Photo of Natalie Sievert, Marriage & Family Therapist in Washington
Natalie Sievert
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have extensive experience over 15 years providing treatment and counseling services to all ages and populations. I specialize in autism treatment/support, personality disorders, complex trauma, mood disorders, ADHD, and narcissism. I work with people of all ages and provide individual, family, and marriage/couples counseling. My treatment method involves building a trusting relationship, being goal-oriented, and staying focused on what the client wants to improve in his or her life. I want the treatment experience to be real and positive for my clients. That is my ultimate goal.
I have extensive experience over 15 years providing treatment and counseling services to all ages and populations. I specialize in autism treatment/support, personality disorders, complex trauma, mood disorders, ADHD, and narcissism. I work with people of all ages and provide individual, family, and marriage/couples counseling. My treatment method involves building a trusting relationship, being goal-oriented, and staying focused on what the client wants to improve in his or her life. I want the treatment experience to be real and positive for my clients. That is my ultimate goal.
(509) 295-9199 View (509) 295-9199
Photo of Dr. William Gibson, Ph.D., Counselor in Washington
Dr. William Gibson, Ph.D.
Counselor, PhD, MS, LMHCA, LCC
Verified Verified
As an active member of the American Psychological Association, a Professional Member of the American Association of Marriage & Family Therapists, Past Board of Directors Bainbridge Youth Services, I enjoy the unique opportunity to contribute to and explore emerging understanding and changes in treatment and diagnosis focused upon my areas of specialization.
As a client-centered professional, I recognize the strength necessary for an individual to take the first step through the counselor's open door. Through trusting and empathetic positive relationship building, I join my clients in the exploration of a healthier, self-accepting perspective in addressing the challenging components of their life experience. All areas of my practice focus upon acceptance and healthy management of personal questions through the discovery of an enhanced understanding, within a positive environment, which utilizes personal strengths to contribute to a happier, self satisfying life experience. Come take this walk with me...
As an active member of the American Psychological Association, a Professional Member of the American Association of Marriage & Family Therapists, Past Board of Directors Bainbridge Youth Services, I enjoy the unique opportunity to contribute to and explore emerging understanding and changes in treatment and diagnosis focused upon my areas of specialization.
As a client-centered professional, I recognize the strength necessary for an individual to take the first step through the counselor's open door. Through trusting and empathetic positive relationship building, I join my clients in the exploration of a healthier, self-accepting perspective in addressing the challenging components of their life experience. All areas of my practice focus upon acceptance and healthy management of personal questions through the discovery of an enhanced understanding, within a positive environment, which utilizes personal strengths to contribute to a happier, self satisfying life experience. Come take this walk with me...
(206) 823-2954 View (206) 823-2954
Photo of Justin Pere, Counselor in Washington
Justin Pere
Counselor, LMHC, CST, CGT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98109  (Online Only)
Now Accepting New Clients! Our team of 7 therapists - Corey, Lisa, Stephen, Misa, Maggie, Lindsey and myself - can help you, with the specialty of our practice, Clarity Counseling Seattle, being Relationships / Couples / Marriage / Premarital and Sex / Sexuality/Intimacy. Couples often use our website (ClarityCounselingSeattle.com) to start receiving help with communication, conflict, and deepening emotional & sexual intimacy. The individuals who often seek us out are looking to feel less stress, less worry, less depression/anxiety, and wanting to experience more joy, contentment, and peace within themselves.
Now Accepting New Clients! Our team of 7 therapists - Corey, Lisa, Stephen, Misa, Maggie, Lindsey and myself - can help you, with the specialty of our practice, Clarity Counseling Seattle, being Relationships / Couples / Marriage / Premarital and Sex / Sexuality/Intimacy. Couples often use our website (ClarityCounselingSeattle.com) to start receiving help with communication, conflict, and deepening emotional & sexual intimacy. The individuals who often seek us out are looking to feel less stress, less worry, less depression/anxiety, and wanting to experience more joy, contentment, and peace within themselves.
(206) 855-3934 View (206) 855-3934
Photo of Stephanie Justus, Marriage & Family Therapist in Washington
Stephanie Justus
Marriage & Family Therapist, MSMFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
Kirkland, WA 98034  (Online Only)
I hold a Master's in Marriage and Family Therapy and a Master's in Theology.
Carrying the weight of anxiety, grief, disconnection from those around you, maybe even from yourself, can be overwhelming at times. It can be difficult to navigate these things alone. I believe in the power of the therapeutic, client-focused relationship as a catalyst for exploration and healing. My work with clients focuses on guiding people as they process life transitions, challenges and new opportunities. I walk alongside you in making a shift in your mindset to a place aligned with your core values and truth. I maintain a holistic perspective integrating mind, body, and spirit to empower every client in reaching his/her goals.
I hold a Master's in Marriage and Family Therapy and a Master's in Theology.
Carrying the weight of anxiety, grief, disconnection from those around you, maybe even from yourself, can be overwhelming at times. It can be difficult to navigate these things alone. I believe in the power of the therapeutic, client-focused relationship as a catalyst for exploration and healing. My work with clients focuses on guiding people as they process life transitions, challenges and new opportunities. I walk alongside you in making a shift in your mindset to a place aligned with your core values and truth. I maintain a holistic perspective integrating mind, body, and spirit to empower every client in reaching his/her goals.
(360) 301-7625 View (360) 301-7625
Photo of Kathie Stabbert, Mental Health Counselor in Washington
Kathie Stabbert
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Bothell, WA 98021
Prepare/Enrich Facilitator - engaging couples in pre-marital.
I work with people struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar, and relationship concerns by exploring a deeper awareness of both the body and mind. I use several approaches including attachment theory, EMDR, IFS, EFT, and CBT, as I work with individuals and couples to resolve core beliefs which feed powerlessness and shame. I listen to and advocate for my clients to find new pathways through life's challenges of trauma, emotional neglect, grief, and negative self-worth. We don't need all the answers to be "good enough." We need someone to "be" with us as we learn new ways to thrive.
Prepare/Enrich Facilitator - engaging couples in pre-marital.
I work with people struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar, and relationship concerns by exploring a deeper awareness of both the body and mind. I use several approaches including attachment theory, EMDR, IFS, EFT, and CBT, as I work with individuals and couples to resolve core beliefs which feed powerlessness and shame. I listen to and advocate for my clients to find new pathways through life's challenges of trauma, emotional neglect, grief, and negative self-worth. We don't need all the answers to be "good enough." We need someone to "be" with us as we learn new ways to thrive.
(425) 487-1005 x1 View (425) 487-1005 x1
Photo of Angela DiFiore, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Washington
Angela DiFiore
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonds, WA 98020
Waitlist for new clients
Hello, I’m Angela, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Associate. More specifically, I help spark change in people’s lives and relationships. I call my style of therapy “real talk”, because it is different than talking to a blank face that nods and takes notes. I am a real person who relates to my clients in a genuine way, and works collaboratively to listen, offer insights, and uncover what may be blocking the path towards healing. Little known fact: humor is not off-limits in therapy.
Hello, I’m Angela, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Associate. More specifically, I help spark change in people’s lives and relationships. I call my style of therapy “real talk”, because it is different than talking to a blank face that nods and takes notes. I am a real person who relates to my clients in a genuine way, and works collaboratively to listen, offer insights, and uncover what may be blocking the path towards healing. Little known fact: humor is not off-limits in therapy.
(425) 440-3334 View (425) 440-3334
Photo of Kate Dorman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington
Kate Dorman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CFT
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98115  (Online Only)
All too often there is an absence of communication about money within our most intimate relationships. While discussing finances with your partner may feel vulnerable or uncomfortable, the risks of avoiding the discussion are too high, and while arguing about finances with your partner may be second nature at this point, it doesn't have to be. Compulsive spending, financial enabling, financial avoidance, and financial marriage prep, are a few reasons you might seek financial therapy. Through financial therapy, you will be able to implement healthy financial behaviors, adapt to financial changes, and feel confident in your decisions.
All too often there is an absence of communication about money within our most intimate relationships. While discussing finances with your partner may feel vulnerable or uncomfortable, the risks of avoiding the discussion are too high, and while arguing about finances with your partner may be second nature at this point, it doesn't have to be. Compulsive spending, financial enabling, financial avoidance, and financial marriage prep, are a few reasons you might seek financial therapy. Through financial therapy, you will be able to implement healthy financial behaviors, adapt to financial changes, and feel confident in your decisions.
(206) 208-7041 View (206) 208-7041
Photo of Jennifer E Higgs-Coulthard, Counselor in Washington
Jennifer E Higgs-Coulthard
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LMFTA, SUDP, RPT
Verified Verified
Olympia, WA 98501
Behavioral Therapy Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Family/Marital Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Play Therapy (Autplay), and Moral Reconation therapy (MRT).
I have worked with clients that have experienced a range of symptoms and concerns including anxiety, depression, stress, sexual abuse, self-harm, trauma, grief and loss, relationship concerns, behavioral concerns, anger and aggression, parenting support, substance use, chronic health issues, and family conflicts.
Behavioral Therapy Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Family/Marital Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Play Therapy (Autplay), and Moral Reconation therapy (MRT).
I have worked with clients that have experienced a range of symptoms and concerns including anxiety, depression, stress, sexual abuse, self-harm, trauma, grief and loss, relationship concerns, behavioral concerns, anger and aggression, parenting support, substance use, chronic health issues, and family conflicts.
(253) 553-3409 View (253) 553-3409
Photo of Rigoberto Garza, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington
Rigoberto Garza
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSWAIC, MHP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kennewick, WA 99336  (Online Only)
My specialties include LGBTQIA2+, marital issues, trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship conflict, parenting, WISe Wraparound services, and Inpatient Psychiatric care.
When life stressors or traumas arise, it's easy to feel like everything is falling apart. As a mental health therapist, I aim to help my clients heal and navigate through these difficult times. Whether it's children, adults, or families, my approach is to help clients find healthy perceptions of themselves and strengthen their relationships so that they can feel complete, whole, and safe.
My specialties include LGBTQIA2+, marital issues, trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship conflict, parenting, WISe Wraparound services, and Inpatient Psychiatric care.
When life stressors or traumas arise, it's easy to feel like everything is falling apart. As a mental health therapist, I aim to help my clients heal and navigate through these difficult times. Whether it's children, adults, or families, my approach is to help clients find healthy perceptions of themselves and strengthen their relationships so that they can feel complete, whole, and safe.
(509) 512-2553 View (509) 512-2553
Photo of April Jones- Marriage And Family Therapist, Marriage & Family Therapist in Washington
April Jones- Marriage And Family Therapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
Redmond, WA 98052  (Online Only)
I am a marriage and family therapist that helps individuals and couples navigate the challenges of modern life. We explore how roles in family, relational, social, and cultural networks influence the whole person. The client is the expert on their story and my role is to help translate that narrative through our combined knowledge. Clients I work with often feel they have all the outside elements for a happy life, but still struggle with stress, relational problems, self-esteem, and work issues. Something is missing or preventing fulfillment and it is our collaborative efforts that help us discover and remove those barriers.
I am a marriage and family therapist that helps individuals and couples navigate the challenges of modern life. We explore how roles in family, relational, social, and cultural networks influence the whole person. The client is the expert on their story and my role is to help translate that narrative through our combined knowledge. Clients I work with often feel they have all the outside elements for a happy life, but still struggle with stress, relational problems, self-esteem, and work issues. Something is missing or preventing fulfillment and it is our collaborative efforts that help us discover and remove those barriers.
(425) 541-1231 View (425) 541-1231
Photo of Renew Refocus Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington
Renew Refocus Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
Chehalis, WA 98532
We specialize in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), Temperament Therapy, Play Therapy, & Marriage Counseling (Gottman/PREP).
Accepting new clients. Life can be hard, challenging, and at times can feel truly hopeless. There are times you may experience life controlled by intense emotions or paralyzing anxiety/fear and detached numbness takes over. Traumatic memories that are overwhelming, causing insomnia or night terrors. Relationships suffering from conflict, lack of intimacy, and distraction are inevitable. Teen conflict, locked in power struggles without solutions that result in endless frustration dominating your time. There IS hope! Learn to implement key changes and create shifts to overcome even the most challenging obstacles.
We specialize in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), Temperament Therapy, Play Therapy, & Marriage Counseling (Gottman/PREP).
Accepting new clients. Life can be hard, challenging, and at times can feel truly hopeless. There are times you may experience life controlled by intense emotions or paralyzing anxiety/fear and detached numbness takes over. Traumatic memories that are overwhelming, causing insomnia or night terrors. Relationships suffering from conflict, lack of intimacy, and distraction are inevitable. Teen conflict, locked in power struggles without solutions that result in endless frustration dominating your time. There IS hope! Learn to implement key changes and create shifts to overcome even the most challenging obstacles.
(360) 585-4993 View (360) 585-4993
Photo of Emily Parks, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Washington
Emily Parks
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98005
As a Marriage & Couples therapist, I specialize in guiding couples through the process of restoring trust, resolving communication issues, and rebuilding intimacy after infidelity.
Have you discovered your partner's infidelity and you're not sure what to do next? Are thoughts of divorce and overwhelming emotions from the betrayal consuming you? If you're struggling to heal from your partner's affair, sexual addiction or infidelity, you might need the support of a specialist who understands. If you're questioning your entire relationship, I can help you heal by exploring what happened & helping you receive empathic understanding for your pain. Let's work together to develop a plan to ease the trauma of the betrayal and create hope that your relationship can not only be saved but that you can thrive together.
As a Marriage & Couples therapist, I specialize in guiding couples through the process of restoring trust, resolving communication issues, and rebuilding intimacy after infidelity.
Have you discovered your partner's infidelity and you're not sure what to do next? Are thoughts of divorce and overwhelming emotions from the betrayal consuming you? If you're struggling to heal from your partner's affair, sexual addiction or infidelity, you might need the support of a specialist who understands. If you're questioning your entire relationship, I can help you heal by exploring what happened & helping you receive empathic understanding for your pain. Let's work together to develop a plan to ease the trauma of the betrayal and create hope that your relationship can not only be saved but that you can thrive together.
(425) 490-4260 View (425) 490-4260
Photo of Chelsea Wilkes, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Washington
Chelsea Wilkes
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Snoqualmie, WA 98065
Chelsea holds a Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy from Antioch University of New England.
Chelsea is a Couples and Family Therapy Associate with a passion for helping individuals, couples, and families build stronger and more fulfilling relationships. With her warm and empathetic approach, she creates a safe and supportive space for her clients to explore their emotions, understand their relational patterns, and foster positive change. With a client-centered approach, Chelsea ensures that her clients feel seen, heard, and valued throughout their therapeutic journey. She believes that every individual and relationship has unique strengths and potential for growth.
Chelsea holds a Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy from Antioch University of New England.
Chelsea is a Couples and Family Therapy Associate with a passion for helping individuals, couples, and families build stronger and more fulfilling relationships. With her warm and empathetic approach, she creates a safe and supportive space for her clients to explore their emotions, understand their relational patterns, and foster positive change. With a client-centered approach, Chelsea ensures that her clients feel seen, heard, and valued throughout their therapeutic journey. She believes that every individual and relationship has unique strengths and potential for growth.
(425) 475-2396 View (425) 475-2396
Photo of Dawn Phillips Shepherd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington
Dawn Phillips Shepherd
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Kennewick, WA 99336
I believe that we all have things in life that we need help dealing with or working through. As a counselor I provide a safe, confidential, and nonjudgmental place for people to get the help they are seeking. I use several therapeutic modalities including cognitive behavioral, EMDR, Internal Family Systems, somatic experiencing and emotional focused therapy to name a few. When working with couples I use the Gottman marriage approach as well as the therapies listed above. I may explore with the client their past and present in order to promote self-discovery/awareness that will assist them with the outcome they desire.
I believe that we all have things in life that we need help dealing with or working through. As a counselor I provide a safe, confidential, and nonjudgmental place for people to get the help they are seeking. I use several therapeutic modalities including cognitive behavioral, EMDR, Internal Family Systems, somatic experiencing and emotional focused therapy to name a few. When working with couples I use the Gottman marriage approach as well as the therapies listed above. I may explore with the client their past and present in order to promote self-discovery/awareness that will assist them with the outcome they desire.
(509) 571-2857 View (509) 571-2857
Photo of Saara Abdalkhani, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Washington
Saara Abdalkhani
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99201  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapy Associate (LMFTA). What this means for our sessions is that I will provide a professional guiding hand for your individual, relationship, or family therapy journey. Your voice is extremely important and a vital piece of my practicing philosophy is that this will be a safe space for said voice to be uplifted through our work. Some of the theories we might concentrate on together are solution focused therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and experiential therapy. I also provide an affirming environment for queer, gender inclusive, and multiculturally competent care.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapy Associate (LMFTA). What this means for our sessions is that I will provide a professional guiding hand for your individual, relationship, or family therapy journey. Your voice is extremely important and a vital piece of my practicing philosophy is that this will be a safe space for said voice to be uplifted through our work. Some of the theories we might concentrate on together are solution focused therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and experiential therapy. I also provide an affirming environment for queer, gender inclusive, and multiculturally competent care.
(509) 740-0669 View (509) 740-0669
Photo of Michael Baker, Marriage & Family Therapist in Washington
Michael Baker
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCMFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
Redmond, WA 98052  (Online Only)
Thanks for your interest in my profile. As a marriage and family therapist, I am specifically trained to see couples and families, but I very much enjoy working with individuals as well. Developing insight towards learning how to love others and be loved by others is the key to building healthy, connected relationships. If you are finding that you are struggling in maintaining or developing relationships with others, if you have experienced betrayal, or if you struggle to maintain connection with others, especially your partners, then I am the therapist you are looking for. I also enjoy working with a variety of individual issues.
Thanks for your interest in my profile. As a marriage and family therapist, I am specifically trained to see couples and families, but I very much enjoy working with individuals as well. Developing insight towards learning how to love others and be loved by others is the key to building healthy, connected relationships. If you are finding that you are struggling in maintaining or developing relationships with others, if you have experienced betrayal, or if you struggle to maintain connection with others, especially your partners, then I am the therapist you are looking for. I also enjoy working with a variety of individual issues.
(425) 528-8944 View (425) 528-8944
Photo of Stephen Plotz, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Washington
Stephen Plotz
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103
I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Associate (LMFTA) in WA. I received my Master’s Degree in Couples and Family Therapy & a Play Therapy Certificate from Antioch University Seattle. I currently have limited availability, reach out to me using this form: hipaa.jotform.com/230046103107034
I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Associate (LMFTA) in WA. I received my Master’s Degree in Couples and Family Therapy & a Play Therapy Certificate from Antioch University Seattle. I currently have limited availability, reach out to me using this form: hipaa.jotform.com/230046103107034
Photo of Kelly Lynn Rundle, Counselor in Washington
Kelly Lynn Rundle
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CDP
Verified Verified
Kirkland, WA 98033
My therapy practice specializes in mood disorders, working with individuals, couples and families. I am also a Board Certified Executive Coach and specialize in business coaching and leadership development with an emphasis on Emotional Intelligence. Through a fun, collaborative relationship, there is always a way to address the issues you face and learn coping strategies to help you both right now and in the future. Depression, anxiety, substance abuse, marital conflict, job stress, career and life transitions.
My therapy practice specializes in mood disorders, working with individuals, couples and families. I am also a Board Certified Executive Coach and specialize in business coaching and leadership development with an emphasis on Emotional Intelligence. Through a fun, collaborative relationship, there is always a way to address the issues you face and learn coping strategies to help you both right now and in the future. Depression, anxiety, substance abuse, marital conflict, job stress, career and life transitions.
(425) 399-7127 View (425) 399-7127
Photo of Caroline Gearing, Marriage & Family Therapist in Washington
Caroline Gearing
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98660
As a licensed marriage and family therapist I specialize in sexual addiction work for men and women transitioning from sexual addiction to healthy sexuality, and partners and couples dealing with sexual addiction. Groups provided: sex addiction, partner of sexual addict, couples dealing with sexual addiction, and love addiction. Strong focus on couples counseling, premarital counseling using Prepare/Enrich assessment tools. Expertise with sexual therapy for couples and individuals. Specialty dealing with narcissistic people and assisting clients with great transitional challenges. I am a highly dedicated counselor and therapist partnering with my clients to successfully move forward in their lives.
As a licensed marriage and family therapist I specialize in sexual addiction work for men and women transitioning from sexual addiction to healthy sexuality, and partners and couples dealing with sexual addiction. Groups provided: sex addiction, partner of sexual addict, couples dealing with sexual addiction, and love addiction. Strong focus on couples counseling, premarital counseling using Prepare/Enrich assessment tools. Expertise with sexual therapy for couples and individuals. Specialty dealing with narcissistic people and assisting clients with great transitional challenges. I am a highly dedicated counselor and therapist partnering with my clients to successfully move forward in their lives.
(360) 450-4373 View (360) 450-4373
Photo of Next Level Counseling, PLLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Washington
Next Level Counseling, PLLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98006  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am Lisa Brawn, a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, trained Play Therapist, and am currently pursuing a Geek Therapy certification. I am a Gamer & Geek friendly, LGBTQ+ friendly, Sex-Positive therapist. My focus is on helping my clients navigate their lives and relationships. I treat older children/teens, and adults of all ages. Much of my work has focused on anxiety, depression, trauma & post trauma, relationship and family issues, parenting skills, school difficulties, teen/adult ADHD, life transition difficulties, behavioral issues, and self-acceptance.
I am Lisa Brawn, a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, trained Play Therapist, and am currently pursuing a Geek Therapy certification. I am a Gamer & Geek friendly, LGBTQ+ friendly, Sex-Positive therapist. My focus is on helping my clients navigate their lives and relationships. I treat older children/teens, and adults of all ages. Much of my work has focused on anxiety, depression, trauma & post trauma, relationship and family issues, parenting skills, school difficulties, teen/adult ADHD, life transition difficulties, behavioral issues, and self-acceptance.
(360) 226-8864 View (360) 226-8864
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.