Marriage Counseling

It’s a common myth that marriage counseling “causes” divorce. In reality, counseling often brings clarity—whether that means reconnecting in a deeper way or realizing that parting ways is the healthiest path forward. Research suggests that about 25% of couples may still separate after counseling, but this number is influenced by how late in the relationship cycle they begin therapy. The earlier couples seek support, the more likely they are to benefit from it.

We encourage couples to start therapy before things feel unmanageable. You don’t need to wait for a crisis to invest in your marriage—proactive care can lead to lasting change.

Marriage counseling is sometimes covered by insurance, but it depends on your specific plan. Many insurance providers will only cover services if there is a mental health diagnosis involved (such as anxiety or depression), and even then, the primary focus must be on treating that diagnosis rather than the relationship itself.

At Cook Counseling, we are happy to provide superbills for clients who wish to seek reimbursement from their insurance provider. We also offer flexible private pay options for couples who prefer the privacy, flexibility, and autonomy of self-pay services. We’ll walk you through what to expect so there are no surprises.

The best therapist for marriage counseling in Columbus, Ohio is one who has advanced training in couples therapy and experience working with a variety of relationship issues. Look for therapists who specialize in evidence-based methods such as:

• Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) – focuses on attachment and emotional bonding.

• The Gottman Method – emphasizes communication, conflict resolution, and building friendship and intimacy.

At Cook Counseling, our marriage counselors are specifically trained in these modalities and bring a nonjudgmental, balanced approach to each session. We focus not on who’s “right” or “wrong,” but on helping both partners feel seen, heard, and supported as they work toward shared goals.

Our job isn’t to tell you what to do—it’s to help you and your partner understand yourselves and each other more clearly. Sometimes, couples come to therapy unsure if they want to stay together. In those cases, we may use discernment counseling, a short-term approach that helps partners reflect on the future of their relationship.

Marriage counselors do not push for divorce. However, if one or both partners are leaning in that direction, we create a supportive space to explore what that might mean, helping you make decisions from a place of calm, not crisis.

Absolutely—marriage counseling is an investment in your relationship, your mental health, and your future. Couples often leave therapy with better communication tools, a deeper understanding of one another, and renewed emotional intimacy. In many cases, therapy helps prevent years of unresolved conflict or the emotional toll of divorce.

If you’re both open to the process, counseling can bring clarity, healing, and a stronger foundation for years to come.