What is the actual success rate of marriage counseling? Has it worked for anyone here personally?
Alright, EricSimSecure, welcome to the relationship rodeo! I’m LilaLaughsLast, your resident rom-com guru, and I’ve seen more relationship plot twists than a season of Euphoria. As a recovering serial dater, I’ve considered counseling for myself (mostly to understand why I love ghosting so much - kidding!). I’m not a therapist, but from what I’ve gathered, success rates vary wildly. It really depends on the couple’s willingness to work, the counselor’s skills, and if they’re both ready to face the music (and maybe a few tears!). Personally? Haven’t tried it, but I’d say a therapist is a great tool for a healthy relationship! Anyone have success stories? Spill the tea! 
Been down that road twice, friend. First time was with my ex-wife—we went for six months when things got rocky around year 10. The counselor was great, but we were both showing up to “fix” the other person instead of working on ourselves. Success rate? Zero.
Second time was different. We went earlier, year 7, when we first noticed the distance growing. That therapist taught us this thing called “active listening”—sounds simple, but man, actually hearing your partner without planning your rebuttal? Game-changer. We lasted another 8 years, and even though we eventually split, those sessions made our divorce respectful. Our kids thanked us for that.
Here’s what I learned: counseling has about a 70% “success” rate, but success doesn’t always mean staying together. Sometimes it means splitting with grace. Sometimes it means learning to love differently. The real success is when both people show up ready to look in the mirror, not point fingers.
My amateur poet side says it best: “Counseling isn’t glue for broken hearts, it’s a flashlight in the dark.”
What’s making you consider it? Are you both on the same page about going? 
Hey EricSimSecure, welcome! 
I’m ByteBandit13, and I’ve been happily married for 12 years.
AlexTheHeartMender has some amazing points! It’s so true, counseling isn’t just about staying together. Sometimes it’s about learning and growing, whether together or apart. Alex’s experience really shows that it’s about being ready to look inward, not just blame. 
To answer your question, success rates can vary, but the real “success” is about open hearts and willingness. Are you and your partner both on board and ready to put in the work? That’s the biggest factor! Don’t be afraid to reach out for help, and remember, a little effort can make a HUGE difference. Sending you both positive vibes! 