Marriage Counseling in Kansas City, MO.

Each relationship is unique, but if you're wondering if you need marriage counseling, you probably do! If you are experiencing challenges in communication, intimacy, trust, or any other issue, marriage counseling can provide valuable insights and strategies. I can help you assess if it's the right step for your specific situation.

Absolutely. Regardless of how long you've been experiencing challenges, marriage counseling provides a fresh perspective and effective tools to navigate and overcome them. Together, we can work towards positive change. I have worked with couples who have been together for a few months, and couples who have been together for fourty years! Change is possible at all stages of a relationship!

I offer a personalized, skillful, compassionate, and realistic approach tailored to your needs. With years of experience and specialized training, I bring a unique blend of expertise and compassion to guide you through the journey of strengthening your marriage. I can help you get to know each other on a deeper and more intimate level; however, I also provide actionable strategies that you can employ at home to strengthen your bond, de-escalate conflict before it gets destructive, and other tips and tricks to help you feel more connected to each other.

Not at all. Marriage counseling is beneficial at all stages of relationships! In fact, I recommend that you take this proactive measure as soon as you start to feel that your dynamic is shifting in a negative way. The sooner we intervene, the better. Whether you're facing major issues or simply want to enhance your connection, counseling can be a proactive and preventative measure to ensure a healthy and fulfilling marriage.

It's not uncommon for one partner to be hesitant initially. I encourage open communication with each other about the benefits of counseling and how it can contribute to a healthier, more fulfilling relationship. Sometimes, attending a session together can help address concerns. I have experience working with a reluctant partner. If they are honest with me about their hesitancies and concerns, I usually recommend an individual session with them where we can get to know one another and build trust. I’ve seen this be very helpful on multiple occasions!

That's perfectly okay. In our initial sessions, we'll explore your concerns, goals, and areas you'd like to improve. Together, we'll identify the core issues and create a customized plan to address them.

Absolutely. Every therapist and approach is unique. I bring a distinct blend of experience and training, coupled with my own personality and style. If previous attempts haven't been successful, it's worth exploring a new approach to find strategies that resonate with you both. In my experience as a therapist and counselor, I am honored to say that I have had individuals, couples, and families all report having a unique therapeutic experience with me.

I respect and appreciate the diversity of beliefs and backgrounds. I provide an inclusive and non-judgmental space for all couples and celebrate all religious, identity, and cultural affiliations. I truly welcome couples of all backgrounds, relationship styles, and relationship orientations!

The duration varies based on the complexity of the issues and the progress made. Some couples see positive changes in a few sessions, while others may benefit from longer-term counseling. It's a collaborative process, and we'll work at a pace that feels right for you.

The pace of progress varies, but many couples report positive changes after a few sessions. The effectiveness of counseling definitely depends on the commitment and effort both partners invest in the process.

Absolutely. I provide a comprehensive approach, addressing a range of issues including parenting challenges, intimacy concerns, communication, and more. We'll work together to tailor the sessions to your unique needs.

Ideally, both partners should attend every session to maximize the benefits. However, I understand that scheduling can be challenging, and we can discuss flexible options to accommodate both of your needs. There are certain times when I may ask to see you each for an individual session where what you say to me will still be completely confidential. This only happens when I feel that there may not be enough emotional safety in the relationship to share all of the thoughts and feelings you may have in front of your partner; however, these thoughts and feelings may be valuable to me as your counselor in order for us to make progress. Don’t worry, though! While I keep individual sessions confidential, I also do not keep “big secrets”. If a larger secret is disclosed in an individual session, I will provide support to that partner to reveal it to the other spouse in a couples session. Also, if I feel it necessary to see you individually for a session, you will be charged the individual rate, not the couples therapy rate, for those sessions.

The first session is an opportunity for us to get to know each other and discuss your concerns and goals. It's a collaborative process where we'll start building a roadmap for your journey toward a stronger and more connected partnership.

Rebuilding trust is a delicate process, and marriage counseling provides a supportive space to navigate this challenging journey. We'll work together to address the underlying issues, promote open communication, and establish a foundation for trust. The first year is the hardest, and I have years of experience helping couples navigate through the first year after infidelity and get to a stronger, more trusting place.

Your commitment and active participation are key to the success of marriage counseling. Openness, honesty, vulnerability, and a willingness to work together are crucial elements in creating positive changes in your relationship. I will support you by creating a safe environment where you feel comfortable being that vulnerable with each other in session.

Certainly. Marriage counseling isn't just for addressing issues; it's also a proactive step to strengthen a healthy relationship. We can explore ways to enhance your connection and communication, ensuring the longevity of a satisfying partnership. I will often see couples regularly for a while, until they are in a good place. Many of my couples then choose to move to “maintenance” where they schedule a session with me if an issue comes up or if they want a “refresher” on some of the strategies or techniques we have discussed in previous sessions.

Yes, virtual sessions are available for couples who prefer or need the flexibility of remote counseling. Technology allows us to connect effectively, and I strive to provide the same level of support and guidance in virtual sessions.