Marriage Counseling Therapists in Ohio

Photo of Lauren Holland, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lauren Holland
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Cleveland, OH 44113
Waitlist for new clients
I am a marriage and family therapist (MFT) that focuses on helping children, parents, and families explore their world through the modality of play and relational experience in therapy. The overwhelming feelings of anxiety, depression, stress, and conflict that builds in yourself and relationships can keep you feeling stuck and like there is no way out. Through providing a safe space for you and your child to learn more about themselves and for you to learn more about them, there are endless possibilities to do things differently and find relief.
I am a marriage and family therapist (MFT) that focuses on helping children, parents, and families explore their world through the modality of play and relational experience in therapy. The overwhelming feelings of anxiety, depression, stress, and conflict that builds in yourself and relationships can keep you feeling stuck and like there is no way out. Through providing a safe space for you and your child to learn more about themselves and for you to learn more about them, there are endless possibilities to do things differently and find relief.
(440) 291-8079 View (440) 291-8079
Photo of Abel Oriri - Able Counseling & Associates, Inc., LPCC, NCC, PhD(c), Counselor
Able Counseling & Associates, Inc.
Counselor, LPCC, NCC, PhD(c)
Verified Verified
Cleveland, OH 44121
While I may not change past ( personal, relationship, marriage, family or business) situations, I can help you to better understand and resolve your current situation and guide you to a happier and successful personal and professional life. By applying complementary individual, couple, family or group therapy techniques to unearth long-standing patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a meaningful and purposeful life. My team also provide EAP Consultations, Critical Incident Training & Response worldwide (24/7) Benefits:
While I may not change past ( personal, relationship, marriage, family or business) situations, I can help you to better understand and resolve your current situation and guide you to a happier and successful personal and professional life. By applying complementary individual, couple, family or group therapy techniques to unearth long-standing patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a meaningful and purposeful life. My team also provide EAP Consultations, Critical Incident Training & Response worldwide (24/7) Benefits:
(216) 446-7147 View (216) 446-7147
Photo of Natalie Andrews, IMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Natalie Andrews
Marriage & Family Therapist, IMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mason, OH 45040
Are you looking to strengthen your relationship? As a Marriage and Family Therapist, my goal is to create a space where relationships can learn to thrive. The approach I take in therapy is first and foremost a client-centered and strengths-based approach. Therapy is not ‘one size fits all’ so we will work towards your specific goals at your pace. I believe every client and relationship has innate strengths and abilities that will help them achieve their goals- I work to help you maximize those strengths and abilities.
Are you looking to strengthen your relationship? As a Marriage and Family Therapist, my goal is to create a space where relationships can learn to thrive. The approach I take in therapy is first and foremost a client-centered and strengths-based approach. Therapy is not ‘one size fits all’ so we will work towards your specific goals at your pace. I believe every client and relationship has innate strengths and abilities that will help them achieve their goals- I work to help you maximize those strengths and abilities.
(513) 443-2268 View (513) 443-2268
Photo of Jessica M Wolfal, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jessica M Wolfal
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beachwood, OH 44122  (Online Only)
Life changes are difficult. We all go through things in life that are overwhelming. Some people seeking help are struggling with the loss of a loved one. At the same time, others are dealing with changes in family dynamics and family stressors. My goal is to help address these emotions and experiences. I work with a variety of mental health and emotional issues, including anxiety, anger, depression, relationship transitions, separation/divorce, new marriage, new parents/ step-parents, loss of family member or friend, family of military and active-duty members, and deployment transitions.
Life changes are difficult. We all go through things in life that are overwhelming. Some people seeking help are struggling with the loss of a loved one. At the same time, others are dealing with changes in family dynamics and family stressors. My goal is to help address these emotions and experiences. I work with a variety of mental health and emotional issues, including anxiety, anger, depression, relationship transitions, separation/divorce, new marriage, new parents/ step-parents, loss of family member or friend, family of military and active-duty members, and deployment transitions.
(216) 859-1373 View (216) 859-1373
Photo of Stephanie Hickman, MSW, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Hickman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
West Chester, OH 45069
Waitlist for new clients
I work with individuals and couples experiencing marital troubles, Depression, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, Borderline Personality Disorder, life stressors, and Complex Traumas.
Therapy takes Strength and Courage and I am here to help you take the first step. Hi, my name is Stephanie Hickman and I have a huge passion for empowering others and teaching them vital skills to navigate through life successfully. I offer evidence Based treatment services to help you learn how to manage the stressors of everyday life, relationships, and difficult situations. I am an Independently Licensed Social Worker with 18 years of experience. I pride myself in meeting people where they are and helping them explore what treatment modality is the best fit for them.
I work with individuals and couples experiencing marital troubles, Depression, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, Borderline Personality Disorder, life stressors, and Complex Traumas.
Therapy takes Strength and Courage and I am here to help you take the first step. Hi, my name is Stephanie Hickman and I have a huge passion for empowering others and teaching them vital skills to navigate through life successfully. I offer evidence Based treatment services to help you learn how to manage the stressors of everyday life, relationships, and difficult situations. I am an Independently Licensed Social Worker with 18 years of experience. I pride myself in meeting people where they are and helping them explore what treatment modality is the best fit for them.
(513) 854-9236 View (513) 854-9236
Photo of Kristen Pepera - Colors+ Counseling, LLC, LPCC-S, Counselor
Colors+ Counseling, LLC
Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairview Park, OH 44126
Est. in 2018, LGBTQ+ owned and operated, and here to provide affordable care for you. Our team of licensed clinicians is 100% on your team. Our eclectic group of licensed professional clinical counselors (LPC/LPCC), licensed social workers (LSW/LISW), and marriage and family therapists (MFT) are trained to treat both adults and youth for individual counseling, family counseling and all types of relationships including monogamous, non-monogamous and polyamorous. In addition to traditional talk therapy our clinicians offer art therapy, music therapy, and EMDR to treat a wide range of issues that are unique to each person.
Est. in 2018, LGBTQ+ owned and operated, and here to provide affordable care for you. Our team of licensed clinicians is 100% on your team. Our eclectic group of licensed professional clinical counselors (LPC/LPCC), licensed social workers (LSW/LISW), and marriage and family therapists (MFT) are trained to treat both adults and youth for individual counseling, family counseling and all types of relationships including monogamous, non-monogamous and polyamorous. In addition to traditional talk therapy our clinicians offer art therapy, music therapy, and EMDR to treat a wide range of issues that are unique to each person.
(216) 200-8814 View (216) 200-8814
Photo of Kathleen Holmes, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Kathleen Holmes
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Heath, OH 43056
Though qualified to work with a variety of mental health issues, I offer particular expertise in the areas of trauma, depression, anxiety, and abuse related issues. While the majority of clients are seen individually, I have a great desire to help couples strengthen and enhance their marriage relationships. If you are looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or you're just ready to move in a new direction in your life, I look forward to working with you to achieve your goals.
Though qualified to work with a variety of mental health issues, I offer particular expertise in the areas of trauma, depression, anxiety, and abuse related issues. While the majority of clients are seen individually, I have a great desire to help couples strengthen and enhance their marriage relationships. If you are looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or you're just ready to move in a new direction in your life, I look forward to working with you to achieve your goals.
(740) 396-8970 View (740) 396-8970
Photo of Crystal Hubbell - Integrative Counseling Solutions, MS, LPCC, S
Integrative Counseling Solutions
MS, LPCC, S
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45255
We offer a variety of counseling options such as play therapy, cognitive behavior therapy, marriage counseling, child therapy, trauma therapy, grief therapy, etc.
Integrative Counseling Solutions promotes the mental health and well-being of individuals who seek a better existence and personal growth. ICS integrates flexible counseling options in order to accommodate our clients and their individual needs. We do this by incorporating therapeutic skills with unique and individualized techniques.
We offer a variety of counseling options such as play therapy, cognitive behavior therapy, marriage counseling, child therapy, trauma therapy, grief therapy, etc.
Integrative Counseling Solutions promotes the mental health and well-being of individuals who seek a better existence and personal growth. ICS integrates flexible counseling options in order to accommodate our clients and their individual needs. We do this by incorporating therapeutic skills with unique and individualized techniques.
(513) 342-3756 View (513) 342-3756
Photo of Erin Thomas, MA, IMFT-S, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Erin Thomas
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, IMFT-S, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sharonville, OH 45241
I am licensed in Marriage and Family Therapy and have extensively trained in Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT).
You and your partner just aren’t clicking the way you used to. More and more fights are going unresolved, or sometimes you choose not to bring something up because you don’t have the energy to deal with it. The distance between you keeps growing, and you feel even more alone. It seems like your partner doesn’t see you sometimes, let alone know what you actually want or need. Those sweet beginning days of your relationship feel like they happened to two different people. While you can remember what it felt like to be close to each other, it seems impossible to feel like that again.
I am licensed in Marriage and Family Therapy and have extensively trained in Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT).
You and your partner just aren’t clicking the way you used to. More and more fights are going unresolved, or sometimes you choose not to bring something up because you don’t have the energy to deal with it. The distance between you keeps growing, and you feel even more alone. It seems like your partner doesn’t see you sometimes, let alone know what you actually want or need. Those sweet beginning days of your relationship feel like they happened to two different people. While you can remember what it felt like to be close to each other, it seems impossible to feel like that again.
(513) 654-2238 View (513) 654-2238
Photo of Meghan Newman, LPCC, Counselor
Meghan Newman
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Shaker Heights, OH 44122  (Online Only)
I have a particular interest in and experience working with individuals experiencing marital conflict, individuals experiencing chronic pain due to work related injuries, and individuals with intellectual disabilities.
​Counseling isn’t one size fits all. I approach the counseling process eclectically and by meeting the patient where they are in their life. I believe it’s important to incorporate various techniques, as well as different forms of interaction that may facilitate deeper conversation and connection. I believe in order for someone to feel comfortable opening up, they have to trust. Sometimes this means stepping outside of your comfort zone. I look forward to working with you on your journey of self-improvement, self-reflection, understanding, growth, and discovery.
I have a particular interest in and experience working with individuals experiencing marital conflict, individuals experiencing chronic pain due to work related injuries, and individuals with intellectual disabilities.
​Counseling isn’t one size fits all. I approach the counseling process eclectically and by meeting the patient where they are in their life. I believe it’s important to incorporate various techniques, as well as different forms of interaction that may facilitate deeper conversation and connection. I believe in order for someone to feel comfortable opening up, they have to trust. Sometimes this means stepping outside of your comfort zone. I look forward to working with you on your journey of self-improvement, self-reflection, understanding, growth, and discovery.
(330) 632-3116 View (330) 632-3116
Photo of Melissa E Bagnato, LPCC-S, IMFT-S, Marriage & Family Therapist
Melissa E Bagnato
Marriage & Family Therapist, LPCC-S, IMFT-S
Verified Verified
Akron, OH 44310
I use my training in Marriage and Family therapy to help couples/families increase their relationship satisfaction and their emotional well being.
I know life can be difficult at times. I want to help you find a sense of peace and well being. I enjoy treating couples/families that are dealing with conflict and/or trust and communication issues. I also assist women that are experiencing emotional issues and/or have experienced past trauma. I use a combination of emotional support, understanding, and empathy to assist with inner turmoil and relationship repairs. I hope to assist clients with finding a healthy balance between self-love and relationship health. I work for Catholic Charities, but I am not a faith based therapist. All clients, beliefs, and struggles are welcome!
I use my training in Marriage and Family therapy to help couples/families increase their relationship satisfaction and their emotional well being.
I know life can be difficult at times. I want to help you find a sense of peace and well being. I enjoy treating couples/families that are dealing with conflict and/or trust and communication issues. I also assist women that are experiencing emotional issues and/or have experienced past trauma. I use a combination of emotional support, understanding, and empathy to assist with inner turmoil and relationship repairs. I hope to assist clients with finding a healthy balance between self-love and relationship health. I work for Catholic Charities, but I am not a faith based therapist. All clients, beliefs, and struggles are welcome!
(330) 752-4751 View (330) 752-4751
Photo of Iris Lynn Bailey, M-Div, MA, PCC-S, Counselor
Iris Lynn Bailey
Counselor, M-Div, MA, PCC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Many of us struggle with family conflict, marriage and relationship issues. Perhaps you are single parenting, and your job, responsibilities at home, and conflict with your children seem overwhelming; maybe pain from your past prevents you from moving into your future. I assist families in working-through the circumstances in which we often find ourselves. My specialty is family relationship-building. I work with adults, families and children. An often asked question: "How can I help my family when it's such a struggle to address my own concerns?" I'd like to assist with the important emotional decisions and changes in your life.
Many of us struggle with family conflict, marriage and relationship issues. Perhaps you are single parenting, and your job, responsibilities at home, and conflict with your children seem overwhelming; maybe pain from your past prevents you from moving into your future. I assist families in working-through the circumstances in which we often find ourselves. My specialty is family relationship-building. I work with adults, families and children. An often asked question: "How can I help my family when it's such a struggle to address my own concerns?" I'd like to assist with the important emotional decisions and changes in your life.
(216) 502-4674 View (216) 502-4674
Photo of Earle Martin - The Counseling and Wellness Center, LLC, LPCC-S, Counselor
The Counseling and Wellness Center, LLC
Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Grove City, OH 43123
The Counseling and Wellness Center is a group practice in the Columbus, Ohio area. Clinicians hold dual licenses in mental health and addiction counseling. Clinicians within the practice are also certified mediators and trained in divorce settlements, and resolutions of assets between businesses and personal relationships. In addition, their areas of expertise include marriage and family counseling, crisis stabilization, individuals, treatment of mental and emotional disorders, and as a life coach. Clinicians follow the principle that the mind, body, and spirit is essential to wellness.
The Counseling and Wellness Center is a group practice in the Columbus, Ohio area. Clinicians hold dual licenses in mental health and addiction counseling. Clinicians within the practice are also certified mediators and trained in divorce settlements, and resolutions of assets between businesses and personal relationships. In addition, their areas of expertise include marriage and family counseling, crisis stabilization, individuals, treatment of mental and emotional disorders, and as a life coach. Clinicians follow the principle that the mind, body, and spirit is essential to wellness.
(614) 412-3640 View (614) 412-3640
Photo of Brett C Larsen, MA, LPCC-S, Counselor
Brett C Larsen
Counselor, MA, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45220
I have experience needed to help those with marriage counseling by using the How we love book and John Gottman therapy methods.
Healthy people seek out help and this is why I have great respect for anyone who takes the first step to seek out counseling. I enjoy working with any person who is motivated to overcome issues such as depression, anxiety, relationship problems, or more severe disorders. I have worked at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center for over 10 years and have seen clients at Telehealth Hope Counseling for over 6 years. I have over 20 years of experience as a licensed professional clinical counselor supervisor and I have the experience needed to treat these problems.
I have experience needed to help those with marriage counseling by using the How we love book and John Gottman therapy methods.
Healthy people seek out help and this is why I have great respect for anyone who takes the first step to seek out counseling. I enjoy working with any person who is motivated to overcome issues such as depression, anxiety, relationship problems, or more severe disorders. I have worked at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center for over 10 years and have seen clients at Telehealth Hope Counseling for over 6 years. I have over 20 years of experience as a licensed professional clinical counselor supervisor and I have the experience needed to treat these problems.
(513) 815-3278 View (513) 815-3278
Photo of Anthony Miller, Coach, Counselor
Anthony Miller
Counselor, Coach
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Parma, OH 44129
The Mentoring Mind Group, LLC believes marriage is not a destination but a process.
The Mentoring Mind Group, LLC provides premium coaching services to business owners who have been successful in business but not so much in their romantic life. We specialize in helping our client's make the best choice for a marital partner on the front end of marriage. If you have identified an Intended Spouse and you want to gain clarity about your choice we are your trusted mentors.
The Mentoring Mind Group, LLC believes marriage is not a destination but a process.
The Mentoring Mind Group, LLC provides premium coaching services to business owners who have been successful in business but not so much in their romantic life. We specialize in helping our client's make the best choice for a marital partner on the front end of marriage. If you have identified an Intended Spouse and you want to gain clarity about your choice we are your trusted mentors.
(216) 616-8401 View (216) 616-8401
Photo of Kailynn VanHoesen, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kailynn VanHoesen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43230
I have the ability to treat clients who find themselves struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem/self-worth, family/marital issues, stage of life struggles, trauma, and/or sexual identity/dysphoria. I see clients ranging in age from 12 and older.
I have the ability to treat clients who find themselves struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem/self-worth, family/marital issues, stage of life struggles, trauma, and/or sexual identity/dysphoria. I see clients ranging in age from 12 and older.
(614) 881-5804 View (614) 881-5804
Photo of Karen Nelson - Karen L Nelson Counseling, LLC, LPCC-S, CEAP, LICDC, Counselor
Karen L Nelson Counseling, LLC
Counselor, LPCC-S, CEAP, LICDC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dayton, OH 45429  (Online Only)
Insurance accepted for individuals through Headway. Welcome. People choose to speak with a counselor for many reasons. Perhaps one of these following reasons describes you: -I want to feel better -I keep repeating patterns that aren't good for me or my loved ones -We are struggling and considering marriage counseling -We want support for amicably redefining our relationship -I over-react and that is causing problems -I am grieving and my world has changed -I can’t get over something Does this describe you? If you want to explore what is possible, I invite you to be in touch.
Insurance accepted for individuals through Headway. Welcome. People choose to speak with a counselor for many reasons. Perhaps one of these following reasons describes you: -I want to feel better -I keep repeating patterns that aren't good for me or my loved ones -We are struggling and considering marriage counseling -We want support for amicably redefining our relationship -I over-react and that is causing problems -I am grieving and my world has changed -I can’t get over something Does this describe you? If you want to explore what is possible, I invite you to be in touch.
(937) 702-3281 View (937) 702-3281
Photo of Jack Hambrick, MFT-T, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Jack Hambrick
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MFT-T
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Jack Hambrick has been approved by the State of Ohio as a Marriage and Family Therapist Trainee (M.
Immediate openings available for in-person and telehealth. Jack provides couples counseling for spouses/partners/co-parents who are struggling to communicate; adjusting to marriage, cohabitation, or the demands of parenting; dealing with ADHD, addiction, infidelity, or trauma; and/or considering marriage, cohabitation, separation, or divorce. Jack also works with individuals (ages 15+) who are coping with the impact of ADHD, anxiety, depressive symptoms, trauma, and/or relationship challenges.
Jack Hambrick has been approved by the State of Ohio as a Marriage and Family Therapist Trainee (M.
Immediate openings available for in-person and telehealth. Jack provides couples counseling for spouses/partners/co-parents who are struggling to communicate; adjusting to marriage, cohabitation, or the demands of parenting; dealing with ADHD, addiction, infidelity, or trauma; and/or considering marriage, cohabitation, separation, or divorce. Jack also works with individuals (ages 15+) who are coping with the impact of ADHD, anxiety, depressive symptoms, trauma, and/or relationship challenges.
(740) 791-0357 View (740) 791-0357
Photo of Forward Path Counseling Ohio - Forward Path Counseling of Ohio , LPC, LICDC, PsyD, MS, MBA, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Forward Path Counseling of Ohio
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LPC, LICDC, PsyD, MS, MBA
Verified Verified
Lima, OH 45801  (Online Only)
Offers individual/family/couples/marital counseling, life skills/coaching, and psycho educational skills training.
Accepting NEW Patients. OH & AZ. We believe you do not need to have a mental health diagnosis to benefit from counseling. Our Therapeutic Relationship will empower diverse individuals, families, and groups to accomplish your individual mental health, wellness, education, and/or career goals. We will work with potential patients on strategies to overcome obstacles and personal challenges that you are facing, no matter the area of your life. Its more important to move forward than to be perfect! We look forward to helping you on the Forward Path to Wellness.
Offers individual/family/couples/marital counseling, life skills/coaching, and psycho educational skills training.
Accepting NEW Patients. OH & AZ. We believe you do not need to have a mental health diagnosis to benefit from counseling. Our Therapeutic Relationship will empower diverse individuals, families, and groups to accomplish your individual mental health, wellness, education, and/or career goals. We will work with potential patients on strategies to overcome obstacles and personal challenges that you are facing, no matter the area of your life. Its more important to move forward than to be perfect! We look forward to helping you on the Forward Path to Wellness.
(614) 300-0275 View (614) 300-0275
Photo of Ruth Friedman - Friedman Counseling Services, LLC, IMFT, LPC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Friedman Counseling Services, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, IMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Ruth has been approved by the State of Ohio as both an Independent Marriage and Family Therapist (IMFT, F.
Ruth Friedman established Friedman Counseling Services, LLC, in an effort to provide excellent and affordable counseling services to couples and adult individuals (ages 18+) across Ohio. Ruth has extensive experience counseling spouses/partners/co-parents who are struggling to communicate; adjusting to marriage, cohabitation, or the demands of parenting; dealing with infidelity, addiction, or trauma; and/or considering marriage, cohabitation, separation, or divorce. Ruth also works with adults who are coping with the impact of trauma, anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive thoughts and behaviors, and/or challenging relationships.
Ruth has been approved by the State of Ohio as both an Independent Marriage and Family Therapist (IMFT, F.
Ruth Friedman established Friedman Counseling Services, LLC, in an effort to provide excellent and affordable counseling services to couples and adult individuals (ages 18+) across Ohio. Ruth has extensive experience counseling spouses/partners/co-parents who are struggling to communicate; adjusting to marriage, cohabitation, or the demands of parenting; dealing with infidelity, addiction, or trauma; and/or considering marriage, cohabitation, separation, or divorce. Ruth also works with adults who are coping with the impact of trauma, anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive thoughts and behaviors, and/or challenging relationships.
(614) 426-0206 View (614) 426-0206
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.