Photo of Ana Ferrell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Jacksonville, TX
Ana Ferrell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, TX 75766
I also work well with anxiety, depression, life transitions, marriage and parenting issues.
Seeking help for life’s struggles is not an easy task especially when it requires our emotional exposure. I believe it takes a very courageous person to seek help and be vulnerable. If this is you, I want to congratulate you! I consider it an honor and a big privilege to walk beside my clients who are facing hardships in life. I believe therapy can be extremely helpful when the client is approached with welcoming, comforting and the nonjudgmental heart of a therapist.
I also work well with anxiety, depression, life transitions, marriage and parenting issues.
Seeking help for life’s struggles is not an easy task especially when it requires our emotional exposure. I believe it takes a very courageous person to seek help and be vulnerable. If this is you, I want to congratulate you! I consider it an honor and a big privilege to walk beside my clients who are facing hardships in life. I believe therapy can be extremely helpful when the client is approached with welcoming, comforting and the nonjudgmental heart of a therapist.
(903) 730-6573 View (903) 730-6573
Photo of Sarah A Lowery, Licensed Professional Counselor in Jacksonville, TX
Sarah A Lowery
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, TX 75766
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I received a Master's degree in Professional Counseling from Liberty University and my undergraduate degree in Psychology from Indiana University-Purdue University at Indianapolis.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I received a Master's degree in Professional Counseling from Liberty University and my undergraduate degree in Psychology from Indiana University-Purdue University at Indianapolis.
(430) 204-1257 View (430) 204-1257
Photo of Heather Watkins, Licensed Professional Counselor in Jacksonville, TX
Heather Watkins
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, TX 75766
Seeking help and finding the right therapist for you can be a daunting and challenging process. The key to positive, lasting change is finding a therapist who will tailor your treatment based on your individual needs and strengths, and help you overcome the behaviors and thoughts that are getting in your way. You need someone who will listen and understand you without judgment, support you through these changes, be honest with you, and challenge you when needed.
Seeking help and finding the right therapist for you can be a daunting and challenging process. The key to positive, lasting change is finding a therapist who will tailor your treatment based on your individual needs and strengths, and help you overcome the behaviors and thoughts that are getting in your way. You need someone who will listen and understand you without judgment, support you through these changes, be honest with you, and challenge you when needed.
(512) 714-3403 View (512) 714-3403

Online Therapists

Photo of Elaine Barnett, Licensed Professional Counselor in Jacksonville, TX
Elaine Barnett
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Forney, TX 75126
I am passionate about working with all ages, facing various issues such as sexual abuse, marital and family conflict, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and childhood issues.
Dr. Barnett is a Licensed Professional Counselor. She has over 25 years of experience as a clinician. She is a Dallas native and received a BA in Business Management, an MA in Counseling from Texas A&M Commerce, and a doctorate in Counseling from Cornerstone University.
I am passionate about working with all ages, facing various issues such as sexual abuse, marital and family conflict, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and childhood issues.
Dr. Barnett is a Licensed Professional Counselor. She has over 25 years of experience as a clinician. She is a Dallas native and received a BA in Business Management, an MA in Counseling from Texas A&M Commerce, and a doctorate in Counseling from Cornerstone University.
(833) 536-3218 View (833) 536-3218
Photo of Erin Tatum James, Licensed Professional Counselor in Jacksonville, TX
Erin Tatum James
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Heath, TX 75032
I conduct a private practice with a main purpose of providing an environment in which individuals feel empowered to change the quality of their lives in regards to communication, relationships, and mental health. I have had a variety of experiences with adolescents, inpatient mental health hospitals, mobile psychological evaluations, intensive inpatient and outpatient assessments, marriage & family therapy, in-home counseling, and residential treatment centers. I also provide christian based counseling where there is a need. It is my counseling goal to help provide the skills needed to achieve full body wellness.
I conduct a private practice with a main purpose of providing an environment in which individuals feel empowered to change the quality of their lives in regards to communication, relationships, and mental health. I have had a variety of experiences with adolescents, inpatient mental health hospitals, mobile psychological evaluations, intensive inpatient and outpatient assessments, marriage & family therapy, in-home counseling, and residential treatment centers. I also provide christian based counseling where there is a need. It is my counseling goal to help provide the skills needed to achieve full body wellness.
(214) 499-9436 View (214) 499-9436
Photo of Valor Therapy, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Jacksonville, TX
Valor Therapy, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC, LCDC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Wills Point, TX 75169  (Online Only)
My name is Roberto "Robert" Guerrero, I am a bilingual Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor in Texas, and CCTP, National Certified Counselor (NCC) and BC-TMH provider. I have over nine years of experience in the field of mental health and chemical dependency, and currently operate a private counseling practice exclusively online near Dallas, Texas. I primarily work with young adults and adults who are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, grief, career issues, relationship and marriage problems, and other life challenges. I also offer consulting services for business professionals.
My name is Roberto "Robert" Guerrero, I am a bilingual Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor in Texas, and CCTP, National Certified Counselor (NCC) and BC-TMH provider. I have over nine years of experience in the field of mental health and chemical dependency, and currently operate a private counseling practice exclusively online near Dallas, Texas. I primarily work with young adults and adults who are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, grief, career issues, relationship and marriage problems, and other life challenges. I also offer consulting services for business professionals.
(214) 833-8162 View (214) 833-8162
Photo of April Smith - Thrive Counseling and Life Coaching, Licensed Professional Counselor in Jacksonville, TX
April Smith - Thrive Counseling and Life Coaching
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CADC II, LMHC, SUDP
Verified Verified
Lindale, TX 75771
Providing over 20 years of experience. Services offered include Individual, Marriage, Premarital, Couples, Teens, Families, and Substance Abuse. Utilizing a Solution Focused, Cognitive approach, working with negative, fearful, and traumatic thoughts and perceptions and renewing and/or replacing them with enabling and productive thoughts. I provide help for individuals, families & or couples to gain coping skills to help manage or decrease problematic symptoms. The initial session begins with exchanging background and history to gain information to formalize a treatment plan. Accepting clients for days, evenings, & Saturday appts.
Providing over 20 years of experience. Services offered include Individual, Marriage, Premarital, Couples, Teens, Families, and Substance Abuse. Utilizing a Solution Focused, Cognitive approach, working with negative, fearful, and traumatic thoughts and perceptions and renewing and/or replacing them with enabling and productive thoughts. I provide help for individuals, families & or couples to gain coping skills to help manage or decrease problematic symptoms. The initial session begins with exchanging background and history to gain information to formalize a treatment plan. Accepting clients for days, evenings, & Saturday appts.
(903) 201-7727 View (903) 201-7727
Photo of Becoming More Counseling, Coaching, & Consulting, Licensed Professional Counselor in Jacksonville, TX
Becoming More Counseling, Coaching, & Consulting
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MDiv, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Rockwall, TX 75032
I specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma, marriage & family; & am certified in DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) and am trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing).
I live in Rockwall, TX. Clients who are struggling but wanting to not only heal, but also grow have the potential for being extremely powerful people. We have all gone through difficult times, experiencing anxiety, fear, depression, and hopelessness. However, if we have healed, we look back and see those times as hard, but some of the most powerful in our lives. Hearts can become strong, marriages can be healed and become euphoric, and our families can become strong, powerful, and beautiful. If you have a Christian background, I can help you become stronger in your faith. Executive Coaching available.
I specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma, marriage & family; & am certified in DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) and am trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing).
I live in Rockwall, TX. Clients who are struggling but wanting to not only heal, but also grow have the potential for being extremely powerful people. We have all gone through difficult times, experiencing anxiety, fear, depression, and hopelessness. However, if we have healed, we look back and see those times as hard, but some of the most powerful in our lives. Hearts can become strong, marriages can be healed and become euphoric, and our families can become strong, powerful, and beautiful. If you have a Christian background, I can help you become stronger in your faith. Executive Coaching available.
(254) 505-3241 View (254) 505-3241
Photo of Jared Wilke, Psychologist in Jacksonville, TX
Jared Wilke
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Lufkin, TX 75904
Jared Wilke, Psy.D., is a licensed Clinical Psychologist in the state of California. He is currently practicing at Family Counseling Center, which has served the North County community in outpatient counseling for over 25 years. Dr. Wilke enjoys working with teenagers and young adults, their families, as well individuals and people seeking marital therapy. **Please note that currently for residents of Texas, I am only able to do appointments by video/phone. These options are also available for residents of California if needed or requested.
Jared Wilke, Psy.D., is a licensed Clinical Psychologist in the state of California. He is currently practicing at Family Counseling Center, which has served the North County community in outpatient counseling for over 25 years. Dr. Wilke enjoys working with teenagers and young adults, their families, as well individuals and people seeking marital therapy. **Please note that currently for residents of Texas, I am only able to do appointments by video/phone. These options are also available for residents of California if needed or requested.
(858) 943-6728 x104 View (858) 943-6728 x104
Photo of Dr. Jeffrey C Allen, Licensed Professional Counselor in Jacksonville, TX
Dr. Jeffrey C Allen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Longview, TX 75602
In my setting, I provide an array of psychotherapy, ranging from depression, marriage problems, anger mismanagement, couples therapy, bipolar, and Spiritual therapy. My services are to all populations ranging from 3-99 years of age.
In my setting, I provide an array of psychotherapy, ranging from depression, marriage problems, anger mismanagement, couples therapy, bipolar, and Spiritual therapy. My services are to all populations ranging from 3-99 years of age.
(903) 294-4446 View (903) 294-4446
Photo of Samantha Allison-Evans, Licensed Professional Counselor in Jacksonville, TX
Samantha Allison-Evans
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Forney, TX 75126  (Online Only)
Furthermore, my experience concludes working with the following specialty areas: Personality Disorders, Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Grief, and Marriage and Family.
Allison Evans Counseling & Consulting, PLLC , our mission is to heal, empower, and transform lives through compassionate counseling services. We strive to empower individuals to reach their full potential and make positive changes in their lives. My name is Samantha Allison- Evans and I am the owner of Allison Evans Counseling and Consulting, PLLC. I am a licensed mental health therapist .Our ultimate goal is to help clients achieve personal growth, overcome challenges, and find lasting happiness and fulfillment.irstly, our mission statement emphasizes our business's commitment to healing, empowering, and transforming lives.
Furthermore, my experience concludes working with the following specialty areas: Personality Disorders, Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Grief, and Marriage and Family.
Allison Evans Counseling & Consulting, PLLC , our mission is to heal, empower, and transform lives through compassionate counseling services. We strive to empower individuals to reach their full potential and make positive changes in their lives. My name is Samantha Allison- Evans and I am the owner of Allison Evans Counseling and Consulting, PLLC. I am a licensed mental health therapist .Our ultimate goal is to help clients achieve personal growth, overcome challenges, and find lasting happiness and fulfillment.irstly, our mission statement emphasizes our business's commitment to healing, empowering, and transforming lives.
(469) 382-3498 View (469) 382-3498
Photo of Brent Kirkley, Licensed Professional Counselor in Jacksonville, TX
Brent Kirkley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, LMFT, ThM
Verified Verified
Tyler, TX 75703
As a licensed professional counselor and a licensed marriage and family therapist for over 30 years, I have worked primarily with men and their spouses.
Life can be more challenging than you expect, and sometimes you need help in moving forward. In those times, you need someone who understands you and can coach you in finding a healthy way to manage what life throws at you. A good therapist is like a fellow traveler who is able to help you make sense of life and relationships. In many life situations, a supportive counselor who understands how challenging life is can be a helpful part of your journey.
As a licensed professional counselor and a licensed marriage and family therapist for over 30 years, I have worked primarily with men and their spouses.
Life can be more challenging than you expect, and sometimes you need help in moving forward. In those times, you need someone who understands you and can coach you in finding a healthy way to manage what life throws at you. A good therapist is like a fellow traveler who is able to help you make sense of life and relationships. In many life situations, a supportive counselor who understands how challenging life is can be a helpful part of your journey.
(903) 206-1512 View (903) 206-1512
Photo of 246 Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Jacksonville, TX
246 Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sunnyvale, TX 75182
I work with adults and children who are battling addictions, depression, anxiety, codependency, job-related stress, marital discord, "prodigal son" situations, relationship struggles, aging parents' trauma, and many many more problems.
I am an LPC-Associate, under the supervision of Jennifer Smith, LPC-S. I am passionate about recovery and giving people hope and the tools necessary to overcome the struggles in their lives. I specialize in addiction recovery, couples / family work, and individuals struggling with anxiety and depression. As a Gottman Trained therapist, I focus on working with couples and families, using tools learned in this specialized training to assist families in healing and deepening their relationships. I am also the Director of Recovery Ministries at the church that I attend. In this role, I oversee different types of recovery groups.
I work with adults and children who are battling addictions, depression, anxiety, codependency, job-related stress, marital discord, "prodigal son" situations, relationship struggles, aging parents' trauma, and many many more problems.
I am an LPC-Associate, under the supervision of Jennifer Smith, LPC-S. I am passionate about recovery and giving people hope and the tools necessary to overcome the struggles in their lives. I specialize in addiction recovery, couples / family work, and individuals struggling with anxiety and depression. As a Gottman Trained therapist, I focus on working with couples and families, using tools learned in this specialized training to assist families in healing and deepening their relationships. I am also the Director of Recovery Ministries at the church that I attend. In this role, I oversee different types of recovery groups.
(972) 440-1716 View (972) 440-1716
Photo of Dawn Waldron Nelson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Jacksonville, TX
Dawn Waldron Nelson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, ACSW, SAP, CART
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Rockwall, TX 75087
Additional topics include marital and parent-child interactions, abusive relationships, alternative lifestyles, school concerns including academic, behavioral, social issues, and parenting facilitation.
I have 25 years of psychotherapy experience successfully helping people improve their lives. Talking about problems can be difficult, however, sharing concerns with an objective, professional therapist enables you to understand and overcome challenges. I treat you with respect, understanding, and confidentiality, and provide exceptional services in a comfortable and non-judgmental environment. I have a wide variety of professional experience with children, teens, and adults, in both short and long-term therapy, dealing with a broad spectrum of problems. In addition, I provide diagnostic assessments and consultations.
Additional topics include marital and parent-child interactions, abusive relationships, alternative lifestyles, school concerns including academic, behavioral, social issues, and parenting facilitation.
I have 25 years of psychotherapy experience successfully helping people improve their lives. Talking about problems can be difficult, however, sharing concerns with an objective, professional therapist enables you to understand and overcome challenges. I treat you with respect, understanding, and confidentiality, and provide exceptional services in a comfortable and non-judgmental environment. I have a wide variety of professional experience with children, teens, and adults, in both short and long-term therapy, dealing with a broad spectrum of problems. In addition, I provide diagnostic assessments and consultations.
(972) 684-5962 View (972) 684-5962
Photo of Justin Blackburn, LPC Associate in Jacksonville, TX
Justin Blackburn
LPC Associate, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Heath, TX 75032
LPC Associate under the supervision of Dr. Brandi Smith LPC-S. Do you feel you are different from your family or others around you? Are you not feeling like yourself, have feelings of being overwhelmed or confused about who you are or what to do? You are here because you know you need help. Together we can work to get you back to feeling like a new you. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in science and a minor in criminal justice from Stephen F. Austin State University. I have previous experience in education and law enforcement. My Master’s degree is in clinical counseling from SMU with a focus on marriage and family.
LPC Associate under the supervision of Dr. Brandi Smith LPC-S. Do you feel you are different from your family or others around you? Are you not feeling like yourself, have feelings of being overwhelmed or confused about who you are or what to do? You are here because you know you need help. Together we can work to get you back to feeling like a new you. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in science and a minor in criminal justice from Stephen F. Austin State University. I have previous experience in education and law enforcement. My Master’s degree is in clinical counseling from SMU with a focus on marriage and family.
(469) 658-7594 View (469) 658-7594
Photo of Tim Spellings, Marriage & Family Therapist in Jacksonville, TX
Tim Spellings
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCDC
Verified Verified
Waxahachie, TX 75165
Waitlist for new clients
I can perform Marital and Premarital counseling for all couples as well.
Reaching out takes great courage, especially when someone is seeking guidance. Life has the tendency to cause people to cope in ways that are not necessarily beneficial. They may develop problems like depression or anxiety as a result of stressors. Or, they may turn towards abusing substances as a way to change how they feel. Reaching out for help during this time may be scary and seem impossible. My goal, as a therapist, is to come alongside my clients so that they don’t walk alone through whatever may be troubling them. I hope to be able to help anyone struggling to deal with life on life’s terms.
I can perform Marital and Premarital counseling for all couples as well.
Reaching out takes great courage, especially when someone is seeking guidance. Life has the tendency to cause people to cope in ways that are not necessarily beneficial. They may develop problems like depression or anxiety as a result of stressors. Or, they may turn towards abusing substances as a way to change how they feel. Reaching out for help during this time may be scary and seem impossible. My goal, as a therapist, is to come alongside my clients so that they don’t walk alone through whatever may be troubling them. I hope to be able to help anyone struggling to deal with life on life’s terms.
(254) 244-4042 View (254) 244-4042
Photo of Linda Payne, Pastoral Counselor in Jacksonville, TX
Linda Payne
Pastoral Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
Flint, TX 75762
I am a Licensed Christian Counselor. Your struggles matter to me. My heart is to see you free and enjoying life to the fullest. God has a plan and a future for your life and wants you to walk in freedom. I counsel children to adult; and will work with any problems. I have done extensive marriage and pre marriage counseling.
I am a Licensed Christian Counselor. Your struggles matter to me. My heart is to see you free and enjoying life to the fullest. God has a plan and a future for your life and wants you to walk in freedom. I counsel children to adult; and will work with any problems. I have done extensive marriage and pre marriage counseling.
(903) 201-1279 View (903) 201-1279
Photo of Arturo Morales, Marriage & Family Therapist in Jacksonville, TX
Arturo Morales
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
Longview, TX 75601
As a licensed professional, I have worked with couples & individuals dealing with marital conflict, infidelity, depression, anxiety, abusive relationships, porn addiction, among other issues.
Broken. Depressed. Desperate. Afraid. Falling apart. That's how many of us describe ourselves and/or our relationships. We assume or convince ourselves that there is no alternative and should get used to it, or get over it. But how? As you well know, it is not that simple. Counseling and therapy is about the courage to be vulnerable, and learning to walk through the brokenness of our lives with hope. Whether your struggle is with depression, grief, anxiety, marital conflict, infidelity, trauma, parenting, or something else, there is hope.
As a licensed professional, I have worked with couples & individuals dealing with marital conflict, infidelity, depression, anxiety, abusive relationships, porn addiction, among other issues.
Broken. Depressed. Desperate. Afraid. Falling apart. That's how many of us describe ourselves and/or our relationships. We assume or convince ourselves that there is no alternative and should get used to it, or get over it. But how? As you well know, it is not that simple. Counseling and therapy is about the courage to be vulnerable, and learning to walk through the brokenness of our lives with hope. Whether your struggle is with depression, grief, anxiety, marital conflict, infidelity, trauma, parenting, or something else, there is hope.
(430) 219-0765 View (430) 219-0765
Photo of Gloria Dukes, Marriage & Family Therapist in Jacksonville, TX
Gloria Dukes
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
Royse City, TX 75189  (Online Only)
Improve productivity, quality of life, parenting and marriage in a meaningful way.
Relationships can be full of conflicts fueled by the emotions of unresolved hurt, pain and insecurities. Marriages struggle because of inability to communicate needs and desires in an effective way and are often hampered by anger and emotion fueled episodes. I would love to assist you in fine tuning your tools to help build healthy interactions in your life and assist you in moving from hurt to healing, growth and the ability to thrive in your relationships. I specialize in restoring relationships and assisting clients in diving deep to heal past hurts that hinder present growth.
Improve productivity, quality of life, parenting and marriage in a meaningful way.
Relationships can be full of conflicts fueled by the emotions of unresolved hurt, pain and insecurities. Marriages struggle because of inability to communicate needs and desires in an effective way and are often hampered by anger and emotion fueled episodes. I would love to assist you in fine tuning your tools to help build healthy interactions in your life and assist you in moving from hurt to healing, growth and the ability to thrive in your relationships. I specialize in restoring relationships and assisting clients in diving deep to heal past hurts that hinder present growth.
(972) 694-1030 View (972) 694-1030
Photo of Charisse Huey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Jacksonville, TX
Charisse Huey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lancaster, TX 75146
I have 15 years of experience in depressive disorders, anxiety, substance use disorders, domestic violence concerns, anger issues, life changes difficulties, women issues, gender identity issues, adolescent issues, marriage/couple issues, and family issues.
I love helping clients find ways to cope with their depression and anxiety. Hopelessness and helplessness are two emotions that are damaging if not acknowledged and addressed. Everyone experiences some form of somber mood but when this mood is not addressed, it easily turns into a disorder that can be very hard to cope with on a daily basis. I want to help you with coping with this debilitating illness. It can be defeated but only through work. I have the tools to make it work for you.
I have 15 years of experience in depressive disorders, anxiety, substance use disorders, domestic violence concerns, anger issues, life changes difficulties, women issues, gender identity issues, adolescent issues, marriage/couple issues, and family issues.
I love helping clients find ways to cope with their depression and anxiety. Hopelessness and helplessness are two emotions that are damaging if not acknowledged and addressed. Everyone experiences some form of somber mood but when this mood is not addressed, it easily turns into a disorder that can be very hard to cope with on a daily basis. I want to help you with coping with this debilitating illness. It can be defeated but only through work. I have the tools to make it work for you.
(682) 518-2574 View (682) 518-2574

See more therapy options for Jacksonville

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.