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Marriage Counseling in Los Angeles & West Hollywood at Oliver Drakeford Therapy
Oliver Drakeford Therapy offers marriage counseling in Los Angeles and couples therapy, with in-person sessions available in West Hollywood and online sessions throughout California. We serve all couples—married or unmarried, straight or LGBTQ+—who want to feel more emotionally connected and less stuck in the same frustrating patterns.
Many couples wait years before seeking help, often because they’re unsure if their problems are “serious enough” or worry that going to therapy means their relationship is failing, when really it's a sign of commitment.
Whether you're navigating a specific conflict, recovering from a rupture in trust, or simply feeling more like roommates than partners, relationship therapy can help you understand each other more deeply and communicate in ways that actually bring you closer. You deserve a relationship where both of you feel heard, respected, and emotionally safe.
In short, we offer inclusive, evidence-based marriage counseling in Los Angeles to help couples repair relationship issues around disconnection, help rebuild trust, and feel close again.
What Is Marriage Counseling — and How Does It Help Couples in Los Angeles?
Marriage counseling is a type of therapy where a trained professional helps couples communicate more effectively, work through conflicts, and strengthen their emotional bond. It provides a structured, neutral space where both partners can express their feelings without the conversation spiraling into blame or defensiveness. The therapist guides the process, helping each person understand not just what they're feeling, but why—and how their responses affect the other person. For couples in Los Angeles, where demanding careers, traffic, and the fast pace of city life can leave little room for meaningful connection, therapy offers protected time to focus entirely on the relationship.
"A secure relationship isn't one without conflict, but one where both people feel safe enough to share what's really going on inside," explains Oliver Drakeford, Licensed Marriage and Family therapist.
Marriage counseling can help couples who are experiencing:
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The same arguments repeating without resolution
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Emotional distance or feeling like strangers living together
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Difficulty recovering from a breach of trust
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Tension around major transitions like relocating, job changes, or starting a family
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A desire to deepen intimacy before small frustrations grow into lasting resentment
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Knowing what to expect from marriage counseling can make it easier to take the first step toward feeling more connected and understood. If you're curious whether couples therapy might help your relationship, Oliver Drakeford Therapy offers a free 20-minute consultation call—use the link below to schedule a time that works for you.
Is Marriage Counseling Right for Us?
Common Reasons LA Couples Reach Out
Marriage counseling is right for any couple who feels stuck, disconnected, or unsure how to move forward together. You don't need to be in crisis to benefit from therapy—many couples reach out simply because they want to stop repeating the same painful patterns. Others come after a specific event has shaken their trust. What matters most is that both partners are willing to show up and do the work, even when it feels uncomfortable.
Common reasons Los Angeles couples reach out for marriage counseling include:
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Repeating the same arguments without ever feeling resolved
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Recovering from betrayal, infidelity, or secrecy that has damaged trust
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Navigating a major life transition such as becoming new parents, relocating, or blending families
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Feeling emotionally disconnected even when daily life seems fine on the surface
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Wanting an LGBTQ+-affirming therapist in West Hollywood who understands the unique dynamics of queer relationships
If any of these situations sound familiar, it may be a sign that professional support could help you and your partner reconnect. Oliver Drakeford Therapy specializes in working with all couples—including LGBTQ+ partners—and offers a free 20-minute consultation to discuss your specific concerns and see if therapy feels like the right fit.
Our Approach to Marriage Counseling in West Hollywood:
EFT, Gottman Method & Family Systems
Effective marriage counseling draws on proven methods that address both emotional connection and practical communication skills. Oliver Drakeford Therapy integrates three research-backed approaches—Emotionally Focused Therapy, the Gottman Method, and Bowenian Family Systems—to meet each couple where they are and help them build a stronger, more secure relationship.
Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)
EFT focuses on the emotional bond between partners and helps couples understand the deeper feelings driving their conflicts, it's rooted in attachment theory and family systems. When one partner withdraws and the other pursues, for example, EFT helps both people see the fear or longing underneath those reactions. This approach is especially effective for couples who feel emotionally disconnected or stuck in cycles of criticism and defensiveness. In sessions, EFT techniques create moments where partners can share vulnerable emotions and feel truly heard.
The Gottman Method
The Gottman approach is built on decades of research into what makes relationships succeed or fail. It teaches couples specific skills for managing conflict, expressing appreciation, and building friendship. This approach helps partners identify harmful patterns—like contempt or stonewalling—and replace them with healthier responses. Gottman-based interventions are woven into sessions when couples need concrete tools they can practice at home.
Bowen Family Systems Therapy
Bowen theory examines how each partner's family background shapes the way they relate to each other today. Many conflicts in marriage have roots in patterns learned growing up, and understanding these patterns helps couples stop repeating them. This approach also emphasizes differentiation—the ability to stay connected to your partner while maintaining your own sense of self. Family systems work is integrated throughout therapy to help couples see the bigger picture of why they react the way they do.
"Blending these approaches allows therapy to address both the emotional depth of your connection and the practical skills you need to communicate day to day,"
This integrated approach is especially helpful if you want therapy that goes beyond surface-level advice and addresses the real reasons you and your partner get stuck. To learn how these methods might apply to your relationship, schedule a free 20-minute consultation with Oliver Drakeford Therapy using the link below.
What We Work On in Marriage Counseling: Communication, Trust, Intimacy & Identity
Marriage counseling addresses the core areas where couples tend to struggle most: how they talk to each other, whether they feel safe together, how close they feel emotionally and physically, and how outside influences shape their relationship. These issues are deeply connected—when communication breaks down, trust erodes; when trust erodes, intimacy suffers. Therapy helps couples see how these patterns interact and gives them tools to repair each area. The goal is not just to fix one problem but to build a relationship where both partners feel secure, understood, and valued.
"It's the essence of emotional intimacy to tolerate your partner having feelings without becoming reactive or defensive,"
Communication & Conflict
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Criticism that leaves one or both partners feeling attacked or dismissed
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Shutting down or withdrawing during difficult conversations
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The same arguments repeating without resolution
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Difficulty using "I" statements or expressing needs clearly
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Reactive patterns that escalate tension instead of resolving it
Trust, Betrayal & Infidelity
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Rebuilding safety and transparency after an affair
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Processing secrets or lies that have damaged the relationship
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Learning to be vulnerable again after trust has been broken
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Establishing agreements that help both partners feel secure
Intimacy & Connection
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Feeling emotionally distant even when daily life seems fine
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Mismatched desire or differences in sexual needs
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Shame or discomfort around physical intimacy
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Reconnecting after periods of disconnection or resentment
Family, Culture & Identity
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Navigating pressure from family of origin or religious backgrounds
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LGBTQ+ couples seeking an affirming therapist who understands their experiences
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Blended families working to build new dynamics
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Cross-cultural relationships balancing different values or expectations
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Breaking multigenerational patterns passed down from previous generations
Seeing your challenges reflected in these categories can help clarify what to focus on when you begin therapy. If you're ready to explore how counseling might help with the specific issues affecting your relationship, schedule a free 20-minute consultation with Oliver Drakeford Therapy using the link below.
The Influence of Family of Origin on Marital Dynamics
Exploring the Impact of Family Background on Relationships
The family of origin plays a significant role in shaping an individual's approach to marital relationships. Many couples move to Los Angeles away from family leaving them without local support. Bowenian Couples Therapy emphasizes understanding the influence of one's family background on current relationship dynamics and harmful patterns that might be part of any current challenges. This approach recognizes that patterns of interaction, interpersonal skills, and emotional responses in a marriage often have deep roots in the family upbringing.
Uncovering Multigenerational Patterns
In marriage therapy, there is often a focus is on exploring multigenerational transmission processes, where behaviors and emotional patterns are passed down from one generation to the next. This understanding helps couples recognize the origin of certain conflict patterns and emotional responses within their relationship. By identifying these patterns, couples counselors such as myself can facilitate a deeper awareness and bring about a change in the current marital dynamics.
Therapeutic Interventions: Addressing Family Influences
Couples therapists may use tools like genograms to map out family histories, helping couples to visualize and understand the influence of their family of origin. This exploration allows couples to break free from unhelpful inherited patterns and build healthier ways of relating to each other. The therapy aims to resolve conflicts rooted in family backgrounds, leading to healthier and more fulfilling relationships.
Marriage Counseling Top Ten Tips: Essential Advice for Navigating Relationship Challenges
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Don't Put It Off: Taking proactive steps to address issues can prevent them from escalating. Call a couples therapist or marriage counselor as soon as concerns arise to avoid deep-seated patterns and irreversible damage.
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Have Realistic Expectations: Understand that relationship counseling requires consistent effort over time. It's not a quick fix, and therapists won't take sides. Instead, expect a collaborative process focused on mutual growth. I'd also add that going to couples therapy and expecting your partner to change might not be a helpful perspective; you're both in this together, and you both have some things to look at.
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Be Willing: Effective counseling requires mutual consent and willingness from both partners. Trying to coerce your partner into therapy rarely yields positive results. Embrace the discomfort as part of the journey toward improvement.
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Self-Reflect: Resist the urge to blame. Each person must acknowledge their role in the relationship dynamics and commit to personal growth.
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Actively Participate: Beyond therapy sessions, actively engage in activities that strengthen your bond. Consistent effort is key to progress.
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Communicate In Different Ways: Practice new skills regularly to reinforce positive habits. Like any skill, effective communication requires ongoing practice.
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Change The Rules Of Fighting: Conflict resolution is vital. Establishing and honoring relationship agreements can foster a healthier dynamic and reduce hostility.
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Prioritize Your Relationship: Dedicate time and effort to couples counseling for at least 3-6 months. Even if the relationship doesn't improve, you'll gain valuable insights and skills beneficial for all relationships.
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Respect No-Secrets Policy: Transparency is crucial for effective therapy. Avoid withholding information from your partner, as it hinders collaborative progress.
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Get Your Own Therapist: Personal growth enhances the relationship. Engage in activities such as meditation, mindfulness, or therapy to deepen self-awareness and compassion, benefiting both you and your partner in the long term.
Breaking the Cycle: Addressing Multigenerational Issues In Marriage Counseling
Understanding Multigenerational Patterns in Relationships
Breaking the cycle of multigenerational issues is a key aspect of Bowenian Couples Therapy. This approach acknowledges that behavior patterns, relationship dynamics, and emotional responses often stem from deeper, multigenerational roots. Couples are encouraged to explore how their family of origin has shaped their current relationship's beliefs, behaviors, and expectations.
Identifying and Resolving Deep-rooted Patterns
I aim to uncover and address these inherited patterns. By recognizing multigenerational transmission processes, couples can identify the source of certain conflicts or emotional responses. This insight allows them to best understand their own and their partner's behaviors in a broader family context.
Therapeutic Strategies for Change
A critical step in relationship therapy involves working through the generational line to resolve conflicts and prevent their repetition in the current and future generations. This may include interventions with family members from previous generations or discussing these relationships in therapy. The goal is to halt the transmission of unhelpful patterns and foster healthier relationship dynamics.
I'm a licensed psychotherapist, and I specialize in family systems and help couples with all types of problems, from anxiety, depression, trauma, and gender or sexual problems. My services offer couples counseling, family therapy and individual therapy in person in my private practice in West Hollywood on Santa Monica Blvd in Los Angeles.
I have married clients and couples in relationships visiting from all over Los Angeles, from Culver City. Alternatively, I offer sessions online over telehealth if you live in California and can discuss your relationship concerns and answer any questions in our consultation call.
In-Person Marriage Counseling in West Hollywood vs. Online Sessions Across California
Couples seeking marriage counseling have different needs when it comes to how and where they attend sessions. Some partners prefer the focused, distraction-free experience of meeting in person, while others need the flexibility of connecting from home or work. Oliver Drakeford Therapy offers both options so couples can choose what works best for their schedules, comfort level, and lifestyle.
According to recent research on telehealth therapy, couples receiving online counseling report similar improvements in relationship satisfaction compared with those attending in-person sessions.
In-Person Marriage Counseling in West Hollywood
In-person sessions offer a dedicated space away from the distractions of home and work, which can help couples focus fully on each other. Meeting face-to-face also allows the therapist to pick up on body language and subtle emotional cues that deepen the therapeutic process. For many couples, leaving their daily environment and coming to a neutral space signals that this time is protected and important.
Oliver Drakeford Therapy is located on Santa Monica Boulevard in West Hollywood, easily accessible from surrounding Los Angeles neighborhoods. Couples regularly travel from Beverly Hills, Hollywood, Culver City, Silver Lake, and the Westside for sessions. Street parking and nearby lots are available, and the central location makes it convenient for partners coming from different parts of the city to meet.
Key benefits of in-person sessions include:
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A private, neutral space free from household interruptions
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Easier nonverbal communication between partners and therapist
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A clear boundary between therapy time and everyday life
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Convenient access from most LA neighborhoods
Online Marriage Counseling for California Residents
Online sessions provide the same quality of care with added flexibility for couples managing demanding schedules. For partners juggling long commutes, childcare, or unpredictable work hours, video sessions eliminate travel time and make it easier to attend consistently. Consistency matters in therapy—showing up regularly is one of the strongest predictors of progress.
Telehealth sessions are available to any couple living in California, whether in Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Diego, or anywhere in between. The sessions use a secure video platform and follow the same structure as in-person appointments. Many couples find that being in their own space actually helps them open up more easily.
Key benefits of online sessions include:
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No commute, making it easier to fit therapy into busy weeks
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Access from anywhere in California
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Comfortable environment for partners who feel anxious in new settings
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Same therapeutic approach and session length as in-person work
Choosing between in-person and online sessions depends on what will help you and your partner show up consistently and engage fully. To discuss which format might work best for your situation, schedule a free 20-minute consultation with Oliver Drakeford Therapy using the link below.
MARRIAGE COUNSELING LOS ANGELES: THE BLOG POSTS
Six Awesome Resources for
couples counseling
Books:
1. "The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work" by John Gottman:
John Gottman, a renowned therapist, offers practical advice and insights to enhance relationships and marriages. This book is highly recommended by couples therapists in Los Angeles.
2. "Hold Me Tight: Seven Conversations for a Lifetime of Love" by Dr. Sue Johnson:
In her book, Dr. Sue Johnson explores the science of attachment and provides guidance for strengthening emotional bonds in couples. It serves as a valuable resource for emotionally focused couples therapy.
3. "Mating in Captivity: Unlocking Erotic Intelligence" by Esther Perel:
Esther Perel, a renowned couples therapist, delves into the intricate dynamics of intimacy and desire within long-term relationships. This book is also recommended for premarital counseling.
Websites:
1. Gottman Institute:
Website: https://www.gottman.com
The Gottman Institute, founded by relationship experts John and Julie Gottman, offers research-based articles, tools, and resources to enhance relationships. Their research centers on the science of love and relationships.
2. Intimacy Love Language Assessment Quiz:
Website: https://5lovelanguages.com
Gary Chapman introduced the concept of the 5 Love Languages, helping us understand our preferences for giving and receiving love. Similarly, we have unique preferences for emotional, physical, and intellectual intimacy.
3. Conflict Style Quiz:
Website: https://WhatsYourConflictStyle.com
Understanding your conflict style is the first step in transforming your relationship. Recognizing the automatic patterns of interaction in your relationship makes it easier to break them.