Photo of Erinn Carpenter, Pre-Licensed Professional in Tioga County, NY
Erinn Carpenter
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MHC
Verified Verified
Owego, NY 13827
I believe finding the right counselor to walk alongside you on you're very personal journey is most important especially when you are struggling or hurting. I welcome you with safety, warmth, care and compassion. I assure you my absolute dedication and commitment in helping you meet your needs. Together, we will find the root of symptoms not only for relief but resolution and restoration allowing you to move forward with a life of renewed freedom. Come as you are and lets walk together.
I believe finding the right counselor to walk alongside you on you're very personal journey is most important especially when you are struggling or hurting. I welcome you with safety, warmth, care and compassion. I assure you my absolute dedication and commitment in helping you meet your needs. Together, we will find the root of symptoms not only for relief but resolution and restoration allowing you to move forward with a life of renewed freedom. Come as you are and lets walk together.
(607) 862-5468 View (607) 862-5468
Photo of Nadya Gifeisman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tioga County, NY
Nadya Gifeisman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waverly, NY 14892
I am here for you to discover individualized paths to solve issues related to feeling stressed, overwhelmed, anxious, or going through bouts of depression ; family, relationship, or parenting problems; most forms of trauma, abuse, and general life crises My expertise also includes helping people with newly diagnosed or chronic medical conditions, and people who are struggling with adjusting to a new phase of life. You can expect the therapy methods used to be tailored to your unique situation and what’s best to support you in your daily life. We’ll work together to create a safe space so you can learn more about yourself and grow.
I am here for you to discover individualized paths to solve issues related to feeling stressed, overwhelmed, anxious, or going through bouts of depression ; family, relationship, or parenting problems; most forms of trauma, abuse, and general life crises My expertise also includes helping people with newly diagnosed or chronic medical conditions, and people who are struggling with adjusting to a new phase of life. You can expect the therapy methods used to be tailored to your unique situation and what’s best to support you in your daily life. We’ll work together to create a safe space so you can learn more about yourself and grow.
(570) 260-9515 View (570) 260-9515
Photo of Stacy L Cannavino, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tioga County, NY
Stacy L Cannavino
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, C-DBT, C-PD
Verified Verified
Waverly, NY 14892
Are you in need of support while you navigate through life difficulties? Do you have emotional struggles that you are not sure how to manage? Relationship struggles? Difficulty setting boundaries with others? Do you have past trauma? Do you come from a dysfunctional family dynamic? Are you an adult child of a dysfunctional parent and unsure how to heal from your upbringing? Allow me to guide you through your personal therapy experience of learning, self-exploration, and achievement of mental and emotional growth.
Are you in need of support while you navigate through life difficulties? Do you have emotional struggles that you are not sure how to manage? Relationship struggles? Difficulty setting boundaries with others? Do you have past trauma? Do you come from a dysfunctional family dynamic? Are you an adult child of a dysfunctional parent and unsure how to heal from your upbringing? Allow me to guide you through your personal therapy experience of learning, self-exploration, and achievement of mental and emotional growth.
(570) 676-2122 View (570) 676-2122
Photo of Brittany J. Rigoli, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tioga County, NY
Brittany J. Rigoli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Owego, NY 13827
Not accepting new clients
Harriet Tubman once said, “Every great dream begins with a dreamer. Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world.” Within our therapeutic relationship, you are the dreamer. You have in you the passion, strength, capacity, courage, and self-determination to make change happen. If you want to confront and change negative habits, thoughts, feelings, and/or behaviors, to learn skills and strategies to improve your social skills or relationships, or to attain freedom from what has stifled you from being your best self, I am here to tell you it IS possible.
Harriet Tubman once said, “Every great dream begins with a dreamer. Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world.” Within our therapeutic relationship, you are the dreamer. You have in you the passion, strength, capacity, courage, and self-determination to make change happen. If you want to confront and change negative habits, thoughts, feelings, and/or behaviors, to learn skills and strategies to improve your social skills or relationships, or to attain freedom from what has stifled you from being your best self, I am here to tell you it IS possible.
(607) 208-7968 View (607) 208-7968

Online Therapists

Photo of Philip H Yawman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tioga County, NY
Philip H Yawman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Webster, NY 14580
People that I am currently working with suffer from anxiety, depression, marital distress, and chemical dependency - both drugs and alcohol.
Sherpa is the name for the person in Nepal who carries your baggage when you are climbing up a high mountain. That image fits with my vision of therapy or counseling. I see myself as your servant. I enjoy helping people carry the baggage you bring on the trip. The usefulness of what we do together is dependent on the quality of the relationship we can develop. Do you think that I can help you carry your baggage until you get back on the trail or are high enough on the mountain to see where you want to go?
People that I am currently working with suffer from anxiety, depression, marital distress, and chemical dependency - both drugs and alcohol.
Sherpa is the name for the person in Nepal who carries your baggage when you are climbing up a high mountain. That image fits with my vision of therapy or counseling. I see myself as your servant. I enjoy helping people carry the baggage you bring on the trip. The usefulness of what we do together is dependent on the quality of the relationship we can develop. Do you think that I can help you carry your baggage until you get back on the trail or are high enough on the mountain to see where you want to go?
(585) 348-7899 View (585) 348-7899
Photo of Collins and Collins Counseling - Shameka Collins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tioga County, NY
Collins and Collins Counseling - Shameka Collins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Rochester, NY 14618
Helping you become unstuck and begin to move forward is my focus! My husband and I also provide premarital, marriage and couples counseling as a husband and wife team.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS! Are you feeling deep pain, but there's no one who really understands? Are your emotions so powerful that you are beginning to feel like they're in control? Are you feeling unsure about your purpose and unclear about your identity? Are you feeling stuck and unsure how to become free? I am here for you! I understand that beginning therapy can be anxiety-provoking. My goal is to create a safe place for you to explore your emotions, experience healing and grow in understanding your purpose and identity. You can expect to gain perspective and feel empowered after each session.
Helping you become unstuck and begin to move forward is my focus! My husband and I also provide premarital, marriage and couples counseling as a husband and wife team.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS! Are you feeling deep pain, but there's no one who really understands? Are your emotions so powerful that you are beginning to feel like they're in control? Are you feeling unsure about your purpose and unclear about your identity? Are you feeling stuck and unsure how to become free? I am here for you! I understand that beginning therapy can be anxiety-provoking. My goal is to create a safe place for you to explore your emotions, experience healing and grow in understanding your purpose and identity. You can expect to gain perspective and feel empowered after each session.
(585) 432-0806 View (585) 432-0806
Photo of Vikki L Oconnor, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tioga County, NY
Vikki L Oconnor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Sodus, NY 14551
Confidential counseling services include: Individual, couples, marital and family therapy.
Are you seeking ways in which to feel better or to improve your interpersonal relationships? The decision to make that first step toward lasting change can be daunting. I help individuals, couples and families find healthy, creative and lasting solutions to their personal and interpersonal relationship challenges. My clinical training and expertise focuses on safely helping you to explore feelings of distress, leading to new insights, healing and change. I believe that anyone has the capability of achieving more happiness and satisfaction in their lives and relationships. You CAN take control of your life and feel great again.
Confidential counseling services include: Individual, couples, marital and family therapy.
Are you seeking ways in which to feel better or to improve your interpersonal relationships? The decision to make that first step toward lasting change can be daunting. I help individuals, couples and families find healthy, creative and lasting solutions to their personal and interpersonal relationship challenges. My clinical training and expertise focuses on safely helping you to explore feelings of distress, leading to new insights, healing and change. I believe that anyone has the capability of achieving more happiness and satisfaction in their lives and relationships. You CAN take control of your life and feel great again.
(315) 370-3391 View (315) 370-3391
Photo of Lisa Blalock, Counselor in Tioga County, NY
Lisa Blalock
Counselor, LMHC, CST
Verified Verified
Webster, NY 14580
As a Therapist and Certified Sex Therapist who specializes in life transitions such as marriage, divorce, and relational concerns, female/male sexuality, dysfunction/concerns, sexual trauma, and gender identity.
Life as you know it has changed. Whether it be suddenly or over time, everything that once was is no longer. You may be asking yourself; why me, how did this happen, am I the only one who feels this way, what, if anything could I do different, or can I actually feel better? Maybe you are telling yourself; I am all alone in this, no one will understand how I feel, I don't know where to begin and cannot imagine getting past all this. The feelings of sadness, anger, confusion, frustration or being scared are overwhelming. You're just trying to make sense of it all. It is a huge step to seek out support but you are here and not alone.
As a Therapist and Certified Sex Therapist who specializes in life transitions such as marriage, divorce, and relational concerns, female/male sexuality, dysfunction/concerns, sexual trauma, and gender identity.
Life as you know it has changed. Whether it be suddenly or over time, everything that once was is no longer. You may be asking yourself; why me, how did this happen, am I the only one who feels this way, what, if anything could I do different, or can I actually feel better? Maybe you are telling yourself; I am all alone in this, no one will understand how I feel, I don't know where to begin and cannot imagine getting past all this. The feelings of sadness, anger, confusion, frustration or being scared are overwhelming. You're just trying to make sense of it all. It is a huge step to seek out support but you are here and not alone.
(585) 312-1586 View (585) 312-1586
Photo of Jill Connors-Letizia, Counselor in Tioga County, NY
Jill Connors-Letizia
Counselor, LMHC, MS, CAS, HLC
Verified Verified
Camillus, NY 13031
I am a New York State Licensed Mental Health Counselor with an abundance of training in anxiety, depression, stress management, marital/relationship issues, self esteem issues and adjustment disorders brought on by a major life change, such as divorce or a new baby. As a therapist I am very curious and seek to understand the client’s worldview, thought process, history, behavioral patterns, stressors and how they all contribute to how the person feels. My clients can expect me to listen to their concerns with a nonjudgmental stance and recommending different strategies to help them with what they are going through.
I am a New York State Licensed Mental Health Counselor with an abundance of training in anxiety, depression, stress management, marital/relationship issues, self esteem issues and adjustment disorders brought on by a major life change, such as divorce or a new baby. As a therapist I am very curious and seek to understand the client’s worldview, thought process, history, behavioral patterns, stressors and how they all contribute to how the person feels. My clients can expect me to listen to their concerns with a nonjudgmental stance and recommending different strategies to help them with what they are going through.
(315) 873-3391 View (315) 873-3391
Photo of Dr. Phil Miller, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tioga County, NY
Dr. Phil Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dansville, NY 14437
I have 25+ years of clinical experience providing individual and couples therapy addressing various concerns. I am a Certified Gottman Marital Therapist and spent eight years as an active-duty officer in the Air Force as a clinical social worker. I value professionalism and provide a meaningful and effective treatment experience using evidence-based practices. I use a holistic approach drawing on personal and environmental strengths and tailoring treatment to meet individual needs. Therapy is a powerful tool to create desired change. Let's partner and see what we can do together. Request an appointment today through my website.
I have 25+ years of clinical experience providing individual and couples therapy addressing various concerns. I am a Certified Gottman Marital Therapist and spent eight years as an active-duty officer in the Air Force as a clinical social worker. I value professionalism and provide a meaningful and effective treatment experience using evidence-based practices. I use a holistic approach drawing on personal and environmental strengths and tailoring treatment to meet individual needs. Therapy is a powerful tool to create desired change. Let's partner and see what we can do together. Request an appointment today through my website.
(585) 549-3432 View (585) 549-3432
Photo of Jim Goldstein, Marriage & Family Therapist in Tioga County, NY
Jim Goldstein
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MAC, CASAC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Earlville, NY 13332  (Online Only)
I have over 40 years of experience in the counseling field and I bring an integrated approach to my work that incorporates the unique experience of the client/family matched with the appropriate treatment plan and approaches in a collaborative manner. My specialties are families, couples, children and adolescents, and addiction issues. I work with blended families, grandparents raising grandchildren and am trained in treatment of anxiety and depression through CBT. I am licensed and credentialed as a Marriage and Family Therapist and Addictions Counselor
I have over 40 years of experience in the counseling field and I bring an integrated approach to my work that incorporates the unique experience of the client/family matched with the appropriate treatment plan and approaches in a collaborative manner. My specialties are families, couples, children and adolescents, and addiction issues. I work with blended families, grandparents raising grandchildren and am trained in treatment of anxiety and depression through CBT. I am licensed and credentialed as a Marriage and Family Therapist and Addictions Counselor
(315) 801-2190 View (315) 801-2190
Photo of Kathryn Hope Wejko, Marriage & Family Therapist in Tioga County, NY
Kathryn Hope Wejko
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Skaneateles, NY 13152
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who is certified in both Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT). For the past 10 years I have worked with youth, adults, couples, and families within outpatient, in-home, virtual, and residential settings. My goal in treatment is to empower and equip individuals seeking help with the insight, support, and strategies necessary to achieve, and sustain, wellness within the safety of a confidential and judgement-free space.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who is certified in both Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT). For the past 10 years I have worked with youth, adults, couples, and families within outpatient, in-home, virtual, and residential settings. My goal in treatment is to empower and equip individuals seeking help with the insight, support, and strategies necessary to achieve, and sustain, wellness within the safety of a confidential and judgement-free space.
(315) 707-9183 View (315) 707-9183
Photo of Sarah Godlewski, Counselor in Tioga County, NY
Sarah Godlewski
Counselor, MEd, MS, LPC, LMHC, A-CBT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ithaca, NY 14850
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, New York (LMHC)/Licensed Professional Counselor, Arkansas (LPC) and a Certified Cognitive Behavioral Therapist. I have a Master's in Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling and a Master's in Early Childhood and Elementary Education, I taught for five years before joining the mental health profession. My experience as a mental health therapist involves working with clients of all ages, from preschool to adults, as well as with families, and couples.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, New York (LMHC)/Licensed Professional Counselor, Arkansas (LPC) and a Certified Cognitive Behavioral Therapist. I have a Master's in Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling and a Master's in Early Childhood and Elementary Education, I taught for five years before joining the mental health profession. My experience as a mental health therapist involves working with clients of all ages, from preschool to adults, as well as with families, and couples.
(607) 366-5896 View (607) 366-5896
Photo of Samantha Eve Johnson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Tioga County, NY
Samantha Eve Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rochester, NY 14618
Oh hi! You have landed on another therapist profile to sift through. You are struggling with anxiety, disordered eating, body image and identity concerns, relational distress, and/or the messiness that is everything in between. I am here for you. I am the founder and creative director of FUEL therapy. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in the treatment of eating disorders and anxiety disorders in Rochester, New York. My therapeutic work is rooted in both a biopsychosocial and social-ecological model of health. I am ready to partner with you as you take back your life and move towards the life you envision!
Oh hi! You have landed on another therapist profile to sift through. You are struggling with anxiety, disordered eating, body image and identity concerns, relational distress, and/or the messiness that is everything in between. I am here for you. I am the founder and creative director of FUEL therapy. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in the treatment of eating disorders and anxiety disorders in Rochester, New York. My therapeutic work is rooted in both a biopsychosocial and social-ecological model of health. I am ready to partner with you as you take back your life and move towards the life you envision!
(585) 601-1351 View (585) 601-1351
Photo of Ander Camino, Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Tioga County, NY
Ander Camino
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kenoza Lake, NY 12750
Extensive experience working with neurodiverse populations and with families/couples in addressing marital and pre-marital issues, incorporating CBT and Structural Family Therapy.
I am a bilingual-Spanish licensed mental health counselor with +10 years of experience working with individuals, families and couples. I understand healing as a collaborative process where multiple factors intervene, and my approach focuses on giving the individual the tools and agency to overcome whatever challenges might find on the way to healing. Issues ranging from depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, to relationship conflict, motivational issues, family conflict, anger management, and school or career issues. Insight and mindfulness are key components of my approach.
Extensive experience working with neurodiverse populations and with families/couples in addressing marital and pre-marital issues, incorporating CBT and Structural Family Therapy.
I am a bilingual-Spanish licensed mental health counselor with +10 years of experience working with individuals, families and couples. I understand healing as a collaborative process where multiple factors intervene, and my approach focuses on giving the individual the tools and agency to overcome whatever challenges might find on the way to healing. Issues ranging from depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, to relationship conflict, motivational issues, family conflict, anger management, and school or career issues. Insight and mindfulness are key components of my approach.
(917) 525-4546 View (917) 525-4546
Photo of Cheryl A. Bianchi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tioga County, NY
Cheryl A. Bianchi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, ACSW, EAS-C
Verified Verified
Rochester, NY 14610
Specific areas of interest: couples/marital and family therapy, trauma, abuse, depression, anxiety, grief/loss, self-esteem, ADD/ADHD, Addictions, gay/lesbian, transgender, first responders, caregivers or helping professionals, anger management, Domestic Violence and career and life coaching.
I have been helping individuals, couples and families for over 30 years. Clients & colleagues describe me as experienced, effective, direct, honest, kind, compassionate, genuine & caring. Strengths are my empathy & ability to connect with others in a therapeutic way as to help facilitate growth, change and movement in their lives & acceptance of self. I use an eclectic approach: cognitive-behavioral, experiential, relational, solution-focused, supportive, trauma informed, and insight-oriented psychotherapy. Expertise working with couples, families & adolescents. An Addiction Specialist and an OASAS-DMV Provider for drug & alcohol evaluations, assessment and treatment. I am also certified by EAPA as a Employee Assistance Specialist-Clinical(EAS-C).
Specific areas of interest: couples/marital and family therapy, trauma, abuse, depression, anxiety, grief/loss, self-esteem, ADD/ADHD, Addictions, gay/lesbian, transgender, first responders, caregivers or helping professionals, anger management, Domestic Violence and career and life coaching.
I have been helping individuals, couples and families for over 30 years. Clients & colleagues describe me as experienced, effective, direct, honest, kind, compassionate, genuine & caring. Strengths are my empathy & ability to connect with others in a therapeutic way as to help facilitate growth, change and movement in their lives & acceptance of self. I use an eclectic approach: cognitive-behavioral, experiential, relational, solution-focused, supportive, trauma informed, and insight-oriented psychotherapy. Expertise working with couples, families & adolescents. An Addiction Specialist and an OASAS-DMV Provider for drug & alcohol evaluations, assessment and treatment. I am also certified by EAPA as a Employee Assistance Specialist-Clinical(EAS-C).
(585) 492-6195 View (585) 492-6195
Craig W Snyder
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Syracuse, NY 13210  (Online Only)
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist who works intensively with individuals, couples, families and children. I have over thirty-five years of experience and supervise both other therapists and graduate students in their therapeutic work. Families of all types are welcome, as are children of all ages. Couples who have endured long-standing conflicts often recover and find their way back together again. My goal is to help you discover the source of pain and relationship troubles, resolve trauma, and create a more loving and happy life.
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist who works intensively with individuals, couples, families and children. I have over thirty-five years of experience and supervise both other therapists and graduate students in their therapeutic work. Families of all types are welcome, as are children of all ages. Couples who have endured long-standing conflicts often recover and find their way back together again. My goal is to help you discover the source of pain and relationship troubles, resolve trauma, and create a more loving and happy life.
(315) 707-4331 View (315) 707-4331
Photo of Rising Potential Counseling LCSW, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tioga County, NY
Rising Potential Counseling LCSW, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, DSW-C, C-CTP, C-DBT, C-MDP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Utica, NY 13502
My background is in trauma-informed care and sexual abuse treatment. Most of my clientele are trying to manage depressive symptoms, anxiety, personality disorders, and battling various mental health conditions exacerbated by life. Some of the clients I see are also trying to identify who they are as individuals and find their way within this world. I work with many families, surrounding both complex and unique family issues. I am well versed in working with couples struggling with communicating with one another and having complex and unique marital issues.
My background is in trauma-informed care and sexual abuse treatment. Most of my clientele are trying to manage depressive symptoms, anxiety, personality disorders, and battling various mental health conditions exacerbated by life. Some of the clients I see are also trying to identify who they are as individuals and find their way within this world. I work with many families, surrounding both complex and unique family issues. I am well versed in working with couples struggling with communicating with one another and having complex and unique marital issues.
(315) 277-6577 View (315) 277-6577
Photo of Serenity Psychotherapy PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tioga County, NY
Serenity Psychotherapy PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Syracuse, NY 13206  (Online Only)
Getting to the root of your pain, learning to deal with it, building upon your strengths then learning to act versus react to people and events is the goal of our approach. We have a long history of working with diverse populations, who have developed varied problems: Mental Health, Substance Abuse, Marital, Parenting, Occupational, grief and more Our approach is to work with your strengths; help you to develop new views and skills and then organize them into a plan that works in obtaining your goals. As a psychotherapy group practice, we can see just about anyone no matter what you're dealing with.
Getting to the root of your pain, learning to deal with it, building upon your strengths then learning to act versus react to people and events is the goal of our approach. We have a long history of working with diverse populations, who have developed varied problems: Mental Health, Substance Abuse, Marital, Parenting, Occupational, grief and more Our approach is to work with your strengths; help you to develop new views and skills and then organize them into a plan that works in obtaining your goals. As a psychotherapy group practice, we can see just about anyone no matter what you're dealing with.
(315) 306-3724 View (315) 306-3724
Photo of Susan Hart Presley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tioga County, NY
Susan Hart Presley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Syracuse, NY 13206  (Online Only)
I treat anxiety, depression, narcissism, couples, adults and more with science and care. I focus on comfort, precision and thoroughness to strengthen the dynamics and boundaries of life, event and issue strategies. Learn specific skills and understand how education, career, boundaries and justice combine to express themselves into human behavior and thought. All ages, experiences, education and careers, individual, marriage, family, career, sport, and court. Decades as a therapist, teacher, coach, and in investigation and research. Best performance outcomes in a diversity of settings and factors. CBT if desired. Private.
I treat anxiety, depression, narcissism, couples, adults and more with science and care. I focus on comfort, precision and thoroughness to strengthen the dynamics and boundaries of life, event and issue strategies. Learn specific skills and understand how education, career, boundaries and justice combine to express themselves into human behavior and thought. All ages, experiences, education and careers, individual, marriage, family, career, sport, and court. Decades as a therapist, teacher, coach, and in investigation and research. Best performance outcomes in a diversity of settings and factors. CBT if desired. Private.
(315) 302-1750 View (315) 302-1750

See more therapy options for Tioga County

Marriage Counseling Therapists

How does marriage counseling work?

Marriage counseling works by teaching couples concrete skills to communicate with one another and solve disagreements in healthy ways. A trained mental health professional works with both members of a couple to explore difficulties the couple may be having and helps them develop skills to address these matters. Couples who don’t have any difficulties but want to prepare for marriage may develop skills for the future.

How long does marriage counseling typically last?

Marriage counseling is a short-term form of therapy; the process may last between four and eight sessions. Other forms of relationship guidance from mental health professionals, such as couples therapy, are longer lasting, may focus on the past rather than just the present, and are tailored to the individual couple and their emotions, history, and patterns in the relationship. Couples therapy often lasts for 12 weeks or longer.

Is marriage counseling effective?

Marriage counseling helps many couples develop relationship skills that may not have been acquired or tested in a relationship; partners may be better able to communicate and address conflict following counseling. However, there are many different forms of marriage counseling, and this form of counseling does not have as strong an evidence base as other modalities such as couples therapy.

Is marriage counseling effective if only one partner wants to go?

Yes, marriage counseling can still be effective if one partner convinces the other to engage in the process. Of course, whether counseling is effective depends on the couple’s commitment to work on their relationship; however, the short-term, skills-based nature of marriage counseling makes it a relatively easy “ask” of a partner, and the hesitant individual may see its value once counseling begins.