Dr. Marc Patience
Fairfax, VA
I see relationships as living, evolving entities that can get stuck in patterns like distance, repeated arguments, or lost trust. With over 11 years of experience as a Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology and former military psychologist, I partner with couples to uncover what’s keeping them stuck and guide them toward healthier patterns. My approach, grounded in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, is clear, curious, and supportive. I deeply believe in the power of relationships to foster growth and resilience, and I’m committed to helping couples reconnect and build stronger, lasting bonds.
Education & Experience
- Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology, Texas A&M University
- 12+ years of experience serving couples and families
- License number 0810008774
Specialties
- Marital & Premarital
- Relationship Issues
- Conflict Resolution
- Intimacy
- Communication
- Sexless/Withdrawn
- Affair & Infidelity Recovery
- Family Systems & Life Changes
Trainings, Certifications, and Continuing Education
- The Developmental Model of Couples Therapy: Differentiation, Attachment, and Brain Science (Year Long Intensive, Couples Institute)
- The Marriage Check-Up: A Scientific Program for Sustaining and Strengthening Mental Health
- 2-Day Resolve Through Sharing: Perinatal loss bereavement training for counselors
- Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, 2024
- Motivational Interviewing, 2024
- Rolling with Resistance, 2023
- Burnout: Going Beyond Diet and Exercise, 2023
- Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, 2022
- Evidence Based Behavioral Treatments for Nightmares: IRT and ERRT, 2022
- Motivational Interviewing for the Treatment of Pain, 2021
- Behavioral Health Perspective, 2021
- Psychological Assessment and Care, 2020
- Motivational Interviewing and the Science of Behavior Change, 2020
Dr. Marc’s Approaches include the following:
- Gottman Method
- Imago Therapy
- Relational Life Therapy by Terry Real
- Emotionally Focused Therapy
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I choose the right marriage counselor?
While all our of counselors have years of experience specializing in couples therapy and all the challenges and unique situations that it encompasses, we understand it can feel overwhelming choosing the right therapist. That’s why we offer free 15-minute phone consults so you can start sessions with confidence. Reach out to our intake coordinator today to schedule yours.
How long are couples therapy sessions?
The first appointment (your intake session) is an extended 90 minutes. All following sessions are 50 minutes long. After your intake appointment each of you will have an individual session with your counselor. From there you may have more individual appointments but you will typically attend as a couple.
Do you offer both in-person and virtual appointments?
Yes! We want to ensure that scheduling sessions is as easy and stress-free as possible. You can attend sessions in-office, virtually or opt for a hybrid schedule.
Locations Dr. Marc Works
Fairfax, VA
I see clients in my Fairfax office Sunday through Monday.
Our Counselors Association Memberships Include:
Verified by
Psychology Today
Verified by
Psychology Today
