Photo of Robin Green Gilman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pearl River, NY
Robin Green Gilman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Pearl River, NY 10965
Life can be overwhelming, and it’s okay to seek support. I have over 25 years of experience helping clients improve their mental health through therapy. I work with clients who want to feel better. Many clients have stated that "I have it all but I am still not happy". We will look for the source of unhappiness and work to change your thoughts, feelings, and reactions. My clients describe me as easy to talk to, warm and humorous. I often give "homework" assignments to my clients to reinforce our discussion from sessions. I aim to have my client feel better and take away skills that will last a lifetime,
Life can be overwhelming, and it’s okay to seek support. I have over 25 years of experience helping clients improve their mental health through therapy. I work with clients who want to feel better. Many clients have stated that "I have it all but I am still not happy". We will look for the source of unhappiness and work to change your thoughts, feelings, and reactions. My clients describe me as easy to talk to, warm and humorous. I often give "homework" assignments to my clients to reinforce our discussion from sessions. I aim to have my client feel better and take away skills that will last a lifetime,
(914) 786-6998 View (914) 786-6998
Photo of Starlee N Qualter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pearl River, NY
Starlee N Qualter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CEAP
Verified Verified
Pearl River, NY 10965
I am a therapist with over 25 years of clinical experience. My approach is collaborative as therapy is a unique relationship. We begin with identifying where you are now while focusing on where you want to be. I use many different techniques in discovering the most effective path for you. For example, cognitive-behavioral therapy is very effective with issues such as anxiety and depression, while using an attachment-based lens can improve low self-esteem and relationship issues. If you are looking for an interactive therapist and are ready and willing to do the work, I will help you along your journey!
I am a therapist with over 25 years of clinical experience. My approach is collaborative as therapy is a unique relationship. We begin with identifying where you are now while focusing on where you want to be. I use many different techniques in discovering the most effective path for you. For example, cognitive-behavioral therapy is very effective with issues such as anxiety and depression, while using an attachment-based lens can improve low self-esteem and relationship issues. If you are looking for an interactive therapist and are ready and willing to do the work, I will help you along your journey!
(845) 684-4291 View (845) 684-4291
Photo of Willie Mae Murphy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pearl River, NY
Willie Mae Murphy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Pearl River, NY 10965
I believe we all go through challenging periods and difficult experiences in our lives when we can feel overwhelmed, scared, angry or isolated. During these times it can be particularly difficult to reach out and ask for help, and it often requires a great amount of courage to share these painful feelings with others. Regardless of what brings you to therapy, it is essential to have a strong and comfortable relationship with your therapist in order to feel safe enough to share your personal experiences. I make it my goal to build a warm and supportive environment where we can explore your specific concerns and circumstances.
I believe we all go through challenging periods and difficult experiences in our lives when we can feel overwhelmed, scared, angry or isolated. During these times it can be particularly difficult to reach out and ask for help, and it often requires a great amount of courage to share these painful feelings with others. Regardless of what brings you to therapy, it is essential to have a strong and comfortable relationship with your therapist in order to feel safe enough to share your personal experiences. I make it my goal to build a warm and supportive environment where we can explore your specific concerns and circumstances.
(201) 949-3273 View (201) 949-3273
Photo of Dr. Aminda Heckman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pearl River, NY
Dr. Aminda Heckman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pearl River, NY 10965
Not accepting new clients
Are you struggling with infertility? Trying to adopt? Have you already started your family but it "just doesn't feel" like you thought it would? There are a lot of excellent therapists out there, and finding the right fit is crucial. Many of my clients are often the experts in their own life but just need someone to show them where to find answers. While I have extensive experience working with clients with a wide spectrum of mental health and life adjustment issues (including depression, anxiety, and trauma), I also specialize in infertility issues, post-partum mental health, adoption home studies, and attachment challenges.
Are you struggling with infertility? Trying to adopt? Have you already started your family but it "just doesn't feel" like you thought it would? There are a lot of excellent therapists out there, and finding the right fit is crucial. Many of my clients are often the experts in their own life but just need someone to show them where to find answers. While I have extensive experience working with clients with a wide spectrum of mental health and life adjustment issues (including depression, anxiety, and trauma), I also specialize in infertility issues, post-partum mental health, adoption home studies, and attachment challenges.
(914) 219-6432 View (914) 219-6432

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Réka Foster, Marriage & Family Therapist in Pearl River, NY
Réka Foster
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Nyack, NY 10994
Welcome to Rèka Foster therapy. Whether you are trying to find solution for severe marital impasse, family conflict or dealing with anxiety, depression, psychotherapy is a great tool to address, change and discover new ways to live your life at your full potential. Rèka specializes and has excessive experience in group therapy, family, couples systemic psychotherapy and intervention as well as PTSD, trauma, complex trauma treatment, reduction of anxiety and depression.
Welcome to Rèka Foster therapy. Whether you are trying to find solution for severe marital impasse, family conflict or dealing with anxiety, depression, psychotherapy is a great tool to address, change and discover new ways to live your life at your full potential. Rèka specializes and has excessive experience in group therapy, family, couples systemic psychotherapy and intervention as well as PTSD, trauma, complex trauma treatment, reduction of anxiety and depression.
(845) 253-9172 View (845) 253-9172
Photo of Vanessa Reiser Narcissism Expert, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pearl River, NY
Vanessa Reiser Narcissism Expert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Congers, NY 10920
Vanessa is a solution-focused psychotherapist licensed in NY, NJ, MA and FL specializing in Narcissistic Abuse and Cult Abuse, whose mission is to help individuals uncover their true potential and move forward toward all of their goals. Her team specializes in working with individuals and couples focusing on the treatment of trauma, anxiety, depression, PTSD, grief/loss, eating disorders, marriage or interpersonal relationship problems, alcohol or drug abuse, low self-esteem, or anyone in need of developing new ways to cope with life’s every day challenges. Go to tellatherapist.net or Insta: vanessareiserlcsw TikTok:vanessareiser
Vanessa is a solution-focused psychotherapist licensed in NY, NJ, MA and FL specializing in Narcissistic Abuse and Cult Abuse, whose mission is to help individuals uncover their true potential and move forward toward all of their goals. Her team specializes in working with individuals and couples focusing on the treatment of trauma, anxiety, depression, PTSD, grief/loss, eating disorders, marriage or interpersonal relationship problems, alcohol or drug abuse, low self-esteem, or anyone in need of developing new ways to cope with life’s every day challenges. Go to tellatherapist.net or Insta: vanessareiserlcsw TikTok:vanessareiser
(732) 307-9559 View (732) 307-9559
Photo of Elizabeth Crossfield, Marriage & Family Therapist in Pearl River, NY
Elizabeth Crossfield
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pomona, NY 10970
Are you missing appreciation? Does he stonewall? Does she not stop criticizing? Anxious and having trust issues? Do you feel a lack of sexual desire? Fighting over sexual frequency? I can help you stop the negative cycle. Feel love again. Feel intimate again. Trained specifically as a marriage and family therapist, I am a highly trained and experienced couples therapist. I am easy to talk to and skilled at creating tools to foster healthy connections between couples and families. Together, we repair your relationship by introducing new methods of communication to increase empathy and flexibility.
Are you missing appreciation? Does he stonewall? Does she not stop criticizing? Anxious and having trust issues? Do you feel a lack of sexual desire? Fighting over sexual frequency? I can help you stop the negative cycle. Feel love again. Feel intimate again. Trained specifically as a marriage and family therapist, I am a highly trained and experienced couples therapist. I am easy to talk to and skilled at creating tools to foster healthy connections between couples and families. Together, we repair your relationship by introducing new methods of communication to increase empathy and flexibility.
(332) 249-8317 View (332) 249-8317
Photo of Rachma Friedenberg, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pearl River, NY
Rachma Friedenberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Monsey, NY 10952
I offer individual therapy for women and girls (ages 11 and up), as well as couples therapy both before and during marriage.
Navigating life’s journey can be overwhelming and stressful at times, interfering with our peace of mind. I help clients access their inner strength and resources, the keys to ultimate healing. As an experienced therapist, I see every day that just as individuals are unique, life situations and how we experience them are as well. I help empower clients to overcome challenges including anxiety, depression, parenting and relationship issues, trauma, and low self-esteem in a safe, non-judgmental environment. Additionally, I work to understand how these challenges affect each client in order to determine the best therapeutic approach.
I offer individual therapy for women and girls (ages 11 and up), as well as couples therapy both before and during marriage.
Navigating life’s journey can be overwhelming and stressful at times, interfering with our peace of mind. I help clients access their inner strength and resources, the keys to ultimate healing. As an experienced therapist, I see every day that just as individuals are unique, life situations and how we experience them are as well. I help empower clients to overcome challenges including anxiety, depression, parenting and relationship issues, trauma, and low self-esteem in a safe, non-judgmental environment. Additionally, I work to understand how these challenges affect each client in order to determine the best therapeutic approach.
(845) 684-9833 View (845) 684-9833
Photo of Dr. Mitch and Lisa Couples/Marriages Workshops in Pearl River, NY
Dr. Mitch and Lisa Couples/Marriages Workshops
PsyD, MSW, Life, Coach
Verified Verified
Suffern, NY 10901
Relationships in Crisis: We Have Several Private Couples/Marriage Workshops & Individual Sessions, in order to Rapidly Accelerate Your Healing & Your Communication Process (Traditional 45 min. session Simply Does Not Work). During these 2 to 4 weeks, we will see both of you Together & Individually, as well as Help each of you Learn the Art of Empathy, Sensitivity & Compassion. These Workshops are Informative & Powerful, in order to Accelerate the Healing Process & Stop any further Damage from Occurring. In Addition, Our Success RATE is 85% of Our Couples that have Successfully Completed Our Couples Workshops or Alcohol Treatment.
Relationships in Crisis: We Have Several Private Couples/Marriage Workshops & Individual Sessions, in order to Rapidly Accelerate Your Healing & Your Communication Process (Traditional 45 min. session Simply Does Not Work). During these 2 to 4 weeks, we will see both of you Together & Individually, as well as Help each of you Learn the Art of Empathy, Sensitivity & Compassion. These Workshops are Informative & Powerful, in order to Accelerate the Healing Process & Stop any further Damage from Occurring. In Addition, Our Success RATE is 85% of Our Couples that have Successfully Completed Our Couples Workshops or Alcohol Treatment.
(347) 697-4476 View (347) 697-4476
Photo of Keona Wright, Marriage & Family Therapist in Pearl River, NY
Keona Wright
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Nyack, NY 10960  (Online Only)
Addressing concerns related to but not limited to: Marital conflicts(couple/interpersonal conflicts/communication), Child and adolescent behavioral problems, Addiction/ substance abuse, anxiety/depression/grief/trauma, Adjusting to life changes, and spiritual/faith-based counseling.
As your therapist, I believe in cultivating a therapeutic relationship and collaboration. My goal is to create an environment that is inviting and safe as we partner to identify and/or address any concerns that you see impacting your life. We will work together to develop effective change and coping skills in areas of life whether it be relational, interpersonal, or professional. We will work together to address the presenting problems but also the root of the presenting problem in your life, your marriage, your family, and/or your child(ren). As your therapist I want to partner with you to heal and be the best version of yourself.
Addressing concerns related to but not limited to: Marital conflicts(couple/interpersonal conflicts/communication), Child and adolescent behavioral problems, Addiction/ substance abuse, anxiety/depression/grief/trauma, Adjusting to life changes, and spiritual/faith-based counseling.
As your therapist, I believe in cultivating a therapeutic relationship and collaboration. My goal is to create an environment that is inviting and safe as we partner to identify and/or address any concerns that you see impacting your life. We will work together to develop effective change and coping skills in areas of life whether it be relational, interpersonal, or professional. We will work together to address the presenting problems but also the root of the presenting problem in your life, your marriage, your family, and/or your child(ren). As your therapist I want to partner with you to heal and be the best version of yourself.
(475) 405-2349 View (475) 405-2349
Photo of Paula Maunsell in Pearl River, NY
Paula Maunsell
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Garnerville, NY 10923
As an Intern in Marriage and Family Therapy, I am focused on relational healing and growth.
We all want loving, connected relationships, we want the best for our children and we want deeply fulfilling and meaningful lives. Then life happens, our mind loses the target, our emotions weigh us down and our bodies feel tired and weary. If you've reached this point, I want to walk along this path with you. I will work to understand your inner terrain and then help you see the bridges, landmarks, rest stops, and water stations so that your journey regains more of its adventure and joy. From here you orient back to your own compass discovering calm, confidence, compassion, connection, creativity, courage, and clarity.
As an Intern in Marriage and Family Therapy, I am focused on relational healing and growth.
We all want loving, connected relationships, we want the best for our children and we want deeply fulfilling and meaningful lives. Then life happens, our mind loses the target, our emotions weigh us down and our bodies feel tired and weary. If you've reached this point, I want to walk along this path with you. I will work to understand your inner terrain and then help you see the bridges, landmarks, rest stops, and water stations so that your journey regains more of its adventure and joy. From here you orient back to your own compass discovering calm, confidence, compassion, connection, creativity, courage, and clarity.
(845) 407-9454 View (845) 407-9454
Photo of Dr. Mitch and Lisa Marriages/Couples Workshops in Pearl River, NY
Dr. Mitch and Lisa Marriages/Couples Workshops
PsyD, MSW, Life, Coach
Verified Verified
Tarrytown, NY 10591
Relationships in Crisis: We Have Several Private Couples/Marriage Workshops & Individual Sessions, in order to Rapidly Accelerate Your Healing & Your Communication Process (Traditional 45 min. session Simply Does Not Work). During these 2 to 4 weeks, we will see both of you Together & Individually, as well as Help each of you Learn the Art of Empathy, Sensitivity & Compassion. These Workshops are Informative & Powerful, in order to Accelerate the Healing Process & Stop any further Damage from Occurring. In Addition, Our Success RATE is 85% of Our Couples that have Successfully Completed Our Couples Workshops or Alcohol Treatment.
Relationships in Crisis: We Have Several Private Couples/Marriage Workshops & Individual Sessions, in order to Rapidly Accelerate Your Healing & Your Communication Process (Traditional 45 min. session Simply Does Not Work). During these 2 to 4 weeks, we will see both of you Together & Individually, as well as Help each of you Learn the Art of Empathy, Sensitivity & Compassion. These Workshops are Informative & Powerful, in order to Accelerate the Healing Process & Stop any further Damage from Occurring. In Addition, Our Success RATE is 85% of Our Couples that have Successfully Completed Our Couples Workshops or Alcohol Treatment.
(914) 344-5146 View (914) 344-5146
Photo of Dr. Mitch and Lisa Marriages/Couples Workshops in Pearl River, NY
Dr. Mitch and Lisa Marriages/Couples Workshops
PsyD, MSW, Life, Coach
Verified Verified
Sleepy Hollow, NY 10591
Relationships in Crisis: We Have Several Private Couples/Marriage Workshops & Individual Sessions, in order to Rapidly Accelerate Your Healing & Your Communication Process (Traditional 45 min. session Simply Does Not Work). During these 2 to 4 weeks, we will see both of you Together & Individually, as well as Help each of you Learn the Art of Empathy, Sensitivity & Compassion. These Workshops are Informative & Powerful, in order to Accelerate the Healing Process & Stop any further Damage from Occurring. In Addition, Our Success RATE is 85% of Our Couples that have Successfully Completed Our Couples Workshops or Alcohol Treatment.
Relationships in Crisis: We Have Several Private Couples/Marriage Workshops & Individual Sessions, in order to Rapidly Accelerate Your Healing & Your Communication Process (Traditional 45 min. session Simply Does Not Work). During these 2 to 4 weeks, we will see both of you Together & Individually, as well as Help each of you Learn the Art of Empathy, Sensitivity & Compassion. These Workshops are Informative & Powerful, in order to Accelerate the Healing Process & Stop any further Damage from Occurring. In Addition, Our Success RATE is 85% of Our Couples that have Successfully Completed Our Couples Workshops or Alcohol Treatment.
(914) 685-9740 View (914) 685-9740
Photo of Dr. Mitch and Lisa Marriages/Couples Workshops in Pearl River, NY
Dr. Mitch and Lisa Marriages/Couples Workshops
PsyD, MSW, Life, Coach
Verified Verified
Dobbs Ferry, NY 10522
Relationships in Crisis: We Have Several Private Couples/Marriage Workshops & Individual Sessions, in order to Rapidly Accelerate Your Healing & Your Communication Process (Traditional 45 min. session Simply Does Not Work). During these 2 to 4 weeks, we will see both of you Together & Individually, as well as Help each of you Learn the Art of Empathy, Sensitivity & Compassion. These Workshops are Informative & Powerful, in order to Accelerate the Healing Process & Stop any further Damage from Occurring. In Addition, Our Success RATE is 85% of Our Couples that have Successfully Completed Our Couples Workshops or Alcohol Treatment.
Relationships in Crisis: We Have Several Private Couples/Marriage Workshops & Individual Sessions, in order to Rapidly Accelerate Your Healing & Your Communication Process (Traditional 45 min. session Simply Does Not Work). During these 2 to 4 weeks, we will see both of you Together & Individually, as well as Help each of you Learn the Art of Empathy, Sensitivity & Compassion. These Workshops are Informative & Powerful, in order to Accelerate the Healing Process & Stop any further Damage from Occurring. In Addition, Our Success RATE is 85% of Our Couples that have Successfully Completed Our Couples Workshops or Alcohol Treatment.
(914) 483-5470 View (914) 483-5470
Photo of Claire Cornelio, Counselor in Pearl River, NY
Claire Cornelio
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nyack, NY 10960  (Online Only)
Are you suffering from persistent negative self-talk that has exacerbated your anxiety? Has life been feeling extremely difficult due to depression, recent life transitions, grief and loss or low self-esteem? I want you to know that you've taken the wonderful first step to come here, and I applaud you for doing that. I hope to be able to assist you in handling these difficult struggles so they don't become insurmountable. I'm here to provide a safe, non-judgmental place where you can feel listened to, and together we can work towards the path of your healing and personal growth.
Are you suffering from persistent negative self-talk that has exacerbated your anxiety? Has life been feeling extremely difficult due to depression, recent life transitions, grief and loss or low self-esteem? I want you to know that you've taken the wonderful first step to come here, and I applaud you for doing that. I hope to be able to assist you in handling these difficult struggles so they don't become insurmountable. I'm here to provide a safe, non-judgmental place where you can feel listened to, and together we can work towards the path of your healing and personal growth.
(929) 357-2419 View (929) 357-2419
Photo of Dr. Ili Rivera Walter, Marriage & Family Therapist in Pearl River, NY
Dr. Ili Rivera Walter
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Nyack, NY 10960  (Online Only)
You’re a modern couple, building a career and a relationship. You notice the effort taking its toll. You’re ready to learn how to protect your spark, so that your love continues to thrive. Perhaps, it’s been too long since you experienced passion and fun with your partner, or you're going through a relationship crisis. You remember when things were different, and you long to be close again. Relationship troubles can de-stabilize everything in our lives; yet, there is hope! Through couple therapy, you will be able to increase your understanding of one another, and solve problems, together.
You’re a modern couple, building a career and a relationship. You notice the effort taking its toll. You’re ready to learn how to protect your spark, so that your love continues to thrive. Perhaps, it’s been too long since you experienced passion and fun with your partner, or you're going through a relationship crisis. You remember when things were different, and you long to be close again. Relationship troubles can de-stabilize everything in our lives; yet, there is hope! Through couple therapy, you will be able to increase your understanding of one another, and solve problems, together.
(914) 252-3052 View (914) 252-3052
Photo of Tamra Holtzer, Psychologist in Pearl River, NY
Tamra Holtzer
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Tarrytown, NY 10591  (Online Only)
Dr. Holtzer has expertise with anxiety, panic attacks, adjustment difficulties, trauma, and grief. Another area of specialty for her is working with clients struggling with fertility issues, fetal loss, and unexpected or traumatic outcomes related to pregnancy and birth. Dr. Holtzer has 15+ years of experience across the human lifespan, working with individuals of varied backgrounds and cultures. She works within a scientific-based framework, while weaving in holistic principles, to help clients enrich their lives. Now In-network with Aetna insurance!
Dr. Holtzer has expertise with anxiety, panic attacks, adjustment difficulties, trauma, and grief. Another area of specialty for her is working with clients struggling with fertility issues, fetal loss, and unexpected or traumatic outcomes related to pregnancy and birth. Dr. Holtzer has 15+ years of experience across the human lifespan, working with individuals of varied backgrounds and cultures. She works within a scientific-based framework, while weaving in holistic principles, to help clients enrich their lives. Now In-network with Aetna insurance!
(845) 250-0426 View (845) 250-0426
Photo of Engage Psychotherapy LCSW, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pearl River, NY
Engage Psychotherapy LCSW, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
West Nyack, NY 10994
Our team of clinicians has been hand-picked for their expertise and diverse areas of experience. Children or adults, individuals or couples, LGBTQ+, English or Spanish (or Japanese or Hungarian!), EMDR or psychodynamic, CBT or body-centered work. ​Whatever you are looking for, we have someone who can help.
Our team of clinicians has been hand-picked for their expertise and diverse areas of experience. Children or adults, individuals or couples, LGBTQ+, English or Spanish (or Japanese or Hungarian!), EMDR or psychodynamic, CBT or body-centered work. ​Whatever you are looking for, we have someone who can help.
(845) 498-1723 View (845) 498-1723
Photo of Anita Horvath in Pearl River, NY
Anita Horvath
MS, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spring Valley, NY 10977  (Online Only)
Birth and motherhood are meant to be addictive. Yet so many of us feel anxious in pregnancy, experience birth trauma and struggle postpartum. In a culture where mothers are not supported, and the system prioritizes "safety" above all, women are often left stuck in survival stress after birth of their child. But please know that healing, love, and joy is available for you. Whether you wish to process and integrate your birth experience, prepare for the transition to the new role, or address your hopes and needs in pregnancy or postpartum, I am here to walk alongside and hold space for you as you navigate the perinatal journey.
Birth and motherhood are meant to be addictive. Yet so many of us feel anxious in pregnancy, experience birth trauma and struggle postpartum. In a culture where mothers are not supported, and the system prioritizes "safety" above all, women are often left stuck in survival stress after birth of their child. But please know that healing, love, and joy is available for you. Whether you wish to process and integrate your birth experience, prepare for the transition to the new role, or address your hopes and needs in pregnancy or postpartum, I am here to walk alongside and hold space for you as you navigate the perinatal journey.
(518) 351-7688 View (518) 351-7688
Photo of Viosanny Harrison, Counselor in Pearl River, NY
Viosanny Harrison
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Nanuet, NY 10954
Most of us just want to lead happy and fulfilling lives. Depending on their life experiences and environment, this looks different for every individual. Therefore, my main goal will always be to help clients work toward this goal, while embarking on a path of healing that leads to the best version of themselves. One that embraces every facet of who they are. As my client, you can expect a safe space where you can feel seen without any judgement. At a pace that is specific to you, I will push you beyond your comfort zone to help you overcome the barriers that are negatively impacting your life.
Most of us just want to lead happy and fulfilling lives. Depending on their life experiences and environment, this looks different for every individual. Therefore, my main goal will always be to help clients work toward this goal, while embarking on a path of healing that leads to the best version of themselves. One that embraces every facet of who they are. As my client, you can expect a safe space where you can feel seen without any judgement. At a pace that is specific to you, I will push you beyond your comfort zone to help you overcome the barriers that are negatively impacting your life.
View

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.