. When you walk into my office, I want you to know that you are welcome here; you belong, and you matter.
Just a few years ago I was caught up in a cycle of self-doubt, shame, and failure. I was early on in adulthood and already I felt completely worn out; convinced my life would end in ruins. Eventually I was able to seek counseling, and this became a major factor in helping me find a new sense of hope and freedom. I became a counselor out of a desire to share this gift with others. I seek to create a safe space where my clients can find new hope in their journey. When you walk into my office, I want you to know that you are welcome here; you belong, and you matter.
(720) 727-6102 View (720) 727-6102
Photo of Wendy Nelson, Counselor in Denver, CO
Wendy Nelson
Counselor, LPC, MBA
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80202  (Online Only)
I believe most problems we experience are caused by a combination of two factors; carrying around too much from the past, and not taking good care of ourselves. The symptoms of Depression, Anxiety, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and Substance Abuse can all manifest from not cleaning up the past and from practicing poor self care in in the present. Using a variety of approaches including, Psychotherapy, Hypnosis, EMDR, and Process Work, we will together to shift this balance. As people get better at nurturing themselves and begin to let go of the weight of the past, they feel better.
I believe most problems we experience are caused by a combination of two factors; carrying around too much from the past, and not taking good care of ourselves. The symptoms of Depression, Anxiety, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and Substance Abuse can all manifest from not cleaning up the past and from practicing poor self care in in the present. Using a variety of approaches including, Psychotherapy, Hypnosis, EMDR, and Process Work, we will together to shift this balance. As people get better at nurturing themselves and begin to let go of the weight of the past, they feel better.
(720) 204-3570 View (720) 204-3570
Photo of Alexander Thomas, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Denver, CO
Alexander Thomas
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, LAC, MAC, SAP
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80247
I work with young adults and seniors offering treatment groups as well as individual and family counseling for offenders and non-offender. My treatment approach is both from a cognitive-behavioral and multi-modal context taking into account the biological , psychological, social, emotional and spiritual needs of the whole person. I have extensive experience working with court-ordered as well as voluntary clients.
I work with young adults and seniors offering treatment groups as well as individual and family counseling for offenders and non-offender. My treatment approach is both from a cognitive-behavioral and multi-modal context taking into account the biological , psychological, social, emotional and spiritual needs of the whole person. I have extensive experience working with court-ordered as well as voluntary clients.
(720) 789-8320 View (720) 789-8320
Photo of Meredith M. Campbell, Psychologist in Denver, CO
Meredith M. Campbell
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80224
Therapy can help everyone, not just those with a "diagnosis." In everyday life, challenges are thrown at us that we can't always work out on our own. I help people process these challenges as they occur. Death of a loved one, relationship issues, work stressors, life transitions, etc - can be upsetting, distracting and decrease overall happiness and quality of life. Evidence has shown that people who have an unbiased, safe space to process these events move through them more quickly, gain clarity, improve productivity and ultimately thrive in their lives.
Therapy can help everyone, not just those with a "diagnosis." In everyday life, challenges are thrown at us that we can't always work out on our own. I help people process these challenges as they occur. Death of a loved one, relationship issues, work stressors, life transitions, etc - can be upsetting, distracting and decrease overall happiness and quality of life. Evidence has shown that people who have an unbiased, safe space to process these events move through them more quickly, gain clarity, improve productivity and ultimately thrive in their lives.
(303) 351-5907 View (303) 351-5907
Photo of Julia Jamison, Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate in Denver, CO
Julia Jamison
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80203
Hi, I’m Julia (she/her). I'm glad you're here! Whether you're continuing your therapy journey or starting for the first time, I would be love to accompany you in the process of healing and growth. Therapy might be intimidating to start, but I like to make the process as easy and comfortable as possible for you. With my client-centered approach, I want to focus on what you want to talk about. It could be a recent relationship that is causing you stress or anxiety or maybe you're grieving the loss of something, I would be honored to be listening ear to provide empathy and feedback from wherever you're coming from.
Hi, I’m Julia (she/her). I'm glad you're here! Whether you're continuing your therapy journey or starting for the first time, I would be love to accompany you in the process of healing and growth. Therapy might be intimidating to start, but I like to make the process as easy and comfortable as possible for you. With my client-centered approach, I want to focus on what you want to talk about. It could be a recent relationship that is causing you stress or anxiety or maybe you're grieving the loss of something, I would be honored to be listening ear to provide empathy and feedback from wherever you're coming from.
(720) 580-9522 View (720) 580-9522
Photo of William J Strong, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denver, CO
William J Strong
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80222
I am a Solution Focused Therapist who has a private practice in the Denver Area. I work with children, teenagers, couples and individual adults. I believe in a solution focused which is designed to assist the client in meeting their goals quicker than traditional therapy. Feel free to give me a call so we can discuss your goals and how working together can create the shifts you've been trying to achieve.
I am a Solution Focused Therapist who has a private practice in the Denver Area. I work with children, teenagers, couples and individual adults. I believe in a solution focused which is designed to assist the client in meeting their goals quicker than traditional therapy. Feel free to give me a call so we can discuss your goals and how working together can create the shifts you've been trying to achieve.
(303) 569-4348 View (303) 569-4348
Photo of 1st Priority Institute for Better Living, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
1st Priority Institute for Better Living
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80216
We know finding the right therapist can be a daunting task. We hope to make that easier. We pride ourselves on the ability to work with each person in a supportive and encouraging setting. We strongly believe in each persons potential and ability to make changes and create happiness. Our clinicians are highly trained in a wide array of specialties. At 1st Priority Institute for Better Living the atmosphere is cheerful and hopeful; optimistic for a better tomorrow. We encourage you to dig deep and call today.
We know finding the right therapist can be a daunting task. We hope to make that easier. We pride ourselves on the ability to work with each person in a supportive and encouraging setting. We strongly believe in each persons potential and ability to make changes and create happiness. Our clinicians are highly trained in a wide array of specialties. At 1st Priority Institute for Better Living the atmosphere is cheerful and hopeful; optimistic for a better tomorrow. We encourage you to dig deep and call today.
(720) 740-8949 View (720) 740-8949
Photo of Counseling Colorado, PLLC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Denver, CO
Counseling Colorado, PLLC
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, LPC, LAC, NCC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80222
Are you living the life you want? Recovery is a choice and I am here to help. Getting help is not a sign of weakness; it is the empowerment of one's internal strength. I have a passion for creating a therapeutic alliance with clients to help them achieve their goals and to become their best self. Utilizing evidence based therapies, I am able to peel back the layers and get to the heart of one's core issues, resulting in healing. Choosing to seek professional help is a big decision and choosing the right counselor is essential to achieving success."
Are you living the life you want? Recovery is a choice and I am here to help. Getting help is not a sign of weakness; it is the empowerment of one's internal strength. I have a passion for creating a therapeutic alliance with clients to help them achieve their goals and to become their best self. Utilizing evidence based therapies, I am able to peel back the layers and get to the heart of one's core issues, resulting in healing. Choosing to seek professional help is a big decision and choosing the right counselor is essential to achieving success."
(720) 548-1604 View (720) 548-1604
Photo of Cayli Collins, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Cayli Collins
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80203
The world has become a stressful place and while it has always been stressful, we have less community and connection. These times have really put a strain on us as individuals, our relationships, our families, our jobs/school and created overwork, stress, and trauma. Honestly, doing healthy relationship and navigating stress and trauma are not skills we have been equipped with. Therapy has become the space to learn those skills, navigate stress, do self care, live presently in life, and process the trauma that's historical and present in our day to day.
The world has become a stressful place and while it has always been stressful, we have less community and connection. These times have really put a strain on us as individuals, our relationships, our families, our jobs/school and created overwork, stress, and trauma. Honestly, doing healthy relationship and navigating stress and trauma are not skills we have been equipped with. Therapy has become the space to learn those skills, navigate stress, do self care, live presently in life, and process the trauma that's historical and present in our day to day.
(303) 351-5844 View (303) 351-5844
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.